Geo Informatics | 4. Global Positioning System (GPS) & GNSS by Abraham | Learn Smarter
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4. Global Positioning System (GPS) & GNSS

The chapter discusses the Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), outlining their significance in civil engineering and geospatial sciences. It covers the components, principles, and applications of GPS/GNSS, as well as emerging trends and challenges within the technology. Detailed surveying methods and the integration of GNSS with other technologies are also explored, highlighting their impact on precision and efficiency in civil engineering projects.

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Sections

  • 4

    Global Positioning System (Gps) & Gnss

    The section discusses the Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), emphasizing their components, functionality, applications in civil engineering, and emerging trends.

  • 4.1

    Global Navigation Satellite Systems (Gnss): Overview

    Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) encompass various satellite constellations that provide positioning, navigation, and timing services worldwide.

  • 4.1.1

    Definition Of Gnss

    GNSS refers to a collection of satellite constellations providing global positioning, navigation, and timing services.

  • 4.1.2

    Key Gnss Systems

    This section discusses the main Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, NAVIC, and QZSS, emphasizing their structures and contributions to navigation.

  • 4.2

    Gps – Global Positioning System

    This section provides an overview of the Global Positioning System (GPS), detailing its history, components, and significance in civil engineering.

  • 4.2.1

    History And Development

    This section highlights the development of the GPS by the U.S. Department of Defense in the 1970s, its operational status in 1995, and its initial military applications before being opened for civilian use.

  • 4.2.2

    Segments Of Gps

    This section outlines the three primary segments of the Global Positioning System (GPS): the Space Segment, Control Segment, and User Segment.

  • 4.2.2.a

    Space Segment

    The Space Segment of the GPS comprises a constellation of at least 24 satellites orbiting Earth, which work together to provide positioning data.

  • 4.2.2.b

    Control Segment

    The control segment of GPS is essential for monitoring satellite operations, health, and accuracy, involving ground stations globally.

  • 4.2.2.c

    User Segment

    The User Segment consists of GPS receivers that utilize satellite signals for determining precise locations and times.

  • 4.3

    Principles Of Positioning

    The section discusses the fundamental principles of positioning using trilateration and time synchronization in GPS technology.

  • 4.3.1

    Triangulation And Trilateration

    This section explains the principles of triangulation and trilateration used in GPS positioning.

  • 4.3.2

    Time Synchronization

    Time synchronization is essential for GPS accuracy, as it relies on precise timing from atomic clocks in the satellites.

  • 4.4

    Gps Signal Structure

    The GPS signal structure consists of several components, including carrier frequencies and codes, that enable precise positioning and navigation.

  • 4.4.1

    Signal Components

    This section covers the various signal components used in GPS signals, detailing their functions and relevance.

  • 4.4.2

    Code And Carrier Phase Measurements

    This section covers the distinction between Code Phase and Carrier Phase measurements in GPS technology, highlighting their applications in positioning.

  • 4.5

    Sources Of Gps Error

    This section discusses the various factors contributing to inaccuracies in GPS measurements, including satellite clock errors, ephemeris errors, atmospheric delays, the multipath effect, and receiver noise.

  • 4.5.1

    Satellite Clock Errors

    Satellite clock errors arise from slight mismatches between the satellite and receiver clocks, affecting GPS accuracy.

  • 4.5.2

    Ephemeris Errors

    Ephemeris errors pertain to inaccuracies in the position data broadcasted by satellites, affecting GPS accuracy.

  • 4.5.3

    Ionospheric And Tropospheric Delays

    The section discusses the impact of ionospheric and tropospheric delays on GPS signal accuracy, highlighting their causes and effects.

  • 4.5.4

    Multipath Effect

    The Multipath Effect refers to the phenomenon where GPS signals reflect off buildings or terrain, causing inaccuracies in positioning.

  • 4.5.5

    Receiver Noise

    Receiver noise refers to internal inaccuracies within GPS devices that can affect positioning accuracy.

  • 4.6

    Differential Gps (Dgps)

    Differential GPS (DGPS) enhances GPS accuracy using correction signals from a fixed base station.

  • 4.6.1

    Concept

    Differential GPS (DGPS) enhances the accuracy of GPS positioning by using correction signals from a base station.

  • 4.6.2

    Accuracy Improvement

    Differential GPS (DGPS) enhances positioning accuracy to 1-3 meters, making it essential for various applications.

  • 4.6.3

    Applications

  • 4.7

    Real-Time Kinematic (Rtk) Positioning

    Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning ensures centimeter-level accuracy in real time, utilizing carrier-phase measurements and a base-rover setup.

  • 4.7.1

    Principle

    The principle of Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning utilizes carrier-phase measurements from satellites to achieve centimeter-level accuracy for various applications.

  • 4.7.2

    Components

    The section outlines the essential components of Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning systems, emphasizing the base station, rover, and data link.

  • 4.7.3

    Applications

    This section discusses the diverse applications of Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning in various fields, particularly its significance in land surveying, construction, and deformation monitoring.

  • 4.8

    Gnss Augmentation Systems

    GNSS augmentation systems enhance positioning accuracy and reliability by providing correction information to GNSS receivers.

  • 4.8.1

    Sbas (Satellite-Based Augmentation System)

    The SBAS provides correction information to enhance the accuracy of GNSS signals using geostationary satellites.

  • 4.8.2

    Gbas (Ground-Based Augmentation System)

    The Ground-Based Augmentation System (GBAS) provides localized corrections to GNSS signals for enhanced accuracy, particularly in aviation near airports.

  • 4.9

    Gps & Gnss Applications In Civil Engineering

    This section explores various applications of GPS and GNSS technology in civil engineering, highlighting their importance in surveying, construction management, and disaster response.

