CHC Navigation has released and is immediately shipping its new i90 IMU-RTK GNSS Series receiver. The i90 IMU-RTK GNSS Series is designed to dramatically increase GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) availability and reliability.
The i90 is powered by the company’s latest inertial measurement unit (IMU) and RTK technology to provide robust and accurate GNSS positioning in any circumstances.
Unlike standard micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS)-based GNSS receivers, the i90 GNSS IMU-RTK combines a high-end calibration and interference-free IMU sensor with a state-of-the-art GNSS RTK engine and advanced GNSS tracking capabilities.
The i90 is designed to increase productivity and reliability of survey projects. No complicated calibration process, rotation, leveling or accessories are necessary with the i90 GNSS Series. Just a few meters’ walk will initialize the i90 internal IMU sensor and enable RTK survey in difficult field environments. The i90 GNSS automatic pole-tilt compensation boosts survey and stakeout speed by up to 20%.
“Our new i90 IMU-RTK GNSS Series is pushing the boundaries of conventional GNSS survey by extending RTK positioning availability and reliability,” said George Zhao, CEO of CHC Navigation. “CHCNAV is the GNSS technology enabler, making high-end GNSS solutions available for every surveyor.”
A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the July 2019 issue of GPS World magazine.
OEM
Inertial sensors
Sensor fusion with GNSS receiver
Photo: xsens
The MTi 600-series of inertial sensors comes in a 31.5 x 28.0 x 13.0 millimeter IP51-rated case. It produces roll and pitch readings accurate to ±0.2 degrees. GNSS-assisted heading (yaw) measurements are accurate to ±1.0°. Xsens’ sensor fusion algorithms optimize output from new accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer components. It also has a CAN bus interface. The MTi 600-series modules are the first from Xsens to include an NMEA-compatible interface for GNSS receivers. Users can choose any GNSS receiver chip, module or system to work alongside the MTi-670, a GNSS/INS device that supplements the pitch, roll and yaw outputs available from other MTi 600-series products with global positioning information. Xsens, www.xsens.com
Fiber-optic gyroscope
For medium accuracy platforms
Photo: Emcore
The Emcore-Hawkeye series EG-120 FOG module is an ultra-compact, state-of-the-art design that is a small, affordable closed-loop FOG. The EG-120 delivers advantageous size, weight and power (SWaP) and is 35% smaller than Emcore’s previous generation FOGs. The Emcore-Hawkeye EG-120 incorporates advanced, next-generation field programmable gate array (FPGA) electronics that deliver increased performance and reliability combined with low cost. The Emcore-Hawkeye series features performance specifications for medium accuracy platform stabilization applications such as camera systems used in aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and gun stabilization systems. A wide variety of other guidance, navigation and aeronautics applications are supported. Emcore, www.emcore.com
Navigation system
Customizable for ground vehicles of all sizes
Photo: Robotic Research
The RR-N-140 navigation system provides accurate, absolute and relative 3D localization information for ground vehicles of all sizes. It features dual-antenna GNSS for zero-speed heading detection and redundancy. The device delivers exceptional localization performance in GPS-denied or compromised areas. It is designed specifically for use on unmanned ground vehicles and is customizable to incorporate a wide variety of sensor inputs into the navigation solution. Robotic Research, www.roboticresearch.com
GNSS sensors
Combines numerous interfaces to speed system integration
The P2 Elite GNSS sensor. (Photo: CHC Navigation)
CHC Navigation’s new P2 GNSS sensor series provides high-accuracy positioning and heading in a compact, rugged enclosure. The series is suitable for a wide variety of applications such as reference stations, marine systems, unmanned navigation, industrial automation, robotics and machine control. The P2 GNSS series is designed to significantly reduce system integration efforts by combining numerous connectivity interfaces including RS232, low-latency PPS output, Ethernet, CAN bus protocol and a comprehensive web interface for configuration set-up. The series integrates the latest GNSS technology in a rugged IP67 and lightweight enclosure. It delivers reliable, uninterrupted, high-accuracy, real-time positioning and heading measurements. The P2 GNSS sensor offers cost-effective and powerful real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning. The P2 Pro GNSS adds a dual-antenna input for precise heading data. The P2 Elite integrates additional 4G and UHF modems to provide a powerful, all-in-one GNSS sensor. CHC Navigation, www.chcnav.com
TRANSPORTATION
Correction stream
Data enables precision positioning
RTX Auto is a GNSS software library for use in safety-critical automotive applications. The RTX Auto library can be integrated with any GNSS device and enables the decoding of Trimble’s RTX correction stream for centimeter-level absolute positioning accuracy. It works with other on-vehicle sensors to deliver a certified positioning solution that satisfies advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving requirements. It provides RTX-based absolute positioning for General Motors’ Super Cruise, a hands-free driving system for the freeway. After 2020, Super Cruise will will be available on all General Motors brands. Trimble, trimble.com
Smart antenna
Atlas-capable for marine markets
Photo: Hemisphere GNSS
The Vector V200 single-frequency, multi-GNSS smart antenna with integrated Atlas L-band is designed for general marine applications and markets. Powered by Hemisphere’s Crescent Vector technology, the V200 multi-GNSS compass system utilizes GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and QZSS (with future firmware upgrade and activation) for simultaneous satellite tracking to offer heading, position, heave, pitch and roll output. With support for NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000, the V200 provides accurate position and heading information to autopilots, chart plotters and other general marine navigation applications. Hemisphere GNSS, www.hemispheregnss.com
Driver safety solution
Security for intelligent driving
The Proactive Security Solution for Intelligent Driving will enhance safety by supporting ADAS and driver monitoring systems (DMS). It integrates Quectel multi-mode LTE Cat 6 smart modules SC600Y/SC600T and an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm from a third party to realize ADAS and DMS capabilities including monitoring irregular driving behaviors, conducting precise detection of vehicles and traffic signs, sending warnings of potential risks and more. For ADAS, it can precisely identify and locate vehicles, pedestrians, lanes and traffic signs and will send alerts to drivers if an imminent collision or an unintended lane departure is detected. The DMS supports facial recognition and detection, and is able to monitor driver attentiveness and measure eye blinks as well as head movements so that drivers will receive warnings of distractions, smoking, yawning or looking around. Quectel Wireless Solutions, www.quectel.com
Automotive module
Aimed at urban lane accuracy
The ZED-F9K module is designed to keep cars in their lanes. (Photo: u-blox)
The ZED-F9K GNSS and dead-reckoning module brings continuous lane-accurate positioning to challenging urban environments. Building on the F9 platform, the module offers both high-precision multi-band GNSS and inertial sensors. It combines the latest generation of GNSS receiver technology, signal processing algorithms and correction services to deliver down to decimeter-level accuracy within seconds. The real-time kinematic (RTK) receiver module receives GNSS signals from all orbiting constellations. The inertial sensors constantly monitor changes in the moving vehicle’s trajectory and continue to deliver lane-accurate positioning when satellite signals are obstructed, such as in parking garages, tunnels, urban canyons or forested areas. The module’s accuracy and low latency make it suitable for automotive OEMs and Tier 1 automakers developing V2X (vehicle-to-everything) communication systems. By continuously sharing their location, V2X systems help increase overall road safety and reduce congestion. u-blox, www.u-blox.com
