Fitness wearables disconnected for one day and counting
Garmin fitness devices have been disconnected for nearly a day after the company suffered a major outage, reports the Verge.
The outage may be caused by a ransomware attack. The outage was first reported by Garmin July 23. It affects Garmin wearables, apps and call centers, which has made customer support impossible.
The message on the Garmin Connect website reads, “We’re sorry. We are currently experiencing an outage that affects Garmin.com and Garmin Connect. This outage also affects our call centers, and we are currently unable to receive any calls, emails or online chats. We are working to resolve this issue as quickly as possible and apologize for this inconvenience.”
Garmin Connect allows customers to obsessively track their exercise performance and fitness goals. FlyGarmin, the navigation service that supports Garmin’s aviation devices, has also been down affecting some pilots, reports ZDNET.
The ransomware attack has encrypted Garmin’s internal network and some production systems, according to ZDNET. The company is planning a multi-day maintenance window to deal with the attack’s aftermath, which includes shutting down its official website, Garmin Connect, FlyGarmin, and even some production lines in Asia.
According to the company, the week President Donald Trump declared a national state of emergency marked a major shift in human activity.
Garmin data pointed to a massive decline in the overall number of steps taken during the second two weeks of March in the U.S. This trend is consistent with the company’s global trend data in China, Italy and other countries where the coronavirus pandemic struck first.
“We’re observing a remarkable shift in the types of activities people are doing, reflecting an unprecedented about-face when it comes to typical springtime exercise and activity,” Garmin said in a blog post.
To paint a clear picture of the initial trends, Garmin engineers and data analysts looked at the percent change in activity levels in the United States for specific sports and exercises and compared the first half of March with the second half of March to determine increases and decreases. The results also are baselined against the same time period in 2019.
Here’s an overview of how activity has changed.
Skiing and snowboarding: These activities are down 96%. This aligns with resorts closing because of the pandemic.
Cycling: Virtual cycling activity was up 64% in the second half of the month, a shift that appears even more atypical when comparing it to the same time period last year. March 2019 saw a 20% decline in the activity as cyclists naturally began to take their rides outside to enjoy the warmer weather, Garmin said.
Indoor/treadmill running: Indoor/treadmill running is down 44%. According to Garmin, this doesn’t mean this activity has come to a halt. Because gyms across the country are closed, a number of treadmills aren’t being used. In fact, virtual running saw a steep increase in the second half of March, and despite gym closures, overall indoor cardio is holding strong over 2019 levels and showing an 18% week-over-week increase from March 16 to March 30. This suggests more people are exercising, and they’re finding ways to do it from home, with and without their own equipment, Garmin said.
Lap swimming: Lap swimming is down 88%.
Walking: Walking is up 36% when comparing the front half of March to the back half of March. This surge is double the 18% increase observed over the same time period last year, Garmin reported.
Yoga: Garmin wearable device data shows an 11% increase in yoga activity, when comparing the front and back halves of the month. This is an increase in 2019 data, as well.
Golf: Golf has seen a 20% decline in activity for the second half of March. When comparing the same two time periods last year, golfing activity increased by 53%.
Weather radar overlay feature within Garmin D2 Charlie. (Photo: Garmin)
The U.S. Air Force is expected to take delivery of more than 100 D2 Charlie aviator watches for the specialized pilot group that flies the Lockheed U-2 aircraft.
Garmin’s D2 Charlie aviator watch has been selected by the United States Air Force (USAF) for use by the pilots of the Lockheed U-2 aircraft.
The high-sensitivity WAAS GPS-enabled D2 Charlie aviator watch incorporates global navigation capability, rich and colorful moving maps and more, providing pilots in the USAF with an exclusive, back-up navigation timepiece in the cockpit.
The watch receives both GPS and GLONASS signals.
U-2 for reconnaissance. The U-2 is a versatile, ultra-high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft used for intelligence gathering, research and communication purposes.
The U-2 provides high-altitude, all-weather surveillance and reconnaissance, day or night, in direct support of U.S. and allied forces. It delivers critical imagery and signals intelligence to decision makers throughout all phases of conflict, including peacetime indications and warnings, low-intensity conflict, and large-scale hostilities.
100 watches ordered. The USAF is expected to take delivery of more than 100 D2 Charlie aviator watches for the specialized pilot group that flies the Lockheed U-2 aircraft. With a service ceiling of 70,000 feet, the D2 Charlie will provide unique benefits such as barometric-based O2 alerting and GPS-specific features including track, distance to the next waypoint, estimated time enroute and more.
“Garmin is honored to have been selected by the United States Air Force to equip the men and women who fly one of the most iconic aircraft in the history of aviation,” said Carl Wolf, Garmin vice president of aviation sales and marketing. “The D2 Charlie aviator watch will be an integral and functional part of the U-2 pilot’s toolkit.”
