Optimal Sensor Geometry Analysis for 3D TDOA-Based Source Localization

The ideal placement of sensors in a system that can precisely pinpoint the position of a source based on the time difference of arrival of a signal received at numerous sensors is referred to as the optimal sensor geometry for a 3D TDOA (three-dimensional Time Difference of Arrival) position model. Optimal sensor geometry is important for achieving high accuracy in determining the position of the target. To determine the optimal sensor geometry for a TDOA position model, GDOP analysis is used. This performance metrics is used to evaluate different sensor configurations and determine the distribution that provides the lowest GDOP value. Location accuracy of a target depends on several factors, such as the number of sensors, their positions, and the properties of the signal being measured. Generally, the ideal sensor configuration for TDOA positioning is one in which the sensors are placed far apart from each other to maximize the time difference of arrival, but not too far that the signal becomes too weak to be measured accurately. In this paper, the optimal source sensor geometry for TDOA position model is determined for five configurations in two scenarios. Firstly, when all the sensors are placed at the same altitude, and secondly, when the sensors are placed at different altitudes. In both the scenarios, location accuracy is evaluated using 3D TDOA, and performance analysis is done using GDOP measurements. Mathematical modeling and simulations are done for all the configurations and analysis is done. It is observed that when the altitude difference and subsequently change in baseline is made, better results in accuracies are accorded in three-dimensional scenarios. Numerical simulations are included to validate the theoretical developments.