u-blox – GPS World https://www.gpsworld.com The Business and Technology of Global Navigation and Positioning Mon, 29 Jul 2024 19:34:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 u-blox module receives OSNMA firmware update https://www.gpsworld.com/u-blox-enhances-jamming-and-spoofing-protection-with-osnma-firmware-update/ Mon, 29 Jul 2024 13:49:57 +0000 https://www.gpsworld.com/?p=107074 u-blox has released the first firmware update of its ZED-F9P GNSS module to support Galileo Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (OSNMA).

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Image: u-blox

u-blox has released the first firmware update of its ZED-F9P GNSS module to support Galileo Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (OSNMA).

The upgrade enhances the multi-band GNSS module’s spoofing and jamming detection capabilities, offering robust and reliable performance for various applications, such as robotic lawnmowers, UAVs and surveying and mapping.

The module also features improved real-time kinematic (RTK) convergence to reduce the risk of incorrect readings, which are important to surveying-related applications.

According to u-blox, the SPARTN Beidou satellite constellation support boosts the capabilities of GNSS receivers and enhances the performance of the u-blox PointPerfect GNSS correction service in certain regions. The receivers are equipped with an advanced ionospheric model for more reliable performance during elevated ionospheric activities.

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SparkFun, u-blox release GNSS L1/L5 Breakout https://www.gpsworld.com/sparkfun-u-blox-release-gnss-l1-l5-breakout/ Wed, 03 Apr 2024 13:00:15 +0000 https://www.gpsworld.com/?p=105814 SparkFun Electronics has released the NEO-F10N GNSS L1/L5 Breakout board featuring the u-blox NEO-F10N module and a dual-band L1/L5 configuration.

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Image: SparkFun

Image: SparkFun

SparkFun Electronics has released the NEO-F10N GNSS L1/L5 Breakout board. This GNSS breakout board features the u-blox NEO-F10N module and a dual-band L1/L5 configuration designed to add precision to GNSS projects operating in urban and rural environments. Additionally, the L5 signal falls within a protected frequency band, which reduces RF interference on the incoming signal.

This breakout supports the concurrent reception of three GNSS constellations: GPS, Galileo, and BeiDou. The proprietary dual-band multipath mitigation technology from the u-blox F10 allows the module to choose the best signals from both bands to achieve a significantly better position accuracy in challenging urban environments than with the L1 band alone.

It has an integrated rechargeable battery that powers the RTC on the NEO-F10N, which reduces the time-to-first fix from cold to hot starts. The battery also maintains RTC and GNSS orbit data without external power to offer uninterrupted performance.

u-blox-based GPS products are configurable using u-center. This offers users extensive customization options such as baud rates, update rates, spoofing detection and more.

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u-blox launches GNSS platform for urban environments https://www.gpsworld.com/u-blox-launches-gnss-platform-for-urban-environments/ Tue, 26 Mar 2024 13:00:03 +0000 https://www.gpsworld.com/?p=105763 u-blox has introduced the F10 dual-band GNSS platform. It combines L1 and L5 bands to offer enhanced multipath resistance and meter-level positioning accuracy.

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Image: u-blox

Image: u-blox

u-blox has introduced the F10 dual-band GNSS platform. It combines L1 and L5 bands to offer enhanced multipath resistance and meter-level positioning accuracy. The platform caters to urban mobility applications, such as aftermarket telematics and micro-mobility.

Applications that use GNSS receivers for accurate positioning are on the rise. Yet, current receivers do not fully perform in urban areas. Accurate and reliable positioning in dense urban environments — where buildings or tree foliage can reflect satellite signals — requires GNSS receivers to mitigate multipath effects. The L5 band’s resilience to these effects aims to improve positioning accuracy. Combined with the well-established L1 band, an L1/L5 dual-band GNSS receiver can deliver a less than 2 m positioning accuracy (CEP50), against about 4 m with the L1 band only. The u-blox team has conducted driving tests in several urban areas and reported significant improvement over GNSS L1 receivers.

The F10’s firmware algorithm prioritizes L5 band signals in weak signal environments to provide reliable positioning accuracy, even when paired with small antennas. The platform is also equipped with protection-level technology that provides a real-time positioning accuracy estimate.

