However, even after extensive measurement efforts, the acquired data was often inaccurate or incomplete, which forced navigators and surveyors to estimate the seafloor’s bathymetry until remote sensing was introduced in the 1970s.

Since then, the growing need for increasingly accurate and rapidly available data has led to a worldwide effort to develop sensors and alternative techniques for measuring depths.

In the ongoing Florida Seafloor Mapping Initiative (FSMI), the Florida Department of Environmental Protection tasked Woolpert Geospatial Program with acquiring bathymetric survey data using lidar technologies to produce a comprehensive, publicly available, high-resolution seafloor surface model of Florida’s coastal waters by 2026.

Similar initiatives across the globe have kick-started innovations in underwater data collection and interpretation. In this feature, SBG Systems, CHC Navigation (CHCNAV) and Advanced Navigation describe how they used modern hydrographic surveying to aid defense departments, produce 3D topographic maps, and analyze the depth of The Great Blue Hole in Belize.

Exploring challenging waters

SBG Systems

Advancements in hydrographic surveys can lead to the exploration of depths previously unknown. The Great Blue Hole, located off the coast of Belize, is the largest marine sinkhole in the world, with a diameter of 300 m and a depth of 125 m. This major scuba hotspot is part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Aquatica Submarines’ Stingray 500 submarine. (Image: Aquatica Submarines)

Aquatica Submarines conducted an expedition survey of the Blue Hole. For two weeks, a team of scientists, explorers, and filmmakers collected survey data and captured photos and videos of this geological wonder. It is the first time in history that an expedition of this scale was attempted at the Blue Hole.

The challenge: Finding submersibles to equip with sonar

The expedition team chose two submarines to carry out the survey: its Stingray 500 and the Roatan Institute of Deepsea Exploration’s IDABEL. Both vessels can carry up to three persons for a maximum of 12 hours.

Norwegian technology group Kongsberg’s dual-axis sonar technology was used to create a 3D representation of the sinkhole. The surface and submarine-mounted sonar equipment were also equipped with SBG Systems’ Ellipse miniature inertial navigation system (INS).

The Ellipse was used to mark the Blue Hole perimeter and scientists then processed the recorded data using MS1000 processing software.

Additional steps and results: Analyzing 3D sonar maps

A key outcome of the expedition is the creation of a complete 3D sonar map of the Blue Hole using point-cloud data collected by Kongsberg’s dual-axis sonar to create a 3D map of the site. The sonar was pole-mounted on the survey vessel with the GPS receiver and motion reference unit directly over the scanner’s head.

Sonar expert Mark Atherton from Kongsberg’s Canadian subsidiary, Kongsberg Mesotech, was a key member of the science-based sonar and data collection team. Atherton operated the sonars aboard the Research Vessel Brooks McCall, contributing to an invaluable high-resolution map of the entire sinkhole.

“By understanding the geological history and geometric structure at the Blue Hole, we can contribute new data to the global scientific community studying sinkholes and cenotes,” Atherton said.

The team was able to conduct more than 20 dives into the large sinkhole, taking videos and 3D images during each trip. They also completed a two-hour live broadcast featured on The Discovery Channel.

“What [the Great Blue Hole] tells us is that sea level rise is not [always] a gradual process,” said Erika Bergman, Aquatica’s chief pilot and oceanographer. “We carefully measured the terraces and layers built up in the hole and we can see that sea level rise can happen dramatically.”

Producing 3D hydrodynamic models

CHC Navigation 

Flood control structures — such as dikes, dams, spurs, drainage channels, and floodways — are designed to protect coastal and riverine areas of cities and farms and, above all, the people who live there.

To prevent flooding in low-lying regions and support national ecological protection and development strategies in the Yellow River Basin in China, the Ministry of Water Resources launched the “Digital Twin Yellow River Construction Plan (2022-2025)” project. The Chinese Bureau of Hydrology and Water Resources was tasked with building a digital twin flood model based on part of the country’s Yellow River, targeting the 28-km section of the river basin.

The challenge: Building and designing a digital twin flood model

The first step was to acquire 3D data underwater, on land, and from the air. CHC Navigation (CHCNAV) provided its Apache 6 and Apache 4 USVs to collect underwater data using multi-beam and single-beam echo sounders. The AlphaUni lidar system mounted on the BB4 UAV was used to gather the land data. Finally, the team obtained aerial data using an oblique photographic system from CHCNAV mounted on a UAV.

As a result, researchers obtained large-scale remote sensing images, laser point clouds, terrain data, oblique photography, CAD drawings, and BIM models.

The simulation and analysis of the historical flood events on the third party software; based on the data collected by CHCNAV’s USV and UAV. (Image: CHCNAV)

CoPre software, a 3D laser scanning pre-processing software that can process captured raw data, including POS trajectories, lidar data, and RGB images, was used for the Tilt and DOM modeling.

