The Use of Satellite Constellation Geometry and A Priori Motion Constraints for Prevention of Cycle Slips in a GPS Signal Processor

Jim Sennott and Dave Senffner

Abstract:	For kinematic survey, and precise control of aviation, marine, and land vehicles, reliable GPS carrier phase tracking is critically important. In commercial GPS receivers, carrier phase tracking functions for individual satellites are carried out in a decoupled fashion, ignoring inter-satellite path correlations seen at the receiver antenna. Unlike traditional GPS signal processors, performanceof the new coupled tracker is geometry dependent. Simulations for the complete tracking loop system illustrate how the coupled structure takes advantage of path correlations to greatly reduce phase tracking errors during periods of signal attenuation and blockage. The coupled processor is compared with the traditional processor, during simulated aircraft turning maneuvers. Cycle tracking continuity is explored for over-determined and minimal geometry scenarios. Differential correction options and computational load are also addressed.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 4th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 1991) September 11 - 13, 1991 Albuquerque, NM
Pages:	77 - 86
Cite this article:	Sennott, Jim, Senffner, Dave, "The Use of Satellite Constellation Geometry and A Priori Motion Constraints for Prevention of Cycle Slips in a GPS Signal Processor," Proceedings of the 4th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 1991), Albuquerque, NM, September 1991, pp. 77-86.
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