A software-based positioning, navigation, and timing solution for reliable operation in GPS-degraded environments

PrecisionTerra proposes an end-to-end software-based GPS signal processor that can acquire, track, and process signals even in GPS-degraded environments. The software’s foundational IP is a patented signal tracking algorithm developed at the University of Colorado-Boulder and designed specifically to enhance the tracking of GPS signals in any GPS-degraded conditions. This proposal will explore the use of this technology for NASA ARMD’s autonomous aerial wildfire mitigation efforts, as these operations often take place in GPS-degraded locations like mountains, canyons, and forests. The first objective is to characterize the performance of PrecisionTerra’s tracking technology in relevant GPS-degraded environments. Data collected will be benchmarked against both simulation results and the current state-of-the-art for GPS units typically aboard small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). The second objective is to make PrecisionTerra’s software real-time operable, as UASs will need rapid positioning feedback for wildfire operations where speed is essential. Funding from this proposal will be used to hire one full-time signal processing engineer that will optimize PrecisionTerra’s signal processor for real-time, low-latency operation and make changes to the software as more information is learned from in-environment tests. Since the PI works full-time on PrecisionTerra, funding will also be used for the PI’s salary, as the PI will be leading data collection and statistical analysis for this project. Finally, funding will be used to purchase the requisite testing equipment, including GPS receiver front-end boards and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) (both manufactured in the U.S.). The three target markets for PrecisionTerra’s technology are GPS chipmakers for IoT devices (e.g., smartphones, passenger vehicles, UASs), high-precision GPS receiver manufacturers for commercial applications like construction and agriculture, and navigation device suppliers for the DoD.