The Quanta UAV series is a line of inertial navigation systems (INS) dedicated to UAV-based surveying integrators. The small, lightweight and low-power INS is offered with two levels of accuracy. Quanta UAV and Quanta UAV Extra have been developed for compact lidar to high-end beyond-visual-line-of-site (BVLOS) mapping solutions. They provide precise orientation and centimeter-level position data both in real time and in post processing, eliminating the need for ground control points and reducing the need for overlaps. SBG’s post-processing software Qinertia gives access to offline real-time kinematic (RTK) corrections from more than 7,000 base stations in 164 countries. SBG Systems, www.sbg-systems.com
CNPC radio prototype
Being tested as command and non-payload control UAS radio
Photo: Allison Barwacz
SkyLink is an L-band frequency-modulated CNPC radio intended for point-to-point or networked BVLOS UAS operations. uAvionix has focused on minimizing size, weight, and power consumption (SWaP) while maximizing range and spectrum efficiency. The current 50-gram 10-Watt prototype is testing successfully at ranges exceeding 40 miles at low altitude. uAvionix is testing under an experimental transmit license and approval from the Federal Communications Commission and Federal Aviation Administration, respectively. uAvionix, uavionix.com
Thermal drone
Designed for solar farm inspections
The senseFly Solar 360 UAV is designed to enable the automated and efficient inspection of solar farms. Created in collaboration with software company Raptor Maps, the efficient thermal drone solution enables the automatic assessment of solar plant performance at a sub-module level. Created by combining eBee X fixed-wing drone technology, senseFly’s Duet T thermal mapping camera and Raptor Maps software, senseFly Solar 360 is a fast and fully automated drone. It can be integrated into solar management workflows without requiring either drone piloting skills or the manual analysis of aerial solar-farm data. Solar-farm inspection can be reduced from days to hours, with inspection of utility-scale solar farms completed more quickly, easily and accurately. SenseFly, www.sensefly.com Raptor Maps, raptormaps.com
Remote operations
Cloud-based, enables BVLOS
Photo: FlytBase
FlytGCS is built for subject-matter experts, drone operations managers and UAV operators who wish to automate, simplify and scale their missions. To support automated BVLOS missions, FlytGCS offers features such as connectivity and control over 4G/LTE/5G, live high-definition video feed, fleet management, unlimited missions, remote gimbal control, pre-flight checklist and geofence, mission planner and cockpit view from a web dashboard. FlytGCS is a hardware-agnostic solution that helps securely deploy drones using a mobile app (for DJI drones) or onboard single-board computers (for Ardupilot and PX4 drones). FlytBase, flytgcs.live
Inspection drone
Collects data in dangerous areas
The Elios 2 is a collision-tolerant drone for indoor inspections. (Photo: Flyability)
The Elios 2 UAS is designed for inspection tasks. Routine inspection jobs indoors, underground and around complex pipework become quicker, safer and are fully documented by high-resolution video and stills. The Elios 2 includes a rotatable thermal and high-definition visual camera payload, 10,000-lumen oblique lighting system, and reversible rotors that enable the UAV to back out of tricky situations. The drone’s geodesic-like cage makes it collision-tolerant and enables flight in restricted areas such as refinery enclosures, mines, vats, cargo holds and nuclear containment vessels. Flyability, www.flyability.com
SURVEY
Battery upgrade
Long-life battery for extended fieldwork
Photo: Geneq
SXblue receivers now have an extended-life battery equipped with 4 Li-ion rechargeable cells that boost its capacity from 3900 mAh to 6000 mAh. When fully charged, the battery can last up to 16 hours depending on the SXblue model and Bluetooth connectivity — an up to 50% increase. The colored LEDs for the battery charge indicator have been enhanced for a better contrast. With only a 6-mm increase in thickness and the same weight as previous models, the user will not notice any change in handiness and ergonomics. The new battery is compatible with all past SXblue II and III models and current iSXblue II+ GPS, SXblue II+ GPS, iSXblue II+ GNSS, SXblue II+ GNSS and SXblue Platinum. Geneq, geneq.com
Fieldwork tablet
Captures detailed images
DT301X-TR rugged tablet. (Photo: DT Research)
The DT301X-TR rugged tablet includes an Intel RealSense 3D camera. The lightweight military-grade tablet is built to enhance precision for bridge and construction inspections, 3D surveying and mapping of underground utilities. It provides multi-frequency GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) with carrier phase for mapping and positioning, and supports GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and QZSS. An optional foldable antenna supports high-accuracy field work, which can be measured with RTK GNSS positioning directly or used to connect to an external antenna for higher precision. DT Research, www.dtresearch.com
GNSS Receiver
Dual-antenna receiver with heading
Photo: Tersus GNSS
The David Plus dual-antenna GNSS receiver offers centimeter-accurate positioning and heading for intelligent transportation, construction, machine control, precision agriculture and navigation. Designed for efficient and rapid integration, the compact, lightweight receiver tracks GPS, GLONASS and BeiDou signals: GPS L1/L2, GLONASS L1/L2, BeiDou B1/B2 from the primary antenna, and GPS L1/GLONASS L1 or GPS L1/BeiDou B1 from the secondary antenna. The modular and flexible design can provide robust positioning and heading accuracy in a compact footprint for UAVs and other smaller autonomous projects. Tersus GNSS, www.tersus-gnss.com
Tilt compensation
Android and Windows compatible
Screenshot: Trimble
Siteworks Software version 1.1 features GNSS tilt-compensation functionality and support for the Android operating system, meaning field workers can use smartphones or tablets. Contractors can run Siteworks on either Windows 10 or Android. Using Trimble Siteworks and a Trimble SPS986 GNSS smart antenna, construction surveyors can take measurements faster and perform more efficient stakeouts. It is designed to shield magnetic interference and can be used effectively anywhere on a construction site. Construction surveyors can capture accurate points without leveling the pole. Three modes support tilt compensation, so contractors can record accurate points while standing, walking or driving the site in a vehicle. Trimble, www.trimble.com
RTK receiver
Multi-band centimeter-accuracy
Photo: Emlid
The Reach RS2 is a multi-band GNSS receiver that features a built-in LoRa radio, a 3.5G modem, and a survey app for iOS and Android. The receiver determines a fixed solution in seconds and provides positional accuracy down to several millimeters. It tracks GPS/QZSS (L1, L2), GLONASS (L1, L2), BeiDou (B1, B2), Galileo (E1, E5) and SBAS (L1C/A), and reliably works in RTK mode on distances up to 60 kilometers and 100 kilometers in PPK mode. A multi-feed antenna with multipath rejection offers robust performance even in challenging conditions. RINEX raw data logs are compatible with OPUS, CSRS-PPP, AUSPOS and other PPP services so users can now get centimeter-precise results. Emlid, emlid.com
Mapping
High-speed camera
High resolution for aerial imaging
Photo: Teledyne
The Falcon 4 is a 86-megapixel ultra-high resolution and high-speed complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) camera. It offers capabilities for large-area, high-resolution, high-speed imaging. With 86 megapixels at 16 frames per second and a global shutter, the camera offers capabilities for large-area, high-resolution, high-speed imaging. Available in both color and monochrome models, the camera is sensitive into the near-infrared spectrum. The Falcon4’s high resolution and throughput serve a
variety of challenging applications including aerial imaging, reconnaissance, security and surveillance, 3D metrology and flat panel display inspection.