CoProcess software, designed for reality capture post-processing tasks and DEM/DTM generation, generated high-precision DEM models, a 3D representation of a ground surface created from elevation data, with a point cloud density of more than 50 points/m² for the areas above and below the water.

Additional steps

The remotely operated vehicles and generated models obtained site data such as climate records, flood maps, flow records, hydrologic summaries, groundwater level records, water quality, and resource data to use as the basis of the analysis.

The team also used historical flood information during the scoping phase to develop a conceptual model of the flood mechanisms. Based on the actual flood records, a third-party flood simulation platform was used to produce the entire flood process for the different years.

The real-time flood extrapolation was processed on the third-party software, which simulated steady and unsteady flow patterns using hydrodynamic modeling algorithms.

“Advancements in bathymetric surveying, incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as UAVs with lidar, USVs with echo sounders, and high-precision positioning systems, have transformed the creation of digital twin models for water bodies, particularly the Yellow River in China,” said Taxiya Wang, Business Development Manager of Marine Survey at CHC Navigation. “This bathymetric surveying effort has laid the foundation for hydraulic models, flood maps, and customized applications, emphasizing the importance of up-to-date, high-quality data in watershed engineering and construction projects.”

The result

Based on the developed digital flood model, the next step for the digital watershed twin project is to collaborate with technical staff, experts, and users to create customized applications for watershed engineering and construction. The project is ongoing and will end in 2025.

Surveying wet gaps

Advanced Navigation 

Defense departments are continuously looking to improve the safety of military personnel and equipment in conflict regions. With this aim, the UK Defense Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) launched its “Map the Gap” competition. It invited engineering firms to design and build an unmanned surface vessel (USV) capable of quickly, reliably, and safely surveying wet gaps — including rivers, streams, canals, and waterways — without putting engineers and other personnel at risk. Commanders can then view the survey data to determine the safest crossing points for troops and equipment.

DSTL relied on Advanced Navigation’s Spatial FOG Dual fiber optic gyroscope to conduct the hydrographic surveying project.

The challenge: Building a USV to assist defense forces

Challenges in the project included measuring water depths and flow rates, crossing lengths, river-bed topography, and riverbank heights, as well as shape profiling and assessing ground load handling capabilities. The vehicles also had to be either remotely operated or fully autonomous and deliver the collected data in a way that could be easily interpreted for quick decision-making.

The survey required multiple sensor technologies for simultaneous above- and below-water 3D surveys. For above-water use, dual lidar sensors produce high-resolution point clouds of the surrounding environment. For below-water mapping, a sensor suite consisting of a multibeam sonar, an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler/Doppler Velocity Log (ADCP/DVL), and a cone penetrometer were used to measure current and water flow as well as to test substrate density.

Ultrabeam Hydrographic won the DSTL competition. Its team integrated multiple sensors into a single housing and selected the four-wheeled Axolotl vehicle for the second phase of the project.

Additional steps

An example of the highly detailed single-3D survey output from the Axolotl, showing features both above and below the water. (Image: Advanced Navigation)

The team was in search of a GNSS/INS device capable of dead-reckoning and maintaining accurate heading for extended periods of time, which led them to Advanced Navigation’s Spatial FOG Dual GNSS/INS.

Ultrabeam Hydrographic had previously been using a MEMS-based solution that could maintain a suitably accurate heading without GNSS for up to approximately 60 seconds. However, tests with the Spatial FOG Dual showed that it could maintain an accurate heading for more than 15 minutes.

“The MEMS can hold onto heading for maybe 30 seconds to a minute, accurately. After that, it’s not reliable,” Gabriel Walton, Ultrabeam Hydrographic’s technical director said. “We have used the Spatial FOG Dual in certain circumstances where we went 10 to 15 minutes without GNSS. I do believe it will go on for longer.”

The team integrated the Advanced Navigation solution into their survey management and mission control software. This allowed the Spatial FOG Dual to be used for survey purposes and to provide motion data to the robot’s artificial intelligence (AI) for autonomous mission control and object detection and avoidance.

The result

“Map the Gap” Phase 2 demonstrated that the Axolotl’s mechanical design, sensor suite integration, extensive use of AI for autonomous mission control, decision-making and precise navigation can serve as a significant advancement for bathymetric surveying.

Since “Map the Gap,” Ultrabeam Hydrographic has deployed the Axolotl on commercial waterway survey missions, such as surveying bridge sites and attaining a clear understanding of riverbed and water conditions.

