GPS/GNSS Applications

Samanmali Matharaarachchi Samanmali Matharaarachchi

GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
• In general, GNSS receivers are used to collect position, velocity and time
information for various applications.
• In some specific cases other measurements (e.g. frequency etc.) output by
the receiver are also used.
• The receivers might be generic all purpose receivers or can be built
specifically having the application in mind (e.g. car navigation etc.)
• The initial objectives of the first few GNSS systems were military.
• But with the free availability of GNSS signals and the availability of
affordable GNSS receivers, the GNSS technology is having a pervasive use in
civil, industrial, scientific, military etc.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Criticality of GNSS Applications
• The GNSS Applications range from non-critical to highly critical
applications.
• The different criticality of GNSS applications lead to different performance
requirements from the GNSS system.

• Usually GNSS applications are grouped in terms of criticality as;

- Safety critical applications
- Liability – critical applications
- Non-critical application

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Location Based Service (LBS)
• LBS includes applications that depend on the user location to provide
a service/ information that is relevant to the user at that location.
• LBS normally use mobile devices with positioning ability to provide
the service or information to the user.

• Different types of LBS are;

- Location based information Streams
- Tourist Information
- Transport on Demand etc.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Civil Application
• Currently the civil applications as one of the most important uses of
GNSS systems.

• Different types of civil applications are:

- Personal Applications
- Road Applications
- Aviation Applications
- Rail Applications
- Maritime Applications

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Surveying, Mapping and GIS

• In surveying, a simple standalone GNSS Receiver might not have the required precision,
however, most of the these requirements can be fulfilled using high-end dual frequency
multi-constellation receivers built specifically for surveying and by using GNSS
Augmentation techniques.

• The use of GNSS techniques in geodesy have revolutionized the way geodetic
measurements are made.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Surveying, Mapping and GIS

• An increasing number of national governments and regional organizations

are using GNSS measurements as the basis for their geodetic networks.

• Different types of Surveying, Mapping and GIS Applications are;

- Land Surveying
- Mapping and GIS
- Areal survey

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Space Applications
• GNSS systems were originally designed for earth-based positioning and
navigation.

• Despite this, real-time spacecraft navigation based on space borne GNSS

receivers is becoming a common technique for low-Earth orbits and
geostationary orbits, allowing satellites to self-determine their position
using GNSS, reducing dependence on ground-based stations.

• The space community started experimenting with space borne receivers very
early in the deployments of the GPS network.

• The first space borne GNSS receiver was deployed in Landsat-4 in July 16th
1982 to demonstrate the feasibility of using GNSS for space navigation.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Space Applications
• Different type of Space Applications are;

- Precise Orbit Determination

- Satellite Real-time Navigation
- Satellite Formation Flying

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Scientific Applications
• GNSS systems offer important contribution in a variety of scientific
research domains.

• Significant progress achieved in recent years is due to new GNSS (e.g.

Gelileo, BeiDou, GLONASS, IRNSS etc.) and data analysis techniques, jointly
with a growing variety of available measurements.

• In addition, the already implemented GNSS systems are evolving and new
systems are being developed, which will contribute further improvements
in the current available applications as well to promote new applications.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Scientific Applications
• Different type of Scientific Applications are:
• Earth Sciences
• Space-time Metrology
• Fundamental Physics

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
 Earth Sciences

• Earth Science applications of GNSS place some the most

stringent requirements on the accuracy of these systems.

• Applications areas;
- Studies of ground deformation : millimeter accuracy positioning
required
- Support for global Earth science applications: Global distribution of
tracking networks needed to determine accurate orbits for GNSS
satellites.

• Studies of atmospheric effects; Analysis of propagation

delays of signals

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Examples of deformation studies with the
Global Positioning System (GPS)

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
• The Indian sub-continent is one of
the most earthquake prone regions
of the world.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
• The region features complex tectonics including major fault systems in Himalayan
collision zone namely the Main Central Thrust (MCT), the Main Boundary Thrust
(MBT) and the Himalayan Frontal Thrust (HFT)

• Precise GNSS geodesy makes it possible to understand the dynamics involved

and measure the strain accumulation along major fault systems in the Indian
plate.
Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
 Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
 Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Role of GNSS
• Modern GNSSs allow the measurement of strain accumulation that can
lead to earthquakes. Particularly areas outside of obvious deformation
zones (intraplate earthquakes)
• Analysis of GNSS series of measurements after earthquakes (post seismic
motion) reveals information about forces and material properties
associates with earthquakes.
• Occurrence of some earthquakes, affect where future events where future
events will occur (stress transients)
• Volcanic systems often have precursory signals as pressure builds in
magma chamber.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Meteorological Applications
• GNSS measurements are not only sensitive to the positions of the GPS
antenna but also the medium through which the GPS signals propagate
• Three main contributions;
- Changed particle layer called ionosphere; variations effect radio communications
and power grids. GNSS networks can be used monitor variations and warn of on
coming ionospheric storm (dual frequency measurements)

- Neutral Atmosphere (Oxygen/Nitrogen mainly); Delays well modeled by surface

pressure measurements

- Water vapor delay; GNSS very sensitive and water vapor most uncertain
meteorological forecast models. Still being evaluated by GNSS heals in predicting
severe storms.
Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Military Applications