Three new high-performance lenses are designed for high-altitude aerial photography and long-range aerial and ground inspection applications. The 300mm AF, 180mm, and 150mm MK II lenses are designed to enhance the performance and flexibility of Phase One Industrial’s iXM-RS and iXM aerial camera series. Each offers precision imagery, taking advantage of the cameras’ ultra-high resolution backside-illuminated CMOS sensors, to maintain a smaller ground sample distance while flying at higher altitudes.
The SORA-P60L, part of Cepton’s SORA family of lidar scanners, is purpose-built to deliver long-range, high-resolution imaging for UAVs. It offers a 400-Hz frame rate, enabling drones to fly faster while maintaining high point-cloud density. With a 550-gram payload, the SORA-P60L prolongs UAV flight time allowing more ground to be covered in a single trip. Cepton’s Micro-Motion Technology faces all lasers downward at all times, providing a dense, uniform point cloud that, in combination with the high scan rate, makes it suitable for fixed-wing and fast-moving rotary-wing UAVs.
The WASP-200 LRF rangefinder is designed to measure ranges with accuracy and precision. It can be used for precision agriculture applications and as a proximity-to-ground sensor on board small or large unmanned aerial vehicles. It has 1-centimeter resolution and 10-centimeter accuracy, and is compatible with the Collins Aerospace Piccolo (CAN Bus and RS-232) and Pixhawk drivers. The WASP series of rangefinders also feature single-shot laser ranging for fast scanning and moving platforms; programmable burst mode averaging; and an IP-67 option. The rangefinders are suitable for robotics and UAVs, sense and avoid, industrial automation, height and distance measurements, and maritime operations.
The Leica BLK2GO is a small, portable, integrated handheld imaging scanner that offers mobility for scanning complex indoor environments. It combines visualization, lidar and edge-computing technologies to scan in 3D while in motion, allowing users to be more agile and efficient in capturing objects and spaces. Its dual-axis lidar scans up to 700,000 points per second. The handle contains WLAN connectivity, a rechargeable 45-minute battery, data storage for six hours of scans, a USB-C port for fast data transfer, and edge computing. The BLK2GO has a wide range of applications from adaptive reuse projects in the architecture and design industries to location scouting, pre-visualization, and VFX workflows for media and entertainment.
The surveying profession has come to a crossroads, and is divided amongst itself to boot. A gap exists within the profession, and yes it is a generation gap, based on how technology has evolved and how the different generations experience it differently. In this column I explore the histories both of the generations and the technology to reach conclusions on how best to move forward — together.
Surveyors now have more tools than ever before available to them to perform their tasks. But surveyors of different ages regard these tools differently. Not to put too fine a point on it, the younger porfessionals among us feel their creativity and desire to further the profession is being stifled by the group who is supposed to be leading and mentoring them.
Why is this crucial to consider? Because these are the future users, purchasers and adopters of geospatial equipment and software, and the future setters of industry standards. All involved, from manufacturers to distributors to surveyors themselves, would do well to think deeply upon this.
As we enter the final stretch of the 21st century’s second decade, many things have changed since the Y2K scare and the proliferation of the Interweb. From deregulation of the surveying profession to changing coordinate systems and datums, the surveying profession faces many challenges in 2019. One of the biggest challenges we face has nothing — yet everything — to do with technology.
Talented people are necessary to grow our profession. We are falling well short of having enough to keep up with demand. Sounds like a simple problem; just hire more surveyors and technicians. This sounds easy, but several roadblocks confront us.
A select few still invest in their surveying future by going to college to get a degree and eventually become a licensed surveyor. These individuals find, however, that the road to success has lots of potholes along the way, just as their elder predecessors did.
Recently, I participated in a group discussion with the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) Young Surveyors Network to discuss surveying, technology and the young surveyor’s role in promoting future career opportunities. This discussion was part of Network’s series of meetings and seminars held in parallel with the main NSPS Spring Business Meetings.
It was great to see the higher proportion of women in the young surveyor group than in the typical professional society meeting. Their feedback was consistent with that of the young men in the group. All together, their perspectives led me to write this article.
While I think of myself as still “young-ish” (in my early 50s), being the oldest participant in that group was intimidating, to say the least. These young technicians and surveyors are driven and focused, yet they seek the same feedback and mentoring that I desired when I was their age.
In the weeks after that meeting, some of the items discussed continued to resonate with me and forced me to reflect on my own experiences and career path. To be fair to them and truly understand their views on today’s surveying profession, I needed to look beyond the profession, policies and procedures to which I hold fast in my ethical approach to the craft. These younger generations have been exposed to a completely different world than the one I remember fondly, and the world they grew up in has subjected them to challenges to which I cannot relate. To help explain the conundrum of trying to find a way to relate, we need to take a step back and look at not just generational values but how the many industrial revolutions have affected us as well.
TALKING ‘BOUT MY GENERATION
The first part of my research to help me find a way to step into the shoes of these young surveyors was to look at past generations and how they relate to each other. Going back to the turn of the 19th century, we get the following breakdown:
Traditionalists or Silent Generation: Born before 1945
This timeframe contains sub-groups including the “lost generation of 1914,” the “interbellum” and the “greatest generation.” Alaska and Hawaii were not included in the United States during this period. Most of the country west of the Colonial states was subject to the government Public Land Survey System started in the early 1800s. The Great Depression took its toll on much of the population, and previously rapid expansion slowed to a standstill.
