Development of a modular localization system for communication and real-time team positioning in dynamics environments
Arthur Van Linthout Muller · Academica-e (Universidad Pública de Navarra) · 2025
Localizing blue forces, colleagues on an individual level, can be a challenge in tactical or emergency situations. Mistakes in localization, or the lack thereof, can result in severe consequences. On the battlefield, infantry soldiers may lose situational awareness and mistake friendly movements for enemy activity. These errors can lead to blue-on-blue fire, causing injuries or fatalities. While there are existing technologies that allow commanders to track friendly forces on the battlefield, these systems do not directly benefit the average infantry soldier. The current systems are designed to support a much broader situational awareness, essential for commanders and special operators. This thesis explores the development of a modular localization system designed to visualize the positions of friendly forces for all personnel involved on the ground. The goal is to enhance team coordination and situational awareness, thereby eliminating blueon-blue incidents. The module is also designed to indicate tactical points or fixed enemy positions, such as bunkers or trenches. It utilizes satellite connections and RSSI-triangulation for self-localization, to distribute its coordinates across the network, and to employ head movement tracking to indicate positions to the user. The indication is executed via mounted LEDs positioned at the user’s eye level. These lights can change color to represent different types of indications, and their brightness can be used to convey distance. With the implementation of a fast-adapting networking algorithm, information is shared in real time. The module is designed to be mountable, specifically on a combat helmet for this thesis, allowing users to locate their colleagues in real time without altering their standard operating procedures.