Tag: CHCNAV

Launchpad: Mobile mapping, antennas and GNSS receivers

A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the October 2023 issue of GPS World magazine.

SURVEYING & MAPPING

GNSS Receiver
For GIS and survey professionals

The R2 GNSS system is a compact, durable, and flexible GNSS receiver that collects highly accurate data in a wide range of geospatial applications with submeter to centimeter positioning accuracy. The R2 can track the full range of GNSS satellite constellations and augmentation systems, and also comes with an integrated Trimble Maxwell 6 chip and 220 channels. Users can achieve higher accuracy in real-time with the ability to choose correction sources from traditional real-time kinematic, VRS networks, to Trimble RTX correction services delivered by both satellite and internet/cellular. The R2 can provide improvements to position availability and accuracy when heavy overhead cover, such as tree canopy and buildings, obstruct satellite signals. The receiver is also IP65-rated, making it suitable for rugged environments.
Trimble Geospatial, geospatial.trimble.com

Scanning and Mapping Solution
Designed for accuracy-focused remote sensing applications

The Resepi Teledyne Optech CL-360-HD has a powerful four-return laser and increased range of up to 750 m, making it ideal for mobile mapping, forestry and crack detection in critical infrastructure areas such as airport runways. Resepi is a sensor-fusion platform designed for accuracy-focused remote sensing applications. Resepi utilizes a high-performance INS and a high-accuracy dual antenna GNSS receiver, integrated with a Linux-based processing core and data-logging software. The platform also provides a Wi-Fi interface, optional imaging module, and external cellular modem for RTCM corrections. Resepi can be operated by a single hardware button or from a wirelessly connected device via a simple web interface. Resepi, equipped with Teledyne’s CL-360HD lidar, offers various laser scan speeds and frequencies, allowing users to tweak the settings to match their individual needs.
Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com

GNSS Receiver Series
Available in three different models for various applications

The Xtraordinary X1-series GNSS receivers include X1 and X1 Lite and X1 Pro. The X1-series adopts Linux OS, which improves the stability of the system and the synergistic compatibility of each module. This series of GNSS receivers features improvements to satellite tracking, the inertial measurement unit (IMU), battery life, and more. Optimized with a new generation of IMU module, users can easily initialize the IMU in 5-sec and start tilt measurements up to 60°. The X1-series GNSS receivers supports both 4G/radio correction data transmission and can reach up to 15 km range in enhanced internal UHF mode, 20 km range in external mode, and more than 50 km via internal GSM or PDA CORS mode.
SingularXYZ, singularxyz.com

GNSS Smart Antenna
For agricultural, marine, GIS, mapping and other applications

The A631 combines the Athena GNSS engine and Atlas L-band correction technologies with a new web user interface (WebUI). Optional features include 16 GB of internal storage, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The compact antenna is designed for rugged environments and meets IP67 requirements. With multiple operating modes, A631 can be used as an RTK base station or rover. The device is supported by the Atlas Portal, which empowers users to update firmware and enable functionality, including Atlas subscriptions for accuracies from meter to sub-decimeter levels. A631 also supports BaseLink and SmartLink modes. SmartLink allows users to directly connect AtlasLink as an extension to any existing system that has industry-standard connectivity options. BaseLink automatically sets up AtlasLink as a permanent reference station, delivering corrections to any other GNSS receiver being used for positioning.
Hemisphere GNSS, hemispheregnss.com

GNSS Receiver
For land surveying, GIS, and construction applications

The Mars Pro combines GNSS, inertial measurement unit (IMU), and laser technologies. When set to laser mode, the Mars Pro can carry out measurements by selecting a signal-friendly spot within a 10-m radius, which aids in measuring hard-to-reach, signal-obstructed, and hazardous areas. With its millimeter-level laser distance meter integrated on its rear, the Mars Pro facilitates the utilization of the laser mode in scenarios involving surveying and stakeout. The integrated IMU sensor offers 60° tilt compensation, which remains functional even when operating in laser mode, allowing for uncompromised efficiency and accuracy. Equipped with the latest K8 platform, it boasts full-constellation support, offering 1,668 tracking channels and more than 60 satellite tracking capabilities across all existing and planned constellations — GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BDS, QZSS and IRNSS. The Mars Pro offers support for precise point positioning (PPP) service, enabling rapid fixing within seconds. Its dynamic OLED color screen is sunlight readable and offers real-time visualization of essential data — satellite count, fixed state, on-off state, power, and more. It is compatible with mainstream brands and multiple protocols, such as Transparent, TT450S, SATEL, Trimtakl3, CHC and South.
ComNav Technology, comnavtech.com

Lidar System
For mobile mapping applications

The AlphaUni 20 lidar system (AU20) features advanced multi-target capabilities that support up to 16 target echoes for vegetation penetration. The AU20 captures ground surfaces with extreme precision, producing accurate digital elevation models and digital surface models in challenging environments. The lidar system has an accuracy of 2 cm to 5 cm. It has a lightweight, compact design that weighs 2.82 kg in its airborne configuration and a total of only 10.7 kg with its car mount kit, including a Ladybug5+. Its flexible multi-platform design allows users to install it on manned or unmanned aircraft for aerial scanning, integrate it into a variety of land vehicles, and even use it as a backpack-mounted system for mapping narrow areas.
CHC Navigation, chcnav.com

Gyroscope
An advanced performance, tactical-grade MEMS gyroscope solution

Developed for use in particularly harsh environments, the TAG-304 gyroscopes can withstand extreme shock and vibrations in accordance with MIL-STD-810 standards. Additionally, TAG-304 gyroscopes are fully digitized (RS-422 interface), include built-in test (BIT) functionalities, and have no moving parts. TAG-304 is an advanced performance, tactical-grade MEMS gyroscope, of which size, power consumption, reliability and performance are ideal for accomplishing complex tasks requiring accurate stabilization of assorted platforms. Very low latency (group delay), small size, 4K Hz data rate, 1K Hz bandwidth, and low noise make TAG-304 gyroscopes a suitable solution for miniature electro-optical systems, gimbals, line-of-sight, and pan and tilt platforms stabilization and pointing applications.
Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com