Baby Boomers: Born 1946 – 1964
World War II changed the world. Soldiers returning from military duty to start or resume families accelerated population growth and a departure from traditional social attitudes. Two-income families emerged, and prosperity ruled for many years. Surveyors, teaming with civil engineers, helped fuel an unprecedented explosion of real estate expansion through planned developments across the country.
Generation X: Born 1965 – 1976
The children of the fast and free-living Baby Boomers grew up to become the Gen Xers. They were the first “latchkey” kids, more likely to be raised by divorced or remarried parents. As young adults, in their effort to enhance their lifestyle more than their parents, they did many things to the extreme with no consideration of cost. This led to massive real estate developments, “McMansions” and increased debt. Surveying continued to flourish but most growth was enjoyed by engineering firms who absorbed surveyors to expand their services.
Millennials or Gen Y: Born 1977 – 1995
This group is often labeled as the “Peter Pan” generation for its predisposition to put off typical adulthood norms like marriage, having children and buying real estate. They have a propensity to be more mobile and nomadic, as they take advantage of technology and rapidly changing environmental factors. With this generation we find the slowdown in career choices towards surveying, even though technology and spatial data acquisition have exploded with potential.
Gen Z, iGen, or Centennials: Born 1996 – Current
This generation was born into technology, and it affects everything they do. From infancy they were experienced soothing music, dancing screens, interactive toys, and dolls teaching them new skills. This generation doesn’t know of a world without computers, cellphones, GPS-based maps or high-speed internet. Surveying has also benefitted from the technology explosion but it hasn’t captured the imagination of this generation sufficiently to develop future practitioners.
YOU SAY YOU WANT A REVOLUTION. WELL, YOU KNOW…
The generational differences only tell part of the story. Each one faced its own challenges when it came to technology (or lack thereof), societal standards, and other facets of their respective eras. A succession of several Industrial Revolutions brought new tools for completing a wide array of tasks and procedures. Here is a summary of each of them in chronological order:
First Industrial Revolution (1784)
Mechanical production via water and steam power led the way during the late 1700s and began a trend of radical changes in the ability to create larger items. The Gunter chain and surveyor’s compass, both invented in the 1600s, were the mainstay of measuring tools during this time period.
Second Industrial Revolution (1870)
Mass production and increases in labor opportunities coupled with the adaptation of electricity in many areas enabled people to flourish like no other time to date. The optical theodolite with horizontal angle measurement was introduced and then mass produced in the late 1800s to help surveyors make more progress westward.
Third Industrial Revolution (1969)
A significant leap forward in technology occurred with the invention of the microprocessor in the late 1950s, followed quickly by rapid development of electronic machines designed to follow manual instructions. Programmable controllers and devices were born from the fast-paced development of sophisticated miniaturized circuitry. These developments were used to create measurement devices for sending infrared and visible light waves across long distances. In the late 1970s, technological advancements led to the development of electronic theodolites or total stations. These instruments were the first to be able to electronically determine the horizontal and vertical angles normally read manually by the operator, and to combine this data with electronic distance measurement. Further development created methods of storing this data electronically for input into computer calculation and drafting programs.
Fourth Industrial Revolution (Current)
Industry experts differ as to when the Fourth Revolution began, but all agree we have turned the corner and are now fully entrenched into a new realm. Further miniaturization of computer chips, advanced sensors and storage, and robotic mechanisms have introduced a new reality for everyone, including the surveyor. Today’s practitioner has many sophisticated tools available for work, including GNSS receivers, laser or LiDAR scanners, UAVs with a multitude of sensors, hydrographic vehicles with single and multi-beam fathometers, and many more instruments currently under development.
Surveyors now have more tools than ever available to perform their tasks. Now we must cross-reference these revolutions with the practitioners from the various generations to help us understand upon which road the profession is headed.
TECHNOLOGY MEETS GENERATIONAL DIFFERENCES; WHAT COULD GO WRONG?
One thing that stood out in my aforementioned discussion with the young surveyors’ group was how much they were embracing technology not just in their every day lives and communication, but how they understood the enhanced abilities of the latest tech and instruments for surveying. They see the value in large data, point clouds and BIM (building information modeling) needed for industry use.
The general consensus from this group was that my generation (Gen X) and earlier (Baby Boomers) are easily dismissive of their enthusiasm for incorporating these new technologies into our workflow simply as ways to shortcut old methods done by more labor-intensive means. While I initially tried, myself, to dismiss this suggestion, further research has only proven their point: their creativity and desire to further the profession is indeed being stifled by the group that should be leading and mentoring them.
Cross-correlating the generations with their various personalities and quirks with the amalgamations of industrial revolutions turns up some interesting results. Gen Xers and earlier surveyors were strictly taught by their managers and mentors that both historical data and original monuments are sacred and not to be denied. This information was derived from the most basic of survey instruments and measuring equipment, with accuracy that is not acceptable by today’s standards.
But the tradition remained: if it was good enough for our forefathers to establish the early frontier, then more accurate measuring devices are simply overkill. New sophisticated robotic total stations, GNSS receivers and robust data collectors available as a result of the Third Industrial Revolution are shiny objects that stand in the way of “good surveying,” in the opinion of the elder surveyors.
Millennial surveyors, meanwhile, look at the world with a different vision and much different solutions. Most of them were not exposed to televisions with just three channels, telephones mounted on walls, or kitchens without microwave ovens, to just to name a few “antiquities.” Their families have always owned a computer and the library is a place where you go to study. Research isn’t looking in an encyclopedia; you Google. They embracw cellphones with a multitude of apps and functions, including location services within a few feet, practically as extensions of themselves.
The equipment produced for surveyors today is well within their wheelhouse as it maps a multitude of points and features in a blink of an eye. Accuracy and detail are no longer an issue — but adapting that data to legacy deeds and maps is where us old timers can help bridge the gap.
Another problem that has proven to be a yawning void between the generations is the remnants of the economic slowdown of 2007-2012. Many Baby Boomer and Gen X surveyors learned to do more with less. Times were tough and we couldn’t afford to upgrade to the latest versions of total stations, GNSS, software, or invest in new technologies like laser scanning. There was also an exodus of technicians simply because there was no work in surveying for the time period, and they found employment in other professions. That left a void in who was doing the work (now being completed by upper level surveyors with older skill sets), and having no younger personnel to train and groom for future career growth.
There were many technological advancements during that time frame but overall the industry suffered because of the economic downturn. The Millennials, most of whom were too young to be employed during this period, now are faced with working for an older profession that couldn’t afford to stay current with technology and who have trouble relating to the motivations of the younger generation.