<p>The post Charting uncharted waters: Bathymetry in action first appeared on GPS World.</p>

Image: Advanced Navigation

For demanding applications where precise navigation really matters and where size, weight and power are at a premium, Certus Evo exceeds the accuracy of many fibre optic gyroscopes while providing a very compact, lightweight and low power solution. This makes it ideal for applications such as aerial surveys where high performance is required and where flight times can be extended by minimising component weight and power consumption. The AI-based fusion algorithm takes full advantage of high-accuracy MEMS accelerometers and gyroscopes to deliver dependable performance at an affordable price point. Integration or customisation is made easy with extensive connectivity options and access to world-class technical support.

Click here to learn more.

<p>The post Certus Evo GNSS/INS first appeared on GPS World.</p>

The facility is designed to boost the manufacturing of the company’s world-first AI navigation systems for GPS-denied environments, including its digital fibre-optic gyroscope (DFOG) technology, Boreas.

Advanced Navigation is one of only four companies across the globe able to manufacture strategic-grade fiber-optic gyroscopes, which are designed to enable reliable navigation for marine vessels, space missions, aerospace, defense, autonomous vehicles and flying taxis.

The new facility will be home to extensive research collaborations between Advanced Navigation and the University of Technology Sydney. The collaborations aim to accelerate the production of new technologies, including its light detection, altimetry, and velocimetry (LiDAV) system, cloud ground control and indoor positioning technology designed to guide visually impaired passengers in underground train stations.

The new facility is aligned with the Australian government’s ongoing commitment towards building a STEM workforce and aims to boost employment in robotics, manufacturing, photonics, mechatronics, mechanical engineering and more.

<p>The post Advanced Navigation opens new robotics facility first appeared on GPS World.</p>

MOBILE

Commercial RF antennas
Marine grade for ships/boats

The Fairview commercial RF antennas provide accurate positioning with L1 band and multiband capabilities and offer a 28 dBi gain for reliable positioning. The antennas offer full-spectrum connectivity and operate within the universal marine frequency range of 156 MHz to 163 MHz and CB-27 MHz, 10m-HAM, ensuring unbroken connections at sea. The antennas are also weatherproof, rated IP67 for water ingress. They are offered with three types of mounts, making it easier to integrate into any vessel. All antennas are crafted from robust stainless steel or fiberglass for durability and reliable performance. Various antenna lengths are available for users to select based on their signal performance needs..
Fairview Microwave, fairviewmicrowave.com

SURVEYING & MAPPING

Inertial Measurement Units
Features ultra-high accuracy DFOG range and more

The Boreas A90 and A70 are strategic-grade inertial measurement units (IMU) that deliver acceleration and orientation with accuracy, stability and reliability under all conditions with no reliance on GNSS. They also feature automatic gyrocompassing. The IMUs contain ultra-high accuracy digital fiber-optic gyroscope (DFOG) range and high performance closed-loop accelerometers. The Boreas A90 and A70 are both suitable for surveying, mapping and navigation across subsea, marine, land and air applications. The Boreas A90 and A70 also offer an optional license to add inertial navigation system capabilities and enable integration with external GNSS receivers using Advanced Navigation’s range of interfaces and communication protocols.
Advanced Navigation, advancednavigation.com

GNSS Receiver
Suitable for surveying, mapping, and geographic information system applications

The Mars Laser RTK features a datalink modem that transmits and receives across the full frequency range from 410 MHz to 470 MHz. With adjustable transmit power of 0.5 w to 2 w and a maximum distance of 15 km, it meets the measurement demands of complex environments. It can also switch roles between a rover and a base, enabling more flexibility in demanding applications. The Mars Laser RTK is equipped with a Wi-Fi/4G modem and Bluetooth capabilities, facilitating reliable communication across various platforms. The Mars Laser RTK also features five LEDs on the front panel for satellite tracking, RTK corrections data and more. Powered by the SinoGNSS K8 high precision module, the device supports full-constellation and multi-frequency tracking, including GPS, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS, IRNSS, and Galileo, and supports precise-point positioning service. Additionally, the device tracks more than 60 satellites and has 1,590 channels. The Mars Laser RTK’s third-generation inertial measurement unit (IMU) supports 60° tilt with 2.5 cm accuracy. The IMU can be set to both traditional mode with range pole and to laser mode.
ComNav Technology, comnavtech.com

Desktop Solution
An Esri ArcGIS Pro add-in for field data collection software

With a streamlined user interface, the Terra Office add-in for ArcGIS Pro enables users to connect TerraFlex workflows directly to the ArcGIS platform from within ArcGIS Pro — Esri’s desktop GIS application. ArcGIS Pro users can now create and manage TerraFlex geospatial data collection projects without leaving ArcGIS. Organizations that collect data in TerraFlex and bring it into ArcGIS through the add-in can also use the Trimble Offline GNSS Corrections service for situations where real-time correction services are intermittent or unavailable. With this service, all data from the field is automatically processed in the cloud without user intervention, and the most accurate real-time or post-processed position is stored for each feature and made available for download through the Terra Office add-in for ArcGIS Pro.
Trimble Geospatial, geospatial.trimble.com

