GPS World

Author: Tracy Cozzens

  • "Scariest commute of my life": California wildfires erupt

    Two fires erupted Monday in Southern California, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds. The Thomas fire in Ventura County started Monday night and has burned 45,000 acres and destroyed more than 150 structures. The Creek fire is burning near Sylmar and has prompted officials to evacuate more than 8,000 homes.

    Now a dramatic new wildfire erupted in Los Angeles early Wednesday. Flames exploded before dawn on the steep slopes of the Sepulveda Pass, which carries heavily traveled Interstate 405 through the Santa Monica Mountains where ridgetops are covered with expensive homes, including Bel Air. It is also the site of the Getty Center arts complex.

    More than a third of Ventura, California, residents have been forced from their homes. About 38,000 of the coastal city’s 100,000 residents have been evacuated since the fires started Monday night.

    Esri is providing this interactive map to keep up-to-date on events around the fires.

  • Directions 2018: GLONASS focuses on user needs

    By Sergey Karutin, GLONASS designer general;
    Nicolay Testoedov, Director General, SC Information Satellite Systems;
    and Andrey Tulin, Director General, SC Russian Space Systems

    This year has marked the 35th anniversary of the first GLONASS launch. During these years, the world has made great strides through high tech, and now no modern society can progress without satellite-based navigation.

    Today’s urban resident can hardly do without a smartphone planning his route through traffic, determining the paid parking site location or getting a reminder of parking session completion once he has left the parking lot.

    The search for the nearest pharmacy, gas station, restaurant or any other point of interest is of vital necessity today. The growing dependence of modern society on navigation signals-in-space increases the responsibilities of GNSS providers. At the same time, users long for simplicity in getting quality services. That is why this year the GLONASS team is going to set up its most ambitious program: improving the quality of the GLONASS services at a user level.

    The traditional GLONASS conception of signal-in-space accuracy is now being augmented by the user level performance estimation. Due to the fact that the signal propagation environment contributes a lot to the positioning error budget, it is obvious that users need information that would reduce the influence of signal propagation path on the positioning accuracy.

    Glonass-M satellites currently form the core of the GLONASS constellation, and with six ground spares now in stock, they will continue to do so for at least the next eight years. Therefore, in 2018 the new edition of L1 and L2 FDMA Interface Control Documents are to be published which will include the ionospheric and tropospheric models recommended in the recently released GLONASS CDMA Signals ICDs.

    Glonass-K2 satellite (artist’s rendering).

    We plan to use the spare bits within the navigation superframe of FDMA signals to transmit ionospheric parameters described in the General Description of the GLObal NAvigation Satellite System with the Code Division Multiple Access Signals ICD.

    Studies being performed demonstrate up to 70 percent reduction in impact of ionospheric refraction when using the adaptive model transmitted by the three parameters: the numerical factor for the peak TEC (Total Electron Content) of F2 ionosphere layer, the solar activity index and the daily geomagnetic activity index. In the new CDMA signal message, these parameters are initially provided.

    To enable the unanimity of technologies for reducing the hydrostatic component of the tropospheric delay, which accounts for 80 percent of its value, the both FDMA and CDMA Signals ICDs will include the latitudinal tropospheric model based on the preliminary set tabular values.

    The preliminary design review for the technical baseline of the fourth-generation Glonass-K2 satellite has been passed this year. The new cubic arrangement of the platform enables mitigation of unmodeled forces and transition of propellant tank to the satellite’s center of mass.

    This provides for the relative position constancy for the satellite’s center of mass and the satellite’s antenna phase center during the satellite’s lifetime. This platform arrangement also accommodates the whole ensemble of navigation signals (both CDMA and FDMA) on the single phased-array antenna system.

    Glonass-K2 is equipped with the new atomic frequency standard composed of the legacy quantum frequency standard based on the cesium beam tube and the passive hydrogen maser. The miniature PHM with the relative daily stability of 5×10-15 will be installed onboard the satellite to be launched in 2020.

    Introduction of the new satellite will enable a new constellation sustainment strategy — through the both dual launches by Angara-A5 launcher from Vostochny and single launches by Soyuz from Plesetsk — to provide on-demand replenishment of the constellation.

