Precise indoor mapping as a basis for coarse indoor navigation

Abstract

There are a number of consumer electronics applications on the market that use the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Smartphones equipped with GNSS are used for navigation. In surveying, GNSS-based mobile mapping systems (MMS) are used daily to capture the local environment in three dimensions. In recent years, research into indoor applications has increased, particularly the mapping of building interiors using kinematic measurement methods and navigation indoors. A significant problem is the loss of GNSS-based positioning information. This problem could be eliminated using an Inertial Measurement Unit and/or a combination of additional information. HafenCity University (HCU) is engaged in the development of a modular mobile mapping platform, known as a mobile mapping system (MMS), that can also be used indoors. Furthermore, HCU is working on algorithms for indoor navigation that use commercially available smartphones, thus obviating costly infrastructure. Base maps are important for visual reference and can be used to provide supporting information in navigation algorithms, but constructing base maps is often problematic. The MMS is used for creating maps for indoor navigation. In this paper, a concept of the interaction of the two research areas is presented, and insight on the states of both research areas is given.