Data Capture App
A customizable mobile application for GIS data collection

1Capture is a mobile GIS editing application that is multi-use and configurable. It provides accurate and reliable data collection and editing in the field for a multitude of asset, job, and survey types. Customizable rules and actions work to improve data quality at the point of capture. This ensures that good quality data is captured at the source, minimizing re-surveys. The built-in rules engine automatically validates and corrects the GIS and non-GIS data collected, whether working online or offline. 1Capture connects with a variety of GIS environments, including Esri ArcGIS and open-source technologies such as PostGIS and Geoserver.
1Spatial, 1spatial.com/us/

AUTONOMOUS

Heavy-Lift Delivery UAV
An off-the-shelf, ready-to-fly delivery aircraft for last mile delivery

The RDST Longtail features a RDS2 drone winch, enabling payloads to be deposited safely from altitude so that spinning rotors are kept far from people and property. The UAV can deliver or retrieve payloads up to 5 kg and over a distance of 11 km, making it suitable for various applications such as local parcel or food delivery, emergency medical deliveries, water sampling programs, offshore logistics, search and rescue operations and more. The UAV can also auto-release packages without the need for a recipient to be present at the delivery location. This is made possible by the all-new bag auto-release mechanism, allowing for easy pickups and auto-releasing of bags during deliveries. Designed to meet FAA regulations, the RDST Longtail is remote ID compliant with a factory-integrated remote ID beacon. The Premium edition of the drone can fly in inclement weather and features a quick-release battery system for minimal downtime.
A2Z Drone Delivery, a2zdronedelivery.com

GNSS INS
Suitable for multiple applications

The ANELLO GNSS inertial navigation system (INS) is designed for reliable long-term GPS-denied navigation and localization. Powered by optical gyroscope technology and artificial intelligence-based sensor fusion engine, the ANELLO GNSS INS delivers robust, high-accuracy positioning and orientation for applications such as agriculture, construction, trucking, and autonomous vehicles. It comes equipped with unaided heading drift of less than 0.5°/hr, dual multi-band real-time kinematic-capable GNSS engines, ASIL-D-ready automotive qualified CPU, automotive 2-wire Ethernet, and dual high-speed CAN FD interfaces. It also features dual RS-232 interfaces, hardware precision time protocol, IEEE 802.1AS. The ANELLO GNSS INS is IP68 waterproof, as well as resistant to dust, salt spray and chemicals.
ANELLO Photonics, anellophotonics.com

GPS-Guided Robot
Designed specifically for painting athletic fields

The Turf Tank Two features dual motor drives for enhanced torque and optimized wheels for traction. On its own and controlled through a tablet, the Turf Tank Two can paint a regulation soccer field for two teams of 11 players each in less than 24 minutes, a baseball or softball field in less than 11 minutes, a lacrosse field in less than 26 minutes, and a full 100-yard football field in less than 3.5 hours. It can also paint logos and numbers. The Turf Tank Two is 43 in x 33 in x 22.5 in. It weighs 123 lbs, without paint or the battery installed, and it can hold 5.5 gallons of paint. Enhanced features of the Turf Tank Two also include a revamped sprayer module and advanced control features — including a redesigned front panel that has convenient pause/resume options with LED indicators displaying the robot’s status and a start/stop sprayer button. An LED indicator also comes on the battery. Its batteries are rechargeable. Because of the robot’s precision and accuracy, it uses significantly less paint and eliminates the overspray that is common with either painting by hand or using many of the older paint machines and sprayers on the market. The GNSS-guided Turf Tank Two uses a base station to enhance its accuracy, while its onboard GNSS receiver acts as a rover.
Turf Tank, turftank.com

DEFENSE

Solar-Electric HAPS UAS
Provides an alternative to conventional sensing and communications systems

PHASA-35 is an ultra-light weight, solar-electric high altitude pseudo satellite (HAPS) unmanned aerial system (UAS) designed as an alternative to conventional systems such as satellites or conventionally powered aircraft for cost-effective imagery and communications. PHASA-35 uses photo-voltaic arrays to provide energy during the day, which is stored in rechargeable cells to maintain flight overnight. The UAS is designed to provide a persistent, stable platform for monitoring, surveillance, communications, and security applications. When connected to other solutions, it provides military and commercial customers with capabilities that are not currently available from existing air and space platforms. PHASA-35 can also be used to deliver communications networks including 5G, as well as provide other services, such as disaster relief and border protection. The UAS also has a flexible payload design that enables a large and varied range of sensor capabilities to be carried and updated. The PHASA-35 is suitable for military communications, military surveillance, commercial communications, maritime surveillance, border security, agricultural monitoring, and environmental monitoring.
BAE Systems, baesystems.com