A U.S. Air Force U-2 Dragon Lady flies a training mission. (Photo: U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Rose Reynolds):
Designed with pilots of varying backgrounds and missions, the D2 Charlie aviator watch features a colorful, dynamic moving map which depicts airports, navaids, roads, bodies of water, cities and more, offering greater situational awareness.
When the D2 Charlie is paired with Garmin Connect on a connected mobile device, pilots can view weather radar on top of the map display relative to flight plan information.
Pilots can also display estimated time enroute (ETE), universal coordinated time (UTC) or other pilot-selectable data fields overtop the map so it’s easy to monitor the progress of a flight and view pertinent flight information simultaneously.
The Direct-to feature within D2 Charlie watch. (Photo: Garmin)
Standalone navigator. An advanced, standalone navigator, the D2 Charlie aviator watch incorporates exclusive navigation functions and capabilities, including dedicated direct-to and nearest buttons along the side of the bezel that allow the user to easily build or modify flight plans.
Airport information pages display communication frequencies, runway information (including dimensions and surface type), weather data and more for a specified airport.
The flight log page allows pilots to conveniently reference recent flights at their wrist, displaying date, flight duration, total distance and more of a particular flight. Additionally, improved flight planning capabilities include the option to add multiple waypoints within a single flight plan and the ability to navigate direct to any waypoint in a flight plan.
Heart-rate monitor. The D2 Charlie is made of premium materials, including a sapphire scratch-resistant crystal lens and a diamond-like carbon-coated titanium bezel for improved durability. A sunlight-readable, high-resolution color display with an LED backlight on the watch face allows pilots to view data in most lighting conditions in the cockpit.
The D2 Charlie offers up to 20 hours of battery life in GPS mode and up to 12 days in smartwatch mode.
Garmin Elevate wrist heart rate technology allows pilots to measure heart rate 24/7 alongside daily activity tracking. The D2 Charlie aviator watch also comes preloaded with a full multisport toolset for running, golfing, cycling, swimming, skiing and more. Water rated to 100 meters, it can also withstand swimming and other water activities. When paired with a compatible smartphone, customers can also view phone calls, text and email smart notifications at their wrist.
Collins Aerospace is one of the world’s largest suppliers of aerospace and defense products, and joins founding-member companies John Deere, Garmin and Trimble as well as 11 national organizations who make up GPSIA’s affiliates program.
Collins will further bolster the Alliance’s goal of enhancing GPS innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship.
“We are excited to welcome Collins Aerospace as the newest member of the GPS Innovation Alliance,” said GPSIA Executive Director J. David Grossman. “As one of the leading aerospace companies in the world, Collins has a long and deep history with GPS technology, beginning with the first GPS signal ever received from the roof of their facilities in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. We look forward to working with Collins Aerospace as the newest member of GPSIA and are confident that they will be a valuable addition in our efforts to heighten awareness of the economic importance and societal benefits of GPS.”
“GPS technology is vital to Collins Aerospace, enabling us to achieve innovative solutions for the aerospace and defense industries,” said Frank Zane, associate director of Business Development, Position, Navigation, Timing (PNT), Collins Aerospace. “We are thrilled to join the GPS Innovation Alliance in their long-standing efforts to ensure the continuous availability, accuracy, reliability, and resiliency of the GPS constellation.”
The GPS Innovation Alliance was founded by Deere & Company, Garmin International, Inc. and Trimble Inc. The alliance recognizes the ever-increasing importance of GPS and other GNSS technologies to the global economy and infrastructure and is firmly committed to furthering GPS innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship.
A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the September 2019 issue of GPS World magazine.
OEM
Vehicle tracker
Uses u-blox to detect panic breaking
Photo: u-blox
Arvento’s imt.x1 has a six-axis gyro sensor that can sense three-dimensional movement caused by emergency acceleration, panic braking and directional yaw and drift. With connectivity options including dual CANBus and Bluetooth, the system is eCall compatible and captures and provides data for accident analysis and other vehicle tracking functions. The system also uses the next-generation powerful Arm-based microcontroller. The system’s high position sensitivity and accuracy are based on integration of u-blox’s 2G, 4G and 5G-ready cellular modules as well as GNSS modules.
The compact LC79D module features concurrent multi-constellation GNSS receivers on dual GNSS bands. It uses L1 and L5 for GPS, Galileo and QZSS, L1 band for GLONASS and BeiDou, and L5 band for IRNSS. It can generally increase the number of visible satellites, significantly improve positioning drifting when driving in urban canyons and enhance positioning accuracy. Embedded with a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and multi-tone active interference, the module provides high sensitivity and reliable anti-jamming capability, ensuring exceptional acquisition and tracking even in weak signal areas.
