Handheld Dismount Kit for Persistent, Precision Navigation in GPS-challenged Environments for Military Operations

ABSTRACT:Echo Ridge and subcontractor Rockwell Collins propose to build and test handheld prototypes of the Augmented Positioning System (APS) using previously developed components. APS will use highly abundant and globally available RF signals of opportunity (SoOPs) to provide error-growth-constrained position in GPS-challenged environments. APS employs an SDR architecture which allows it to use a broad variety of terrestrial and space based SoOP sources in a low weight/power package. Dismount position as well as SoOP position estimations are shared between dismounts using existing low-bandwidth, latency tolerant radio links. The light-weight APS module is easily worn by dismounted military forces; can operate on batteries for extended periods of time; can operate in day or darkness, in inclement weather, and in environments with little or no infrastructure such as remote deserts and forests. The project will develop demonstrable technology within the first year, achievable due to the significant progress and risk reduction that has been carried out under previous contracts, and the use of standard interfaces for component integration (IS-GPS-153/standard NEMA outputs).BENEFIT:GPS receivers (including MGUE) are becoming ubiquitous in modern devices, systems and networks. In many cases, GPS receivers operate in challenging environments where GPS operation is impaired/denied. Technology from this effort has the potential to provide accurate, reliable and persistent PNT in these challenged environments. Transition opportunities for the subject navigation technology are numerous in the commercial location sector, the public services sector, and the DoD sector. In the public sector, emergency first responder personnel lack a robust location system which hampers search and rescue operations. There are also equally compelling needs in the commercial sector, where wireless mobiles equipped with GPS for E911 positioning suffer from very poor yield indoors and in dense urban areas. The last few years have witnessed explosive growth for revenue-bearing location-based navigation technology and applications, all of which suffer from poor performance for the same reasons, and ultimately cost companies lost potential revenue. One of the most promising developments that will aid in bringing the subject technology to broad commercial use is the increase in portable computing devices that now contain built-in GNSS and components such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, WiFi, and multi-band radio frequency transceivers.