• The first GNSS systems (GPS and GLONASS) were developed for military
purposes and only later in the development of these systems it was decided
to open then to civilian use.
• Still to day the military applications are one of the drivers for these systems.
• For instance GPS makes available two services:
- The Precise Positioning Service and;
- The Standard Positioning Service
• The Precise Positioning Service is encrypted and is only available to the US
military and its allies.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Military Applications

• Different types of Military Applications are;

- Military Navigation
- Target Navigation

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Car Navigation
• Automobiles can be equipped with GNSS receivers at the factory or as
aftermarket equipment.
• Units often display moving maps and information about location, speed,
direction, and nearby streets and points of interest.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
 Autonomous Applications
• Driverless cars are ubiquitous in imagined future
scenarios.
• Autonomous vehicles technology is a multidisciplinary
technology where different engineering areas, such as
Navigation, are required.
• GNSS system where revolutionary in the area of
Navigation by providing positioning and navigation
capabilities to the autonomous vehicles.
• With precise positioning, GNSS can be used for lane or
track determination (for road and rail vehicles) and
attitude determination by using multiple antennas.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Autonomous Applications
• Autonomous vehicle technology is still at its infancy but currently the
first laboratory prototypes are being tested and demonstrated.
• GNSS has been one of the key drivers for the recent developments in
this area.
• Different types of Autonomous Applications are;
- Autonomous Driving
- Autonomous Flying

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Air Navigation
• Air navigation systems usually have a moving
map display and are often connected to the
autopilot for en-route navigation.
• Cockpit-mounted GNSS receivers and glass
cockpits are appearing in general aviation
aircraft of all sizes, using technologies such as
WAAS or LAAS to increase accuracy.
• Many of these systems may be certified for
instrument flight rules navigation, and some
can also be used for final approach and landing
operations.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
 Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
 Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Other Navigation Applications
• Heavy equipment: can use GNSS in construction, mining and
precision agriculture.

• The blades and buckets of construction equipment are

controlled automatically in GNSS-based machine guidance
systems.

• Agricultural equipment may use GNSS to steer automatically,

or as a visual aid displayed on a screen for the driver.

• This is useful for controlled traffic and row crop operations

and when spraying.

• Harvesters with yield monitors can also use GNSS to create a

yield map of the paddock being harvested.
Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Other applications
• Cyclists
• Hikers
• Climbers
• Pedestrians

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Other Applications
• GNSS equipment for the visually impaired.
• Spacecraft: are beginning to use GNSS as a
navigational tool.

- The addition of a GNSS receiver to a spacecraft allows

precise orbit determination without ground tracking.
- This, in turn, enables autonomous spacecraft
navigation, formation flying, and autonomous
rendezvous.

• Drone navigation with high precision RTK GNSS

technology
Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Other Applications

• Archaeology – As
archaeologists excavate a site,
they generally make a three-
dimensional map of the site,
detailing where each artifact is
found.
• Satellite Earth Stations uses
GNSS for the following
purposes;
- Precise timing
- Location

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Other Applications

• Marketing – Some market researcher companies have combined GIS

systems and survey-based research to help companies to decide where to
open new branches and to target their advertising according to the using
patterns of roads and the socio-demographic attributes of residential
zones.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Other Applications
• GNSS road pricing systems change of road users using data from GNSS
sensors inside vehicles.
- Advocates argue that road pricing using GNSS permits a number of policies such as
tolling by distance on urban roads and can be used for many other applications in
parking, insurance and vehicle emissions.
- Critics argue that GNSS could lead to an invasion of people’s privacy.

• Photographic geocoding – Combining GNSS position data with

photographs taken with a digital camera allows to view the photographs
on a map or to look up the locations where they were taken.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Other Applications
• The main objective of GNSS systems is to provide positioning but by
design other information can also be derived form the measurements
gathered by GNSS receivers.

• This led to less conventional uses of the technology in application areas

that were not initially envisioned.

• By design GNSS systems deliver precise time along with the position and
velocity of the user.

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Other Applications
• This capability has been used to provide a precise time reference in
different areas such as financial transactions and stock markets.
• One other example of a less conventional use of GNSS technology is the
use of the measured interference of the atmosphere on the GNSS signals
to do atmospheric sensing.

Other Applications types are;

- Precise Time Reference
- Atmospheric Sensing

Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo
Summary
• Primary application GNSS in Earth Science is deformation measurement.
• Continuously operating networks supply direct measurements of
deformation but also;
- Support densification of networks using occasional occupations
- Contribute to GNSS orbit determination which improves accuracy in regions
with continuous stations
- Can be used to support other GNSS applications with real-time telemetry of
data.
- For near-time systems support meteorological applications.

• Earthquakes, volcanoes and weather systems do not know political

boundaries; Earth science applications of GNSS help everyone in a region.
Samanmali Matharaarachchi
GIS & Remote Sensing,
Diploma Department
in Geographical of SocialSystem,
Information Science,Department
General SirofJohn Kotelawala
Geography, DefenceofUniversity
University Colombo