When a cellular modem is extremely close to a GNSS receiver, it can interfere with the receiver’s reception. Some F10 module models, such as NEO-F10N, MAX-F10S, and MIA-F10Q, are equipped with a robust RF circuit that allows the GNSS and the cellular modem to operate without interference.

The u-blox F10 platform is pin-to-pin compatible with the previous u-blox M10 generation for easy migration. It also supports u-blox AssistNow, which offers real-time online A-GNSS service with global availability to reduce GNSS time-to-first fix and power consumption.

The u-blox EVK-F101 evaluation kit will be available in April 2024.

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u-blox, CTT collaborate on penguin conservation effort https://www.gpsworld.com/u-blox-ctt-collaborate-on-penguin-conservation-effort/ Mon, 25 Mar 2024 14:54:12 +0000 https://www.gpsworld.com/?p=105736 u-blox has partnered with Cellular Tracking Technologies (CTT), a specialist in wildlife telemetry and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, in an initiative aimed at conserving Antarctic wildlife.

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Image: u-blox

Image: u-blox

u-blox has partnered with Cellular Tracking Technologies (CTT), a specialist in wildlife telemetry and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, in an initiative aimed at conserving Antarctic wildlife.

The collaboration has introduced a cloud-based positioning solution to monitor the activities of Adélie penguins in Ross Island, Antarctica. The venture began when Point Blue, an American wildlife conservation organization, reached out to CTT to create a tracking mechanism that could study the movements of young Adélie penguins. These birds are among the five penguin species inhabiting Antarctica and are considered crucial for environmental studies due to their sensitivity to ecological shifts caused by climate change and human activities, such as commercial fishing.

Due to the challenging conditions in Antarctica, tracking penguins required a device that was lightweight, non-intrusive, energy-efficient, and cost-effective in terms of data transmission. This was particularly important given the small size of the penguins, their rapid movement, and their extended underwater dives.

u-blox provided its CloudLocate positioning service to meet these stringent requirements, which led to the development of CTT’s Penguin Iridium GNSS tracker. The tracker is fixed to the penguins’ backs and uses one of u-blox’s compact GNSS modules. The CloudLocate service processes the positioning calculation in the cloud rather than on the device to save energy and enable prolonged monitoring periods without the need for frequent device replacements.

The tracker operates by sending a concise 50 B message, which captures essential location data during the brief moments when a penguin surfaces for air. This level of efficiency is critical in minimizing the costs associated with satellite connectivity, which is often prohibitively expensive in such remote regions.

This partnership marks an advancement in wildlife conservation technology by allowing for non-invasive, continuous monitoring of Adélie penguins and providing vital data for assessing the impacts of environmental changes. CTT aims to extend this tracking solution to a wider range of wildlife research and conservation projects to demonstrate the potential for technological innovation to contribute significantly to ecological preservation efforts.

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Abracron, u-blox partner on high-precision GNSS solutions https://www.gpsworld.com/u-blox-abracron-partner-on-high-precision-gnss-solutions/ Tue, 19 Mar 2024 19:20:20 +0000 https://www.gpsworld.com/?p=105711 Abracon has partnered with u-blox to combine the u-blox ZED-F9P GNSS receiver module and the Abracon APXG6016GH full-band, multi-constellation active GNSS antenna.

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Image: Abracon

Abracon has partnered with u-blox to combine the u-blox ZED-F9P GNSS receiver module and the Abracon APXG6016GH full-band, multi-constellation active GNSS antenna. This pairing offers centimeter-level accuracy designed for a variety of industries such as precision agriculture and mobile robotics.

The APXG6016GH antenna is designed with a robust pre-filtered low-noise amplifier (LNA), which offers strong anti-interference performance in challenging environments. It supports multi-frequency reception, including L1, L2, L5, and L-band correction services, for robust signal reception and enhanced accuracy.

The u-blox ZED-F9P module is designed to provide precise and reliable performance in various applications. When combined with the Abracon APXG6016GH antenna, this module gives users access to accurate positioning data critical for demanding navigation tasks.

