Simulation of Multiplatform Source Localization Using Three Dimensional Time Difference of Arrival with Multipath Exploitation and Clock Bias Among Receivers

Abstract

Source localization using Time Difference of Arrival has been a subject of research over the years due to its wide applications in civilian and military sectors. In electronic warfare systems, the source estimation is important for better surveillance and planning of military strategies. Among the various approaches of Time Difference of Arrival, Three Dimensional\xa0 Time Difference of Arrival algorithms have drawn much attention as it does not require synchronization between emitter and the base stations and also provides better estimation performance. However, it certainly requires synchronization among the receiving base stations. In this paper an algorithm is proposed for source localization using Three Dimensional Time Difference of Arrival in presence of multipath scenario and clock bias in the receiving base stations.\xa0 Most of the existing techniques require range data for obtaining the closed form Time Difference of Arrival solution. The algorithm presented in this paper is based on Ezzat’s closed form solution, which does not depend on range data.\xa0 Simulations are carried out and performance is evaluated by placing receivers on ship/land and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle platforms. Standard deviation in estimated Three Dimensional Time Difference of Arrival is measured using cross correlation between the signals and a closed form solution is obtained. Simulations support the theoretical developments in multipath scenario and clock bias.