    By 2020, when we celebrate the 25th anniversary of GLONASS full operational capability, all the efforts mentioned above will offer new quality of services to GLONASS users prioritized as per their needs.

  • Launchpad: New RTK system for surveyors

    Launchpad: New RTK system for surveyors

    SURVEY & MAPPING

    RTK survey system

    Using a smartphone

    Tersus David RTK is a real-time kinematic solution for centimeter-level accuracy using a smartphone. By plugging into a smartphone with a USB cable, The Tersus David turns the phone into an RTK rover, geographic information system (GIS) collector and RTK base. It supports GPS L1/L2, BeiDou B1/B2 and GLONASS G1/G2 signals. The rugged design enables it to operate in harsh environments.

    Tersus GNSS, www.tersus-gnss.com

    Mobile mapper

    High speed for corridor mapping

    The Riegl VMX-2HA is a high-speed, high-performance dual-scanner mobile mapping system that provides dense, accurate and feature-rich data at highway speeds. With 2 million measurements and 500 scan lines per second, the turnkey solution is suitable for survey-grade mobile mapping applications. The powerful technology in the Riegl VMX-2HA is comprised of two Riegl VUX-1HA high-accuracy lidar sensors and a high-performance INS/GNSS unit housed in an aerodynamically shaped protective cover. A camera interface for up to nine optional cameras enables the lidar data to be complemented by precisely georeferenced images.

    Riegl, www.riegl.com

    3D laser scanner

    Rapid mapping indoors and out

    The ZEB-REVO RT is the next generation of the ZEB-REVO — GeoSLAM’s lightweight, handheld laser scanner that allows rapid, simple mapping of complex, indoor and multi-level spaces. The ZEB-REVO RT uses Wi-Fi technology to seamlessly connect the scanner to a mobile phone or tablet, allowing for real-time data visualization as the user walks and scans. The simultaneous scanning and processing of 3D data removes the need for post-processing, effectively slashing project survey times in half. The technology is so rapid, users can scan and process a three-story building in 30 minutes.

    GeoSLAM, geoslam.com

    ArcGIS add-on app

    Connects Esri ArcGIS data with Salesforce data

    MapAnything Connector for ArcGIS gives users a map view of Esri ArcGIS Online data inside Salesforce with their organizational data for strategic planning and analysis. The add-on app serves as a bi-directional integration layer between the programs, enabling customers to access their ArcGIS mapping and location intelligence inside the MapAnything Platform. Once connected, the MapAnything user interface helps Salesforce users view and interact with Esri maps and data alongside their existing customer and business data, exposing new opportunities to drive revenue and increase efficiency; improve decision making by aligning two core systems of record, the GIS system and the customer relationship management (CRM); and make it easy for GIS professionals to share insights seamlessly with their counterparts. The application has uses across retail, commercial real estate, telecommunications and economic development.

    MapAnything, mapanything.com

    OEM

    Simulator

    Generates Realistic Test Scenarios for a wide variety of applications

    The SMW200A GNSS simulator can be extended to up to four RF outputs and allows GNSS signals to be simulated simultaneously in multiple frequency bands for multiple antennas. It can internally simulate a complex interference environment in parallel with GNSS signals. To test multi-frequency and multi-antenna systems, users have access to 72 GNSS channels that can be assigned to up to four RF outputs. The SMW200A can generate QZSS and SBAS signals as well as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou signals, enabling users to quickly and easily verify the position accuracy of their receivers under realistic conditions. An internal noise generator can generate complex interference scenarios with multiple interferers.

    Rohde & Schwarz, www.rohde-schwarz.com

    RTK receiver

    Multi-frequency, four constellations for survey and GIS

    The Altus NR3 is a multi-frequency, quad-constellation (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo) RTK receiver for survey and GIS applications. It features Septentrio’s AIM+ interference mitigation and monitoring system, allowing continued operation in the presence of both intentional and non-intentional interference. It combines advanced GNSS features with a robust communications suite in a compact, low-power and easy-to-use unit. The Altus NR3 is configurable as either a rover or a base station. It offers one-touch logging and Septentrio’s on-board web interface so users can monitor and configure the unit as well as collect data using any Wi-Fi-capable device.

