The Performance of RTK GPS Mapping In Urban Environments

TL;DR: In this article, the availability assessment of real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning for making a map under the urban environments was carried out, and a field test was performed, in the spring and winter season to investigate which factors affect the accuracy of RTK positioning.

Abstract: In the past, classical surveying techniques by EDM (Electromagnetic Distance Meter), and Total Station (TS), was used for making a plan map. They contained lots of problems, such as atmospheric condition, costs and especially a line of sight. Nowadays, Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) GPS techniques, was introduced in the fields of engineering survey. This study aims at the availability assessment of RTK positioning for making a map under the urban environments. TS surveying was used to check the performance on the result of RTK positioning. Besides, a field test was performed, in the spring and winter season to investigate which factors affect the accuracy of RTK positioning. That result was that the number of visible satellites being tracked rather than a mass of green foliage has an effect on the results of RTK positioning directly. It is required that the research into multipath effect by trees and/or building in RTK positioning should be more carried out.