A more advanced technique has been developed by researchers that, in some circumstances, may someday replace GPS. This system, known as SuperGPS, is independent of satellite navigation systems and is accurate to within 10 centimetres (3.9 inches).
With the new method, networks resembling cell networks are used, but instead of streaming data to our phones, the network gets an exact fix on the device.
The system is built on a base of radio transmitters and fiber-optic networks, with some clever modifications on top.The researchers were able to demonstrate their system in action over a 660 square metre area in a test site with six radio transmitters (7,104 square feet). The whereabouts of individual devices can be determined by measuring and interpreting the timings of radio signals that are being emitted to determine distance.
A synchronised atomic clock is one of the essential elements of the new network positioning system because precise timing results in more accurate location. Fiber optic cables serve as links that essentially keep everything in synchronisation and precise to one billionth of a second.
Although radio spectrum bandwidth is expensive due to its scarcity, the team employed numerous small bandwidth radio signals merged to produce a bigger virtual bandwidth for the network communication. The system also deploys a radio signal bandwidth that is far larger than usual.
With more bandwidth available, radio signals no longer get reflected off of buildings, which is one of the main issues with regular GPS and can lead to rapid signal confusion.
According to the academics that developed it, the new method may be beneficial for planning quantum communication networks as well as next-generation mobile device networks in addition to automated vehicles.