IMU
For GNSS-challenged environments

The ANELLO IMU+ provides robust and reliable autonomous navigation and positioning in GNSS-denied or GNSS-compromised environments. Powered by optical gyroscope technology, the ANELLO IMU+ delivers high precision and reliability in demanding conditions, including shock, vibration, electromagnetic interference and temperature. The ANELLO IMU+ is suitable for autonomous applications in the construction, robotics, mining, trucking and defense industries.The device delivers long-term dead reckoning in high-temperature and high-vibration environments.The ANELLO IMU+ features unaided heading drift of < 0.5°/hr, dual high-speed CAN FD interfaces, and dual RS-232 interfaces; has ASIL-D ready, automotive-qualified CPU and OS; and is IP68 waterproof, resistant to dust, salt spray and chemicals.
ANELLO Photonics, anellophotonics.com

Flying Laser Scanner
Captures colorized 3D point clouds for producing 3D models, drawings, and visualizations

BLK2FLY is a fully integrated lidar UAV laser scanner with advanced obstacle avoidance for reality capture from the air. It can scan inaccessible areas such as rooftops, facades and large building interiors. BLK2FLY autonomously captures interior and exterior dimensions and features of buildings with a few taps on a tablet. Users can select an area within the map on their tablet and the BLK2FLY will create its own flight path to scan it quickly and safely. Users can send the BLK2FLY to scan a new area by tapping anywhere on the 3D view in the app. The BLK2FLY also can be piloted manually with virtual joysticks on a user’s tablet.

BLK2FLY can scan interiors of large arenas, stadiums, facilities, plants, and even obscured or confined outdoor areas with its Indoor Mode, which allows the BLK2FLY to get closer to objects with reduced flight speed and to fly within confined spaces without access to GNSS. With advanced obstacle avoidance and increased visual SLAM capabilities, the BLK2FLY’s Indoor Mode makes scanning inside fast and versatile.
Leica Geosystems, leica-geosystems.com

MOBILE

Smart Antenna
Suitable for multiple applications

The HCS885XF/HCS885EXF smart helical GNSS antenna is suitable for UAV, land survey devices, automotive positioning, and other precise positioning/heading applications. The HCS885XF/HCS885EXF combines the performance and light weight of the Tallysman dual-band (GPS/QZSS L1/L5, GLONASS G1/G3, Galileo E1/E5a/b, BeiDou B1/B2/B2a) HC885SXF antenna with the low power consumption and GNSS augmentation capabilities of the u-blox NEO-F9P GNSS receiver. HCS885XF/HCS885EXF employs L5 signals (1160-1217 MHz), which transmit stronger signal power and a higher bandwidth chipping rate than L2 signals, thereby offering high performance when challenged with strong multipath signals. It also employs Tallysman’s eXtended Filtering system, which mitigates near-band and out-of-band interference, such as LTE signals and their harmonics and the planned Ligado service in North America, enabling operation in the most challenging deployments. The HCS885XF/HCS885EXF integrated receiver can simultaneously monitor four constellations, support base/rover RTK configurations (<1 cm), and use u-blox PointPerfect PPP-RTK augmented services over a terrestrial control network (3-6 cm). A moving-base precise heading configuration is available with base/rover antenna pairs.
Tallysman Wireless, tallysman.com

Antenna
Multi-constellation antenna for precision agriculture and semi-autonomous or autonomous applications

The TS122 EUAA provides centimeter-level accuracy in highly variable terrain and challenging GNSS-obstructed environments with ± 10 cm P2P accuracy and STANDALONE technology. The TS122 EUAA smart antenna receives dual-frequency multiple constellation signals from GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou, with output position information up to 10 Hz. The antenna is capable of correcting deviations caused by a vehicle’s roll and pitch while working on uneven groups or slopes.
Harxon, harxon.com

October 16, 2023
CHCNAV launches aerial surveying solution

Image: CHCNAV

CHC Navigation (CHCNAV) has released the AlphaAir 10 (AA10), an advanced aerial surveying solution designed for UAV mapping and photogrammetry.

Leveraging CHCNAV’s lidar technology, the AA10 seamlessly integrates high-precision lidar, accurate GNSS positioning, IMU orientation and an industrial-grade full-frame orthophoto camera. Combined with CHCNAV point cloud and image fusion modeling software, this solution offers an efficient survey-grade approach to 3D data acquisition and processing.

The AlphaAir 10 can detect up to eight target echoes utilizing advanced multi-target capabilities, which greatly enhances its ability to penetrate dense vegetation and acquire precise ground surfaces.

Complementing the solution, the CoPre and CoProcess software suite streamlines post-processing and feature extraction with an easy-to-use and efficient data workflow. High-quality point cloud data is used to create a mesh model, followed by efficient 3D model reconstruction with realistic point cloud colorization using high-resolution image mapping textures.

In addition, the AA10 is IP64-rated, ensuring the system’s ruggedness and providing consistent, reliable performance in a wide range of operating conditions.

October 16, 2023
INTERGEO 2023: Recap

On the first day of INTERGEO 2023, attendees flooded the exhibit hall. (All photos taken by GPS World staff).

The 29th INTERGEO conference and trade show on geospatial technology and data was held from October 10 to 12 in the German capital Berlin. This year’s event took place under the famous radio tower and in the brand new Hub27 conference center, part of the 42-acre Messe Berlin exhibit and conference center. The annual event takes place each year in a different German city.

