MAGNET: A European Multi-Modal Approach of Space-Based Navigation

O. Silvy, J.L. Lavroff

Abstract:	This paper introduces the MAGNET A and B Projects (Multimodal Approach for Global Navigation Satellite 1“ Generation – GNSSI - in European Transport). These projects represent a 16 MECU4 effort of Europe to develop the user segment for Transport Applications based on GNSS 1. Following a competition, these projects of the 4’h Research Framework of the European Community were awarded in 1995 to a 13 partner Consortium coordinated by Dassault Electronique. The Consortium brings together the following partners: Dassault Electronique (DE), Dassault Sercel Navigation and Positioning (DSNP- former Sercel), Daimler-Benz Aerospace Navigations und Flugfiirungs Systeme (Dasa-NFS), Lufthansa, Soci&t6 Nationale des Chemins de Fer (SNCF), Color Line, Alcatel-Air Navigation Systems (Alacatel ANS), Swedavia, Alcatel Espace, Nationaal Lucht-en Ruimtevaartlaboratorium (NLR),, Aerospatiale, Racal Avionics/Research/Survey, Global Simulation Sytems Limited (GSSL, former Nortel). The objectives of the MAGNET initiative are to develop a new generation of GNSS1 receivers (using GPS5, GLONASS’ and WAAS7/EGNOS8 signals) based on a common Core Module, and to validate performance through experiments with major Transport Operators (Airliners, Railways and Ferries), These User Representatives are part of the Consortium, which guarantees user-in-the-loop developments and best targeting. Both projects are of the same duration and budget. Magnet A addresses medium performances (say up-to CAT 1), while MAGNET B concentrates on high performance (up-to CATIII). MAGNET A consequently considers Wide Area Differential (WAD) techniques while MAGNET B relies on Local Area Differential (LAD), hybridization and data-links to achieve sub-meter accuracy and integrity requirements. Started in January 1996, 6 Prototypes are completed. After environment testing and extensive simulations (a GPS/EGNOS/GLONASS simulator was developed for the purpose of the projects), these prototypes will start the Integration phase on the User Representatives’ Test-beds (A320, TGV-high speed train, large car-ferry). The experiments will start in October 98, using signal-in- space provided by the EGNOS Inmarsat transpcmder. For 2 months of operation in October and November 98, the MAGNET Consortium will fill-in the Integrity and WAD data which are not provided yet by EGNOS. This real-time data will be elaborated by the Consortium through a private network of ground stations providing 10 m of accuracy and 6s time to alarm. Enhanced products are the target of European initiatives such as MAGNET in which the Industry invests 500A. Tangible results are already on the scene for most partners : 0 DSNP, DE and Dasa/NFS for the receivers O DasaINFS and Alcatel/ANS for the ground stations (Differential GPS and GLONASS) O GSSL for the Simulation activities O DSNP, NFS, Alcatel ANS, Swedavia for the data-links.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 54th Annual Meeting of The Institute of Navigation (1998) June 1 - 3, 1998 The Adams Mark Hotel Denver, CO
Pages:	113 - 119
Cite this article:	Silvy, O., Lavroff, J.L., "MAGNET: A European Multi-Modal Approach of Space-Based Navigation," Proceedings of the 54th Annual Meeting of The Institute of Navigation (1998), Denver, CO, June 1998, pp. 113-119.
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