Automatic WLAN fingerprint radio map generation for accurate indoor positioning based on signal path loss model

Abstract

The first step in developing a ubiquitous environment, in which the user can interact with any available electronic device, is the existence of an accurate indoor positioning system. WLAN-based indoor positioning system is considered as one of the best choices for indoor positioning due to its low cost, simple configuration and high accuracy. Although the WLAN Received Signal Strength fingerprinting method is the most accurate positioning method, the offline phase of this method known as radio map creation is a time consuming process. On the other hand, in dynamically changing environments, this radio map will be outdated and this will reduce the positioning accuracy. In this paper the Multi-Wall signal path loss model will be used to automatically generate the radio map based on the knowledge of the environment layout. The results of the experiment show that the indoor positioning by using the generated radio map can achieve high accuracy with average distance error reaching up to 1.2 m. This promising results means that an accurate indoor positioning system can be easily developed with time saving features.