Satellite mapping in cities and below cities: how good is it now?

Hancock, Craig; Zhang, Penghe; Lau, Lawrence; Roberts, Gethin Wyn; de Ligt, Huib

Abstract

Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) have existed since the launch of the US global positioning system constellation in 1978. There is an increasing need for better maps in the digital age, particularly for buried utilities. One of the most convenient methods for creating accurate maps is the use of navigation satellites for positioning. However, built-up urban areas are not ideal for the use of this positioning technology. This paper provides an update on the situation regarding GNSS and assesses how new satellites and signals are contributing to better positioning availability by carrying out a test in a controlled environment. The results show that using combined satellite systems improves availability in urban canyons in some cases, but not in all scenarios. In addition, pipeline mapping technology has been tested and been shown to be an effective means of mapping pipes deep under the ground over short distances.

Citation

Hancock, C., Zhang, P., Lau, L., Roberts, G. W., & de Ligt, H. (in press). Satellite mapping in cities and below cities: how good is it now?. Proceedings of the ICE - Civil Engineering, https://doi.org/10.1680/jcien.16.00022

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Sep 12, 2016
• Online Publication Date: Oct 18, 2016
• Deposit Date: Nov 2, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 2, 2016
• Journal: Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineering - Civil Engineering
• Print ISSN: 0965-089X
• Electronic ISSN: 1751-7672
• Publisher: Thomas Telford
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1680/jcien.16.00022
• Keywords: communication & control systems, information technology, land surveying
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/822934
• Publisher URL: http://www.icevirtuallibrary.com/doi/10.1680/jcien.16.00022