GPS Receiver
A-PNT device featuring M-code GPS technology

NavGuide is a field-installable replacement to the defense advanced GPS receiver (DAGR), designed for quick integration into current DAGR mounts and accessories without mission interruption. NavGuide features a 3 in, full-color, graphical user interface for dismounted soldiers, and easily integrates with existing mounted platforms and systems. The device leverages the advanced M-code GPS signal with enhanced jamming and spoofing protection. NavGuide is portable, versatile, and precise, and enables vehicular, handheld, sensor, and gun laying applications that enable the military to defeat adversaries in a variety of challenging threat environments.
BAE Systems, baesystems.com

OEM

Vertical Location Device
For a variety of applications that rely on precise PNT

Pinnacle delivers precise, floor-level, vertical positioning for geolocation applications. It offers altitude measurements that meet the Federal Communications Commission mandate of 3 m accuracy. Pinnacle works with existing barometric pressure sensors in devices to improve quality and accuracy. Pinnacle technology provides z-axis data and has been demonstrated in independent testing to deliver 94% accuracy. Pinnacle data is derived from a proprietary network built for public safety, operated and maintained by NextNav, for wide availability. SDK, API, and Unity plug-in options make it easy to integrate 3D geolocation technology into existing applications.
The device also offers consistent vertical location abilities available throughout large urban areas. Pinnacle is available across the United States, is currently being deployed across Japan, and is being tested in France for local emergency repsonse agencies.
NextNav, nextnav.com

LTE-M/NB-IoT Module
For small asset trackers

The LEXI-R4 module is customized for size-constrained application requirements. The device is suitable for small asset trackers, such as pet and personal trackers, micro-mobility devices, and luggage tags. The LEXI-R4 module supports all LTE-M and NB-internet of things (IoT) bands, with an RF output power of 23 dBm. It is natively designed to support GNSS AT commands, and its dedicated port enables easy integration with any u-blox M10-based GNSS module, such as the MIA-M10. Additionally, the module can connect to additional positioning services, such as AssistNow and CellLocate. The compact size of the module, measuring 16 mm x 16 mm, results from a 40% footprint reduction in dimensions compared to the previous u-blox SARA-R4. Due to its small size, it leaves room for larger antennas, which can improve RF performance, or for larger batteries. Another feature of the LEXI-R4 is its 2G fallback capability. Whenever LTE-M/NB-IoT coverage conditions are not optimal, it continues to function by falling back onto a 2G network. The company said this feature could be helpful in countries where LTE-M/NB-IoT networks have yet to be fully deployed.
u-blox, u-blox.com

<p>The post Launchpad: New receivers, GIS platform and delivery UAV first appeared on GPS World.</p>

Image: Advanced Navigation

Advanced Navigation has expanded it Boreas digital fiber-optic gyroscope (DFOG) range, with the  A series.

The Boreas A90 and A70 are strategic-grade inertial measurement units (IMU) that deliver acceleration and orientation with accuracy, stability and reliability under all conditions with no reliance on GNSS. They also feature automatic gyrocompassing.

The IMUs contain ultra-high accuracy DFOG and high performance closed-loop accelerometers. The Boreas A90 and A70 are both suitable for surveying, mapping and navigation across subsea, marine, land and air applications.

The Boreas A90 and A70 also offer an optional license to add INS capabilities and enable integration with external GNSS receivers using Advanced Navigation’s range of interfaces and communication protocols.

For more features and information click here.

<p>The post Advanced Navigation expands IMU portfolio first appeared on GPS World.</p>

AUVSI XCELLENCE Awards winners. (Image: AUVSI)

The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) has named the winners of the sixth annual AUVSI XCELLENCE Awards.

The awards recognize the accomplishments of companies, organizations and individuals across the uncrewed systems community. The winners were recognized during an awards ceremony at XPONENTIAL 2023 which is being held this week at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. This year’s 50th anniversary event is co-hosted by Messe Düsseldorf North America.

AUVSI’s XCELLENCE Awards honor innovators with a demonstrated commitment to advancing autonomy, leading and promoting safe adoption of uncrewed systems and developing programs that use these technologies to save lives and improve the human condition.

