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The GPS Innovation Alliance: Keep Us Moving Forward

May 19th, 2013

GPS technology: this ever-evolving, expanding, enterprising utility has come to nearly define the lifestyle of the modern American. Where would we be without our mobile apps, our geo-caching devices, our biometric sensors for the fitness enthusiast? Does anyone even know how to read a map anymore?

Joking aside, the various means and methods of GPS technology usage today is vast and growing even still. From aviation assistance to agricultural field planning, construction management to marine anti-collision measurement tools, military application to the best, quickest, most gasoline-effective route to Grandma’s house, GPS is able and willing to lead the way.

But we all know that there are some risks which come along with the use of these satellites. Location services on Smartphones aren’t always as exclusive as one might think. Information shared on the internet can open one up to hackers, or possibly even more serious criminal acts. There’s the difficulty in keeping up with one’s privacy settings on social networking sites to keep one’s information private; not to mention the broader concerns, such as aviation navigation tools or even military threats.

GPS device users may wonder, does anybody monitor this? Is anyone interested in maintaining and protecting GPS technology, not only for the nations, but also for the private user? Perhaps it’s time to cue the GPS Innovation Alliance.

The GPS Innovation Alliance, launched earlier this year, has reason to boast in its roots with the United States GPS Industry Council (USGIC). Formed in 1991, the USGIC aimed to promote entrepreneurial and creative commercial applications for GPS technology, thereby expanding global markets, while also helping to defend military advantages. The GPS Innovative Alliance will continue in this striving, seeking to be a trusted source of information to manufacturers on the multitude applications of GPS technology.

Not only is the GPS Innovative Alliance committed to maintaining privacy for users and safeguards for international security, but they are also leading advocates for GPS technology expansion and development. Both nationally, here in the United States, and internationally, the GPS Innovation Alliance has been invaluable as an objective, authoritative source of information.

The GPS Innovation Alliance has and will continue to help to propel GPS tracking technology forward and onward, honing this resource to reach its maximum potential.

Additional Measuring Instrumentation Improves GPS Function

May 5th, 2013

Many users of smartphones may be able to identify with the inconvenience of Wifi’s and GPS navigation’s quick drain on their device’s battery. Technology companies are working on that in the form of two new positioning chip prototypes (one that includes flash) that will require surprisingly low amounts of power (as little as 10 mW total).

GPS in Positioning Chips Receives a Little Extra Help

The difference is in the prototypes’ access to different measuring instrumentation to help calculate more accurate coordinates. Current rival chips still rely primarily only on GPS, as well as other similar systems like Russia’s GLONASS, to triangulate position. The prototype positioning chips incorporate the new-ish trend of “consulting” a magnetometer, accelerometer and gyroscope by comparing the appropriate measurement device with current GPS data and correcting for errors.

Tweaking GPS Accuracy

The internal comparison method has been since used in aiding technology companies developing GPS navigation for cars to gain the most accurate speed, location, and route anticipation possible. The supplemental information to GPS provided by magnetometers, accelerometers, and gyroscopes has provided navigation systems with an even greater boost in precision than using previous methods (which act much as a normal mobile device or smartphone would in calculating an approximate location when fresh data is lacking).

The allowance for alternative calculation (other than GPS) answered the problem designers of internal car navigation systems were faced with when their GPS devices lost or distorted the signal from satellites or cell phone towers because of tall buildings or large formations obstructing communication. The navigation system would then have to assume the next current location without being updated; researchers had put the amount of distance off by 49 feet. But with accelerometers and gyroscopes measuring velocity changes and feeding those updates to GPS, that margin of accuracy has narrowed to an impressive 3-7 feet.

Improving on Last Year’s Model

The use of additional measurement instrumentation seems guaranteed to bring the functionality of GPS positioning chips and GPS navigation to an all time record high. Battery life in smartphones, mobile devices, or tablets will be significantly boosted, and the technology will be instrumental in the further development of smart or unmanned vehicles.

