Multi-Sensor Multi-Network Positioning

Abstract

This chapter discusses methods for positioning utilizing multiple sensors and networks. For achieving seamless positioning and navigation in a smartphone from satellite signal denied areas such as indoors to everywhere outdoors, various technologies to replace and assist satellite navigation, and flexible integration algorithms for measurement fusion are necessary. Merging positioning technologies and network infrastructures together is necessary for attaining ubiquitous navigation and mobile location aware services. The key is to utilize multiple technologies - sensors and networks. This chapter discusses fusion methods for smartphone positioning utilizing the various available technologies to provide location and motion information. Self-contained sensors, wireless technologies, and satellite navigation are briefly summarized, after which their fusion methodologies introduced. Sensor hardware aspects are also discussed as well as the currently achievable performance of existing solutions. Reliability monitoring is also introduced as well as aspects needed to be taken into account in mobile platform implementation. Finally, an overview of future directions and trends within multi-sensor multi-network fusion for mobile positioning are given.