Pseudo-kinematic GPS Results Using the Ambiguity Function Method

Abstract

Pseudo-kinematic (PK) positioning with GPS is a survey technique employed by the National Geodetic Survey. This technique, which could also be called broken static surveying (or intermittent static surveying), must not be confused with kinematic surveying. The kinematic survey method requires continuous carrier phase tracking while moving between survey monuments and places strong restrictions on the number of satellites without cycle slips. The PK method is a static technique whereby a geodetic monument is occupied for, typically, 1 to 5 min for two or more occupations separated substantially in time (e.g., 1 h). Tracking during the transitions between monuments is categorically not required, but is often done for practical reasons. PK promises substantial productivity gains over classical static surveys and can be employed where the regular kinematic method is impractical. Furthermore, PK is safer than the regular static mode in that a constant antenna height is normally involved. These advantages are discussed. The paper defines the PK method; provides a brief history; considers alternative possible names; presents the mathematical and physical basis for the method, with emphasis on what to do about all the cycle slips between occupations separated by 1 h or more; and provides a number of examples.