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Testing GNSS receiver systems in real-world conditions is limited by unpredictability, legal restrictions, and the inability to replicate scenarios. CAST Navigation addresses this challenge with advanced simulation technology that creates controlled, repeatable satellite signal environments.
When testing a GNSS, comprehensive testing usually isn’t possible when relying on live satellite signals, according to CAST Navigation. In a live environment, engineers can’t determine the exact cause of errors, which can slow development and increase risk, so it’s impossible to establish controlled conditions suitable for experimentation and isolate specific variables without using a controlled signal environment.
A valid experiment requires repetition of identical scenarios because it enables engineers to validate assumptions, debug faults and compare performance. Without this consistent verification, it’s impossible to put confidence in a satellite system, CAST Navigation said.
Also, certain GNSS conditions can’t be put into practice in the real world for testing purposes. For example, spoofing or jamming satellite signals is usually illegal because such activities could cause interference or harm in other systems. Also, environmental effects like atmospheric interference or terrain obstruction can’t be easily configured or isolated in a live testing scenario.
Improving reliable testing
A controlled simulation environment that can generate repeatable GNSS conditions enables engineers to conduct reliable testing and validation. CAST Navigationprovides such a highly realistic and reliable simulated satellite signal environment, enabling organizations to conduct rigorous testing of guidance systems and positioning technologies. By creating artificial signals that can be precisely repeated as many times as necessary, engineers can get the data they need without the difficulties and restrictions of operating in a real-world environment.
Multi-constellation frequencies available
At the core of this technology from CAST Navigation is the ability to generate multi-constellation GNSS signals across multiple frequencies, such as GPS, GLONASS and BeiDou. These systems are highly adaptable to all kinds of experimental conditions. They support simultaneous simulation of multiple satellite systems at once, allowing engineers to account for variables like terrestrial movement and space-based trajectories.
Using advanced motion modeling, engineers can use CAST’s system to simulate position, orientation and complex motion patterns in real time. But CAST Navigation technology isn’t just modeling satellite movement. It’s also modeling the environment the satellites are operating in, with variables such as atmospheric interference (such as ionospheric delay) fully integrated into the testing environment.
Engineers can test their production systems in both ideal and adverse environments, such as one where satellite signals are being jammed. This makes CAST Navigation systems suitable for both military and commercial applications, particularly when engineers are trying to design resilient and flexible GNSS systems.
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