    Septentrio, www.septentrio.com

    Battlefield navigation

    Protects critical military and security networks

    VersaPNT provides virtually failsafe battlefield navigation, even in GPS-denied environments, to protect critical networks. The new, ground, air or sea vehicle-mounted unit is designed for military environments, with a ruggedized, compact, low-power and lightweight form factor. It provides continuous mission assurance and command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) support, even in hostile environments.

    Spectracom, www.spectracom.com

    Timing server

    Incorporates SAASM for defense

    The SyncServer S650 SAASM server incorporates a Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM). The SAASM capability provides a highly secure, accurate and flexible time and frequency platform for synchronizing mission-critical electronics systems and instrumentation applications in the defense market. The SAASM received the GPS Directorate security approval to incorporate a military-grade, GPS SAASM receiver module, enabling U.S. armed forces to deploy features of the commercial SyncServer S650 in a military-grade configuration and allowing for a migration path to GPS Military Code (M-code) support.

    Microsemi, www.microsemi.com

    Antenna

    Superior multi-constellation tracking for uavs, survey vessels

    The multi-constellation D-Helix Antenna is capable of superior tracking of signals from GPS L1/L2 L-Band, GLONASS L1/L2, BDS B1/B2/B3 and Galileo. The quadrifilar helix design of low wind-resistance makes it suitable for UAV positioning and navigation. The increased antenna gain and beamwidth ensure better signal receiving performance at low elevation angles; the low noise design also reduces interference and improves signal quality. The antenna can be used in UAV patrol, UAV plant protection and for unmanned patrol and survey vessels.

    Harxon, en.harxon.com

    UAV

    Operations software

    Helps enterprises efficiently manage their drone operations

    FlightHub is a new software solution that helps enterprises and drone service providers efficiently manage their drone operations from a single platform. A web-based service, FlightHub enables the secure management of real-time drone operations, flight data, drone fleets and pilot teams to meet the needs of the expanding global commercial drone industry. Users can view their teams’ remote drone operations from one place in real time.FlightHub provides enterprises a clear, centralized view of their company’s drone operations to enable onsite pilots to more effectively collaborate with offsite teams. The Map View and Real-Time View features display telemetry, camera and sensor data for faster, more informed decision making.

    DJI, www.dji.com

    Drone camera

    Addition to M-Series IP network camera line

    The new MR6442AX IP 4MP dome camera is suitable for demanding outdoor installations in challenging lighting conditions, such as schools, parking lots and sports stadiums, as well as city and perimeter surveillance. It features brilliant video quality, a 2.8 to 12 mm Varifocal-Auto iris lens, 100-db high dynamic range (HDR) and built-in Sense up+ low light technology. Intelligent video surveillance (IVS) functionality is a cornerstone of LILIN IP M-aeries cameras. The MR6442AX IVS analytics include advanced motion detection, object counting and tripwire detection, allowing the camera to detect when an object or person has breached an area such as the entrance to a building or parking lot. The MR6442AX is outdoor-ready out-of-the-box with an IP66 rating for rain and dust resistance, suitable for perimeter protection where early detection of an intrusion attempt is critical.

    LILIN Americas, www.lilin.us

    Quadcopter

    Specifically designed for agriculture

    The Parrot Bluegrass Agricultural Solution includes a powerful quadcopter equipped with a full high-definition front camera and embedded Parrot Sequoia advanced multispectral sensor; flight planning mobile application with Pix4Dcapture; data processing with AIRINOV FIRST+ cloud platform; and a long-range remote control, the Parrot Skycontroller 2. Parrot Bluegrass is easy to set up , fly and repair, with Pix4Dcapture autonomous flight capability. It can automatically cover up to 30 hectares at 70 meters / 230 feet flight altitude per battery (25 minutes per battery).

    Parrot, www.parrot.com

    UAS countermeasure

    Automatically detects, locates, tracks and takes over UAS controls

    The Airfence 5.0 UAS countermeasure platform, updated from Airfence One, provides new and improved directional finding along with detection, tracking and long-distance jamming capabilities. It is designed to protect militaries, airports, prisons and private companies from rogue drones in illegal and potentially life-threatening situations. Airfence 5.0 is certified rugged and offers compact out-of-the box setup and installation. The update incorporates lessons learned from key projects with the FAA, NASA, the U.S. Marine Corps and the European Commission. Airfence 5.0 includes updates focused on increasing the detection rate and level of data packets received, enabling for real-time actionable insights.

