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Evaluation of Static Autonomous GNSS Positioning Accuracy Using Single-, Dual-, and Tri-Frequency Smartphones in
1Chair of Forest Operations, University of Freiburg, Werthmannstr. 6, 79085 Freiburg, Germany.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 15, 2022
Summary
Multi-frequency smartphones generally offer better forest positioning accuracy. However, performance varies significantly, so individual device testing is crucial for reliable Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) results.
Area of Science:
- Geomatics Engineering
- Navigation Systems
- Mobile Sensing
Background:
- Accurate positioning in forests is vital for numerous applications.
- Smartphones are increasingly used for positioning, with modern devices supporting multi-frequency and multi-constellation Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capabilities.
- Enhanced GNSS features are anticipated to improve positioning accuracy, especially in challenging environments like forests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the static autonomous GNSS positioning accuracy of multi-frequency and single-frequency smartphones under forest canopy conditions.
- To evaluate the performance of a geodetic receiver as a benchmark.
- To determine if multi-frequency capabilities consistently yield superior accuracy across different smartphone models.
Main Methods:
- Conducted static autonomous GNSS positioning measurements at 15 forest sites.
- Utilized four multi-frequency and six single-frequency smartphones, alongside a geodetic receiver (11 receivers total).
- Collected 24 measurements per receiver, each lasting approximately 10 minutes, under forest canopies.
Main Results:
- On average, multi-frequency smartphones demonstrated higher positioning accuracy compared to single-frequency devices.
- Significant variability in accuracy was observed among smartphones, including identical or similar models.
- The dual-frequency Xiaomi Mi 10 exhibited exceptional performance with a Decimeter Root Mean Square (DRMS) of 4.56 m, outperforming the best single-frequency phone by 34% in absolute error.
Conclusions:
- While multi-frequency smartphones show potential for improved forest GNSS positioning, accuracy is highly device-dependent.
- Generalizing accuracy based solely on the number of frequencies or constellations is not recommended.
- Individual smartphone testing is essential to ascertain reliable positioning performance in challenging environments.
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