A Smarter GPS Device

May 4th, 2013

Have you ever had your GPS device get confused about your location? A new, smarter GPS system could make that frustration a thing of the past. Researchers in Spain have developed a new, lower cost system that can pinpoint its position better than traditional GPS devices.

Traditional GPS

A conventional GPS unit can pinpoint a vehicle’s location within about 15 meters, provided the vehicle is in an open area with nothing to obstruct satellite visibility. If, on the other hand, a GPS-equipped vehicle ventures into the cluttered city streets, its position can only be determined within about 50 meters of accuracy. Often, tall buildings or tunnels cause the unit to lose satellite communication altogether, forcing the GPS device to estimate the vehicle’s location based on its database of maps. This inaccuracy, although frustrating, is tolerable for simple direction finding, but it will not work for use in the more complex GPS operations anticipated in the future. Scientists hope to eventually use GPS technology to control distance between vehicles, trigger avoidance of obstacles, and other automatic maneuvers, but an accuracy of 50 meters is not sufficient for these applications.

New Technology

The new device developed by researchers at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid adds an Inertial Measurement Unit to the GPS device. The unit, abbreviated IMU, includes three gyroscopes and three accelerometers. These additional sensors measure the vehicle’s speed and direction changes. All the information gathered is merged in a computer application that then determines the vehicle’s location. With the additional data, this device can pinpoint the position of a vehicle within one to two meters, even in a crowded city.

Its Usefulness

At present, this device is still only a prototype, although it has been successfully installed in a car that is used for research and experimentation at the University. Researchers hope to take the things they have learned and develop a system that can be built into smartphones. Such a system would take advantage of the additional sensors that are already included in smartphones and thus produce the same accurate location result at an even lower cost.

As technology continues to develop, it is exciting to see the potential that exists to take things to the next stage. This device definitely sounds like a step in the right direction and will hopefully result in a more accurate, and thus more useful, GPS device in the future.

A Day in the Life of a Global Positioning Systems Engineer

May 3rd, 2013

A pioneer in the early days of GPS technology development passed away in February 2013. Peter Marshall Fitzgerald was an electrical engineer who received his PhD at Stanford University and was instrumental in the design and growth of global positioning system implementation and equipment. He worked with Ford Motor Co. on aerodynamics and GPS projects. His expertise developed with Ford enabled him to co-found and act as president of Stanford Telecommunications Inc.

Growth Within Stanford Telecommunications Inc.

Fitzgerald’s association with Stanford Telecommunications Inc. has produced many global positioning systems designs for the United States government, its primary target market. The company has been a global corporate giant in the planning, implementation, and production of digital communications equipment and network systems–in conjunction with the government, particularly in the areas of space and defense communication systems via wireless, cable, and satellite means.

Based upon Peter Marshall Fitzgerald’s (and his co-founder’s) initial vision and education, Stanford Telecommunications Inc has flourished and developed in various market-specific areas before the company’s sale to ITT Industries/Alcatel. Stanford Telecommunications’ specializations include antennae and converters for radio frequency, waveforms of communication, ASIC, system, and firm- and software design, execution of demodulation and modulation, high-level skills and implementation in design and manufacture, and asynchronous transfer mode.

While Stanford Communications does work primarily with government agencies (most of whose projects are top secret) in the areas of aerial and spatial national defense, it coordinates with some civilian-run agencies as well.

On the Other Side of Work

So what does an electrical engineer vitally important to the success of GPS technology do with the rest of his life? Raise sheep, of course. But the work of nurturing animals didn’t keep him grounded the entire time. Fitzgerald also preferred to spend his time traveling and teaching lectures around the globe and founded a school for business in Estonia. When not with his sheep or at his home on Orcas Island, Peter Marshall Fitzgerald enjoyed living the uncommon way–all in all, a productive life for those of us who enjoy not only the safety but also the technological possibilities his research in GPS technology brought.