    Sensofusion, sensofusion.com

    TRANSPORTATION

    Connected car device

    Plug-in for older vehicles

    The HumX plug-in turns older model autos into smart cars. It equips the cars with features like using GPS for roadside assistance, Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices, maintenance reminders and auto health diagnostics. HumX uses safety features such as speeding and boundary alerts, vehicle diagnostics, driving history and emergency assistance (with crash detection capabilities). It allows travelers to stay safe with pinpoint roadside assistance, turn-by-turn navigation, live traffic updates and a mechanics hotline for certified, expert advice. HumX is sold with an equipment fee, a one-time activation fee and a monthly subscription.

    Verizon, Hum.com

    Electronic logging for mobile devices

    Enables fleets to improve safety, productivity from a Samsung device

    Omnitracs and Samsung Electronics America are partnering to help the transportation industry address the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate. The solution combines Samsung smartphones, tablets and security solutions with Omnitracs’ XRS fleet management software to improve safety, data security and productivity for U.S.-based fleets. Drivers can use their mobile device to monitor hours of service (HOS) logs to comply with legal requirements during on- and off-duty management of vehicles. Electronic tracking of HOS increases speed and accuracy of reporting, because drivers can track their hours in real time instead of fixed increments, such as in manual entry methods. The solution provides fleets with key driver performance analytics, including fuel usage, drive time, speed, driving behavior, driver vehicle inspection reporting (DVIR) and trip data to improve driver safety, lower costs and increase productivity.

    Omnitracs, www.omnitracs.com; Samsung, www.samsung.com

  • New M-code GPS capability tested onboard B-2 bomber

    New M-code GPS capability tested onboard B-2 bomber

    M-code receiver enhances security, positioning, navigation and timing capabilities

    The U.S. Air Force recently completed a series of successful flight tests of its next-generation military-code GPS using a Raytheon Company receiver onboard a B-2 Spirit at Edwards Air Force Base, California.

    This first M-code test onboard the B-2 is an important milestone for the U.S. government-led GPS modernization effort to enhance security, positioning, navigation and timing capabilities for U.S. military and civilian applications.

    Military GPS user equipment (MGUE) M-code receivers will give military aircraft, ships and ground vehicles access to the modernized GPS network.

    “M-code receivers unlock the next-generation GPS network for military users,” said Rick Yuse, president of Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems. “This test demonstrated M-code capability onboard the B-2 for the first time, marking an early milestone for the overall GPS modernization effort.”

    The tests verified the integration of an MGUE-equipped risk reduction prototype of Raytheon’s miniaturized GPS airborne MAGR-2K-M receiver with B-2 systems in representative flight and mission profiles.

    Raytheon is developing M-code receivers under a contract with the USAF Global Positioning System Directorate GPS User Equipment Division. The company is also under contract with the USAF Joint Service Systems Management Office to qualify and certify the MAGR-2K-M and deliver production representative units to support platform integration and testing.

  • Microsemi enhances SyncServer S600 server for Ethernet networks, satellite uplinks

    Microsemi Corporation is offering new hardware and software options for its SyncServer S600 series of time servers and instruments. The enhancements improve time synchronization over enterprise Ethernet networks and supply timing signals for improved military radar operations and satellite uplink communications.

    “The SyncServer S600 series provides highly accurate, reliable and secure time for a variety of applications, not the least of which are the extremely precise low phase noise 10-MHz signals used in military radars and satellite uplinks,” said Paul Skoog, senior product line manager at Microsemi. “We’re committed to helping our customers improve the performance of their systems by improving the performance of ours. These high-quality timing signals enable radars to track difficult targets as well as to improve the quality and data throughput of satellite communications systems.”

    Enterprise and financial customers also look to the SyncServer S600 series to meet the timing and synchronization needs of their rapidly evolving networks, particularly for compliance purposes such as the European MiFID II directive, which specifies highly stringent time accuracy requirements for stock trading systems.