The Abracon APXG6016GH antenna features tightly grouped phase center variation with advanced multi-feeding technology, which provides consistent performance across various scenarios. Its compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for portability and UAV applications, providing users with flexibility and ease of integration.

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Launchpad: Lidar systems, machine control and UAV solutions https://www.gpsworld.com/launchpad-lidar-systems-and-uav-solutions/ Mon, 18 Mar 2024 13:00:54 +0000 https://www.gpsworld.com/?p=105693 A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the March 2024 issue of GPS World magazine.

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A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the March 2024 issue of GPS World magazine.


SURVEYING & MAPPING

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GNSS Receiver
Supports tilted measurement

PozStar P5 is a high-precision GNSS receiver. It is powered by a 1,408-channel multi-band GNSS receiver designed to improve surveying in the field. It is equipped with Bluetooth, WiFi and UHF radio. The inertial measuring unit (IMU) supports tilted measurement, which allows users to obtain quick initialization and accurate measurements with an inclination of up to 60°.

The receiver comes with radio connector options used in a frequency range of 410 MHz to 470 MHz and a 5-pin serial port, which allows for external radio system connectivity and NMEA data output. It is also weatherproof, rated IP67.
PozStar P5 can collect control and surveying data for RTK equipment to perform surveying, map input and drawing operations. The receiver can be used with PozPad, an Android-based RTK field software.
PozStar, pozstar.com

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Lidar System
Designed for aerial surveying

The TrueView 540 lidar system integrates lidar technology with LP360 3D point cloud processing software to enhance survey-grade lidar applications.
The system is designed to provide enhanced data density, accuracy, and precision for aerial surveying. It combines lidar, an accurate positioning and orientation system and a full-frame industrial camera in a compact, lightweight package. It is suitable for a variety of UAVs, including the DJI Matrice 350.
The TrueView 540 features high-precision lidar technology comparable to high-end industry-standard payloads in terms of range, density and accuracy. It will be made available through GeoCue and its authorized distributors.
GeoCue, geocue.com

Image: SparkFun

GNSS Solution
Combined with Septentrio’s mosaic-X5 module

The SparkFun real-time kinematics (RTK) mosaic-X5 uses the multi-constellation, multi-frequency capabilities of the Septentrio mosaic-X5 module, which aims to improve accuracy and reliability in a variety of position applications.
The RTK mosaic-X5 is a 448-channel receiver that supports all four Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) — GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo — and one of the two regional ones, NavIC. It can function as both an RTK base and rover, which allows users to achieve horizontal positioning accuracy down to 6 mm and updates at a rate of 100 Hz.
The device incorporates the Espressif ESP32-WROVER processor, which allows for high-speed processing and a variety of connectivity options. The ESP32 provides the device with USB-C, Ethernet-over-USB and an Ethernet to WiFi Bridge mode to ensure seamless integration into any project setup.
The device also has power flexibility, including USB-C, Power-over-Ethernet, and external DC sources, along with data logging in multiple formats such as RINEX and NMEA. Housed in a custom-designed aluminum case, the RTK mosaic-X5 features a comprehensive web server interface to simplify configuration and monitoring.
SparkFun Electronics, sparkfun.com

Image: StoneX

Hybrid Mobile Mapping Solution
Combines mobile scanning with a stationary mode

The X70GO SLAM laser scanner is designed for fast and efficient large-area surveys. It combines mobile scanning with a stationary mode to scan with high resolution to enhance overall surveying capabilities.
X70GO is a real-time 3D model reconstruction device that integrates an inertial navigation module, high-performance computer and storage system. It is equipped with a 360° rotating head, which, combined with the SLAM algorithm, can generate high-precision point cloud data. The built-in 512GB memory disk stores survey results and the dismountable handle has a 1.5-hour battery life.

A 12MP RGB camera offers texture information, while a visual camera aims to enhance the real-time preview with the GOapp. Mapping results can be generated immediately inside the scanner. Users can then color the points and improve their accuracy during post-processing with GOpost software.

