Bearing-based Target Localisation in Search and Rescue Scenarios

TL;DR

This paper presents a novel approach combining gradient-based and estimation-based methods for electromagnetic target localization in search and rescue, improving speed and accuracy in challenging noisy environments.

Contribution

It introduces a hybrid localization scheme that enhances search efficiency by integrating gradient and estimation techniques for electromagnetic signals.

Findings

Outperforms existing solutions in simulations

Effective in low signal-to-noise ratio conditions

Speeds up transmitter localization in rescue scenarios

Abstract

This paper deals with the target localisation problem in search and rescue scenarios in which the technology is based on electromagnetic transceivers. The noise floor and the shape of the electromagnetic radiation pattern make this problem challenging. Indeed, on the one hand, the signal-to-noise ratio reduces with the inverse of the distance from the electromagnetic source thus impacting estimation-based techniques applicability. On the other hand, non-isotropic radiation patterns lessen the efficacy of gradient-based policies. In this work, we manage a fleet of autonomous agents, equipped with electromagnetic sensors, by combining gradient-based and estimation-based techniques to speed up the transmitter localisation. Simulations specialized in the ARTVA technology used in search and rescue in avalanche scenarios confirm that our scheme outperforms current solutions.