    Also applicable for laboratories and test and measurement companies, this latest release of Microsemi’s S600 hardware and software includes support for the IEEE 1588 multiport, multi-profile Precision Time Protocol (PTP), which allows the S600 to operate as an independent grandmaster clock on each Ethernet port — delivering cost savings and network deployment flexibility to customers. This is coupled with a new 10GbE interface to easily interoperate with a wider variety of network and stock trading topologies.

    The newly enhanced SyncServer S600 and S650 can be equipped with two 10 GbE Ethernet small form-factor pluggable (SFP+) ports for customers needing to maximize PTP grandmaster performance in a cost-effective 1 rack unit (1U) chassis.

    In addition, the S650 can measure the accuracy of PTP hardware slaves that are synchronized to the S650 grandmaster by way of a new external 1 pulse per second measurement option.

    The combination of these devices’ new hardware and software features support Microsemi’s expanding leadership position as a cost-effective enterprise PTP grandmaster provider delivering accurate and reliable time to critical systems.

    Microsemi’s SyncServer S600 series meets the time and frequency requirements of multiple vertical markets, particularly the global military radar market, which is estimated to reach $10 billion by 2024 with a compound annual growth rate of 2.6 percent between 2016 and 2024 according to market research firm Variant Market Research.

    The firm also identifies how radar in military applications is widely used for air traffic control, early warning detection of missiles, navigation at sea and surveillance of air and ground. The versatile SyncServer S600 series meets the needs of today’s demanding timing requirements and scales to meet the needs of the future.

  • NIST explores timing alternatives for smart grids

    The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has published a 33-page special publication reporting on the results of a workshop convened to recommend research and development priorities for alternatives to GPS time distribution in electrical power systems.

    “If timing is to become mission critical, redundant means of distributing timing information is essential,” according to NIST.

    NIST hosted the “Time Distribution Alternatives for the Smart Grid Workshop” at its Gaithersburg, Maryland, campus on March 21. The information gained will inform future NIST, U.S. Department of Energy, national laboratories and private sector technical programs and strategic planning.

    The workshop consisted of experts on both electrical power and wide-area time distribution. The experts came from industry, utilities, academia and government.

    The findings cover desired future characteristics, targets, challenges and barriers to adoption of time distribution alternatives; and priority R&D areas for time distribution alternatives.

    Potential alternatives to wide area distributed time synchronization include Enhanced WWVB (radio signal broadcasting), eLoran (hyperbolic radio navigation) and the IEEE Wide Area Precision Time Protocol (PTP – master slave clock synchronization).

    Results of the workshop illustrate the need for alternatives to existing GPS timing systems as well as backup systems and many of the challenges that need to be addressed to develop and implement alternatives. Some of the overarching themes that emerged include the following:

    • While a number of potential alternative exist, they will require further infrastructure, research and concerted investment to implement and demonstrate their potential to replace, supplement, back up, or fill gaps in existing GPS systems.
    • Potential alternatives may need to be combined in ensembles to fill gaps, create the needed redundancies, and supplement GPS-based timing.
    • Future alternatives to GPS will need to have the same or better levels of accuracy, resilience, security, trustworthiness, and availability to supplant existing systems; a diversity of timing distribution systems may be needed (terrestrial, communication-based, wireless, etc.).
    • Dependency on space-based systems is currently strong due to their perceived reliability; there is limited awareness of the possible adverse impacts of timing failure events in such systems (and few backups exist).
    • Developing and using existing alternatives and new technologies, and integrating these with legacy systems will require standards and use cases to enable new technology, architectures, and interoperability among systems.
    • Better understanding of attack and failure threat modes is needed to estimate and demonstrate the true consequences of timing failures in systems based entirely on GPS.

  • US, China cooperate on interoperability for better civilian service

    The United States and China have negotiated compatible signal characteristics that will both protect and enhance service for users of the U.S. GPS and Chinese BeiDou constellations.

    The achievement resulted from several years of discussions between U.S. and Chinese GNSS experts. The consensus to make the systems compatible and interoperable at the user level will mean better service for users of both systems worldwide.

    The U.S.Department of State’s Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Office of Space and Advanced Technology represents the United States in the ongoing U.S.-China GNSS Cooperation Dialogue, which began in May 2014 and covers various topics.

    Compatibility of the Chinese BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) with GPS has been a core focus of the discussions. The U.S.-China Joint Statement on signal compatibility and interoperability is below and on the gps.gov website.