The system comes with a hybrid scanning capability. The X-Whizz mode combines the advantages of SLAM mode with the resolution of a static scan, which eliminates the need for multiple scan stations. Users can move around the scene to collect the entire 3D point cloud without time-consuming cloud-to-cloud alignment.

The technology incorporated in the new scanner is designed to provide extended range, a higher number of points per second and advanced onboard processing algorithms. The SLAM laser scanner is well-suited for challenging environments and can be used in a variety of applications, including BIM, industrial sites, real estate, heritage preservation, tunnels and mining.

Users can add an RTK module to set a point cloud in a global coordinate system. This can support adding GNSS information to that from lidar and the inertial measurement unit (IMU) in the SLAM algorithm. In situations with limited GPS connectivity – such as indoors or in challenging environments – the system will rely on lidar and the IMU for positioning purposes.
Stonex, stonex.it

Image: Inertial Labs

Remote Sensing Payload
Integrates with UAVs and other platforms

The RESEPI lidar Gen-II remote sensing payload instrument comes in three modes: aerial mode for comprehensive airborne data collection, mobile mode for dynamic vehicular data collection and a versatile handheld/backpack that aims to provide portability and ease of use for ground personnel.

The RESEPI lidar Gen-II has a 175% increase in computing power, designed to speed up processing and enhance efficiency during complex tasks. Its memory capacity has been increased by 700%, which allows for extensive data handling and improved system performance. The system’s 50% increase in storage capacity aims to facilitate longer durations of data collection without frequent offloads.
The Gen-II features seamless integration capabilities with UAVs and other platforms. The system’s sensor-agnostic design allows for external sensors to be easily integrated, including lidar and cameras. It also can compute point clouds, trajectories and solutions in real-time, which is critical in time-sensitive missions. The system can be used in a variety of applications including mapping, inspection, autonomous vehicles, navigation and robotics.
Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com

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Mapping Software
With upgraded cloud capabilities

The Correlator3D mapping software now has upgraded cloud capabilities. With its distributed processing capabilities, Correlator3D allows users to scale their processing to match individual operational needs.
With the upgrade, Correlator3D can process large mapping projects and deliver results from UAV, aircraft and satellite imagery. It features a software package – a patented, end-to-end photogrammetry solution — designed to generate high-quality geospatial data from a variety of sources, including satellite and aerial imagery and UAVs. The upgrade aims to improve the technology’s performance in diverse cloud scenarios.
Correlator3D is designed to provide aerial triangulation (AT) and generate dense digital surface models (DSM), precise digital terrain models (DTM), point clouds, orthomosaics, 3D models and vectorized 3D features. By using GPU technology and multi-core CPUs, Correlator3D offers enhanced processing speed to support the rapid production of large datasets.
SimActive, simactive.com


MOBILE

TDC6. (Image: Trimble)

Handheld GNSS Data Collector
Ideal for construction surveying

TDC6 is a handheld GNSS data collector designed for high-performance construction surveying. The device allows contractors to work with more complex data sets more effectively in the field, connect to the office for on-the-spot approvals, and quickly communicate changes to field crews.

The small, rugged device offers integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, built-in cameras and 5G compatibility in a lightweight, shock-, dust- and water-resistant package. The device integrates seamlessly with Trimble data collection applications, including Trimble TerraFlex GIS software and Trimble Access survey field software, as well as third-party apps such as Esri ArcGIS Field Maps.
Trimble Geospatial, geospatial.trimble.com

Image: Fairview Microwave

Military-Grade Antennas
Designed for mission-critical applications

This advanced military-grade antenna product line includes ruggedized GPS, manpack omni and vehicle omni antennas. The products are designed for mission-critical applications such as vehicle navigation, personnel communications, vehicle communications, electronic warfare, and jamming.
The antennas meet MIL-STD-810 to offer durability while adhering to strict quality standards. The antennas also are compliant with the Trade Agreements Act (TAA), which makes them suitable for government and defense applications.
Built to withstand tough conditions, these antennas feature heavy-duty construction and a rugged design for long-lasting performance in challenging environments. They are designed to perform in extreme weather conditions and on rough terrains.
Its robust construction and NATO/U.S. standard mounting options aim to simplify integration into various setups during critical operations.
Fairview Microwave, fairviewmicrowave.com