The Beginning of the GPS System

April 19th, 2013

Do you depend on your GPS device daily? Some of us couldn’t live without it. When it was first invented, however, people thought it was a bit futuristic of a concept. Even the Air Force had doubts about going ahead with the project in the beginning. Here’s a little history behind the Global Positioning System: who invented it, why it was created, and how we use it today.

Where It Began

GPS was created by US Air Force Colonel Bradford Parkinson when he was approached by the Air Force to help come up with fresh ideas to breathe life into a dying program created to develop and implement a new navigation satellite system.

Back then, no one imagined the system would be relied upon each day by billions upon billions of people worldwide. “I swear, we could’ve built anything,” Parkinson said.

Most people, including those in the Air Force, thought the whole idea was a bit outlandish and futuristic. “It is all operating off of satellites that are eleven thousand miles away,” said Parkinson. The Air Force even wanted to nix the project entirely at one point.

Parkinson said, “That led to some other little stories where the major general had his big fat finger in my chest as I was walking through the Pentagon saying ‘Parkinson, your otherwise brilliant career is about to go down the tubes.’”

Why It Was Created

Although there were some reservations due to the cost of the program, it was developed in 1973 at the Pentagon. In the beginning, it was intended for military use only. Parkinson, however, knew that GPS technology had the potential to go even further. “But we knew it would be big,” he said.

After five years of perfecting its design, the first satellite was launched in February of 1978 at Vandenberg Air Force Base. “So the people who had all come to watch the launch got to see it for the first hundred feet,” Parkinson said. “Then it disappeared into the clouds.”

How Far It Has Come

Today, GPS is everywhere: smartphones, in-dash navigation GPS devices, GPS watches, GPS shirts for athletes. The list could go on and on. The Coast Guard relies on GPS to pinpoint the exact location for any vessels in distress. Farmers use GPS for precision farming. Wildlife researchers use GPS to track and study the habits of animals in the wild.

Parkinson said, “I had a long list of civil applications and broadly, I think we covered almost all of them.” It’s probably safe to say we’ve gone beyond what was ever imagined possible for GPS applications.

Global Positioning Systems in a Nutshell

January 7th, 2013

Since the Department of Defense placed the first satellite into earth’s orbit in 1978, an entire network of 27 satellites, 24 currently transmitting and 3 emergency replacements as needed, have launched to form today’s Global Positioning System (also called NAVSTAR). Solar-powered and always active, the satellites allow the pinpointing of any location at any time on earth’s surface.

How is a GPS location calculated?

It’s all three-dimensional trilateration. The communication between a GPS receiver and GPS satellites in orbit uses radio signals to accurately determine a location on earth. First, the distance in space between the position on earth and one initial satellite of at least four is calculated. The satellite’s highly accurate atomic clock resets the receiver’s down to the correct nanosecond so that both are on the exact same time, which in turn syncs the clocks of the other three (or more) satellites alongside them to that time as well. When a signal is sent from satellite to receiver, the time (lag) difference between the two locations is recorded and used by the receiver to generate the distance from earth to satellite and, in turn, an approximate point on earth.

Then the other satellites also generate, in the same manner, approximate points near the first, and the meeting point of all satellite locations is determined to be most precise position on earth. Once it has a starting point, this system can calculate longitude and latitude, as well as elevation. When combined with other active satellites, it can also be used to find direction, velocity, and the distance to a predetermined end point.

Is GPS ever wrong?

Most errors occur because signal communication with the receiver is interrupted or lost. For instance, huge buildings or large natural formations on earth’s surface can hinder signals from hitting the receiver at the correct time. Certain conditions in the atmosphere also slow a signal. Inaccuracies in the receiver’s clock and satellite orbital shift may be taken into consideration and recalculated. Satellites are built with a 10 year average life span; in some cases perhaps the equipment itself has merely worn out.

What if GPS is wrong?

It’s not that likely. The GPS satellites are not only armed with an atomic clock and interior almanac but also are constantly updating themselves with receivers monitored by Department of Defense to check for data errors. A high-tier Differential GPS satellite, not permitted to be used by the general public, receives around-the-clock accurate information from a permanently placed receiver and sends updated corrections to all other local public satellites.

