GPS-denied Positioning using Networked communications

ABSTRACT: A robust back-up navigation alternative is needed to continue to provide accurate PVT data when GPS is denied. Navigation solutions can be enhanced by utilizing existing networked communications for dismounted forces operating in small platoons. When some of the forces lose their GPS signals, traditional GPS-denied network positioning techniques such as Time of Arrival (TOA) or Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) have been employed previously. Unfortunately these techniques require extremely tight time synchronization among the sensor nodes; and such a synchronization requirement has previously been too stringent to be reasonably met by man-portable hardware due to SWaP constraints. Under this effort we shall build a prototype Distributed Networked Opportunistic Positioning system (DiNO-Pos) using a network or Software Defined Radios (SDRs) that can create TOA and TDOA observations from signals of opportunity (SoOP). We shall collect live data in a GPS jamming environment to demonstrate the ability to perform back-up navigation, geolocate SoOPs and also maintain tight time synchronization between reference nodes in a GPS denied environment. The expected performance of an operational DiNO-Pos system, providing the capability to provide assured PNT under GPS-denied conditions, will be included in the final report with transition opportunities into tactical SDR operations. BENEFIT: The NAVSYS DiNO-Pos (Distributed Network Opportunistic Positioning) technology will achieve high PNT assurance in GPS-denied environments that will increase military operational effectiveness and save lives. Private sector applications include in-door positioning and autonomous vehicle navigation where operational integrity can be preserved during these adverse conditions.