Trimble SiteVision Software 5.0. (Image: Trimble)

Trimble SiteVision Software 5.0. (Image: Trimble)

Outdoor Augmented Reality System
With 3D scanning capabilities

SiteVision Software 5.0 is a high-accuracy outdoor augmented reality system, now with a 3D scan tool. The new 3D scan tool allows users to use lidar sensors available on some Apple Pro devices. The Trimble DA2 GNSS receiver is designed to capture point clouds efficiently and accurately with a single handheld solution.
Users can visualize 3D scan data directly in the field with SiteVision’s augmented reality view. The software allows users to create as-builts of the job site on the go, measure and plan resource allocation, reduce scan times, supplement UAV data and more by combining scanning and precision in a mobile solution. The product aims to facilitate practical and accessible field-to-office workflows for surveyors, contractors and engineers.
Trimble Geospatial, geospatial.trimble.com


OEM

Image: u-blox

Two LTE Modules
With integrated GNSS

The LTE-M cellular module series, the SARA-R52 and LEXI-R52, are designed to meet the needs of industrial applications requiring both positioning and wireless communication capabilities. Based on the u-blox UBX-R52 cellular chip, these modules are designed for a variety of internet of things (IoT) use cases, including both fixed and mobile applications.

The UBX-R52 chip is designed to simplify product design by reducing the need for additional components. It includes SpotNow, a positioning function developed by u-blox, which aims to provide location data with an accuracy of up to 10 m within a few seconds. This function is targeted at applications requiring occasional tracking, such as waste management, personal trackers and industrial machinery.

The chip’s uCPU feature allows the execution of custom software directly on the chip and eliminates the necessity for an external microcontroller unit (MCU). The smart connection manager (uSCM) is a feature designed to manage connectivity automatically, focusing on optimizing performance or minimizing power consumption under varying connection conditions.

The R52 series introduces the SARA-R520M10 combo module, which is equipped with an integrated u-blox M10 GNSS receiver. This module is designed to provide simultaneous GNSS and cellular connectivity, supporting applications that require continuous or periodic tracking with features such as low power consumption, improved time-to-first-fix (TTFF) and increased RF sensitivity.

Unlike many LTE-M modules that typically offer an RF output power of 20-21 dBm, the new R52 series modules offer a higher output power of 23 dBm to improve connectivity in difficult coverage areas. The LEXI-R52 offers the same functionalities as the SARA-R52 but comes in a smaller form factor, making it ideal for applications with space constraints, such as wearable technology.

These additions to u-blox’s LTE-M module portfolio are designed to address the integration of GNSS and wireless communication in industrial IoT applications, offering solutions for a range of use cases that require robust connectivity.
u-blox, u-blox.com


UAV

Image: UAV Navigation-Grupo Oesía

GNSS-Denied Navigation Kit
For challenging environments

This GNSS-denied navigation kit is designed to offer navigation capabilities in challenging environments. It combines UAV Navigation’s attitude and heading reference system (AHRS), the POLAR-300, with its Visual Navigation System, the VNS01, to offer advanced dead reckoning navigation capabilities with minimal drift.
The technology has error rates as low as 0% to 1% over covered distances. This is made possible by the kit’s visual-based technology, which allows for precise attitude and position estimation to stabilize flights in challenging conditions. The kit is equipped with advanced algorithms that can detect and counter sophisticated spoofing and jamming techniques to offer reliable and secure navigation, even in the face of potential signal disruptions. The kit can be used in both civil and defense sectors.
UAV Navigation-Grupo Oesía, uavnavigation.com

Image: Wingtra

Lidar UAV Solution
Offers immediate access to terrain information

The lidar UAV mapping solution combines the WingtraOne GEN II UAV with a newly developed lidar sensor. This integration aims to advance UAV lidar efficiency, increase accuracy and simplify integration.
The solution incorporates a Hesai scanner, Inertial Labs IMU and NovAtel GNSS receiver designed to optimize data acquisition and reduce the need for post-processing strip alignment. This advancement offers immediate access to precise terrain information following each flight and enhances the efficiency of mapping and photogrammetric analysis in various sectors.
One of the key features of the lidar system is its reduced field time, with no calibration needed and a one-minute initialization process. The Wingtra lidar application and the system’s automated features offer a streamlined data capture process, which makes it accessible even to those new to lidar technology.
The solution offers a vertical accuracy of 3 cm from a 60 m flight height, with leading point density in its class. The WingtraOne GEN II’s design and automated flight patterns offer consistent results across different pilots.
Wingtra, wingtra.com