These are the finalists in those categories:

XCELLENCE in Academic Research

First Place: University of Colorado Boulder, 20 Years of UAS Research XCELLENCE
Second Place: Virginia Tech’s Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership, Robert Briggs
Third Place: Ocean Alliance, Tagging Whales with Drones

XCELLENCE in Innovation

First Place: Skydio, Skydio Dock, Automated Inspections of Sites with Autonomous, Remote Drone Operations
Second Place: Plus, PlusDrive, An Industry-defining Driver-in, Highly Automated Driving (HAD) Solution
Third Place: Sentera, Eliminating Stitching with the Sentera DGR System

XCELLENCE IN OPERATIONS – Enterprise Application

Advanced Navigation’s Cloud Ground Control featured at XPONENTIAL 2023.

First Place: JobsOhio and the Ohio Department of Transportation, Propelling AAM in Ohio
Second Place: Advanced Navigation, Cloud Ground Control
Third Place: City of Pendleton, Pendleton UAS Range

XCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGY

Enabling Components & Peripherals
First Place: infiniDome, infiniDome’s GPSdome2
Second Place: Elsight, Elsight Halo
Third Place: MatrixSpace, MatrixSpace Networked Radar

Hardware & Systems Design
First Place: D-Fend Solutions, EnforceAir
Second Place: Advanced Navigation, Hydrus
Third Place: Connect Tech, Anvil Embedded System with NVIDIA  Jetson AGX Orin

Software Design and Coding
First Place: BlueSpace.ai, Scalable and Explainable AI for Autonomy, powered by 4D Predictive Perception
Second Place: Skydio, Skydio Scout, Situational Awareness for Moving Convoys
Third Place: AlarisPro, Inc., AlarisPro Safety Ecosystem (ASE) – Advancing UAS Reliability Through Shared Data Across UAS Operators and Manufacturers

The infiniDome booth at XPONENTIAL 2023 showcased their XCELLENCE award.

XCELLENCE in Workforce Development

First Place: Laurel Ridge Community College, Laurels Take Flight
Second Place: DroneUp, with partner, Richard Bland College, Established the First Commercial Drone Workforce Training Program for College Credit
Third Place: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide and Warren College, Better Together: Producing Effective Educational Opportunities for the UAS Workforce

The recipients of the 2023 AUVSI XCELLENCE Humanitarian and Public Safety Awards have established themselves as leaders in the application of uncrewed technology to provide solutions to the world’s most pressing problems. Each awards category recognizes organizations that have made a significant impact using uncrewed systems to serve in humanitarian or public safety efforts. The six organizations will equally divide a $6,000 prize for their  humanitarian and public safety efforts.

This year’s recipients are:

XCELLENCE in Mission

Humanitarian Project/Program
First Place: ArroTech, Dr. Stephen Dunnivant
First Place: MissionGO, Inc., Operation Healing Eagle Feather
First Place: The David McAntony Gibson Foundation (GlobalMedic), GlobalMedic RescUAV Response to La Soufrière Volcano in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Public Safety

First Place: DRONERESPONDERS, DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Alliance
First Place: Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Department of Public Safety
First Place: United States Forest Service, Testing and Scaling New Technologies for Operations and Safer Mixed Airspace Ops

<p>The post Winners named for AUVSI XCELLENCE Awards first appeared on GPS World.</p>

Credit: Cloud Ground Control by Advanced Navigation

Cloud Ground Control, an Advanced Navigation company, has released its cellular micro-modem, the CGConnect. Using 4G/5G networks, CGConnect links UAVs or robotic vehicles to Cloud Ground Control’s cloud-based UAV fleet management platform — enabling live-streaming, command and control from a web browser.

CGConnect can securely connect UAVs and vehicles into one autonomous fleet across land, sea and air, regardless of manufacturer or model. This provides mission planners and operators with full situational awareness for search and rescue, emergency response and disaster relief.

Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms run in the cloud, relaying real-time camera feed data to the end user to support missions such as object detection, tracking and thermal imaging. The flexible and customizable open platform operates on industry standards, which multiplies potential product applications and enables autonomous vehicles and payloads to operate as a coordinated fleet.

CGConnect’s high-grade security safeguards data and IP from vulnerabilities and security breaches, helping users meet compliance obligations. Additionally, CGConnect supports edge AI to perform intensive object identification and classification directly on the vehicle for dynamic missions.

CGConnect is available for pre-order. An OEM option is also available.

