As we progress into an era dominated by autonomous systems and complex navigation demands, the ability to navigate in environments where Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are unreliable or completely unavailable has become increasingly critical. This challenge is particularly relevant in sectors like defense, aerospace, and critical infrastructure, where the reliability and accuracy of navigational data can be the difference between mission success and failure. At InterGeo 2024, Honeywell is set to discuss the N580 + HRVS (Honeywell Radar Velocity Sensor) system, a low SWaP-C solution to solve GNSS denied navigation in land vehicles. GNSS technology, which includes systems like GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou, has become the cornerstone of modern navigation.
GNSS signals are not immune to disruption. Deliberate jamming or spoofing in conflict zones, signal blockage in urban canyons, and natural obstructions encountered in dense forests or tunnels can all severely compromise GNSS reliability. In such GNSS-denied environments, traditional navigation systems often falter, leading to significant risks. Adding an inertial based navigation system to the GNSS can add significant value in terms of faster data rates, smoother position data and can run in free inertial mode for short periods where GNSS is unavailable. However, when accuracy is required over longer GNSS denied durations, higher cost inertial sensors were traditionally needed. This is where Honeywell’s N580+HRVS solution steps in, offering an innovative approach that ensures continuity of navigation even in the most challenging conditions.
The Honeywell HGuide N580+HRVS represents a significant leap in navigation technology. This advanced system combines multiple sensors and sophisticated algorithms to provide accurate and reliable navigation data without relying on GNSS signals. Here’s how it works:
1. Multi-Sensor Fusion
At the heart of the HGuide N580 is its ability to fuse data from various sensors. The unit houses a dual-RF multi-frequency GNSS receiver paired with a tactical-grade Honeywell HG4930 inertial measurement unit (IMU) and can accept data from a range of external sensors. By integrating these data sources, the system creates a robust navigational solution that remains effective even when GNSS is unavailable. When the GNSS receiver can supply a Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) solution, it is fused with acceleration and rotation data from the IMU and other sensors to provide a high-rate real-time PNT solution that is both robust and smooth. In the absence of a reliable GNSS signal, Honeywell’s advanced navigation algorithms, the IMU and other sensors take over.
2. True Ground Speed Sensing
The HRVS component utilizes advanced velocity sensing techniques to track a vehicle’s true velocity over the ground in real-time. Unlike traditional distance measuring units (e.g., odometry), the HRVS does not require expensive, bulky wheel-mounted sensors or difficult OEM-level integration. It provides a true ground speed, eliminating errors caused by wheel lock-up or spin. By fusing this ground speed data with the inertial data, the HGuide N580+HRVS solution significantly improves upon using inertial data alone when GNSS is unavailable.
3. Ruggedized Design
The N580+HRVS is built to withstand harsh conditions, making it ideal for military, aerospace, and industrial applications. Its ruggedized design ensures reliable operation in extreme temperatures, high-vibration environments, and under continuous stress. This durability makes it suitable for both ground-based and aerial platforms requiring high levels of reliability.
4. Real-Time Processing
The system’s ability to process data in real-time is crucial for maintaining accurate navigation. The N580+HRVS uses advanced algorithms to ensure that all sensor data is analysed and integrated without delay. This real-time capability is vital for applications where even slight navigational errors can have serious consequences, such as in autonomous vehicles or military drones.
The versatility of Honeywell’s N580+HRVS system positions it to revolutionize navigation across various industries. Some key applications include:
Defense and Aerospace
In military operations, the ability to navigate accurately without GNSS is critical. The N580+HRVS can be deployed on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ground vehicles, and manned aircraft, ensuring that missions can be completed even in hostile environments where GNSS signals may be deliberately disrupted. For example, in battlefield scenarios where jamming devices neutralize GNSS-guided systems, the N580+HRVS offers an alternative method of navigation to circumvent these threats.
Autonomous Vehicles
The rise of autonomous vehicles has highlighted the need for reliable navigation systems that do not solely depend on GNSS. The N580+HRVS can be integrated into autonomous cars, drones, and robots, providing continuous and accurate navigation in urban environments, underground parking lots, or other GNSS-challenged areas. This makes it a critical technology for the future of smart cities, where autonomous vehicles will play a major role in transportation.
Industrial Applications
Industries such as mining, oil and gas, and construction often operate in remote or underground locations where GNSS signals are weak or non-existent. The N580+HRVS can guide machinery and vehicles in these environments, improving efficiency and safety. For instance, in underground mining, where traditional navigation tools fail, the system ensures that vehicles and equipment are accurately positioned, reducing the risk of accidents.
Disaster Response
During natural disasters, infrastructure like communication networks and GNSS can be severely disrupted. The N580+HRVS can assist in search and rescue operations by providing reliable navigation data to emergency vehicles and drones, ensuring they can reach affected areas quickly and safely. This capability can be a game-changer in scenarios where time is of the essence and reliable navigation is critical for saving lives.
What sets Honeywell’s N580+HRVS apart from other GNSS-denied navigation solutions is its comprehensive approach to sensor fusion and real-time processing. Its rugged design also ensures it can perform in the most challenging environments, making it a reliable choice for critical applications. Moreover, Honeywell’s extensive experience in aerospace, defense, and industrial technologies gives it a unique advantage. The N580+HRVS is backed by decades of expertise in developing and deploying advanced navigation systems, ensuring it meets the high standards required by demanding industries. As the world advances towards more sophisticated autonomous systems and complex operational environments, the need for reliable navigation in GNSS-denied environments will only grow. Honeywell’s N580+HRVS system, with its sophisticated sensor fusion, ruggedized design, and real-time processing capabilities, is poised to become a key player in this space. At InterGeo 2024, Honeywell’s demonstration of the N580+HRVS will undoubtedly draw significant attention from industries dependent on precise and reliable navigation. This innovative solution represents not just an evolution but a revolution in navigating a world where GNSS is not always available. With the N580+HRVS, Honeywell is not just meeting today’s challenges; it is paving the way for the navigation technologies of tomorrow.
