Low-cost GNSS RTK Receiver in Structure Monitoring Under Demanding Conditions

Abstract

[EN] Low-cost GNSS receivers are becoming increasingly popular in monitoring applications. Especially dual-frequency receivers, acquiring signals of all available satellite systems, offer great possibilities. The main goal of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of a position determined using low-cost receiver in different field conditions. The u-blox ZED-F9P receiver was used for testing, with the satellite signal supplied by either a dedicated u-blox ANN-MB-00 low-cost patch antenna or the Leica AS10 high-precision geodetic one. A professional Leica GS18T geodetic receiver was used to acquire reference satellite data. The tests were conducted in two ways. In the first one, the position was determined by low-cost and professional receivers in a typical RTK Network measurement, with a stationary antenna and various field conditions. Reference observations were made using the precise total station. The second test was carried out to check the positioning quality of the u-blox ZED-F9P receiver on the move to recognize its applicability in the automotive industry. A suitable route was proposed, for which reference data was provided by robotic total station and the 360-degree prism, coaxially mounted with the tested patch antenna. Conducted tests showed the advantage of the u-blox ZED-F9P over professional geodetic equipment. As a result, it is concluded that this receiver equipped with a geodetic-grade antenna provides high-quality positioning. In most cases of the partially obscured horizon, precise coordinates were obtained, making the ZED-F9P a valuable alternative to the high-end geodetic receivers in monitoring applications.