Over the three days, 560 vendors from more than 40 nations exhibited their products, while people from across the globe attended presentations and vendor exhibits on geodesy, geoinformation and land management. Topics covered included Earth observation and environmental monitoring, maritime solutions, unmanned systems, building information modeling (BIM), GIS and artificial intelligence, metaverse and cloud applications, smart cities, digital twins, COPERNICUS and Galileo satellite services, 4D geodata, 3D cadaster, and smart mapping applications. The focus was on how these technologies and data are used to address issues of housing, mobility, sustainability, climate change and internal security, monitoring for disaster prevention and protection, and the creation of more equitable living conditions.

In conjunction with the conference, the German Cartography Congress 2023 also convened, with lectures on such topics as atlases, map collections, map design, and artificial intelligence. In her keynote address, Professor Monika Sester discussed how machine learning methods help with generalization and Professor Sebastian Meier gave a provocative lecture titled “Critical Cartography in Times of Hallucinating Machines.”

Attendees at a presentation from the exhibit hall stage.

Day 1, Tuesday, October 10

On the first day of INTERGEO 2023, keynote speakers included Jack Dangermond, founder and CEO of ESRI, professor Paul Becker, president of the Federal Agency for Cartography and Geodesy, Scott Crozier from Trimble and professor Rudolf Staiger, president of the organiser DVW e.V. The main theme was the centrality of geospatial science and technology to sustainability because the basis of socially, ecologically and economically sustainable decisions lies in the understanding of the Earth system. This is increasingly achieve using geoinformation gathered through Earth observation and many other sensors.

GPS World conducted short interviews with Gustavo Lopez, market access manager at Septentrio and Deyn Deng, overseas sales manager at Unicore.

Some surveying supplies that have been used for centuries are still in use today.

Day 2, Wednesday, October 11

On the second day of INTERGEO 2023, the focus of the keynote presentations, like that of many of the products in the exhibit hall, was “smart cities” and building information modeling (BIM), including a panel discussion on the importance of BIM in Germany. Related themes discussed in the presentations, on the exhibit hall stages, and at vendors’ booths included connected urban twins, sensor data, real-time applications, urban twins as drivers of innovation for local governments, maritime solutions, Earth observation, and unmanned systems.

An autonomous bathymetric vessel from Teledyne Marine.

At a press conference on navigating sustainability through geospatial insights the participants were Rudolf Staiger, president of DVW, Boris Skopljak, Vice President survey & mapping strategy and product marketing at Trimble, Thomas Harring, president Geosystems at Hexagon, Gerd Buziek, Business Relations Executive at Esri Deutschland and Godela Roßner, head of Earth observation at Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR).

This UAV from CHCNAV can take off and land like a helicopter and fly like a plane.

GPS World conducted short interviews with Andrew Scott, Head of Marketing & Sales at JAVAD GNSS; Jamie Birch, product manager at OxTS; Mandy Clayton, Southeast Regional sales mganager at GeoMax (part of Hexagon); Florian Ollier, head of marketing & communications at SBG Systems; Andrei Gorb, division product manager, Mapping Solutions at CHCNAV; Rachel Wong, Survey & Engineering Product Line, product manager at CHCNAV; Marcel Visser, CEO of NavCert; Ken MacLeod, product line manager and Bruce Shields systems group director at Tallysman; and Morgane Selve, head of marketing at Yellowscan.

CHCNAV’s Apache 4 autonomous bathymetric vessel.

Visser told GPS World that his company had obtained from the German federal government sole responsibility to certify UAVs in Germany for commercial operations, including flights beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).

Trimble’s GEDO CE 2.0 track measurement trolley.

October 13, 2023
CHCNAV introduces RTK GNSS tablet

Image: CHCNAV

CHC Navigation (CHCNAV) released the LT800H, a rugged and versatile RTK GNSS tablet designed for geospatial and mapping operations in the field.

The LT800H offers users robust outdoor performance, data security and centimeter-level accuracy for a variety of applications, including construction, environmental surveying and any industry in which Android tablets are required.

Featuring a high-performance 1408 channel GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou module and a tracking GNSS helix antenna, the LT800H RTK Android tablet offers centimeter-to-decimeter positioning accuracy in challenging environments. It also comes equipped with a 4G modem to simplify connectivity to GNSS RTK network corrections. The technology also offers an eight-hour battery life, allowing users to collect data in the field uninterrupted.

September 26, 2023
Launchpad: GNSS receivers, timing modules, survey applications

A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the April 2023 issue of GPS World magazine.

TIMING

Image: Furuno

Global Timing Module
Supports L1 and L5 GNSS signals

GT-100 is compatible with all GNSS constellations. The GT-100 realizes high robustness and standard of time accuracy and stability. The GT-100 features advanced multipath mitigation, anti-jamming and anti-spoofing as well as short-term holdover, ensuring superior performance even if L1 or L5 are jammed. The module delivers nanosecond precision for 5G wireless systems, radio communications systems, smart power grids and grand master clocks. Along with the GT-100, GT-9001 and GT-90 achieve a level of time stability of 4.5ns (1σ) and offer superior features and performance.
Furuno, furuno.com

Image: UTStarcom

PTP Grandmaster
Designed for mobile networks

The SyncRing XGM30E precision time protocol (PTP) grandmaster is designed for mobile networks and other applications requiring accurate time and frequency synchronization. It is an addition to the SyncRing line of network synchronization equipment. The SyncRing XGM30E is an indoor PTP grandmaster offering echo time accuracy of more than ±40 ns, which can meet the stringent timing requirements of demanding applications, including 4G and 5G networks. The clock complies with the PTP IEEE 1588-2008 standard, supporting major ITU-T frequency and phase and time profiles. SyncRing XGM30E supports synchronous Ethernet (SyncE) output on all service interfaces for accurate frequency synchronization, and SyncE input for enhanced time holdover operation during GNSS outages. The grandmaster includes an indoor rack-mount design and power supply redundancy with AC or DC built-in options and has flexible management options. The SyncRing XGM30E is available now.
UTStarcom, utstar.com

