Computational and Geometrical Aspects of On-The-Fly Ambiguity Resolution

Precise (centimetre level accuracy) kinematic differential positioning using GPS (Global Positioning System) requires the use of carrier phase observations with correctly resolved integer ambiguities. On-the-fly ambiguity resolution, i.e., ambiguity resolution while the receiver is in motion, is desirable, since it increases the flexibility and reliability of kinematic positioning. On-the-fly ambiguity resolution, however, is not an easy task. A lot of factors will affect the speed and reliability of the ambiguity resolution. In general, these factors can be categorized into three broader groups, namely the ambiguity resolution technique, the effects of the observation errors and biases, and the observation geometry, i.e., the geometry between the satellites, the monitor station(s), and the user. In this research, the possibility of performing reliable and fast on-the-fly ambiguity resolution of GPS carrier phase signals is studied. An integrated on-the-fly ambiguity resolution technique was developed for this research. This technique was designed to work with either single-frequency, codeless, or dual-frequency GPS data from a minimum of five observed satellites, and it accommodates the use of more than one monitor station. The validity of the technique has been verified using static, simulated kinematic, and kinematic GPS data. · The technique has been shown to be capable of resolving initial integer ambiguities on-the-fly reliably and quickly, even instantaneously under certain conditions.

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