More Surveying Jobs with GPS Technology?

December 21st, 2012

The construction industry has benefited from GPS technology over the past few years as surveyors have implemented the use of GPS technology along with electronically equipped Total Stations. Increased accuracy, reviewable 3-D maps, and streamlined efficiency enabled by the advances in technology and equipment seem to make extra training with some of the most highly complex devices worth the effort. However, a major drawback to the technological advances in this field may be the same that employees face in every other field where breakthrough discoveries cut down on the need for human hands and heads: job reduction.

Traditional Work Seems Cut in Half
Electronic Total Stations with systems employing GPS technology and other advanced methods in their receivers and data storage require only one surveyor on site to collect the needed information. Since traditional surveying was previously a job requiring at least two people at any surveying site, this advancement seems to cut employment in half. Apparently good news for employers. But even though the onsite manpower is reduced, GPS technology isn’t technically stealing jobs.

Expansive Worldwide Surveying Projects Possible
As GPS devices continue to be refined and developed, the possibilities of expanding uses even worldwide are endless. Advanced surveying tools such as the Trimble have been developed to work with GNSS and GPS technology around the world for use in many different countries. With the ability to accurately survey and record data in nearly any weather conditions and expanding regions, expansive projects for surveyors are inevitable. For example, according to a recent article, in India GPS technology is an important part of a project within The Nilgiris and other districts to update existing records in many different districts. With the topography of this part of India, modern surveying tools can significantly enhance the information about the taluks for residents, tourists, and leaders.

Advanced Training and Updating Always Needed
The ongoing use of GPS technology applied to surveying will continue to be a developing field. As improvements and upgrades continue to be made to surveying equipment, qualified surveyors can provide essential feedback for developers. The best ideas for needed changes in any field often come from those who understand the nuances of the field from practical, daily-life experiences. Similarly, the best teachers and trainers are also those who can explain equipment and processes from the perspective of an expert within the field. Although the number of people out in the surveying site might be smaller with the expanding uses of GPS technology, appearances may not accurately represent the reality of the increasing number of new and exciting job opportunities within the field.

How Do I Use Thee? – Let Me Count the Ways

December 20th, 2012

You may be considering a purchase of (or already have) a Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 3:0 Real-Time GPS Tracker…but then what? Well, you may have a particular purpose in mind for your GPS tracker, but did you know there a lot of things you can use your tracker for – both personally and professionally?

You may already know that a GPS tracking device can help you keep tabs on and monitor the safety of your family members. A GPS tracker can give parents of both teens and tots the peace of mind of knowing their loved ones are safe and protected.

The folks at Brickhouse have gathered information about people and organizations that use GPS trackers and why they use them. Here is a list of the top 10 most popular uses of GPS trackers:

To keep tabs on others – For personal use to keep tabs on family members and professionally to keep tabs on deliveries and drivers.

For others to track you – you may be planning a long drive or vacation alone, and having a GPS tracker can give your loved ones the peace of mind to know that you’ve arrived safely.

Monitoring the new driver in your house – GPS tracking not only monitors the safety of the teen driver in your home, you can also receive GPS speed alerts via text or e-mail. While your teenager may groan, this will give you the peace of mind that they are being responsible when driving.

Monitor your child’s walk to school – no longer do parents have to be anxious about their children walking to school and back safely – and you have the additional advantage of monitoring their progress right from your phone or computer.

Monitor aging parents and relatives or those with special needs – using a GPS tracker can remove some of the pressure on families trying to protect elderly relatives from wandering away from home or from getting lost when out for an appointment.

Protecting your property and assets - GPS tracking can also be used to protect your property and assets such as additional cars or boats, and can even alert you if they’ve been tampered with. A GPS tracker also can pinpoint the location of stolen items. On a professional note, a GPS allows you to monitor jewelry, fine art, equipment, or anything else in your place of business.