The mosaic development kit helps integrate mosaic into an existing system. Mosaic is a compact high-precision multi-frequency GPS/GNSS module that brings precision and reliability of high-end multi-frequency GNSS to mass-market applications. Its light weight and low power consumption makes mosaic suitable for robotics, automation, telematics and wearables. The kit supports connectivity through internet, COM ports, USB 2.0 and an SD Card slot. Mosaic provides Advanced Interference Mitigation (AIM+); extensive corrections support for high-accuracy positioning; integrity needed for safety-critical applications such as autonomous vehicles; and a 100-Hz update rate, suitable for robotics and fast-moving vehicles.
The EN-2000 is the newest addition to the Emcore-Orion series of micro-inertial navigation (MINAV) systems. It is compact and lightweight, weighing less than 7 pounds, with very low power consumption of 10 watts. It can deliver twice the performance of the EN-1000 with the same form factor. With its low size, weight and power (SWaP), the compact EN-2000 is suitable for unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned underwater vehicles, unmanned ground vehicles, manned aircraft, rotorcraft and dismounted soldier applications. Its three-axis design uses a solid-state optical transceiver with advanced integrated optics, combined with new field programmable gate array (FPGA) electronics to deliver stand-alone aircraft-grade navigator performance at one-third the SWaP of legacy systems.
The Miniature PLGR Engine – M-Code (MPE-M) GPS receiver is a small Type II form factor ground receiver, and incorporates the company’s recently certified Common GPS Module (CGM). As a drop-in replacement for the thousands of customers using Collins’ Miniature PLGR Engine-SAASM (MPE-S) GPS receiver, the new MPE-M technology provides 10 times stronger anti-jamming capabilities for the direct acquisition of GPS signals than its predecessor. The MPE-M receives the current military Y-code GPS signal along M-code. It provides warfighters with improved security and assured positioning, and it satisfies the U.S. government’s requirement for all military GPS equipment to be M-code capable. It is designed for lightweight, ground-based applications such as radios, blue force trackers, targeting devices, vehicle line-replaceable units (LRUs) and small unmanned aircraft. The MPE-M’s security certification makes the receiver eligible for export to U.S. allies through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
The Catalyst software-defined GNSS receiver for Android phones and tablets is now available with a usage-based service plan: Trimble Catalyst On Demand. The new service plan meets the needs of industries and organizations that need a more flexible payment model. Organizations use Catalyst to record positions, navigate to points, measure relative distance and create digital maps. Trimble Catalyst On Demand provides scalable access to real-time kinematic (RTK)-quality GNSS positioning using a pay-per-use hourly pricing model in addition to the current Catalyst monthly plans. The service also enables automated domain-level email address access, which streamlines license allocation for organizations with a large number of users. (Pictured: Catalyst DA1 antenna).
The DT301X is designed for 3D mapping. Its Intel RealSense Depth camera provides real-time 3D imaging combined with a dual-frequency GNSS module for real-time mapping and positioning. The digital images are better than high-definition standard, and are suitable for construction building information management (BIM) graphics. The highly durable IP65 and MIL-STD-810G-rated tablet in a slim case can be used in the field, office and vehicles. A bright 10.1-inch touchscreen provides indoor/outdoor viewing. The tablet includes long-range Bluetooth and 4G LTE mobile broadband for the latest in high-speed communications. An Intel 8th-generation Core i5 or i7 processor offers high performance while still being energy efficient.
Mapper for wide-area, mountain, urban and corridor surveys
Photo: Teledyne Optech
The ALTM Galaxy PRIME wide-area lidar sensor offers collection efficiency, a small form factor and high-quality data sets that meet rigorous USGS lidar standards. It has a 6,000-meter above-ground-level (AGL) collection envelope and 1-MHz on-ground collection rate. Galaxy PRIME includes lidar technology enhancements to increase sensor performance and collection efficiency, improve data quality, and simplify the collection process. It can be used either gyro-stabilized or fixed-mounted, one camera or six, and full waveform or discrete. PulseTRAK technology enables a continuous operating envelope by eliminating data coverage gaps and irregular point density. Applications include wide-area mapping, urban mapping, natural resource management, engineering, infrastructure modeling, and powerline and transportation corridors.
The Leica BLK247 real-time reality-capture device uses sensor fusion technology to detect and report physical changes within a space. It is designed for continuous 3D reality capture, extending capabilities for safety and security applications. The sensor provides real-time situational awareness through edge computing and lidar-enabled change-detection technology. Using artificial intelligence, the BLK247 can tell the difference between still and moving objects — such as a person walking who leaves a suitcase behind — and identify security threats to provide real-time alerts.
Version 15 of Grapher has new capabilities to improve the ability to model, analyze and interpret data as well as communicate the results. Grapher users can now access new Fit Curve, Axes and Statistical Plotting capabilities. Also, users are provided greater color customization functions in the latest release. Enhancements give Grapher users a more powerful ability to display and communicate the results of their work to others. The software provides 80 different 2D and 3D plot types for analyzing and displaying scientific data.