Image: Huber+Suhner

Copper-Free Data System
For precise timing synchronization for high-performance networks

The GNSS and Power over Fiber GPSoF System receives, transmits and expands GNSS timing signals for the purpose of timing synchronization in data centers, central offices, distributed antenna systems or enterprise applications. It enables greater distances between the radio frequency source and the receiver system. It is also immune to RFI, EMI and EMP, contains remote control and monitoring via a web interface, and supports infrastructure installation due to direct GNSS signal evaluation.
Huber+Suhner, hubersuhner.com

Image: ADVA

M-Code Device
With advanced timing for military applications

The OSA 5422 grandmaster clock meets key requirements of military networks by providing advanced positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) capabilities and improved resilience. The OSA 5422 grandmaster clock is integrated with a highly reliable M-code receiver, which meets stringent frequency and phase synchronization needs. The device is equipped with multi-band, multi-constellation GNSS receivers for when M-code is not available. The OSA 5422 also has long holdover and precision time protocol backup, which enables it to maintain accurate timing even in the event of M-code disruption. The OSA 5422 supports legacy interfaces such as BITS and IRIG and features eight field-upgradable 10G bit/s ports and 1G bit/s interfaces. The device is suitable for most demanding military edge applications.
ADVA, adva.com; Brandywine Communications, brandywinecomm.com

AUTONOMOUS

Image: CHC Navigation

GNSS RTK Steering System
Suitable for agriculture applications

The NX510 SE Auto-Steer is an automated steering system that retrofits several types of new and old farm tractors and other vehicles. It can be connected to local real-time kinematic (RTK) networks or GNSS RTK base stations. NX510 SE is a guidance controller powered by multiple corrections sources and five satellite constellations: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS. It has a built-in 4G and UHF modem that connects to all industry-standard differential GPS and RTK corrections to achieve centimeter-accuracy steering. NX510 SE contains GNSS and inertial navigation system terrain compensation technology, which maintains high accuracy in challenging environments and terrain. This makes NX510 SE suitable for ditching, planting and harvesting applications. In addition, AgNav multilingual software, operating on a 10.1 in industrial display, supports multiple guideline patterns that include AB line, A+ line, circle line, irregular curve and headland turn.
CHC Navigation, chcnav.com

Image: Trimble

Module for Rail Monitoring
For automated and semi-automated rail monitoring

The T4D Rail Module enables simple data collection and reduces office work required to automate movement detection for rail monitoring projects. The T4D software offers four main elements for automated monitoring: sensor management and data integration for GNSS; total station, geotechnical, vibration and environmental sensors; geodetic processing and adjustments for accurate results; analysis and visualization through several tools that provide real-time updates to support in-depth analysis and data presentation; and alarming and reporting. The T4D Rail module enables integration of rail as-builts collected with the Trimble GEDO system or with a track measuring bar paired with the Trimble Access Gauge Survey app. It also can automate calculations for track geometry parameters, generate analysis charts, and trigger alarms. The T4D software is offered in five editions to fit various project requirements. The editions include T4D Access, T4D Field, T4D Intermediate, T4D Geotechnical and T4D Advanced. T4D Access and T4D Advanced are the two editions that support the add-on Rail Module.
Trimble Geospatial, geospatial.trimble.com

Image: Airobotics

C-UAV Device
Anti-UAV protection device

The Iron Drone system is an advanced counter-UAV device, designed to defend against hostile drones in complex environments with minimal damage. Iron Drone is an automated intercepting system designed to eliminate small drones without using GPS or radio frequency jamming. The Iron Drone system is launched from a designated pod and flies autonomously towards targets under radar guidance. It identifies the target using computer vision capabilities. The intercepting UAV follows the target then uses a net and a parachute to incapacitate it, capture it and lower it to the ground.
Airobotics, airoboticsdrones.com

Image: Rohde & Schwarz

Drone-based analyzer
For UAV inspections

EVSD1000 VHF/UHF nav/drone analyzer provides highly accurate UAV inspection of terrestrial navigation and communications systems. The EVSD1000 VHF/UHF nav/drone analyzer is a signal-level and modulation analyzer for medium-sized UAVs. It features measurements of instrument landing systems, ground-based augmentation systems and VHF omnirange ground stations. The mechanical and electrical design is optimized for UAV-based, real-time measurements of terrestrial navigation systems with up to 100 measurement data sets per second. The analyzer provides high-precision signal analysis in the frequency range from 70 MHz to 410 MHz. This also includes the needed measurement repeatability to ensure that results from UAV measurements can be compared to flight and to ground inspections in line with ICAO standards. The EVSD1000 VHF/UHF nav/drone analyzer reduces runway blocking times, provides necessary measurement repeatability and offers measurement precision and GNSS time and location stamps. While streaming measurement data during a drone flight via the data link to a PC on the ground, the analyzer can also buffer data internally to ensure no results are lost if the data link is lost.
Rohde & Schwarz, rohde-schwarz.com

SURVEYING & MAPPING

Image: SiLC

Coherent Vision Solution
Suitable for advanced products

The Eyeonic Vision System is a frequency-modulated continuous wave lidar solution, which delivers high levels of vision perception to identify and avoid objects with low latency. At the core of the system is a fully integrated silicon photonics chip. It provides more definition and precision than legacy lidar solutions, with roughly 10 milli-degree of angular resolution coupled with millimeter-level precision. These features enable this solution to measure the shape and distance of objects with high-precision and at a large distance. The system combines the Eyeonic Vision Sensor and a digital processing solution based on a powerful field-programmable gate array. The flexible architecture enables synchronization of multiple vision sensors for unlimited points per second. The compact, powerful, vision solution is suitable for autonomous vehicles, smart cameras, robotics and other advanced products. It is available now. Pricing varies depending on configuration.
SiLC Technologies, silc.com

