Software Architecture for Navigation Devices Enabling Flexible Addition of Aiding Sensors

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking a software architecture that allows new and advanced navigation sensors to be integrated with an existing navigation system. To demonstrate this technology, DARPA desires a design for a personal navigator leveraging this technology that is capable of providing a location fix with an accuracy of 10 meters 3D rms. This navigator needs to integrate a variety of sensors in order to operate for extended periods of time without a GPS coordinate update. 5-D Systems’ layered approach to both the software architecture and navigation filter, presented in this proposal, provides a framework that meets desire. Our approach develops a generic software architecture that facilitates the development of a personal navigator that can exploit the newest and best navigation sensors available, irrespective of their existence at the time of the navigation system’s design and deployment. Our novel approach uses a layered, two-tier navigation filter that enables the robust addition of new sensors and navigation approaches while operating in the absence of GPS for extended periods. Collectively, our team brings a unique mix of academic and industry experience integrating sensors for navigation and developing adaptable, sustainable software architectures for new and legacy systems.