A comparative study of range based and range free algorithms for node localization in underwater

Abstract

The exploration of underwater surfaces and their monitoring has become an emerging field of interest for many researchers. Localization is a crucial task in the Underwater Wireless Sensor Network (UWSN). In comparison to terrestrial sensor nodes, localizing underwater sensor nodes is more difficult. In UWSN, the communication of signals between the nodes is a challenging task due to acoustic communication and the position of the node tends to move due to a strong water current in the deep sea whereas in terrestrial the nodes are static and the localization of the node is comparatively easier. Strategic surveillance relies on accurate localization in UWSN to follow underwater assets and activities. Addressing localization issues improves situational awareness, disaster response, and mitigation in crucial areas. We reviewed Range-Based and Range-Free UWSN localization algorithms from numerous research articles and discussed trade-offs and improvement opportunities. The comparative analysis was made based on various parameters like coverage area, density of node in the network, energy consumption, localization error and computational complexity. The performance comparison helps the researchers to decide the best localization algorithm or to improve the available algorithm for UWSN.

Keywords

• Localization algorithms
• Underwater wireless sensor networks
• Range-free localization
• Range-based localization