A Novel ToA Location Algorithm Using LoS Range Estimation for NLoS Environments

One of the main problems facing accurate location in wireless communication systems is nonline-of-sight (NLoS) propagation. In this paper, we propose a novel location technique that estimates the true, or line-of-sight (LoS), ranges based on NLoS range measurements. This approach utilizes a constrained nonlinear optimization approach, when range measurements are available from three base stations (BSs) only. Bounds on the NLoS error and the relationship between the true ranges are extracted from the geometry of the cell layout and the measured range circles to serve as constraints. Simulations studying the performance of the algorithm for different NLoS error distributions and BS configurations show that the location accuracy is significantly improved over traditional algorithms, even under highly NLoS conditions.