The Harris Aerial H4/H6 Hybrid multicopter is now offered as an integrated package with any Lidar USA scanning system. The Harris Hybrid can provide longer flights with lidar and industrial-grade cameras. The Harris Hybrids use a small generator running on 95 or higher octane fuel to power the UAV for up to five hours.The H6 can carry an A-series high-definition lidar system of 3 kg for 2.5 hours and a V-series of 5 kg up to 1.5 hours. For the lidar operator, this means most projects will require only one or two flights.
The US-1 was built with sensitive enterprise and government customers in mind. It was designed from the ground up in the United States with a battery-first approach to enable electric aircraft to compete with conventionally fueled incumbents. The US-1 runs on a secure open-source operating system by Auterion. It provides 78 minutes of flight time and high-resolution optical and thermal cameras. US-1 UAVs have been deployed to fight fires, locate pipeline leaks, and track armed suspects.
Impossible Aerospace, impossible.aero
The DRS-M600 reusable parachute safety solution, developed for DJI M600 and DJI M600 Pro, meets specifications of the ASTM F3322-18 standard. The successful completion of the ASTM standard test makes it possible for the Federal Aviation Administration to issue permits for its use on drones over crowds. The ASTM F3322-18 standard is the first standard for parachute systems designed specifically for small UAVs.
The GNC 355 is a GPS navigator with localizer performance with vertical (LPV) approach guidance. (Photo: Garmin)
The GNS 355 GPS navigator with localizer performance with vertical (LPV) approach guidance gives pilots the benefits of WAAS/SBAS GPS guidance with a modern communications radio. Intended for Class I/II aircraft that weigh 6,000 lbs./2,721 kg. or less, the GNC 355 is certified for more than 700 aircraft makes and models. Aircraft owners can incorporate the GNC 355 into an existing avionics stack because of its standard 6.25-inch wide by 2-inch tall design. The responsive touchscreen display allows pilots to quickly access direct-to functionality, moving map, flight plan, nearest, procedures, waypoint and terrain pages and create customizable data fields and shortcuts for quick, one-touch access to important information. Fully WAAS/SBAS IFR-approach-capable, the GNC 355 gives pilots the benefit of flying LPV, as well as Area Navigation (RNAV) approaches. Many approaches offer vertical approach guidance as low as 200-feet above ground level (AGL).
The Allystar INS Platform is a dual-antenna, multi-frequency, multi-GNSS inertial navigation system (INS) that delivers accurate and reliable position, velocity and orientation. It combines high-grade, six-axis, temperature-calibrated accelerometers and gyroscopes with a multi-frequency, multi-GNSS engine, the HD9300 series. The HD9300 is a dual-antenna chip-grade real-time kinematic (RTK) GNSS receiver for accurate positioning and heading. The Allystar INS platform contains an on-board sensor-fusion filter, plus navigation and calibration algorithms for different dynamic motions of land vehicles. The Allystar OBD Data Adapter (v1.0) enables users to read and monitor various sensors built into cars, obtaining real-time vehicle speed and gear signals from the on-board diagnostics (OBD) interface, and then output AT (attention) commands by serial port or serial peripheral interface (SPI).
The GNC 355 is a GPS navigator with localizer performance with vertical (LPV) approach guidance and a built-in communications radio. (Photo: Garmin)
Garmin International Inc. has launched the GNC 355 — a GPS navigator with Localizer Performance with Vertical (LPV) approach guidance and built-in communications radio.
With the GNC 355, pilots can take advantage of the benefits of WAAS/SBAS GPS guidance, while also incorporating a modern comm radio into their existing avionics stack.
Intended for Class I/II aircraft that weigh 6,000 lbs./2,721 kg. or less, as well as experimental/amateur-built (EAB) aircraft, the GNC 355 Supplemental Type Certification (STC) is imminent and will be available in August for more than 700 aircraft makes/models.
“Based on the popularity of legacy products like the GX 60 and the GNC 250/300XL, as well as customer excitement for our new GPS 175 and GNX 375, we’re pleased to bring the GNC 355 to market,” said Carl Wolf, Garmin vice president of aviation sales and marketing. “The GNC 355 gives value-minded customers a simple upgrade path to a GPS navigator with a number of capabilities including WAAS/LPV approach guidance, wireless connectivity, a modern Comm radio, and with its standard mark-width form factor, pilots can easily add the GNC 355 without overhauling the panel of their aircraft.”
Aircraft owners can incorporate the GNC 355 into an existing avionics stack because of its standard 6.25-inch wide by 2-inch tall design. A vibrant, colorful and responsive touchscreen display boasts a familiar Garmin user experience, while a dual concentric knob and home button offer added versatility when interfacing with the touchscreen.
The user interface has been optimized for the screen size of the display, while also retaining a familiar menu structure similar to other Garmin products. Pilots can quickly access direct-to functionality, moving map, flight plan, nearest, procedures, waypoint and terrain pages, as well as frequency information using the touchscreen, and create customizable data fields and shortcuts for quick, one-touch access to important information.
