Dynamic Position Accuracy of Low-Cost Global Navigation Satellite System Sensors Applied in Road Transport for Precision and Measurement Reliability

Abstract

Low-cost Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) sensors have been successfully applied in commercial vehicles’ position monitoring, and they continually raise interest among research audiences both in theoretical and practical aspects. While numerous studies have applied simulations and numerical methods to evaluate the accuracy of the sensors, this paper presents an analysis, supported by actual measurements collected under diversified conditions. The measurements were collected under a variety of conditions, including urban and suburban routes of considerable length, and in accordance with the position in lane applied in most European countries, which is considerably related to the sustainability of road transport. The measurements were collected during driving of three different passenger vehicles, and the response of the measurements to correct, partially correct and incorrect vehicle positions was recorded. Differentiated kinematic conditions and actual dynamic performance during driving were analyzed. This research compared the position accuracy of a low-cost GNSS sensor and a dual-antenna GNSS/INS sensor for vehicle dynamics monitoring. Both types of sensors were operated on all the passenger vehicles and with the same measurement conditions. Statistical hypothesis tests have been considered to compare the results, in accordance with the latest guidelines for carrying out such tests. Studies have indicated that a low-cost GNSS sensor also has satisfactory accuracy. However, this paper points out additional considerations and conclusions. Both the positive and negative results are described and commented on in the paper, including research limitations and suggestions for future measurement and future research agendas, both by the authors and as an inspiration for other researchers.