A hybrid optical–wireless network for decimetre-level terrestrial positioning

Jeroen C. J. Koelemeij, Han Dun, Cherif E. V. Diouf, Erik F. Dierikx, Gerard J. M. Janssen and Christian C. J. M. Tiberius ()
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Jeroen C. J. Koelemeij: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Han Dun: Delft University of Technology
Cherif E. V. Diouf: Delft University of Technology
Erik F. Dierikx: VSL
Gerard J. M. Janssen: Delft University of Technology
Christian C. J. M. Tiberius: Delft University of Technology

Nature, 2022, vol. 611, issue 7936, 473-478

Abstract: Abstract Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) are widely used for navigation and time distribution1–3, features that are indispensable for critical infrastructure such as mobile communication networks, as well as emerging technologies such as automated driving and sustainable energy grids3,4. Although GNSS can provide centimetre-level precision, GNSS receivers are prone to many-metre errors owing to multipath propagation and an obstructed view of the sky, which occur particularly in urban areas where accurate positioning is most needed1,5,6. Moreover, the vulnerabilities of GNSS, combined with the lack of a back-up system, pose a severe risk to GNSS-dependent technologies7. Here we demonstrate a terrestrial positioning system that is independent of GNSS and offers superior performance through a constellation of radio transmitters, connected and time-synchronized at the subnanosecond level through a fibre-optic Ethernet network8. Using optical and wireless transmission schemes similar to those encountered in mobile communication networks, and exploiting spectrally efficient virtual wideband signals, the detrimental effects of multipath propagation are mitigated9, thus enabling robust decimetre-level positioning and subnanosecond timing in a multipath-prone outdoor environment. This work provides a glimpse of a future in which telecommunication networks provide not only connectivity but also GNSS-independent timing and positioning services with unprecedented accuracy and reliability.

Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05315-7

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