Image: SBG Systems

GNSS-Aided INS
Easily integrated with lidar or other third-party sensors

Quanta Plus is a GNSS-aided inertial navigation system (INS). The device combines a MEMS inertial measurement unit (IMU) with a resilient GNSS receiver to get reliable position and attitude, as well as providing real-time kinematic (RTK) fixes. Quanta Plus includes motion profiles, which enable users to optimize the sensor parameters to suit different use cases. The built-in precise time protocol server ensures sub-microsecond synchronization with external devices such as lidar. The device also has a built-in datalogger, Ethernet interface for easy integration, and a web configuration interface for simple setup and control. The INS can be integrated with Qinertia, SBG System’s post-processing software. Qinertia improves the performance of acquired data during a mission using reliable RTK corrections from a wide range of continuously operating reference station networks, or by importing base-station data during the process. Quanta Plus also improves the accuracy of the position and attitude using forward and backward processing and by integrating a tight coupling between GNSS and IMU data.
SBG Systems, sbg-systems.com

Image: Inertial Labs

Survey Laser
Suitable for remote-sensing applications

The Resepi Hesai XT32 laser is designed for accurate remote-sensing applications. It can be used with commercially available lidar scanners, including Velodyne, Quanergy, Ouster, RIEGL, LIVOX and Hesai, as well as with UAVs. Resepi is completely modular, so users have full control for customization. The remote-sensing device uses a GPS-aided inertial navigation system with a NovAtel RTK/PPK single- or dual-antenna GNSS receiver, integrated with a Linux-based processing platform. It also comes with a 2 TB USB memory drive and has an embedded Wi-Fi cellular modem. Resepi has 3 cm to 5 cm point-cloud accuracy and can reach heights of more than 200 m above ground level. It is compatible with most UAV models; however, it is typically used with DJI M300, DJI M210 or DJI M600 models. The device is suitable for scanning and mapping, precision agriculture with lidar, simultaneous localization and mapping algorithm development, utility inspection and construction site monitoring. Resepi-supported software includes Hexagon NovAtel, PCPainter and PCMaster.
Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com

Image: CHC Navigation

IMU-RTK GNSS Receiver
Provides robust and accurate positioning

The i90 GNSS receiver combines a GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) engine, a high-end inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor and advanced GNSS tracking capabilities to increase RTK availability and reliability. The embedded 624-channel GNSS receiver is compatible with GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou signals. The i90 GNSS combines high-end connectivity modules: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, 4G and a UHF radio modem. The internal UHF radio modem allows long-distance base-to-rover surveying up to 5 km. The built-in IMU ensures interference-free and automatic pole-tilt compensation in real time. An accuracy of 3 cm is achieved with pole-tilt range of up to 30°. The i90 GNSS receiver is suitable for construction and land surveying projects.
CHC Navigation, chcnav.com

Image: CHCNAV

Field Application
For Android devices

LandStar8 is designed to be flexible and user-friendly for surveying and mapping tasks. It is versatile, modular and customizable for topographic tasks such as surveying, stake out, cadastral, mapping and geographic information systems (GIS). Building on the legacy of LandStar7, the LandStar8 provides features such as a refined user interface, streamlined workflows, faster operation, and integrated cloud services. Cloud connectivity is built in for backup, data storage or remote technical support. LandStar8 has a simple and intuitive layout with large map windows and sharp graphics. Users can hide features they rarely use and display only those they need. They also can copy coordinate settings, control and staking points from another handheld controller by scanning a QR code. Projects can be edited and sorted by history and attributes. Custom coordinate systems, geoid models and coding libraries can be updated at any time by using resource packages. LandStar8 also features a terrain calibration wizard designed for non-expert users.
CHCNAV, chcnav.com

Image: Position Partners

Survey Rover
For accurate, survey-grade aerial mapping and photogrammetry

SmartSurveyor facilitates accurate, survey-grade aerial mapping and photogrammetry without the need for a connection between a camera shutter and a GNSS receiver. The fully compact, handheld aerial mapping survey rover is compatible with DJI Mavix 2 and 3 series and Phantom 4 Pro UAVs. The design is dissimilar from other UAV mapping systems in that it works from a UAV or smartphone and with two or more ground control points (GCPs) while using an ultra-matching technique. Once SmartSurveyor captures data, all photos and the GNSS file are uploaded to a PC and analyzed through the Agisoft UltraMatch workflow to confirm their accuracy before they are exported. Data can be managed in the cloud or on a local PC using software designed by MapSender. Additionally, this mapping tool works in tandem with the AllDayRTK subscription GNSS network service so that collected data can be uploaded to Tokara to remotely manage a project.

Position Partners, positionpartners.com

OEM

NB-IoT Industrial Module
Complete with GNSS geo-location capabilities

Image: STMicroelectronics

The ST87M01 is a fully programmable, certified LTE Cat NB2 NB-IoT industrial module that covers worldwide cellular frequency bands and integrates advanced security features. The ST87M01 is an integrated native GNSS receiver with multi-constellation access, which ensures enhanced and accurate localization. The module has a diminutive 10.6 mm x 12.8 mm land grid array footprint, making it suitable for applications where a small form factor is key. The STM8701 offers flexibility for product developers, presenting a fully programmable internet of things (IoT) platform enabling users to embed their own code into the module for simple applications. A variety of protocol stacks are available to handle popular IoT use cases. It targets wide-ranging IoT applications that require ultra-reliable low-power wide-area network connectivity and has ultra-low power consumption with less than 2 µA in low-power mode and transmit output power up to +23 dBm. Suitable applications for the module include smart metering, smart grid, smart building, smart city and smart infrastructure applications, as well as industrial condition monitoring and factory automation, smart agriculture and environmental monitoring. The module also can be combined with a separate host microcontroller, permitting many more use cases.
STMicroelectronics, st.com