MACHINE CONTROL

Septentrio’s AntaRx GNSS smart antenna is designed for machine automation and control. (Photo: Septentrio)

GNSS Smart Antenna
Designed for industrial environments

AntaRx-Si3 is a GNSS/INS smart antenna housed in an ultra-rugged enclosure, designed for straightforward installation on machinery such as agricultural robots. It combines Septentrio’s centimeter-level GNSS positioning with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) within the same enclosure as the GNSS antenna, which uses FUSE+ technology.

The AntaRx-Si3 is designed for challenging industrial environments where GNSS signals are at risk of obstruction, such as under heavy foliage. The antenna’s exterior is crafted from impact-resistant polycarbonate with an IP69K rating and can withstand significant shocks, vibrations, and harsh environmental conditions.
It uses Septentrio’s GNSS+ algorithms to offer advanced multipath mitigation to operate in environments where satellite signals could be reflected off surrounding machinery or structures, such as silos. The antenna delivers high update rates and low latency positioning, which are crucial for the control loops of autonomous movements or rotations.
Septentrio, septentrio.com

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3D Machine Control Software
Suitable for construction sites

The Leica MC1 software platform is designed to guide and automate machine control solutions.
Leica MC1 machine control software continues to evolve toward achieving a smart digital reality, with features such as Modify Models and surface logging. It compares the design model to the actual position of the machine’s cutting edge, such as the bucket or blade edge. The technology aims to assist operators in positioning machinery to achieve the planned design while allowing for a live digital representation of the progress. The software automatically controls the position of the machine’s cutting edge.

It is carried by the rugged hardware platform, the Leica MCP80 panel and MDS Series docking station, offering an interchangeable panel between machines on a job site. The MC1 platform is supported by the cloud-based Leica ConX productivity platform to offer more efficient management of heavy construction projects.
Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, leica-geosystems.com

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u-blox launches LTE-M modules with integrated GNSS https://www.gpsworld.com/u-blox-launches-lte-m-modules-with-integrated-gnss/ Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:00:32 +0000 https://www.gpsworld.com/?p=105273 u-blox, has launched the SARA-R52 and LEXI-R52. These modules are designed to meet the needs of industrial applications requiring both positioning and wireless communication capabilities.

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Image: u-blox

Image: u-blox

u-blox, has launched two LTE-M cellular module series, the SARA-R52 and LEXI-R52. These modules are designed to meet the needs of industrial applications requiring both positioning and wireless communication capabilities.

Based on the u-blox UBX-R52 cellular chip, these modules are designed for a variety of internet of things (IoT) use cases, including both fixed and mobile applications.
The UBX-R52 chip is designed to simplify product design by reducing the need for additional components. It includes SpotNow, a positioning function developed by u-blox, which aims to provide location data with an accuracy of up to 10 meters within a few seconds. This function is targeted at applications requiring occasional tracking, such as waste management, personal trackers and industrial machinery.

The chips uCPU feature allows the execution of custom software directly on the chip and eliminates the necessity for an external microcontroller unit (MCU). The smart connection manager (uSCM) is a feature designed to manage connectivity automatically, focusing on optimizing performance or minimizing power consumption under varying connection conditions.

The R52 series introduces the SARA-R520M10 combo module, which is equipped with an integrated u-blox M10 GNSS receiver. This module is designed to provide simultaneous GNSS and cellular connectivity, supporting applications that require continuous or periodic tracking with features such as low power consumption, improved time-to-first fix (TTFF) and increased RF sensitivity.

