Development of a network RTK positioning and gravity-surveying application with gravity correction using a smartphone

Sensors (Basel). 2013 Jul 12;13(7):8879-94. doi: 10.3390/s130708879.

Abstract

This paper proposes a smartphone-based network real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning and gravity-surveying application (app) that allows semi-real-time measurements using the built-in Bluetooth features of the smartphone and a third-generation or long-term evolution wireless device. The app was implemented on a single smartphone by integrating a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) controller, a laptop, and a field-note writing tool. The observation devices (i.e., a GNSS receiver and relative gravimeter) functioned independently of this system. The app included a gravity module, which converted the measured relative gravity reading into an absolute gravity value according to tides; meter height; instrument drift correction; and network adjustments. The semi-real-time features of this app allowed data to be shared easily with other researchers. Moreover, the proposed smartphone-based gravity-survey app was easily adaptable to various locations and rough terrain due to its compact size.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms*
  • Artifacts*
  • Cell Phone*
  • Computer Communication Networks / instrumentation*
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Geographic Information Systems / instrumentation*
  • Gravitation*
  • Mobile Applications*
  • Software Design