Fully WAAS/SBAS IFR-approach-capable, the GNC 355 gives pilots the benefit of flying LPV, as well as Area Navigation (RNAV) approaches. Many approaches offer vertical approach guidance as low as 200-feet above ground level (AGL).
Pilots can also leverage the touchscreen and moving map to generate customized holding patterns over an existing fix in the navigation database or over a user-defined waypoint and easily insert it into a flight plan. Visual approaches are also available within the GNC 355 and provide lateral and vertical approach guidance in visual flight conditions.
Two versions, the GNC 355 and GNC 355A, are available with 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz frequency channel spacing respectively. Using the internal frequency database, airport, weather, Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) and Flight Service Station (FSS) frequencies are easy to find and can be loaded to the standby position by selecting the frequency from the airport information page. Recent, nearby and saved frequencies also offer easy access to frequency information. For example, with built-in standby frequency monitoring, pilots can listen to ATIS while monitoring tower frequency simultaneously. The airport identifier and frequency type are also displayed below the frequency so pilots can communicate with confidence.
An array of interface options includes the G3X Touch flight display for experimental and certificated aircraft, the G5 electronic flight instrument, the GFC 500 and GFC 600 autopilots, as well as select third-party autopilots. Course deviation and roll steering outputs can also be coupled to the GFC 500/GFC 600 autopilots and select third-party autopilots so procedures such as holds, radius-to-fix (RF) legs and missed approaches may be flown using the autopilot. Aircraft owners can also retain many of their existing flight instruments, audio panels and many legacy CDI/EHSI indicators such as the KI 208/209 products.
Additional interface options include pairing the GNC 355 with a dual-link Garmin Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) solution, such as the GTX 345 or GDL 88. When paired with these products, the GNC 355 is capable of displaying subscription-free Flight Information Service-Broadcast (FIS-B) weather and ADS-B traffic targets, which includes patented TargetTrend and TerminalTraffic.
Wireless Connext devices running the Garmin Pilot and FltPlan Go applications. Pilots can also use the Flight Stream 510 to access the wireless benefits of Garmin’s Database Concierge, which uploads aviation database information from the Garmin Pilot app to the GNC 355 in minutes.
The GNC 355 provides a number of additional benefits, including graphical flight plan editing, allowing pilots to more easily edit their flight plan based on an ATC amendment or weather. Features such as FastFind simplify flight plan entry by applying predictive logic to suggest airports and waypoints using current GPS location, while Smart Airspace makes it easier to identify pertinent airspace on the moving map.
The addition of SafeTaxi airport diagrams displays runways, taxiways, Fixed Based Operators (FBOs), hangars and more relative to the aircraft’s location on the airport surface.
The GNC 355 and GNC 355A can be purchased through the Garmin Authorized Dealer network at that time starting at a list price of $6,9951 and $7,6951 respectively.
European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) validation is expected at a later date.
A free GNC 355 trainer app is also available for download on Apple mobile devices, which allows customers to explore the feature set.
A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the April 2019 issue of GPS World magazine.
OEM
GNSS receiver
With embedded 9-DOF IMU
Photo: Rokubun
The Argonaut GNSS receiver is able to provide geo-location with real-time accuracy of 2 meters and off-line accuracy better than 0.4 meters using Argonaut PaaS. This is possible because GNSS raw measurements, together with inertial measurement unit (IMU) nine-degrees-of-freedom (9-DOF) measurements, are stored for offline GNSS processing (PPK, RTK, DGNSS). Argonaut will also register external events such as camera triggers within microsecond resolution and decimetric geo-location accuracy. The embedded IMU allows for an increased rate of navigation fixes as well as robust solutions in scenarios with impaired GNSS availability. Rokubun, rokubun.cat
Galileo AltBOC addition
Plus atmospheric corrections
Photo: Skydel Solutions
SDX GNSS simulator update version 19.1 adds Galileo AltBOC signal generation, new atmospheric errors, SBAS improvements and SV antenna patterns. SDX users licensed with the Galileo E5 signal will be able to generate 8 Phase Shift Keying (8-PSK) constant envelope AltBOC after upgrading to SDX 19.1. Version 19.1 also adds a new error type to all SDX users: atmospheric delays. These errors can be compensated for with the SBAS option installed. Skydel Solutions, skydelsolutions.com
Wavefront simulator
Added to software-defined platform
Photo: Skydel Solutions
The BroadSim Wavefront Simulator is a new addition to Skydel’s software-defined platform. The BroadSim Wavefront further extends the capabilities achieved by BroadSim Anechoic, incorporating support for controlled radiation pattern antenna (CRPA) and multi-element receiver testing. Powered by Skydel SDX, the simulator’s features include phase-coherent simulation, real-time automated phase calibration, scalability from 4 to 16 elements, and advanced jamming and spoofing scenarios. Talen-X, www.talen-x.com
GNSS antenna
For high-precision and autonomous applications
Photo: Maxtena