Unlike many LTE-M modules that typically offer an RF output power of 20-21 dBm, the new R52 series modules offer a higher output power of 23 dBm to improve connectivity in difficult coverage areas. The LEXI-R52 offers the same functionalities as the SARA-R52 but comes in a smaller form factor, making it ideal for applications with space constraints, such as wearable technology.

These additions to u-blox’s LTE-M module portfolio are designed to address the integration of GNSS and wireless communication in industrial IoT applications, offering solutions for a range of use cases that require robust connectivity.

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Installing a GNSS receiver without an engineering degree https://www.gpsworld.com/installing-a-gnss-receiver-without-an-engineering-degree/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 17:18:03 +0000 https://www.gpsworld.com/?p=105119 Matteo Luccio asked Jason O’Flanagan, co-founder and CEO of Seirrowon Labs — which specializes in robotic vehicle control, electronics hardware and firmware development — about the company’s collaboration with u-blox on precision agriculture.

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Seirrowon concentrates on the orchards and fixed crop market using u-blox RTK and sensor fusion receivers. (Image: Seirrowon)

I asked Jason O’Flanagan, co-founder and CEO of Seirrowon Labs — which specializes in robotic vehicle control, electronics hardware and firmware development — about the company’s collaboration with u-blox on precision agriculture. Here are a few excerpts from our conversation. Click here for the full version.

I know you’re working with u-blox.

We’re using both hardware and services products from u-blox. We’re using both their normal RTK receiver and their sensor fusion GNSS receiver. We started looking at u-blox, NovAtel, Trimble and Septentrio. However, we settled on u-blox as its mix of services and hardware were best suited to our business model. They provide a fully unlocked, fully functional receiver out of the gate.

In the fixed crop, orchard situation, having as many satellites as possible really helps with your position. So, from a hardware standpoint, it was a perfect solution for us. It allowed us to track up to 85 satellites at a time (two channels each) in adverse conditions. Their sensor fusion version, which is their ZED-F9R, allowed us to fill in the gaps when the GNSS became unusable under the tree foliage. The SL LITE is a generic RTK receiver, the SL LITE-R includes sensor fusion, and the SL Pro uses their L band receiver with the sensor fusion module.

What value do you add to u-blox’s modules?

All they give us is the raw GNSS. We add some IP functionality and support. U-blox outputs its data in a certain format, which is not applicable to the ag industry. So, we map out the data to get it in the right format that will work for a lot of the equipment that’s in the marketplace.

Second, we added a support server to it so that it backs up its settings to a remote server. So, if customers go down, we can flash their replacement receivers and overnight them back to them. The customers are also able to turn on remote support where we can see the data from the receiver and diagnose issues remotely. Our dealers have the same access.

We’ve added a support mechanism into our hardware that allows for better remote support without having to wait hours for someone to get to the field or diagnose an issue. We’ve also added remote updating for support and software. So, the customer can update and add new features remotely without us having to send someone out to do that.

What is involved in installing your equipment on tractors, combines, sprayers and so forth? What kind of support do you provide? I assume you’re brand-agnostic.
We designed our receiver so that anyone can install it. We took a lot of the complications out of it. We use industry standard Deutsch connectors and our device’s user interface is HTML. So, you can use any smartphone or a laptop or any device that has WiFi in it to set up the device. There’s no special software required, there are no special cables; you just connect to it as if it were a hotspot. You can set it up completely from there.

We’ve simplified everything to make sure that users don’t need a degree in GNSS or in engineering to install the receiver. It’s very straightforward. It has several pre-configured profiles within it that allow you to take a generic setup and say, “Hey, I’m putting you here,” so it will default to all the correct settings. We really want to make it as simple and straightforward as possible.

What is the typical use case for your technology?

We have a generalized solution that would be equivalent to, say, a SMART7 from NovAtel. It’s designed for row crop work out in the field and functionality within the standard operations that you get for GNSS receivers within agriculture. Our offering includes the LITE, which is a generic RTK receiver and the LITE-R and PRO, which use active sensor fusion to allow us to function better in orchards and fixed crops that have obstructions to the sky.
I’m concentrating on the orchards and fixed crop market because none of the main OEMs that are out there doing GNSS are taking any time with that market, so that’s where we see our niche.

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