The Use of GPS for Underwater Navigation, Sea Trial Results

M. H. G. Thomas

Abstract:	Solutions have been proposed for the use of GPS for underwater navigation since 1992 [I]. This paper relates new techniques using upward flows of acoustic data being transmitted by a mobile to a set of GPS buoys. A radio network allows data exchange between the buoys, a D-GPS station and a PC based control station. Sea trials were performed during the 1995 summer. They are presented and analyzed herein. They demonstrate that the acoustic propagation does not degrade the accuracy of the GPS system. The third dimension, depth, is measured using a pressure sensor and coded in the upward acoustic flow of data. Those techniques which apply to remote control over long distances of UUVs ( Unmanned Underwater Vehicles ) are covered by international patents.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 8th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 1995) September 12 - 15, 1995 Palm Springs, CA
Pages:	949 - 955
Cite this article:	Thomas, M. H. G., "The Use of GPS for Underwater Navigation, Sea Trial Results," Proceedings of the 8th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 1995), Palm Springs, CA, September 1995, pp. 949-955.
Full Paper:	ION Members/Non-Members: 1 Download Credit Sign In