<p>The post Cloud Ground Control by Advanced Navigation releases product for UAVs and robotic vehicles first appeared on GPS World.</p>

SURVEYING & MAPPING

GPSMAP 64csx handheld GPS receiver (Image: Gamin)

Handheld GPS 
With navigation sensors and camera

The GPSMAP 64csx handheld GPS receiver comes with multi-GNSS support, TopoActive mapping, barometric altimeter, three-axis compass, and wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and ANT+ technology. It also has an 8 MP autofocus camera. The GPSMAP 64csx is built to withstand rugged terrain and is water-resistant. The highly sensitive receiver and quad helix antenna provide support from GPS, GLONASS and Galileo. Preloaded TopoActive maps include waterways, natural features, buildings and international boundaries. It is compatible with smartphones so users can receive email and text messages and share location data with others.
Garmin, garmin.com

Venus Laser RTK receiver (Image: ComNav)

GNSS Receiver
Millimeter-level laser enables rodless surveying

The Venus Laser RTK receiver comes with an inertial measurement unit. It can be used in its traditional mode with a range pole, or in laser mode without a pole, enabling GNSS surveying beyond typical limitations. In traditional mode, it has tilt compensation of up to 60° with an accuracy of 2.5 cm; in laser mode, it has the same tilt compensation but an accuracy of 5.5 cm. The receiver is powered by a SinoGNSS K8 high-precision module capable of up to 1,590 channels. It can survey using GPS, BDS-2, BDS-3, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS constellations. Other features include Bluetooth connectivity, more than 20 hours of battery life, and ruggedness (it is dust and waterproof and is designed to survive a two-meter drop).
ComNav Technology Ltd., comnavtech.com

Leica iCON gps 160 (Image: Leica Geosystems)

Smart Antenna
With features to increase productivity on the construction site

The Leica iCON gps 160 is a next-generation construction smart antenna designed to increase productivity in stakeout and measurement applications on the jobsite. It features a large color display with clear navigation for quick and easy setup without additional hardware. It is optionally available with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) for tilt-compensation functionality up to 20°. It seamlessly integrates with all Leica iCON construction instruments and controllers as well as the iCON field software for precise, real-time verification.
Leica Geosystems, leica-geosystems.com

The Xsens Vision Navigator (Image: Movella)

GNSS inertial navigation
Integrates position inputs from three high-accuracy sources

The Xsens Vision Navigator integrates position inputs from three high-accuracy sources including dual-antenna real-time kinematic (RTK) GNSS receivers; an inertial measurement unit (IMU) incorporating a three-axis accelerometer, a gyroscope and magnetometer; and a visual inertial odometry system. It can optionally accept input from an external wheel-speed sensor. The positioning sensor achieves centimeter-level accuracy when operating in GNSS mode with an RTK fix. When GNSS signals are not available, the product alone achieves accuracy of 2% of travel distance, or 0.75% when supplemented by wheel speed. Xsens Vision Navigator is suitable for outdoor positioning applications such as material handling equipment, commercial and specialist vehicles, last-mile delivery, inspection equipment and UAVs, agricultural equipment, mining equipment and utility robots.
Movella, movella.com

SILC Eyeonic Vision System (Image: SiLC)

Coherent Vision Solution
Delivers high levels of vision perception

The Eyeonic Vision System is a frequency-modulated continuous wave lidar solution, which delivers high levels of vision perception to identify and avoid objects with low latency. At the core of the Eyeonic Vision System is a fully integrated silicon photonics chip. It provides more definition and precision than legacy lidar solutions, with roughly 10 milli-degree of angular resolution coupled with millimeter-level precision. These features enable this solution to measure the shape and distance of objects with high-precision and at a large distance. The system combines the Eyeonic Vision Sensor and a digital processing solution based on a powerful field-programmable gate array. The flexible architecture enables synchronization of multiple vision sensors for unlimited points per second.
SiLC, silc.com

OEM

The SYN4778 (Image: Synaptics)

Integrated Circuit
Designed for the internet of things

The SYN4778 is a small, low-power GNSS integrated circuit designed to extend battery life, reduce product size, and enhance performance of advanced location-based services for internet of things (IoT) devices — wearables, mobile accessories, asset trackers, UAVS and transportation devices. It includes advanced multipath interference mitigation using L5-band signals from GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, NAVIC, SBAS and QZSS. The chip also uses the L1 satellite band to reduce both the time to first fix, and the power consumed, improving the end-user experience and enabling product developers to add additional functionality and features to their IoT devices.
Synaptics, synpatics.com

Boreas D70 (Image: Advanced Navigation)

Gyroscope
Provides high-accuracy inertial navigation

The Boreas D70 is a fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG) inertial navigation system (INS), part of the Boreas digital FOG series. The technology is suited to surveying, mapping and navigation across subsea, marine, land and air applications. It also could be adopted for vehicular applications, including autonomous vehicles and aircraft where weight and size are at a premium. The Boreas D70 combines closed-loop DFOG and accelerometer technologies with a dual-antenna real-time kinematic (RTK) GNSS receiver. These are coupled with an artificial-intelligence-based fusion algorithm to deliver accurate and precise navigation.
Advanced Navigation, advancednavigation.com

The u-blox NEO-F10T (Image: u-blox)