CAN’T WE ALL JUST GET ALONG?
I believe the surveying profession is at a crossroads, one based upon the gap caused by the generation / technology combination described above. Steps must be taken to rectify this. Here are a few of the pathways to closing the gap and becoming a solid profession for the future:
Embrace the mentor/mentee relationship, but be open to reversing the roles. The younger generations have a handle on the latest technology, so us old timers need to be more willing to close our mouths and open our ears and minds.
Create more opportunities for younger surveyors to participate in organizations so they can also be influencers. Keep in mind that they don’t typically like to “belong” to an organization, so adapt our professional groups and keep their interests in mind.
Change the way we communicate. Many Baby Boomers / Gen X members are critical of the younger generations and social media, yet this trend shows no sign, at all, of stopping. Smartphones are here to stay, so let’s learn to adapt, to remain in step with the youngsters.
Be willing to invest in new and emerging technology. Who know where the next radical survey technique will come from if you don’t have an open mind and checkbook? Invest not only in equipment but your young staff’s future.
Encourage younger staff to get involved in something. Anything. Social interaction can lead to better communication skills and expose them to more business situations. Don’t push them in over their head,s but get them to be “uncomfortable” occasionally. They will thank you for it.
Many professions and occupations will suffer in the next 3–5 years because of attrition through retirement, incapacitation and death. These workforces will lose 20–40% of their workers. Those left will have to pick up the slack and then some. We need to either
A) hire a lot more surveyors, or
B) figure out how to make it work with less bodies.
The conversation that took place in that meeting room with the young surveyors has made a deep impression on me and has changed my focus on the future of surveying. How does this apply to an article in a geospatial publication? Simple: these are the future users, purchasers and adopters of geospatial equipment and software, and the setters of industry standards.
The younger generation understands how to use today’s technology, and the surveying profession overall needs to embrace that fact. The technology won’t mean a thing if we don’t have the bright minds to use it to its full potential.
So I ask you again to embrace, encourage and listen to the young surveyors; they will thank you for it.
CHC Navigation has launched its LT700 rugged Android tablet. The LT700 is designed to increase the efficiency and productivity of the mobile workforce in different industries and applications.
An integrated GNSS module (GPS/GLONASS/BDS/SBAS) provides robust positioning performance. The LT700 dual-SIM 4G modem ensures fast and reliable connection with mobile teams.
The LT700 tablet features an 8-inch sunlight-viewable touchscreen. It displays geospatial information system (GIS) data tables, complex vector and raster maps, or high-resolution pictures in direct sunshine and high-bright areas, CHC Navigation said.
Unlike consumer-grade tablets, the L700 is intended for mobile field workers. Its industrial IP67 design withstands all-day use in harsh environments and conditions, and is protected from dust, rain, extreme temperatures and accidental drops from 1.2 meters. Rugged design, soft corner bumpers and long battery life provide the LT700 with the capability to perform uninterrupted for a complete working day.
The LT700’s octa-core 2.2-GHz CPU supports running large maps and datasets without any lag or slowdown. Driven by Android 8.1 and bearing the GMS (Google Mobile Service) certification, the LT700 runs seamlessly the most common professional data collection applications available from the Google Play store.
Carlson Software has introduced a new four-constellation, three-frequency surveying receiver. The Carlson NR3 network rover weighs just under two pounds, but delivers highly reliable GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) for land surveying, geospatial information systems (GIS) and other data-collection uses.
Carlson Software President and Founder Bruce Carlson introduced the Carlson NR3 network rover at the company’s Grow With Us User Conference 2019.
Able to be used as a base or rover, the NR3 uses all four constellations — GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo — and provides triple-frequency tracking on GPS, GlONASS and Galileo, the company said.
Incorporating multipath and ionospheric detection, the NR3 maintains accuracy and continued operation despite shocks, vibration or other interference.
According to the company, the NR3 is easy to mount and balance as it utilizes the optional Hybrid+ in Carlson SurvCE/PC that enables simultaneous interaction with GNSS and a robotic total station, the company said.
”The NR3 is Carlson’s answer for a lightweight – just 1.8 lbs. – network rover that can also be used in a base rover setup with Carlson’s Listen-Listen service,” said Butch Herter, Carlson’s director of Hardware Development. The Listen-Listen service allows base/rover operations via cellular modem for better correction transmission ranges compared to traditional terrestrial UHF radios.
“It has hot swappable batteries and four come with the system that give it over a 20-hour runtime,” Herter added. “With the dual internal cell modem antennas, it maintains cell signal where others may not. When paired up with the Carlson CR2+ robot, it is the ideal companion receiver to use with the new SurvCE hybrid surveying system.”
Produced by Septentrio with Carlson specifications, the Carlson NR3 has an integrated 4G LTE cellular modem, plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for modern wireless capabilities and is made to perform exceptionally in locations with bad visibility or interference.
BRING YOUR OWN DEVICE (BYOD) is not just an industry buzzword. It can change the way professional surveyors work every day. The idea of using a smartphone or tablet instead of a dedicated device is appealing. But is it good enough?
Surveyors and mappers are challenged with the arduous task of data collection that meets accuracy and precision standards and provides adequate attribute information for the project. Before the invention of the electronic data collector, handwritten notes in field books were the norm. Every note keeper’s style varied in content, neatness and thoroughness. Calculations for determining survey data values were completed longhand on paper and were very time consuming.
Like its personal computer counterpart, the electronic data collector was introduced in the late 1970s with minimal adoption by the average surveyor because of cost and complexity. Storage methods for the era included magnetic modules and tape; both forms of media were expensive and fragile with little storage for the cost.
Data collection was limited to numeric values only, with horizontal and vertical angles, slope distance, point number and point code being the extent of the information. Couple this process with the limited availability of printers and plotters capable of depicting the data for the surveyor’s use, and one can see why few practitioners invested in these systems.
iOS aerial viewer. (Screenshot: Tim Burch)
The 1980s and 1990s brought significant changes to surveying with the advancing technology of electronic computing and measuring. The introduction of robotic total stations, various methods of GNSS, and even leveling took advantage of significant computer power and measuring processes, and the data collector stayed in lockstep with the advancing instrumentation. Almost every equipment manufacturer developed their own proprietary data collector and software system because of the unique design and programming of their systems.
In the 2000s and later, third-party manufacturers began producing data collectors with advanced computing power and the ability to connect to varying brands of equipment. Most of the programming for these collectors are still proprietary in nature to this day.
Also during the 2000s, a new wave in mobile communications was taking place. Cellular phone and data signals were now being used to transmit an abundance of information between users.