  • 4.9.1

    Surveying And Mapping

    This section discusses the applications of GPS and GNSS in civil engineering, focusing on surveying and mapping.

  • 4.9.2

    Construction Project Management

    This section covers the applications of GPS and GNSS in construction project management, focusing on site layout, alignment checks, and earthwork tracking.

  • 4.9.3

    Structural Health Monitoring

    Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) employs GPS and GNSS technology to monitor the deformation and displacement of structures, ensuring their integrity and safety.

  • 4.9.4

    Transportation And Traffic Management

    This section discusses the applications of GPS and GNSS in transportation and traffic management, focusing on fleet tracking, route optimization, and asset management.

  • 4.9.5

    Disaster Management

    This section focuses on the applications of GPS and GNSS in disaster management, including emergency response, damage assessment, and search and rescue navigation.

  • 4.10

    Emerging Trends In Gnss Technology

    This section explores the latest advancements in GNSS technology, highlighting developments such as multi-constellation receivers, high-precision chips in smartphones, integration with GIS, and cloud-based GNSS solutions.

  • 4.10.1

    Multi-Constellation Receivers

    Multi-constellation receivers enhance global positioning by integrating signals from various satellite navigation systems.

  • 4.10.2

    High-Precision Gnss Chips In Smartphones

    High-precision GNSS chips enable smartphones to provide accurate geolocation, essential for applications like urban navigation and autonomous vehicles.

  • 4.10.3

    Integration With Gis And Remote Sensing

    This section discusses the integration of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies for enhanced data collection and spatial analysis.

  • 4.10.4

    Cloud-Based And Iot-Enabled Gnss

    This section discusses the integration of cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) to enhance real-time data transmission and accessibility.

  • 4.11

    Gps Survey Methods In Civil Engineering

    This section explores various GPS-based surveying methods employed in civil engineering, emphasizing accuracy levels, project requirements, and appropriate applications.

  • 4.11.1

    Static Gps Surveying

    Static GPS surveying involves a method of surveying that utilizes fixed observation points for precise geolocation.

  • 4.11.2

    Rapid Static Surveying

    Rapid static surveying is a GPS-based method that involves shorter observation periods, providing medium-accuracy positioning and efficient control network establishment.

  • 4.11.3

    Kinematic Surveying

    Kinematic surveying involves the continuous movement of a GPS receiver to collect data for various surveying tasks, notably in applications like road alignment and utility mapping.

  • 4.11.4

    Real-Time Kinematic (Rtk) Surveying

    Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) Surveying provides instantaneous centimeter-level accuracy by utilizing a base and rover system for real-time data correction, making it ideal for precision tasks in civil engineering.

  • 4.11.5

    Stop-And-Go Surveying

    Stop-and-Go Surveying is a GPS method that involves intermittent stops to obtain precise location data, enhancing accuracy compared to continuous kinematic methods.

  • 4.12

    Gnss Data Post-Processing

    This section discusses GNSS data post-processing, focusing on its techniques and benefits to enhance positional accuracy.

  • 4.13

    Integration Of Gnss With Other Survey Technologies

    The integration of GNSS with technologies like Total Stations, UAVs, and GIS enhances the accuracy and efficiency of civil engineering applications.

  • 4.13.1

    Gnss + Total Station

    This section discusses the integration of GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) with Total Stations, highlighting its application for precise layout and survey adjustments in civil engineering.

  • 4.13.2

    Gnss + Uav (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)

    This section discusses the integration of GNSS with UAV technology for aerial mapping and monitoring applications in civil engineering.

  • 4.13.3

    Gnss + Gis

    The integration of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) enables precise geospatial data collection and management.

  • 4.14

    Legal And Ethical Considerations

    This section highlights the crucial legal and ethical responsibilities of civil engineers and surveyors when utilizing GNSS for geospatial data.

  • 4.15

    Challenges And Limitations Of Gnss In Civil Applications

    This section discusses the various challenges and limitations faced by GNSS technology in civil applications, including signal obstruction, atmospheric disturbances, hardware costs, and dependency on satellite visibility.

  • 4.15.1

    Signal Obstruction

    Signal obstructions in GNSS are caused by urban structures, vegetation, and atmospheric factors affecting accuracy.

  • 4.15.2

    Atmospheric Disturbances

    This section covers the impact of atmospheric disturbances on GNSS signals, highlighting issues like signal refraction, delay, and dependency on satellite visibility.

  • 4.15.3

    Dependency On Satellite Visibility

    This section discusses the importance of satellite visibility for GPS positioning accuracy and the challenges posed by low satellite counts.

  • 4.15.4

    Hardware Costs

    This section addresses the high costs associated with hardware required for GNSS systems, such as high-precision receivers and RTK base stations, emphasizing the need for investment in training and maintenance.

  • 4.16

    Future Directions In Gnss And Civil Engineering

    This section discusses the future advancements in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and their implications for civil engineering.

  • 4.16.1

    5g Integration With Gnss

    This section discusses the potential benefits of integrating 5G technology with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) for enhanced geolocation services.

  • 4.16.2

    Ai-Powered Gnss Error Correction

    This section discusses the implementation of AI-driven machine learning algorithms to enhance GNSS accuracy by predicting and correcting positional errors.

  • 4.16.3

    Satellite Constellation Expansion

    Satellite constellation expansion is aimed at enhancing global coverage and reliability for GNSS.

  • 4.16.4

    Gnss In Smart Infrastructure

    This section discusses how GNSS technology integrates with smart infrastructure, enabling real-time monitoring and management of buildings and other structures.

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • GNSS collects satellite con...
  • Different segments of GPS i...
  • Sources of GPS error can in...

Final Test

Revision Tests