    Joint Statement on Civil Signal Compatibility and Interoperability Between the Global Positioning System (GPS) and the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS)

    December 4, 2017

    In May 2014, China Satellite Navigation Office and the Office of Space and Advanced Technology, U.S. Department of State, jointly established the U.S.-China Civil GNSS Cooperation Dialogue, a bilateral government-to-government mechanism to promote cooperation between the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS) and the Chinese BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS).

    Over the past three years, representatives and experts from both sides have studied and discussed various topics related to civil service provision and user applications, among which BDS compatibility and civil interoperability with GPS is one of the core focus areas.

    Both sides have carried out extensive in-depth analysis, and have engaged in persistent discussion and coordination.

    As a result, the two sides have reached the following consensus conclusions regarding compatibility and interoperability between GPS and BDS:

    1. Consistent with the bilateral frequency compatibility coordination completed in 2010, GPS and BDS are radio frequency compatible under the framework of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU); and
    2. The GPS L1C and BDS B1C civil signals, using two different types of multiplexed binary offset carrier (MBOC) waveforms are interoperable, which means users can receive better service by jointly using these civil signals without a significant increase in receiver cost or complexity.

    Both sides agree to continue their consultations and cooperation related to compatibility and interoperability in order to provide better services for global users.

    (signed by)

    Ran Chengqi, China Satellite Navigation Office

    David A. Turner, Office of Space and Advanced Technology, U.S. Department of State

    For more information, contact [email protected]. Follow the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs on Twitter at @StateDeptOES.

  • USGS map locates lava flows before an eruption

    lava inundation zones: In this USGS map, colors depict 3 of 18 lava Inundation zones for Mauna Loa. Yellow indicates the volcano’s Northeast Rift Zone, an area along which lava could erupt. The extent of the 1984 eruption and lava flow is superimposed on the map (red).

    New U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) maps show areas that could be affected by Mauna Loa lava flows — information critical for response planning. Each zone identifies a segment of the volcano that could erupt lava and send flows downslope.

    Hawaii-laval-maunaloa-map-WThe volcano has erupted 33 times since 1843. Typically, eruptions began in the summit caldera, with a curtain of fire (a 1- to 2-kilometer line of lava fountains).

    Using detailed geologic mapping and modeling of how a fluid (in this case, lava) responds to surface topography, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory constructed nine maps depicting 18 inundation zones on Mauna Loa, Island of Hawai’i.

    Colored regions on these maps show areas on the volcano’s flank that could potentially be covered by flows from future Mauna Loa eruptions. These eruptions could originate from the volcano’s summit, rift zones or radial vents. It’s likely, however, that only part of a zone would be covered in a single eruption.

    When a Mauna Loa eruption starts, the maps can help decision makers quickly identify communities, infrastructure and roads between possible vent locations and the coast, facilitating more efficient and effective allocation of response resources, the USGS said. The public can also use the maps to consider where lava flows might go once an eruption starts.

    A pamphlet about the maps is available here.

    lava flow glow: Had the Mauna Loa inundation maps been available in April 1984, when the volcano last erupted, the maps could have been used to determine that the northern portion of Hilo was the most likely area to be impacted by the main lava flow. (Photo: David Little)
  • Locating lava flows before an eruption

    Locating lava flows before an eruption

    lava inundation zones: In this USGS map, colors depict 3 of 18 lava Inundation zones for Mauna Loa. Yellow indicates the volcano’s Northeast Rift Zone, an area along which lava could erupt. The extent of the 1984 eruption and lava flow is superimposed on the map (red). (Map: USGS)
    Lava inundation zones: In this USGS map, colors depict 3 of 18 lava Inundation zones for Mauna Loa. Yellow indicates the volcano’s Northeast Rift Zone, an area along which lava could erupt. The extent of the 1984 eruption and lava flow is superimposed on the map (red). (Map: USGS)

    New U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) maps show areas that could be affected by Mauna Loa lava flows — information critical for response planning. Each zone identifies a segment of the volcano that could erupt lava and send flows downslope.

    The volcano has erupted 33 times since 1843. Typically, eruptions began in the summit caldera, with a curtain of fire (a 1- to 2-kilometer line of lava fountains).