The rapid development of handheld communication devices has led to the meteoric rise of two specific mobile operating systems: one by a radical startup that concentrated on dominating the search engine market, and the other by an avant garde computer company looking to expand its unique customer base.
By the end of the decade, the world had been introduced to the Android operating system by Google, and the iOS operating system by Apple. The combined market share for the two operating systems at press time was just under 98 percent of all mobile devices worldwide.
Trending Away from Proprietary Data Collectors
Android Point Info: Confirmation of collected data, including equipment and base station. (Screenshot: Tim Burch)
Because data collection by surveyors and mappers have traditionally been performed on proprietary systems designed and produced by equipment manufacturers for use with only their instruments, these collectors, while very powerful and robust, are costly for the equipment manufacturers to produce because of the limited market of surveyors and mappers.
Many suppliers, before the introduction of the iPhone and Android operating systems, attempted to adapt their data-collection platforms to wider recognized mobile operating systems (for example, Windows CE/Pocket PC/Mobile) on a bevy of mobile devices (HP/iPAQ, Sony Eriksson, HTC) with little success. Various versions of Windows are still being used today by GNSS equipment manufacturers’ proprietary data collectors, including Trimble, Hemisphere GNSS, Topcon and CHC Navigation.
However, the field of operating environments has become more crowded as technology continues to advance. The proliferation of Windows-based data collectors are now on the decline.
Survey Point: Status of survey data collection and GNSS engine signal reception. (Screenshot: Tim Burch)
Enter Android and iOS. Driving the decline of the previously popular Windows mobile platform is the rapid adoption of the iOS and Android operating systems. These two environments have also led to a substantial number of devices and applications for users.
Part of the reason for the speedy acceptance of the devices and operating systems has been the ease of programming. It is estimated that each operating system has more than two million applications in their respective online stores, with more being introduced daily.
Because of the proliferation of smartphones, nearly everyone is familiar with the look, feel and operation of touchscreen devices and their various applications. This familiarity is driving a new trend in data collection: the concept of “bring your own device” (otherwise known in IT security circles as “BYOD”). BYOD is being introduced by several surveying and mapping equipment manufacturers as an alternative to their proprietary data-collection devices.
Sky Plot: Where the ‘birds’ are in the sky. (Screenshot: Tim Burch)
These manufacturers are pairing iOS and Android developers with their hardware and firmware specialists to create a user-friendly interface that will function on most of the most popular handheld devices on the market today. From Apple iPhones and iPads to Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets, these applications give the surveyor the best of two worlds — sophisticated data-collection capability on a well-known and reliable mobile operating system platform.
The Android platform is becoming especially popular in the handheld mapping market segment. Current users of this environment include Hemisphere GNSS, CHC Navigation, Tersus GNSS and Trimble.
The iOS applications, while not quite as prevalent as Android, are being embraced by several significant GNSS manufacturers, including JAVAD GNSS and Eos Positioning Systems.
These companies are creating iOS and Android apps that embrace the BYOD market, providing their users with affordability and creating a comfort level simply because of the familiarity of the device and its environment.
How Good Is It?
iOS Position. Status of survey data collection and GNSS engine signal reception. (Screenshot: Tim Burch)
For the surveyor to be satisfied with the operation, the collection process must be efficient, cost-effective and easy to use. For this explanation of key items within a well-rounded data-collection application, we are using the JAVAD Mobile Tools (now J-Mobile) application built specifically for the Android and iOS operating systems.
The Android system (Version 7.0) was installed on a rugged CAT S41 cellphone made Bullitt Group from the United Kingdom, while the iOS app was used on the author’s iPad Air 2 running Version 12.2. Both apps were utilized in conjunction with the JAVAD Triumph-2 GNSS receiver.
After putting both versions through trial testing and checking against values on known monuments, here is the results of our findings:
Receiver Setup. Visual reference for leveling and direction of GNSS receiver. (Screenshot: Tim Burch)
Data Organization. Easy to comprehend and flexible for most naming conventions.
Corrections and Sources. Easily connects to base receiver and radio or available NTRIP correction service for real-time network (RTN) capability.
Sky Plot. Because the Triumph-2 is equipped to receive most of the available satellites in service, the Sky Plot feature is beneficial to the user for assessing potential interference.
File Management, Import and Export. Covers the typical file management and transfer functions used by the surveyor.
RTK Survey Operations. Robust telemetry keeps the users informed of specific satellite data and correction status.
Point Confirmation. Survey point information with metadata and equipment listing. (Screenshot: Tim Burch)
Coordinate Systems. All standard coordinate systems are included with features to allow the user to customize their own systems.
Localization. Creation of a local coordinate system is a simple routine, providing strong quality checks for data integrity.
Lift and Tilt. This feature provides the user with a useful procedure to end data collection without the need to press a button. This feature significantly increases the user’s productivity.
Compass and Level Calibration. With the Triumph-2 having an internal compass and level system, status of the receiver is graphically displayed to help the user keep a close watch on the accuracy of the survey point.
Survey Points and Linework. Most point naming systems and line-coding procedures are easily adapted. Total Station Point Transfer. The creation of control point files for transfer to total stations is simple and easy to use.
Stakeout. Graphical status screens provide the user with simple plotting capability of the desired stakeout point to increase efficiency and accuracy.
These apps are good at providing the surveyor with a solid tool for data collection and staking capability. They are especially good when paired with a real-time kinematic
(RTK) base station or NTRIP correction service.
But what happens when cell service is not readily available, or there are no published monument coordinates to establish site control? These apps have the surveyor covered for that situation as well.
Post-Processing (OPUS and DPOS)
Today’s surveyor works in an environment where geographic-based data is a key component to the services they render to their clients. While most of the world’s developed nations have access to cellular networks in which most GNSS receivers can communicate with an RTN providing corrective solutions, the places where this is not possible relies on other means of data correction.
In the U.S. we rely on OPUS (Online Post-Processing User System) to provide that service. But, as good as it is, it has limitations. Currently, it only utilizes GPS satellite data from the U.S. Department of Defense and is subject to sporadic government shutdowns.
Other services, from both public and private sources, are in place around the world to provide a service similar to OPUS. These include, but are not limited to:
AUSPOS. Geoscience Australia (free)
APPS. Jet Propulsion Laboratory at California Institute of Technology (free)
CSRS-PPP. Natural Resources Canada (free)
GAPS. University of New Brunswick (free)
magicGNSS. GMV (free)
Centerpoint RTX Post Processing. Trimble (free)
JAVAD Data Processing Service (DPOS). JAVAD (free, processes any JAVAD GNSS jps file)
These correction services utilize other satellite constellations (GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS) for their solutions and can provide additional coverage, depending on the location of the user. Because of these services, geographic-based data is at the fingertips of surveyors worldwide.