Image: Quectel

GNSS Module
Designed for battery-operated, ultra-low power GNSS devices

The LC76G module is a compact, single-band, ultra-low power GNSS module that features fast and accurate location performance. The module can concurrently receive and process signals from the GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and QZSS constellations. The LC76G has an internal surface acoustic wave filter and integrated low-noise amplifier, which can be connected directly to a passive patch antenna and provides filtering against unwanted interference. With a compact size of 10.1 mm × 9.7 mm × 2.4 mm, the footprint of the LC76G is compatible with other industry solutions, as well as Quectel’s legacy L76 and L76-LB modules. The LC67G is designed for battery-operated, ultra-low power GNSS devices, such as wearable personal trackers, wildlife and livestock tracking, toll tags, portable container trackers, as well as several traditional markets such as shared mobility and low-cost asset trackers.
Quectel Wireless Solutions, quectel.com

The INS-DH-OEM. (Photo: Inertial Labs)

Inertial Navigation System
Incorporates NovAtel and Honeywell technology

The INS-DH-OEM utilizes a dual-antenna NovAtel GNSS receiver and a Honeywell HG4930-CA51 inertial measurement unit (IMU). The INS-DH-OEM contains Inertial Labs’ on-board sensor-fusion filter, navigation and guidance algorithms, and calibration software. The INS-DH-OEM has three axes, a full operational temperature range, advanced MEMS accelerometers and new-generation tactical-grade MEMS gyroscopes to provide accurate position, velocity, heading, pitch and roll. It is small and lightweight, measuring 85.5 mm x 67.5 mm x 52.0 mm and weighing 280 g. The dual-antenna NovAtel GNSS receiver is operational with GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS constellations. The INS-DH-OEM is compatible with most commercially available lidars including Velodyne, Riegl and Faro. The algorithms are suitable for different dynamic motions of vessels, ships, helicopters, UAVs, gimbals and land vehicles.
Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com

Image: MSO

Speed Sensor
Multi-use sensor for workflow

The Speed Wedge MKII is a true-ground speed sensor and active motion detector for moving objects, based on radar doppler technology. This sensor is suitable for use in indoor and off-highway vehicles, conveyor belts, material flow and open channel water surface flow. The sensor contains a dead-reckoning system component for inertial measurement units and integrated management systems (IMS) in GPS/GNSS-denied environments such as in tunnels and underground mining operations. It also features sensor fusion with GNSS and IMS improving positioning accuracy, quality and reliability. Speed Wedge MKII deploys a radar front-end with planar antennas continuously emitting electro-magnetic waves at 24 GHz. It is designed for contactless measurement of speed and distance travelled independent on wheel/drive slip. For demanding applications Speed Wedge MKII is sealed and potted in a rugged encasing. Speed Wedge MKII is available in variants with pulse, serial RS232 and CAN-Bus output. High-speed up to 200 km/h is available.
MSO, mso-technik.de/home-en.html

Image: Orolia

GNSS Simulations Software
For simulation and testing needs

Skydel GNSS simulation software can now generate more than 500 simulated satellite signals. This platform is suitable for GNSS users, experts and manufacturers, as well as users needing a low-Earth-orbit-capable simulation system. Skydel contains a feature that includes multi-constellation and multi-frequency signal generation, remote control from user-defined scripts, and integrated interference generation. In addition to generating a high channel and satellite count, Skydel also can produce navigation warfare signals without any additional hardware.
Orolia, orolia.com

Image: Mikroe

Compact Add-On Board
Provides access to L-band GNSS corrections

LBand RTK Click is a compact add-on featuring the NEO-D9S-00B, a professional-grade, satellite data receiver for L-band corrections from u-blox. Operating in a frequency range from 1,525 MHz to 1,559 MHz, the NEO-D9S-00B decodes the satellite transmission and outputs a correction stream. This enables a high-precision GNSS receiver to reach accuracies down to centimeter-level. An independent stream of correction data, delivered over L-band signals, ensures high availability of position output. LBand RTK Click also uses several mikroBUS pins. In addition, LBand RTK Click contains an SMA antenna for connecting a Mikroe-brand antenna. This antenna easily allows positioning in space, supporting GNSS L-band frequencies. LBand RTK Click implements advanced security features such as signature and anti-jamming mechanisms. It also can be integrated with other GNSS receivers from the u-blox F9 platform.
Mikroe, mikroe.com

April 18, 2023
Hybrid GNSS+INS sensor: Navigates challenging environments

Image: CHC Navigation

The CHCNAV CGI-610 GNSS/INS sensor is an advanced dual-antenna receiver designed for reliable and accurate navigation and positioning in challenging terrestrial, marine or airborne applications.

Designed to meet the needs of 3D positioning and autonomous vehicle guidance applications, it provides high performance in urban canyons and other harsh environments where GNSS signals are lost or degraded. Incorporating the latest GNSS technology and an industrial-grade inertial measurement unit, the sensor delivers accurate hybrid position, attitude and velocity data up to 100 Hz, driven by CHCNAV algorithms.

Its rugged and lightweight package ensures uninterrupted performance and meets high protection standards.

April 1, 2023
CHCNAV UAV and lidar help mining exploration

Image: CHCNAV

CHC Navigation’s mobile mapping solutions, the P330 Pro vertical take-off and landing unmanned autonomous vehicle (VTOL UAV) and the AlphaAir 450 lidar, are being used for mining exploration in Indonesia. The solutions help with effective data collection to measure the volume of an open-pit mine.

The P330 Pro UAV and the AlphaAir 450 provide an effective surveying solution, which is critical to the life cycle of mining projects. During this operation, the solutions covered more than 5 km² per mission, with an error of less than 5 cm. Accurate lidar in vegetated areas enabled surveying of the ground surface, including structures missed by other surveys due to dense vegetation.

