Quantitative assessments leveraging effects based analysis for degraded PNT

ABSTRACT: Echo Ridge together with George Mason University proposes to develop a hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) test asset capable of efficiently and automatically testing the effects of degraded position, navigation and timing (PNT) on host systems. The key innovation to this research is the development of an adaptive, automated test scheduler based on multi-dimensional optimal search algorithms coupled with a rule-based expert system to rapidly search through the universe of test cases. The system will quantify degraded PNT performance in the presence of current/future and intentional/unintentional interference. The test asset will: automatically collect data: emulate GNSS; emulate secondary PNT such as IMUs, other RF sources and assistance data such as A-GPS; emulate interference signals; emulate RF paths between GNSS/interference and PNT systems including complex urban multipath profiles; emulate PNT system host platform effects including 6 DOF motion; and emulate antenna patterns including multi-element steerable antennas. The test asset will be based on a platform already developed through Air Force and Army Phase I and II SBIR funding entitled DYSE, or Dynamic Spectrum Environment emulator. DYSE emulates RF environments by converting RF to/from digital samples, and synthesizing RF sources and environmental effects in the digital domain. BENEFIT: It is anticipated that direct benefits from this project will come in improved PNT systems able to effectively operate in degraded conditions. Indirect benefits come from the automated hardware-in-the-loop testing functionality that will serve the greater wireless industry. Wireless systems, for both the DoD and commercial market places, have increased functionality, applicability, capability, complexity and adaptability. Mobile ad-hoc networks with MIMO antenna technology and cognitive radio networks, capable of carrying voice and data through packet services, are a good example of the trends. Another excellent example is the emergence of multichannel/multi-antenna GPS receivers. There is an established and growing need to comprehensively test and evaluate the performance of these new devices and systems prior to general availability and approval for service use. Traditional test methods are increasingly stressed by the proliferation and diversity of the devices and systems. This project provides a new testing approach able to produce realistic results using a scalable, flexible and affordable test fixture. Advantages including reduced testing costs, shorter time-to-service development schedules, and improved testing.