Localization in open fields by using RSSI on IEEE 802.15.4

Localization of mobile, wireless devices is a problem of great practical interest as it can be used to support wireless sensor networks and pervasive computing applications. The simplest methodology to provide localization information is based on the RSSI obtained from the communications of wireless devices. We consider RSSI on IEEE 802.15.4 radios and we present the results of a measurement campaign which show that the classic model (log-normal) used to model signal strength is not accurate enough. We thus propose a two-ray propagation model that better describe the path loss attenuation, not only for unobstructed outdoor environment but also for an environment with the presence of low-position obstacles.