Path Loss Exponent Autocalibration Using UWB and ZigBee in Indoor Environment

Abstract

The path loss exponent, whose value is dependent on the particular propagation environment, is a parameter that indicates the rate at which the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) weakens with distance. Path loss exponent calculation is crucial in distance-based wireless sensor network localization, where distance is inferred from the RSS data. Estimating the path loss exponent is helpful for various tasks, such as distance measurement. Current methods for path loss exponent estimation use distance and RSSI measurements from the same environment to calibrate the path loss exponent. However, in certain circumstances, obtaining a distance measurement can be expensive and complicated. In this study, a novel method for the autocalibration of the path loss exponent in ZigBee is proposed. The combination of Zigbee and UWB is introduced to improve accuracy and a comprehensive path loss exponent calculation. This paper’s main contribution is to show that the path loss exponent may be estimated using a joint ultrawideband (UWB) and ZigBee in the designated area and also create the logarithm function from scratch due to the limitation of the application used. The result indicates the measurements and calculations on the error in the distance are improved.