The M7HCT-A-SMA is a high-accuracy, multi-frequency active quadrifilar helix GNSS antenna designed for high-precision and autonomous multi-frequency applications. The design offers concurrent GNSS reception on L1 (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou) and L2 (GPS L2C, Galileo E5B and GLONASS L3OC) in a rugged, compact and ultra lightweight form factor. The antenna is designed for GIS, RTK and other high-accuracy GNSS applications such as the drone and automotive markets. Helicore technology provides exceptional pattern control, polarization purity and high efficiency in a 25-gram form factor. The antenna offers up to 30-dB gain for GNSS applications in one radome housing with a single SMA connector. Maxtena, maxtena.com
Portable simulation
Solution for field-test requirements
Photo: CAST Navigation
The CAST-1000 duplicates GPS RF signals and uses dual-frequency signal generation technology. This allows for duplicate testing in the laboratory or the field and real-time or configured control. The CAST-1000 is mobile and portable, which makes it the ideal solution for field test requirements. Producing GPS and GLONASS signals with up to 12 satellites in view, the CAST-1000 simulates signals for satellites of P code on L1 and L2 and C/A code on L1. The GPS RF signal is dual-frequency and has a 12-channel configuration for any combination of visible space vehicles. The system is highly programmable — operators can choose from an array of vehicle types and replicate dynamic motion for all kinds of vehicles, from terrestrial to aquatic, airborne to space-based. By utilizing 6-DOF dynamic profile data collected in the field and through profile configuration, a trajectory can be created. The CAST-1000 also features a performance evaluation module, allowing for comparisons between raw and filtered data. CAST Navigation, www.castnav.com
Survey & Mapping
Graphing software
New plotting features
Photo: Golden Software
Version 14 of the Grapher scientific graphing package offers new plotting and customizing functionality based on user feedback. The Grapher software gives users deeper insights into their data by providing them with 80 flexible and easy-to-use 2D and 3D graphing tools for plotting, analyzing and displaying scientific data sets. The package is used extensively by scientists and engineers in oil & gas operations, hydrologic/geochemical studies, environmental consulting, mineral exploration and academic research. New or upgraded features include Enhanced Plotting (the ability to plot data in rows and columns, perform one-button Durov class plots, and easily generate multi-plot reports); and Improved Bar Charts (bar charts are more versatile, offering variable bar widths and differentiated fill colors for negative and positive). Golden Software, www.goldensoftware.com
GIS software update
New lidar functionality
Photo: Blue Marble Geographics
Global Mapper version 20.1 offers new and updated geospatial tools, as well as performance improvements throughout the application. Enhancements to version 20.1 include a new zooming function in the path profile window, a digitizer tool for automatically closing gaps between features and, for lidar module users, a point proximity query function. Blue Marble Geographics, www.bluemarblegeo.com
Survey application
For the geospatial industry
Photo: Global GNSS
The GNSS Surveyor mobile application provides location information and quality position data in real time with sub-meter to centimeter accuracy. It connects to any external GNSS receiver via Bluetooth. Features include a one-touch configured command to communicate directly with the GNSS Bluetooth device; location information and quality of the position data in real time with centimeter accuracy; GPS data such as position, height, satellites and velocity; and constellation information for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS and SBAS satellites. It also includes a direct IP feature for real-time kinematic (RTK) corrections data. An internal NTRIP client loads RTCM data from the internet. Location information is collected as latitude and longitude, altitude, speed or pace, bearing and UTC time. GNSS precision includes global coverage, centimeter-level accuracy, fast time to first fix, multi-constellation and multi-band, and highest security. Navigation uses include ground robotics navigation, lane-level navigation, heavy machine navigation, industrial navigation and tracking, and commercial UAV. Global GNSS, globalgnss.com
Indoor mapping
Slam technology removes point cloud artifacts
Photo: NavVis
The SLAM-based NavVis M6 Indoor Mobile Mapping System (IMMS) now automatically detects and removes point cloud artifacts, including moving objects in static scenes. The latest IMMS release removes artifacts from point clouds during the post-processing of scan data (see before and after image above). Fringe points and dynamic objects are two common types of point cloud artifacts that affect all 3D laser scanning devices. The NavVis M6 IMMS uses laser scanners to capture a high volume of measurement points of an environment. With the latest software update, the algorithms applied during the post-processing of scan data uses the multiple observations to detect whether measurement points actually exist in the physical space. If it is determined that the point does not exist and is instead resulting from the laser beam hitting an edge or an object moving through the space, this point is automatically removed. The result is a much cleaner, crisper point cloud that requires less clean-up time in point-cloud editing software and that is easier to use for applications such as BIM modeling. NavVis, www.navvis.com
