GPSinertial

GPSinertial refers to a class of navigation systems that combine the Global Positioning System (GPS) with an Inertial Navigation System (INS). This fusion of technologies aims to leverage the strengths of each system while mitigating their individual weaknesses, resulting in a more robust and accurate navigation solution.

GPS provides absolute position data by triangulating signals from orbiting satellites. However, GPS signals can be interrupted or degraded in environments such as urban canyons, tunnels, or underwater. It also suffers from relatively low update rates and can be susceptible to spoofing.

An INS, on the other hand, uses a combination of accelerometers and gyroscopes to measure changes in velocity and orientation. By integrating these measurements over time, the INS can calculate position, velocity, and attitude. INS systems are self-contained and provide high update rates, making them ideal for short-term navigation. However, they are prone to drift over time due to the accumulation of small errors in sensor measurements.

By integrating GPS and INS, a GPSinertial system can achieve superior performance. When GPS signals are available, they are used to correct the drift inherent in the INS. When GPS signals are lost, the INS can continue to provide navigation data for a period, bridging the gap until GPS reacquisition. This symbiotic relationship allows for continuous, accurate positioning even in challenging environments. Common applications include autonomous vehicles, aerial surveying, precision agriculture, and military navigation.