A CHC Navigation i50 GNSS receiver and processing software provided with the AlphaAir 450 were deployed during the operation.

The P330 Pro UAV enables small- and large-scale aerial surveying. It comes with a portable ground control station for remote control and communication between the UAV and its operator. The UAV is designed for vertical takeoff and landing, making it convenient to operate and transport.

The AlphaAir 450 is a lightweight and rugged system, which integrates lidar with an industrial-grade professional 26 MP camera and an inertial navigation system for data collection.

January 30, 2023
CHC Navigation launches Landstar8 data-collection app

Screenshot: CHCNAV

CHC Navigation has released LandStar8, a field surveying and mapping application for Android devices. LandStar8 is designed to be flexible and user-friendly for surveying and mapping tasks.

LandStar8 is versatile, modular and customizable for topographic tasks such as surveying, stake out, cadastral, mapping and geographic information systems (GIS). Building on the legacy of LandStar7, the new LandStar8 provides features such as a refined user interface, streamlined workflows, faster operation, and integrated cloud services.

“With LandStar8, we want to provide our users with unprecedented field experience,” said Rachel Wang, product manager of CHC Navigation’s Surveying and Engineering Division. “LandStar8’s modular design allows users to customize the interface according to their usage habits, making it easier and more efficient for field crews to work.”

Cloud connectivity is built in, for backup, data storage or remote technical support.

LandStar 8 has a simple and intuitive layout with large map windows and sharp graphics. Users can hide features they rarely use and display only those they need.

On LandStar8, users can copy coordinate settings, control and staking points from another handheld controller by scanning a QR code. Projects can be edited and sorted by history and attributes. Custom coordinate systems, geoid models and coding libraries can be updated at any time by using resource packages. LandStar8 also features a terrain calibration wizard designed specifically for non-expert users.

A proprietary MetaCAD graphics engine opens DWG and DXF base maps faster and with smoother rendering. DXF files up to 200 MB can be opened in less than 10 seconds. LandStar8 also supports opening external reference files, automatically recognizes CAD length units, and allows editing of CAD base maps directly in the field.

LandStar8 is designed around a comprehensive cloud-based architecture that supports project backup, collaborative work and data storage. Its remote support capabilities help the office helpdesk resolve user problems and provide personalized technical assistance. A “share code” feature allows users to transfer project data between desktop computers and field controllers or among field controllers quickly to further boost work efficiency.

December 6, 2022
CHC Navigation introduces i73+ pocket-sized GNSS receiver

CHC Navigation (CHCNAV) has launched the i73+ pocket-sized GNSS receiver. The i73+ is a compact, powerful and versatile receiver with an integrated UHF modem that can be used either as a base station or rover. Powered by 624 GNSS channels and the latest iStar technology, the i73+ delivers survey-grade accuracy in all jobsite configurations.

“Building on the legacy of the i73 GNSS receiver, the new i73+ receiver is designed to maintain its proven compact and lightweight concept, but adds the ability to be operated as either an RTK base station or a rover,” said Rachel Wang, product manager, Surveying and Engineering Division, CHCNAV. “To enable this extra feature, we have built in the latest UHF modem technology, allowing the reception and transmission of RTK corrections without sacrificing receiver size and power consumption.”

Integrated Tx/Rx UHF modem extends capacity

The i73+ has a built-in transceiver radio module compatible with major radio protocols, making it a suitable portable built-in UHF base and rover kit with fewer accessories. The i73+ is a highly productive NTRIP rover when used with a handheld controller or tablet and connected to a GNSS RTK network via CHCNAV LandStar field software.

The integrated, advanced 624-channel GNSS technology takes advantage of GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou, in particular the latest BeiDou 3 signal, and provides robust data quality at all times. The i73+ extends GNSS surveying capabilities while maintaining centimeter-level survey-grade accuracy.

The i73+ GNSS receiver. (Photo: CHCNAV)

Built-in IMU technology

With its inertial measurement unit (IMU) compensation ready in 3 seconds, the i73+ delivers 3-cm accuracy at up to 30º pole tilt, increasing point measurement efficiency by 20% and stakeout by 30%. Surveyors are able to extend their working boundary near trees, walls and buildings without the use of a total station or offset measurement tools.

The i73+ is the lightest and smallest receiver in its class, weighing only 0.73 kg including battery. It is almost 40% lighter than traditional GNSS receivers and easy to carry, use and operate without fatigue. The i73+ is packed with advanced technology, fits in hands and offers high productivity for GNSS surveys.

The i73+ includes a built-in UHF modem. (Photo: CHCNAV)

May 20, 2022
CHC Navigation introduces AlphaAir 1400 and AlphaAir 2400 airborne lidar series

CHC Navigation (CHCNAV) has released the AlphaAir 1400 (AA1400) and AlphaAir 2400 (AA2400) lidar systems.

Both lightweight, compact airborne laser scanners are easily installed on various UAV platforms or small survey aircraft and helicopters. They are adapted to high-density point corridor mapping applications, day or night, under leaf-on and leaf-off conditions or with dense vegetation to provide reliable results.

“Nowadays, it is critical to obtain the highest data quality for the majority of aerial survey projects,” said Andrei Gorb, product manager of CHC Navigation’s Mapping and Geospatial Division.

Combining with industrial-grade GNSS receivers and high-precision inertial measurement units (IMUs), the AA1400 and AA2400 provide 2 to 5 cm survey-grade accuracy. They also integrate Riegl’s VUX lidars with waveform-lidar technology, allowing echo digitization and online waveform processing.

“Multi-target resolution is the basis for penetrating even dense foliage,” Gorb said. “The continuously rotating polygonal mirror wheel enables scanning speed of up to 400 lines per second, allowing for effective coverage of large areas when used from fast drones or aircraft.”

