Receiver clock-based integrity monitoring for GPS precision approaches

Abstract

The errors in the vertical position and clock bias estimates obtained from GPS pseudo-range measurements are highly correlated. Therefore, the error in a vertical position estimate can be predicted if we know the clock bias estimation error. The latter can be estimated if the clock bias changes smoothly and, therefore, predictably. The current technology appears capable of manufacturing clocks which can meet this smoothness requirement for airborne use within the constraints of size, weight, and cost. We discuss the theoretical basis and present empirical data from laboratory and field experiments with a commercial rubidium standard to explore the benefits of integrity monitoring for precision approaches based on the receiver clock.