Review on vector tracking algorithm for GNSS receiver

The essential goal for GNSS signal tracking is to make a continued estimation for the PRN code delay and the Doppler offset of the carrier frequency. To begin with the principle of signal tracking, an in-depth survey of vector tracking (VT), including its history and basic ideals, key steps such as system modeling, the model parameter calculation and the filter design is presents in this paper. Noteworthy variants of VT including the Maximum Likelihood Vector Tracking Loop (MLVTL) and the Joint Vector Position Tracking Loop (JVPTL) are also covered, and models, characters and advantages of the two VT algorithms are summarized compared with Vector Delay/Frequency Lock Loop (VDFLL). Simulation results show that vector tracking loop performs well in reacquisition time and tracking residuals and it's more robust compared with scalar tracking loop especially under the weak signal environment. Lastly, it is concluded that a brief review of possible application areas for VT and its new research prospects in the future.