Cycle Slip Detection in Carrier Tracking Loops

Dan Thuringer and Gary A. McGraw

Abstract:	This paper introduces an innovative cycle slip detection method based on monitoring internal carrier tracking loop parameters. The monitoring algorithm performance is optimized using knowledge of the receiver’s carrier tracking dynamical characteristics. This algorithm executes independently on each tracking channel, with no reliance on other satellites or external aiding such as an IMU or DGPS. Thus, there are no limitations imposed by satellite geometry on the performance of the cycle slip detection as is found with some other methods. This new method is also capable of reliably estimating the size of the cycle slip for use in repairing the carrier phase measurement and is applicable to other (non-GPS) applications that require carrier phase tracking. The paper discusses the theory of operation, algorithm development, and test results from computer simulations and real-time receiver software implementation. The method achieves the necessary cycle slip detection reliability to meet the stringent integrity and continuity requirements imposed by aircraft precision approach.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 14th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 2001) September 11 - 14, 2001 Salt Palace Convention Center Salt Lake City, UT
Pages:	2206 - 2213
Cite this article:	Thuringer, Dan, McGraw, Gary A., "Cycle Slip Detection in Carrier Tracking Loops," Proceedings of the 14th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 2001), Salt Lake City, UT, September 2001, pp. 2206-2213.
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