Timing Module
Dual-band and secure for 5G communications

The u-blox NEO-F10T offers nanosecond-level timing accuracy, meeting the stringent timing requirements for 5G communications. It is compliant with the u-blox NEO form factor (12.2 mm x 16 mm), allowing space-constrained designs to be realized without the need to compromise on size. The NEO-F10T is the successor to the NEO-M8T module, providing an easy upgrade path to dual-band timing technology. This allows NEO-M8T users to access nanosecond-level timing accuracy and enhanced security. u-blox’s dual-band technology mitigates ionospheric errors and greatly reduces timing error, without the need for an external GNSS correction service.
u-blox, u-blox.com

TRANSPORTATION

SafePilot P3 (Image: Trelleborg)

Maritime Systems
Provides data on vessel positioning

The SafePilot P3 navigation system provides real-time data on vessel positioning and movement in tight waterways. It uses motion sensors and two GNSS antennas to measure the position and heading of vessels in three dimensions, minimizing time and difficulty associated with piloting procedures. SafePilot P3 has a backup battery to maintain functionality in the event of a power outage. This navigation system improves situational awareness while navigating waterways and ports globally, and also enhances communication between the captain, pilot, tug operators and canal personnel while vessels are transiting a canal and approaching a port.
Trelleborg, trelleborg.com

FusionEngine software (Image: Point One Navigation)

Positioning Engine
Assures functional safety of ASIL-B

FusionEngine software, which is rated for automotive safety integrity level (ASIL), is now compatible with STMicroelectronics’ Teseo ASIL Precise Positioning GNSS chipset TeseoAPP. This assures functional safety of ASIL-B, a requirement for Level 3+ advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). It can be integrated into several different host processors to enable high-level ADAS and autonomous driving systems. The combination of TeseoAPP’s receiver and the STA5365S external RF front-end provides dual-band measurement data for all visible GNSS satellites to the main host processor into which
FusionEngine is integrated.
Point One Navigation, pointonenav.com

Ghost Autonomy Engine (Image: Ghost)

Autonomous driving software
for level 4 driver assistance

The Ghost Autonomy Engine achieves the reliability required to bridge the gap between driver assistance capabilities L2 or L2+, and self-driving that does not rely on a human backup (L4). The software provides a stereo-vision neural network that delivers per-pixel depth in real time. It is capable of detecting and segmenting key features in a scene without needing to classify or recognize them. The physics-based perception system can handle the long tail of obstacles on the road, even those never seen before.
Ghost, ghostautonomy.com

Vista-X120 Plus (Image: Cepton)

Lidar
Provides 3D perception

The Vista-X120 Plus is a slim automotive lidar device for real-time adaptive 3D perception for advanced driver assistance. Its software-definable region of interest enables higher dynamic perception capabilities, while an adjustable central field of view with increased angular resolution improves accuracy in detection and classification of objects when driving. The region of interest is also configurable in real time in both horizontal and vertical directions. The Vista-X120 Plus is compact at 140 mm x 30 mm, improving OEM integration and placement options without disrupting vehicle appearance.
Cepton, cepton.com

IIM-42653 and IIM-42652-I sensor platforms (Image: TDK Corporation)

Sensor Platforms
Targets industrial and navigation applications

The IIM-42653 and IIM-42652-I sensor platforms consist of 6-axis IMUs, which target industrial and navigation applications requiring high force sensitive resistor (FSR) performance or inertial navigation software. The IIM-42653 platform — a robust, low-noise, low-power, 6-axis IMU — is capable of a gyro-programmable output of 4,000 dps and an accelerometer-programmable output of 32 g. These features make the IIM-42653 suitable for industrial-grade or high-end automated guided vehicles, automated mobile robots and unmanned aerial vehicles. The IIM-42652-I platform offers hardware authentication and can be integrated with TRACK dead-reckoning software from Trusted Positioning. TRACK filters GNSS multipath errors and provides a continuous navigation solution when GNSS signals are unavailable.
TDK Corporation, invensense.tdk.com

VO Max 4T (Image: Autel Robotics)

Flight Platform
For enterprise and professional applications

The EVO Max 4T autonomous flight platform provides omnidirectional obstacle avoidance and tri-anti-interference capability to ensure flight safety and stability in high-interference environments. It is equipped with three high-quality cameras including a 48 MP telephoto camera, a 50 MP wide-angle camera and an infrared camera. The platform has a range of navigation and data-acquisition functions, including 3D flight routes, PinPoint Mode, Team Work, Polygon Mission, Waypoint Mission and Oblique Photography. EVO NEST is a base for automatic take-off, landing, charging and mission planning for EVO series UAVs. It is designed for all-weather operation and can be easily transported.
Autel Robotics, autelrobotics.com

<p>The post Launchpad: Autonomy, GNSS receivers, handheld mapping first appeared on GPS World.</p>