Network Localization by Shadow Edges

Localization is a fundamental task for sensor networks. Traditional network construction approaches allow to obtain localized networks requiring the nodes to be at least tri-connected (in 2D), i.e., the communication graph needs to be globally rigid. In this paper we exploit, besides the information on the neighbors sensed by each robot/sensor, also the information about the lack of communication among nodes. The result is a framework where the nodes are required to be bi-connected and the communication graph has to be rigid. This is possible considering a novel typology of link, namely Shadow Edges, that account for the lack of communication among nodes and allow to reduce the uncertainty associated to the position of the nodes.Comment: preprint submitted to 2013 European Control Conference, July 17-19 2013, Zurich, Switzerlan

Toward the Universal Rigidity of General Frameworks

Let (G,P) be a bar framework of n vertices in general position in R^d, d <= n-1, where G is a (d+1)-lateration graph. In this paper, we present a constructive proof that (G,P) admits a positive semi-definite stress matrix with rank n-d-1. We also prove a similar result for a sensor network where the graph consists of m(>= d+1) anchors.Comment: v2, a revised version of an earlier submission (v1

Bearing-Based Network Localization Under Gossip Protocol

This paper proposes a bearing-based network localization algorithm with a randomized gossip protocol. Each sensor node is assumed to be able to obtain the bearing vectors and communicate its position estimates with several neighboring agents. Each update involves two agents, and the update sequence follows a stochastic process. Under the assumption that the network is infinitesimally bearing rigid and contains at least two beacon nodes, we show that the proposed algorithm could successfully estimate the actual positions of the network in probability. The randomized update protocol provides a simple, distributed, and reduces the communication cost of the network. The theoretical result is then supported by a simulation of a 1089-node sensor network.Comment: preprint, 7 pages, 2 figure

Graph invariants for unique localizability in cooperative localization of wireless sensor networks: rigidity index and redundancy index

Rigidity theory enables us to specify the conditions of unique localizability in the cooperative localization problem of wireless sensor networks. This paper presents a combinatorial rigidity approach to measure (i) generic rigidity and (ii) generalized redundant rigidity properties of graph structures through graph invariants for the localization problem in wireless sensor networks. We define the rigidity index as a graph invariant based on independent set of edges in the rigidity matroid. It has a value between 0 and 1, and it indicates how close we are to rigidity. Redundant rigidity is required for global rigidity, which is associated with unique realization of graphs. Moreover, redundant rigidity also provides rigidity robustness in networked systems against structural changes, such as link losses. Here, we give a broader definition of redundant edge that we call the "generalized redundant edge." This definition of redundancy is valid for both rigid and non-rigid graphs. Next, we define the redundancy index as a graph invariant based on generalized redundant edges in the rigidity matroid. It also has a value between 0 and 1, and it indicates the percentage of redundancy in a graph. These two indices allow us to explore the transition from non-rigidity to rigidity and the transition from rigidity to redundant rigidity. Examples on graphs are provided to demonstrate this approach. From a sensor network point of view, these two indices enable us to evaluate the effects of sensing radii of sensors on the rigidity properties of networks, which in turn, allow us to examine the localizability of sensor networks. We evaluate the required changes in sensing radii for localizability by means of the rigidity index and the redundancy index using random geometric graphs in simulations.Comment: 13 pages, 7 figures, to be submitted for possible journal publicatio