Principles of positioning

Basic mechanisms and technologies for positioning and localisation systems are described here.

We discuss basic technologies such as GPS. But also more dedicated technologies, like RFID, are explained in this step.

We also introduce the way localisation and positioning works. Most systems use a mechanism called lateration. Lateration is actually very simple. You determine the distance from known positions to determine the location for an unknown position by simple calculations. Basically, it’s the intersection of three circles.

We furthermore discuss the special challenges that exist for indoor positioning, which is more difficult than outdoor positioning.