JAVAD’s DPOS system is has the ability to collect static survey data and send it to the proprietary service for establishing new coordinate values for base-station use. This process is a function of the app and can be completed in a few short steps.
Once the base station values are calculated, the surveyor can make use of this information for establishing a base station for correction broadcasting.
Do You Need a Base Station?
The establishment of RTNs has greatly enhanced surveying capability as cellular service has increased in coverage and speed. However, there are still instances and locales that do not allow for the reliable use of cell signals to provide those corrections accurately.
Various manufacturers’ tests have proven the accuracy of using an RTN subscription versus the traditional GNSS base and rover RTK setup. But cell-signal strength can be an Achilles heel, crippling those who choose not to set up a base station.
The UHF radio, even in its reduced power state from regulatory changes, is still more powerful and reliable than most cell services. 5G technology and coverage is anticipated to revolutionize cellular service, but it has yet to be realized.
Adaptation of the Industry
Other GNSS manufacturers (including NovAtel, Navcom, ComNav, Unicore, Emcore, Suzhou, TeleOrbit and Geneq) are producing receivers that can be adapted to a variety of existing data collectors and connect to iOS/Android mobile devices through various software developers.
The future of communications remains the smartphone or tablet device, with foldable units expected to be the next big thing.
As processors get more powerful, as chip memory becomes more abundant, and as more satellite constellations orbit in our sky, surveyors and their data collectors will continue to evolve. The future remains bright for technology and the surveyor has a front-row seat.
TIM BURCH is GPS World’s contributing editor for Survey. A professional land surveyor with more than 30 years of experience, he is director of surveying at SPACECO Inc. in the Chicago area. For several years he has been secretary and was recently named vice-president of the Board of Directors of the National Society of Professional Surveyors. He writes a bi-monthly column in the Survey Scene e-newsletter. Subscribe free at env-gpsworld-integration.kinsta.cloud/subscribe.
Receiver, Software Ready for Mobile
Photo: ComNav
ComNav receivers offer multiple data-collection device choices via Bluetooth connection, as well as an Android app.
For instance, the G200 provides centimeter-accuracy positioning to any connected mobile devices for RTK field surveying. It is able to delivery robust survey workflows with the SinoGNSS Android-based Survey Master, so that surveyors can collect quality high-accuracy positions no matter what mobile device they are using.
The G200 is a rugged, compact, wearable GNSS receiver. Combined with the high-performance SinoGNSS OEM board tracking GPS L1/L2, BeiDou B1/B2, GLONASS L1/L2, Galileo and QZSS, the G200 enables reliable high-precision GNSS performance for land survey tasks anywhere in the world.
TerraStar Gives Assist to RTK
Photo: Leica Geosystems
NovAtel offers several levels of corrections via its TerraStar service. For surveying applications, the RTK Assist service provides correction data to bridge surveyors through any real-time kinematic (RTK) correction outages. TerraStar services work on NovAtel’s OEM6 and OEM7 receivers..
RTK Assist, available on OEM6/OEM7 receivers, provides 20 minutes of RTK assistance, enabling surveyors to maintain centimeter-level accuracy. A higher service level, RTK Assist Pro, is available on OEM7 receivers. It provides unlimited RTK assistance with stand-alone centimeter-level positioning when RTK is not available.
Trimble Offers Web-Based Post-Processing
Photo: Trimble
Trimble’s CenterPoint RTX Post-Processing Service is a free, web-based solution that provides rigorous processing of GNSS data for users around the globe.
Powered by advanced algorithms for processing static observations, CenterPoint RTX Post-Processing supports data including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS. With the service, users can upload GNSS data using Trimble formats or industry-standard RINEX 2 and RINEX 3. The service supports all dual-frequency GNSS receivers and more than 400 different antennas.
The post-processing service computes single-station static observation sessions ranging in length from 10 minutes up to 24 hours, with longer observation sessions recommended to produce the highest accuracy. Using data from the global RTX tracking network, the CenterPoint RTX Post-Processing service computes the position of the observed point with centimeter accuracy.
Results are delivered via email in ITRF coordinates at the current epoch and can be transformed to a fixed epoch by use of a standard tectonic-plate model.
Atlas Corrections Ready for BYOD
The Atlas GNSS global correction service, offered by Hemisphere GNSS, provides correction data for GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo constellations. Its global L-band corrections allow for accuracies ranging from sub-meter to sub-decimeter levels. The network has more than 200 reference stations worldwide and covers virtually the entire globe.
Examples of how the AtlasLink webUI looks on a smartphone. (Image: Hemisphere GNSS)
The Atlas platform was conceived to enable as many people as possible to have access to the correction service technology, either as an end-user or as part of their business. Several features are designed to enable customers who use non-Hemisphere positioning systems to have access to Atlas.
For instance, Hemisphere’s SmartLink technology allows an AtlasLink GNSS smart antenna to be used as an Atlas signal extension for any GNSS system compliant with open communication standards.
Hemisphere’s GNSS smart antennas including AtlasLink, A326, C321+ and S321+ offer a user-friendly web user interface (WebUI) that can be used to configure, monitor and manage the receiver from virtually any modern computing device, including computers, phones and tablets.
Shanghai-based GNSS technology and solutions company Shanghai Huace Navigation Technology Ltd. — known as CHC Navigation — has opened a North American subsidiary, CHC Navigation USA Corporation, in Scottsdale, Arizona.
CHC Navigation was established in 2003 and was ranked as one of China’s top GNSS and RTK technology and solutions companies in 2017. It has customers in more than 100 countries worldwide and has been providing GNSS and RTK products and solutions to the US marketplace since 2009.
The establishment of a North American head office in Scottsdale illustrates CHC Navigation’s ongoing commitment to expanding its products, services and customer support in the U.S. and North American marketplaces.
CHC USA will warehouse, sell and service from Scottsdale all of its products to its dealer and OEM network of customers across North America. With the new U.S. presence, CHC USA will be able to respond more quickly to its dealer and customer order requests and service requirements.
CHC USA specializes in CORS GNSS base-station infrastructure, deformation monitoring, surveying and mapping. With new 3D lidar scanning and hydrographic unmanned survey vessels launching later this year, CHC USA’s North American office and team members will continue to focus on ensuring a great customer experience.
“On the heels of strong CHC Navigation growth in the US in 2018, the time was right to establish a domestic US sales and service office and warehouse with a local team of positioning industry professionals,” said George Zhao, CEO of CHC Navigation. “Our U.S. and Canadian customers have been very supportive of CHC Navigation over the years and our focus will continue to be on providing industry leading products and services to our valued North American dealers and customers,” added Phil Gabriel, President of CHC Navigation USA.
