Test and Evaluation of Embedded GPS Systems

David A. Nelthropp and Bereket Tanju

Abstract:	The advancements of low cost inertial navigation technology combined with the miniaturization of multi-channel Global Positioning System receivers have produced a variety of embedded navigation systems with a range of applications. Embedded systems offer substantial size, weight, performance and power savings as well as improvements in accuracy and GPS receiver performance, without the difficulty of box integrations. To evaluate embedded GPS/INS navigation systems, a combination of laboratory and field test approach can be taken. GPS laboratory hardware in the loop testing with simulated GPS satellites will provide error analysis under controlled conditions. Field testing will provide a dynamic environment in which a tightly coupled GPS/INS system can be assessed in particular aiding of GPS tracking loops by the inertial sensor and reducing inertial measurement unit error growth by using GPS aiding. Testing of embedded GPS systems pose a significant challenge to the evaluators due to complexity of sensor integration within the navigation system. The evaluation of GPS at the sensor level requires special test and analysis techniques to be developed. The focus of this paper is a synopsis of the NCCOSC strategy for embedded GPS testing and recommendations for assessment of embedded navigation systems.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 1993 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation January 20 - 22, 1993 Parc 55 Hotel San Francisco, CA
Pages:	295 - 303
Cite this article:	Nelthropp, David A., Tanju, Bereket, "Test and Evaluation of Embedded GPS Systems," Proceedings of the 1993 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation, San Francisco, CA, January 1993, pp. 295-303.
Full Paper:	ION Members/Non-Members: 1 Download Credit Sign In