Mobile & UAV
Adventure handhelds
Larger display, improved access to Satellite imagery
Photo: Garmin
Garmin has updated two premium adventure-oriented handhelds, the GPSMAP 66s and the GPSMAP 66st, with expanded wireless connectivity, direct-to-device access to BirdsEye satellite imagery, weather forecasting and a larger 3-inch sunlight-readable color display. The GPSMAP 66st offers preloaded topographic maps for U.S. and Canada, with detail of coastlines, rivers, summits, terrain contours and geographical points. Connectivity to the new Garmin Explore app and the BirdsEye Satellite Imagery (no annual subscription) bring high-resolution photo-realistic route views. Weather updates come via Bluetooth to a compatible mobile device. The Explore app includes features for outdoor navigation, trip planning, mapping and data sharing. Features include multi-GNSS satellite support and altimeter, barometer and compass sensor capabilities; 16 hours of battery life in full GPS mode; LED flashlight and SOS beacon; built to military standards for thermal, shock and water performance (MIL-STD-810G); RINEX data logging that enables sub-meter accuracy of GPS position after post processing. Garmin, garmin.com
RTK Hexacopter
Integrated GNSS improves accuracy
Photo: Yuneec International
The H520 hexacopter is now available with a real-time kinematic (RTK) system. The fully integrated RTK satellite navigation enables extremely accurate recurring images and faster 3D mapping. It also makes automated inspection flights easier and more precise. The H520 RTK is suitable for commercial applications that require maximum precision. By using RTK technology, the H520 can now fly much closer to objects for inspection because the UAV positions itself precisely in the centimeter range (1 cm + ppm horizontal / 1.5 cm + ppm vertical) rather than in the meter range, which is standard for the H520. Yuneec International, us.yuneec.com
Web-based data service
Enables sharing of UAV data sets
MAGNET Collage Web is a web-based service enabling the sharing and collaboration of UAV and scanning data sets. Version 1.3 allows operators to work with more types of data with greater flexibility, including the ability to import BIM models, as well as CAD and GIS data. It can be used to overlay as-built laser scans and design data to visualize proposed changes and detect construction issues. The software supports OBJ, FBX and 3DS formats. The upgrade also includes new direct publishing functionality for CAD and GIS data files through the browser. Topcon, topconpositioning.com
Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd., has launched the GPS 3000, a high-integrity GPS position sensor that interfaces to existing avionics to help meet Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out requirements.
Also, targeting the air transport and defense markets, the GPS 3000 is designed as a WAAS/SBAS position source for select Flight Management Systems (FMS).
Aircraft that are eligible to utilize the GPS 3000 as an ADS-B position source include the Embraer E135/E145 and the Legacy 600/650. Supplemental Type Certification (STC) for the GPS 3000 in these aircraft is currently available from FTI Engineering, in cooperation with Atlas Air Service in Germany, and can be installed throughout the entire Garmin dealer network.
“Garmin continues to lead the industry with the most fielded ADS-B solutions that span all segments of aviation, including a wide-range of commercial, defense, regional and business aircraft,” said Carl Wolf, vice president of aviation sales and marketing. “We are thrilled to provide these aircraft with a solution that is cost-effective and is an easy to install alternative to the existing avionics manufacturer’s service bulletin.”
A rugged, stand-alone and certified Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS)/Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) GPS, the GPS 3000 meets DO-160 and DO-178B standards and is designed specifically for the harsh environmental conditions encountered by commercial aircraft.
This compact and remote-mount solution utilizes enhanced WAAS/SBAS GPS satellite signals to provide precise position data through a standard interface. It also meets applicable high-integrity ADS-B position source standards, including TSO-C145d Class 3, the company said.
The GPS 3000 is also designed to interface with select FMS to support GPS guidance throughout terminal, enroute and approach navigation. When configured appropriately, the GPS 3000 is capable of providing position information to an existing FMS to meet requirements for Required Navigation Performance (RNP) and can support GPS-based vertical approach navigation, such as Localizer Performance with Vertical (LPV) approach guidance.
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) STC of the GPS 3000 in the Embraer E135/E145 and Legacy 600/650 is available from FTI Engineering, in cooperation with Atlas Air Service, as well as Garmin dealers. FAA validation of the STC is pending.
Bell Helicopter unveiled a full-scale vertical-takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) air taxi vehicle during CES 2019, held in Las Vegas.
The air taxi, named Bell Nexus, is powered by a hybrid-electric propulsion system and features Bell’s signature powered lift concept incorporating six tilting ducted fans designed to safely and efficiently carry passengers.
Bell Nexus means the nexus of transport and technology and of comfort and convenience. Nexus captures the long-sought-after vision of quick air travel with a unique in-flight experience, keeping passengers connected to their lives and saving valuable time.