    Using detailed geologic mapping and modeling of how a fluid (in this case, lava) responds to surface topography, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory constructed nine maps depicting 18 inundation zones on Mauna Loa, Hawaii.

    Colored regions on these maps show areas on the volcano’s flank that could potentially be covered by flows from future Mauna Loa eruptions. These eruptions could originate from the volcano’s summit, rift zones or radial vents. It’s likely, however, that only part of a zone would be covered in a single eruption.

    When a Mauna Loa eruption starts, the maps can help decision makers quickly identify communities, infrastructure and roads between possible vent locations and the coast, facilitating more efficient and effective allocation of response resources, the USGS said. The public can also use the maps to consider where lava flows might go once an eruption starts.

    A pamphlet about the maps is available here.

    lava flow glow: Had the Mauna Loa inundation maps been available in April 1984, when the volcano last erupted, the maps could have been used to determine that the northern portion of Hilo was the most likely area to be impacted by the main lava flow. (Photo: David Little)

  • UAV sensor package detects methane

    Pergam gas sensor aboard the Microdrones md4-1000 UAV.

    The professional aerial methane detector mdTector1000 CH4 from Microdrones makes it easy to detect methane gas via a fully integrated aerial package for professionals responsible for methane gas infrastructure.

    The mdTector1000 CH4 has a Pergam gas sensor, mounted and integrated with the Microdrones md4-1000 UAV. In real time, users can see aerial shots of detection with the laser sensor, the company said. The carbon-fiber built UAV goes into dangerous areas unsuitable for workers.

    The mdTector1000 CH4 can be used for natural gas line surveys, tank inspections, gas well testing, plant safety and landfill emission monitoring.

    The mdCockpit Android App allows users to maintain visualization in flight. A special mdTector app allows users to visualize and present all post-flight data on one map.

  • Tampa demonstrates connected vehicle technology

    Tampa, Florida, took a big step toward its goal of becoming a smart city on Nov. 13, when the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA) hosted its first public demonstration of connected car technology.

    THEA plans to equip 1,600 privately owned automobiles with connected vehicle technology by mid-2018 as part of the Tampa Connected Vehicle Pilot.

    In the project, volunteers’ automobiles will be equipped to communicate with downtown traffic and pedestrian signals to enhance safety, improve traffic flow and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. Ten buses and 10 streetcars will also be equipped.

    Tampa is one of three sites deploying the technology as part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Connected Vehicle Pilot Deployment Program. The other two sites are New York City and the Interstate 80 corridor in the state of Wyoming. Tampa’s project is the only one that involves local residents driving their own cars.

    THEA is now recruiting volunteer drivers and pedestrians for the Tampa Connected Vehicle Pilot. Participating drivers commuting on the equipped expressway will receive a warning when traffic backs up, or when approaching a curve at an unsafe speed. Drivers who near pedestrians in certain crosswalks also will receive alerts.

    Pedestrians will be able to participate in the pilot by installing an app on their smartphones that will enable them to request a “walk” signal at certain intersections, and issue audible alerts if a bus or streetcar is moving nearby.

  • OriginGPS creates IoT-connected baseball

    OriginGPS teamed with Friendly Technologies, an internet of things (IoT) and device management company, and Humavox, a wireless charging expert, to create an IoT-connected baseball in six weeks.

    Friendly’s IoT platform interfaces the OriginIoT (cellular IoT) system to enable communication, management and a graphical user interface, while Humavox’s compact Wi-Fi-charging bowl re-energizes the system.

    The demonstration — developed in six weeks without a single line of embedded code or RF engineering — was showcased at CTIA Mobile World Congress 2017, in San Francisco Sept. 12–14.

    The OriginIoT effectively resolves inherent costly issues to IoT developments — namely long project cycles and required embedded software expertise. It expedites development cycles, and eliminates the need for embedded coding and RF engineering, resulting in substantial cuts in development resources, the companies said. With OriginGPS’ cellular-GNSS integrated in the IoT cellular system, the smart baseball is a proof of concept for rapid and accessible IoT development.

    Friendly’s One-IoTTM platform enables service providers to manage the data and configuration of millions of devices on a single platform, accelerating deployment and streamlining IoT service management, while cutting operational costs.