Topcon Positioning Group is offering a new edition of its real-time 3D job site monitoring and management system, Sitelink 2.0. The update includes a new pay-as-you-go point-based service model, new features to Sitelink Support Desk, as well as a new Haul Truck application, the company said.
Version 2.0 includes a newly redesigned web portal that features a consumption-based “Service Point” investment model.
“We are introducing a completely new way to service our customers that allows them to take advantage of a pay-as-you-go account-based system rather than year-long pre-paid subscription-based plans,” said Murray Lodge, senior vice president, construction. “With no expiration date on the Service Points, contractors can be assured their investment will be protected in their personal account and allocated when it best suits their needs.”
Also, new to the service includes remote configuration functionality in Support Desk. It allows Topcon support personnel to directly access and configure receiver components on connected machines, while simultaneously retaining an active remote session of the 3D-MC machine control software.
“We have made support more efficient with less downtime for operators with our team having the ability to go straight into the configuration settings for receivers and make adjustments, minimizing work stoppage on the site,” said Lodge.
The latest version also includes a new Topcon Haul Truck application, which utilizes an Android or iOS app that can be installed on a phone or tablet. It is designed to provide a complete and easy-to-use cloud-based, haul management and reporting system with real-time visibility.
“The new Haul Truck app provides productivity statistics for each haul, including the counts, average distances and the time it takes to complete the process — all within a geofenced pickup site and unloading zone. It is simple to use — drivers come onto the site, quickly enter basic info and get to work,” Lodge said. “With 3D map imagery, operators can view where the load is being picked up and the path it takes to unload and return, and it automatically records for reporting.”
Geneq Inc., a manufacturer and provider of GNSS receivers and positioning solutions to GIS professionals and surveyors, has launched its newly designed website. The website features new functionalities, better product viewing options, and improved product support options.
The completely redesigned website to support the company’s product and service improvement program, the company said. The new website will be regularly updated with news on SXblue products, product support, software updates, events and social media feeds. The company welcomes feedback from clients, distributors and partners.
Geneq Inc. has been developing and manufacturing professional GNSS receivers and software products for 15 years. Its SXblue brand has been sold around the world.
How will wireless technologies most significantly drive change and innovation in the surveying industry?
Miguel Amor
“GNSS by design, by physics, will always be challenged in urban settings. 5G and GNSS will provide a step to ubiquitous positioning in built-up areas — a blend of relative and absolute positioning, terrestrial and satellite-based measurements.” Miguel Amor Hexagon Positioning Intelligence
Greg Turetzky
“The improvements in bandwidth and latency of 5G will create new opportunities for edge and cloud-based computing advances such as AI and machine learning to penetrate surveying, as 5G is doing in other industries, to improve efficiency, accuracy and automation.” Greg Turetzky Consultant
Members of the EAB
Tony Agresta Nearmap
Miguel Amor Hexagon Positioning Intelligence
Thibault Bonnevie SBG Systems
Alison Brown NAVSYS Corporation
Ismael Colomina GeoNumerics
Clem Driscoll C.J. Driscoll & Associates
John Fischer Orolia
Ellen Hall Spirent Federal Systems
Jules McNeff Overlook Systems Technologies, Inc.
Terry Moore University of Nottingham
Bradford W. Parkinson Stanford Center for Position, Navigation and Time
NovAtel’s Waypoint Products Group has released version 8.80 of its GNSS and GNSS+INS post-processing software products, including Inertial Explorer, Inertial Explorer Xpress, GrafNav and GrafNet. All Waypoint customers with an active subscription that are within the support period qualify for the Waypoint 8.80 upgrade at no additional charge.
Key features of the 8.80 release include:
High-rate precise satellite orbit and clock corrections available in minutes with the TerraStar-NRT option
Increased accuracy for pedestrian and vehicle applications by applying vehicle constraints using our SPAN intelligent vehicle dynamics modelling
Ability to use L5, E5a, B3 in differential solutions
14 percent faster processing with 64-bit support
For applications requiring highly accurate post-mission position, velocity or attitude, post-processing maximizes the accuracy of the solution by processing previously stored GNSS and inertial measurement unit (IMU) data forward and reverse in time, and combining the results. The position, velocity and attitude solution can be smoothed and output at the required data rate and in the coordinate frame required. This process also provides the ability to assess the solution reliability and accuracy.
The GrafNav and Inertial Explorer software packages are available as a digitally secured machine-portable license. The products are also available as a perpetual license or as a time-limited term license. A Software Development Kit (SDK) is available to allow developers to customize the entire processing workflow to suit their customers or application.
The Waypoint process:
Step 1: Capture raw GNSS and IMU data.
Step 2: Waypoint post-processing software maximizes the accuracy of the solution by independently processing data forward and reverse in time and combining the results.
Step 3: The position, velocity and attitude solution is smoothed to deliver an unparalleled level of accuracy. In-depth quality analysis tools verify the quality of the trajectory.
Step 4: Export your results at the required data rate and in the coordinate frame required.
The Horizon fiberoptic gyro (FOG) inertial measurement unit (IMU) now forms part of SBG Systems’ Navsight Marine Solution, dedicated to hydrographers. Navsight is available at different levels of accuracy to meet the various application requirements and can be connected to various external equipment such as echo-sounders, lidar, and so on.
Photo: SBG Systems
Navsight Marine Solution already offered two levels of performance with the Ekinox and Apogee IMUs. These MEMS-based IMUs address most of hydrographics markets whether shallow or deep water.
The new Horizon IMU enables customers to deploy Navsight in the most demanding environments such as surveying highly dense areas (bridges, buildings, and so on) as well as applications where only a single antenna can be used.
The Horizon IMU is based on a closed-loop FOG technology which enables ultra-low bias and noise levels. This technology allows robust and consistent performance even in low dynamics survey.
Navsight solution is easy to install, as the sensor alignment and lever arms are automatically estimated and validated. Once connected to the Navsight processing unit, the web interface guides the user to configure the solution. A 3D view of the vessel shows the entered parameters so that the user can check the installation. The Navsight unit also integrates light emitting diode (LED) indicators for satellite availability, RTK corrections, and power. It comes with a rugged enclosure, or in a rack version for larger vessels.
Completing the Navsight offer, Qinertia, SBG’s post-processing software, gives access to offline RTK corrections from more than 7,000 base stations located in 164 countries. Trajectory and orientation are then greatly improved by processing inertial data and raw GNSS observables in forward and backward directions. Computation takes less than 3 minutes for a 6-hour log thanks to the Forward and Backward calculation processed at the same time.