The Nexus team consists of Bell, Safran, EPS, Thales, Moog and Garmin, who are collaborating on Bell’s VTOL aircraft and on-demand mobility solutions. Bell is leading the design, development and production of the VTOL systems; Safran is providing the hybrid propulsion and drive systems; EPS is providing the energy storage systems; Thales is providing the Flight Control Computer (FCC) hardware and software; Moog is developing the flight control actuation systems; and Garmin is integrating the avionics and the vehicle management computer (VMC).
Autonomous Pod Transport (APT). Alongside the debut of Bell Nexus, Bell will feature the Autonomous Pod Transport (APT). The APT family varies in payload capability that can serve many mission sets such as medical, law enforcement, offshore missions and on-demand delivery services. Bell is expanding into a new industry to show the full spectrum of our capabilities and the real-world challenges APT will address, Bell said in a press release.
Future Flight Controls. Bell’s Future Flight Controls simulator was a new experience for CES participants this year. Bell is actively collecting data to help shape the future flight controls of aviation. Data from the simulators will be used to determine what actions and interfaces are intuitive to the average potential operator and what prior experiences and abilities contribute to these opinions.
Urban air travel is coming closer to the masses through recent advancements in technology and software. The critical last step is designing a flight-control ecosystem that allows individuals to safely and efficiently operate urban air vehicles.
In 2018, Bell provided the world a glimpse into the air-taxi passenger experience, and this year, attendees could see the full vision.
Garmin is now offering a GPS, GLONASS and Galileo watch called Instinct. Instinct is a strong and durable watch with GNSS support, plus built-in 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter and wrist-based heart rate sensor.
The watch includes a built-in sports apps, smart connectivity and wellness data.
Photo: Garmin
“We are thrilled to add Instinct to our adventure watch lineup, an approachable smartwatch that is rugged and reliable,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “Instinct is perfect for those who spend their time outdoors and demand a device built tough to stand up in the elements.”
The Instinct is built to endure challenging environments, constructed to military standards (MIL-STD-810G) for thermal, shock and water resistance (rated to 100 meters) with a fiber reinforced polymer case. The chemically strengthened and scratch-resistant display is readable in direct sunlight, and the fully vented silicone bands include two independent, removable keeper loops to ensure a secure fit.
The multi-GNSS feature helps users track their location in challenging environments. The Garmin Explore app helps plan the trip in advance, and the TracBack feature can navigate the same route back to the starting point.
The built-in heart-rate sensor helps monitor heart rate, steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned and more.
Garmin International is offering a new outdoor GPS handheld that can log raw measurements in RINEX form, the GPSMAP 66.
“We’ve had good success achieving carrier-phase ambiguity resolution with the unit, and I suspect many readers will be interested in this feature from a purpose-built device,” said Jared Bancroft, GNSS sensors & algorithms, Garmin, in an email to GPS World. “We’ve observed accuracies down better than 30 centimeters.”
The GPSMAP 66 is a premium outdoor handheld with expanded wireless connectivity, direct-to-device access to BirdsEye satellite imagery and a 3-inch sunlight-readable color display. The handheld comes in two models, the GPSMAP 66s and GPSMAP 66st. The latter offers preloaded topographic maps for U.S. and Canada.
Professionals and serious GPS enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of RINEX data logging, which allows for sub-meter accuracy of GPS position after post processing, Garmin stated in a press release.
“The GPSMAP 66st builds on the GPSMAP series heritage by adding new and requested features like a bigger screen, weather forecasting and easy direct-to-device access to satellite imagery,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “Between multi-GNSS network support and connectivity to the new Garmin Explore app, the new GPSMAP 66s and the GPSMAP 66st are reliable companions for any adventure.”
The handheld can receive weather updates for real-time forecast information by being paired via Bluetooth to a compatible mobile device. It will also provide predictive maps for temperature and wind speed/direction, as well as live weather radar.
Other new GPSMAP 66s/st connected features include Geocaching Live and compatibility to the Connect IQ platform, giving users access to 9 million trails through the preloaded Wikiloc app. The devices all pair with the inReach Mini, allowing the user to send and receive messages directly on their 66s/st device via the Mini.
Between the multi-GNSS satellite support and altimeter, barometer and compass sensor capabilities, the GPSMAP 66s/st will track an entire journey. The handheld devices have 16 hours of battery life in full GPS mode and can track the user’s position for up to one week using Expedition mode on a single set of AA batteries, the company said.
The devices include an LED flashlight and SOS beacon that can be used to signal for help. It is built to military standards for thermal, shock and water performance (MIL-STD-810G).
Members of the public often turn to GPS World and Geospatial Solutions for help when their personal device gives them incorrect mapping information.
GPS.gov has set up a page that points users to the correct place to report problems, by walking them through a series of steps.
As our readers know, the problem isn’t with the satellites, but in the mapping software used by the devices and apps. Links are provided to mapping companies Google, Waze, TomTom, HERE, OpenStreetMap, Garmin and Apple.