The BB4 UAV equipped with the AA2400 scanner for the city mapping task. (Photo: CHCNAV)

Their built-in premium Riegl VUX-120 and VUX-240 lidar sensors feature a high-speed data acquisition rate of up to 1.8 MHz and a scan speed up to 400 lines per second. This provides a linear accuracy of 1cm to 2 cm on long-range scanning, suitable for fixed-wing UAV corridor mapping.

CHCNAV offers several external cameras for add-ons to the AlphaAir. Setups can include nadir or nadir and oblique cameras from Sony or PhaseOne. By obtaining high-resolution geo-referenced and oblique imagery, more applications can be supported, increasing the return on investment for the client.

The scanning results of the AA1400 and 2400 lidar series. (Photo: CHCNAV)

The one-click connection of the AlphaPort to the power source and camera makes the installation of the AA1400 and AA2400 quick and easy, eliminating the need for additional accessories and time for camera calibration. The AA1400 and AA2400 reduce the risk of cable damage caused by aircraft vibration and acceleration during takeoff and landing.

CHCNAV provides a full range of solutions that allows a complete lidar solution to be added to the users’ geomatic services. The software suite includes CoCapture UAV field application for fully automated reality capture and real-time mission tracking, and the CoPre desktop software for semi-automated point cloud processing.

The AA1400 and AA2400 lidar series solutions are available worldwide today through the CHCNAV distribution network.

April 12, 2022
CHC Navigation introduces i83 IMU-RTK GNSS receiver

Photo: CHCNAV

CHC Navigation (CHCNAV) has announced the availability of the i83 GNSS receiver, an addition to its premium GNSS receiver series for surveying, mapping and construction professionals. The i83 GNSS is powered by a 1408-channel multi-band GNSS receiver, the latest iStar technology, and a calibration-free, high-end inertial measurement unit (IMU) for faster and reliable field GNSS surveying.

“The i83 receiver combines GNSS and IMU into one single receiver to provide optimal automatic pole-tilt compensation that requires no calibration and is fully immune to magnetic interference. Operators just need to focus on their tasks and no longer need to level their pole vertically,” said Rachel Wang, product manager of CHC Navigation’s Surveying and Engineering Division. “In addition, we designed a high-resolution color display where users can clearly and intuitively get the GNSS receiver status to take full control of their survey operation.”

The third-generation high-gain antenna with the latest advanced CHCNAV iStar algorithm improves GNSS satellite signal tracking efficiency by more than 30%. The i83 GNSS receiver features 1,408 GNSS channels for high performance across GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and QZSS constellations. Its onboard GNSS technology delivers centimeter-level positioning, maintains reliable fixed real-time kinematic (RTK) accuracy, and collects points faster than previous models, even in demanding conditions.

Automatic compensation for pole tilt

The i83 receiver’s built-in IMU automatically compensates for pole tilt, increasing surveying, engineering and mapping efficiency by 30% over conventional GNSS RTK surveying methods. In less than 5 seconds, the 200-Hz inertial module is initialized to ensure survey-grade accuracy over a pole tilt range of up to 30 degrees. Productivity is dramatically increased, RTK usability greatly improved, and potential human error reduced, whether you are an engineer, site foreman or surveyor.

Integrated Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and near-field communication (NFC) modules provide seamless connection to field data controllers or tablets. Integrated 4G and UHF modems enable any GNSS survey mode, from RTK network NTRIP connections to UHF base-rover configurations. GNSS RTK corrections can be accessed or broadcast continuously for accurate positioning in all circumstances.

Users do not need to carry backup or external batteries in the field because of the i83 GNSS’ ultra-low-power system-on-chip (SoC) electronic design and smart power management. The i83 GNSS can operate for up to 18 hours as a GNSS RTK network rover or more than 8 hours as an RTK base station.

The i83 GNSS receiver is available worldwide through the CHCNAV distribution network.

April 8, 2022
CHC Navigation introduces the NX510 Pro Auto Steer
High accuracy and economical steering solution for most tractors in any field type

Photo: CHCNAV

CHC Navigation (CHCNAV) has released the NX510 Pro, a high-accuracy automated steering system designed for tillage, seeding, fertilization, pesticide application, and harvesting. With a steering controller and full GNSS RTK capability, the NX510 Pro can be quickly and easily mounted to various types of tractors and other farming vehicles to achieve ±2.5 cm pass-to-pass accuracy.

“The NX510 PRO is the new generation’s auto-steering system, engineered to dramatically reduce installation time, simplify daily operations and increase the productivity of farms of all sizes,” said Yorke Tang, product manager of CHCNAV’s Precision Agriculture division. He said the NX510 Pro allows farmers to afford a high-performance yet affordable auto-steer kit to retrofit their tractors to optimize their work, reduce input costs and fuel consumption, and meet the main goals of sustainable agriculture:
- Increase farm income
- Promote environmental stewardship
- Enhance the quality of life for farm families and communities
- Increase production for human food needs
Installation of the NX510 Pro auto-steering system to a tractor. (Photo: CHCNAV)

Quick installation. NX510 PRO takes less than one hour from installation start to operator use. The entire system can be installed in 30 minutes and calibrated in about 15 minutes, significantly reducing downtime costs in the field.

The intuitive AgNav software controls operations. It supports multiple guidance patterns to fit field layouts, including Straight AB line, A+ line, circle line, irregular curve and headland turn. It eliminates steering errors and overlapping passes on the field. The AgNav software also features real-time remote technical support from the local dealer’s help desk.

Powered by local, network or satellite-based RTK corrections, the GNSS+INS terrain compensation technology ensures ±2.5 cm hands-free accuracy on any terrain. The advanced controller ensures full RTK accuracy in seconds, provides smooth auto-steering and ensures repeatable long-term accuracy.

The CHCNAV NX510 Pro is now available worldwide.
September 16, 2021