Keeping those pets close to home – dogs and cats tend to want to wander, especially if they are puppies or kittens. You can install a geo-fence that alerts you the moment your pet gets wanderlust.

Here’s a new one – finding contest winners – this is what Nestlé did recently to locate their contest winners!

Find out the road conditions ahead of you – now you can find out where the plows have been during inclement weather and be able to find the safest way home.

Security for churches – you might find this one hard to believe, but there is a shockingly number of thefts of churches’ nativity scenes. Though were not exactly sure why this is, you might want to protectors today!

Japan Prepares Navigation System to Enhance GPS

December 17th, 2012

The United States isn’t the only country aiming to upgrade or improve their current GPS satellite constellation. The developer helping Japan create its own satellite navigation system, Core Corp., recently showcased a signal receiver unit at the 2012 Embedded Technology show that is designed to obtain more accurate global positioning information.

Japan is getting ready to deploy the Quazi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), regional navigation techology. Tokyo’s Core Corp. said on November 14. Their highly accurate signal receiver unit will not only function with the QZSS, but the current GPS system already in place. The first satellite in the QZSS constellation was launched in 2010,and was named Michibiki. The country has plans to launch an additional three QZSS satellites before the year 2020.

The goal of implementing this new navigation system is to enhance the current Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) regionally. Japan and other areas in the western Pacific Ocean will be covered by the QZSS signals.

Ryo Kurokawa, part of Core’s advanced embedded technology center, said the receiver the company has developed is capable of receiving both QZSS “availability enhancement signals,” offering better GPS coverage and QZSS “performance enhancement signals,” providing a more accurate and reliable method of acquiring more precise GPS data.

Japan isn’t the only country working on their own GPS satellite constellation. Russia’s GLONASS system is now operational, while the Galileo system is being in the works by the European Union. Compass is a GPS system currently being developed by China, and here in the US, we are overhauling our own GPS constellation by replacing aging vehicles with brand new GPS-III satellites.

“We are in an era of the gold rush for satellite launches,” Kurokawa said. He predicts that by 2018, there will be about 140 satellites launched.

USAF GPS III Satellite Production on Firm Footing

December 11th, 2012

Production of the US Air Force’s GPS System III satellite is well underway, demonstrated by the delivery of the satellite propulsion core module by Lockheed Martin to their GPS Processing Facility (GPF) located in Denver, Colorado.

“The delivery of the propulsion core demonstrated this program is on firm footing and poised to deliver on its commitments,” said Lieut. Col. Todd Caldwell, the GPS III program manager for the USAF. “In this challenging budget environment, we are focused on efficient program execution to deliver critical new capabilities to GPS users worldwide.”

This first piece of hardware contains the integrated propulsion system and is the backbone for the structure of the satellite itself. Lockheed Martin won the contract for the design in 2008 and its team has been developing and testing the system at their Mississippi Space & Technology Center. The key function of the propulsion system maneuvers the satellite during transfer orbit and maneuver repositioning orbit.

The GPS III development includes developing a full-sized satellite prototype, called be GPS III n On-Flight Satellite Testbed, or GNST. This reduces the risk as well as overall program costs for the US government as well as identifies and solves issues during the development phase.

The purpose of the GPS III program replaces older model GPS satellites while at the same time improves their capability to it meet the ever-changing demands of military users in an affordable way. These satellites are also used by civilians and commercial users alike, and deliver overall better accuracy with anti-jamming capabilities.

The total bill for the design and development of the first to GPS III satellite along with the GNST prototype is unknown at this time, but the USAF has exercised a $238 million option for satellites numbers three and four.

The development team for the GPS III satellite is led by the GPS Directorate based at the USAF Space and Missile Systems Center. Lockheed Martin is based in Bethesda, Maryland, and is involved in everything from the research and design of advanced technology systems and services, to their development and manufacture, all the way through the integration and sustainment of their products.

Based on the lessons learned through the development of the GNST prototype, Lockheed Martin expects the first satellite to be on track and ready for launch in 2014.