Observerbot
ICT & Technology
Client company:HERE Technologies
Reno Picus
Casper Metsemakers
Pim van der Vliet
Project description
HERE Technologies is currently using GPS modules to track objects and vehicles that are located outside. This process is done by combining numerous amounts of inaccurate GPS location data (50 – 100m). This might work for larger objects since they’re easily spotted or stationary objects since their measurements can be averaged to improve accuracy, but it’s not suited for small objects or other use cases. To help solve the problem above, the assignment is to design and implement a proof-of-concept positioning system with a focus on accurate positioning by using GNSS RTK technologies.
Context
HERE Technologies is an innovative company that focuses on mapping, location data, and
several other automotive services. Its mission is to improve and optimize the way mobility systems around the world interact with our lives. Therefore, they generated a digital representation of reality which is a combination of location data and software analysis powered by cloud computing. Having this data allows them to provide spatial intelligence to clients and therefore, enables them to become as successful as possible in their respective areas of expertise.
Results
The overall hypothesis was that the new HD GNSS tracker would perform better than the old tracker. Better performance is measured by accuracy, precision, and signal stability. Each test was designed to gain insights into at least one of these factors. The first one was the durations test. This test showed that there is no effect of time on the accuracy, the error of the position does not significantly reduce or increase as time increases. The Kadaster test showed that the new tracker has higher precision and accuracy in all tests performed since most of the retrieved data points were inside a 5m range in comparison with the old tracker which was above 12m. The dynamic tests showed that both the antennas that can be attached to the new tracker are similar in clear sky conditions, but show a bigger difference when obstructions arise. This is supported by the object interference test which again shows differences between the antennas attached to the new tracker. In this test the difference between the old and new tracker is obvious. The new tracker shows a moderate decrease mostly in precision in comparison to clear sky conditions. Whereas the old tracker has a high decrease in both precision and accuracy. As a result of the tests, it can be concluded that both antennas attached to the new tracker perform better in all scenarios tested when compared to the old tracker. The difference between the antennas is significantly smaller compared to the old tracker. However, when looking at the accuracy and precision together, the Multiband antenna performed better in most of the tests.
About the project group
HERE technologies engaged FHICT students that follow the Technology semester 6/7 to develop an HD GNSS module that can be used to accurately determine the location of outdoor objects. This project will last a total of 5 months and will be managed using the agile scrum methodology with each sprint lasting approximately 3 weeks. The outcome will result in two end products, a prototype HD GNSS and a report containing the research results.