Monitoring of Vessels Using a GNSS Receiver Network

In this paper, the use of a GNSS receiver network for structural monitoring of vessels is considered. A background into previous uses of the GPS for monitoring applications is presented. A brief overview of the simple mathematics used to simulate a vessel as a flexible structure is also shown. Results from the simulation, using various degrees of accuracy, are then presented and analysed. This aids in the determination of the minimal accuracy required for such an application to be practical. The use of different analysis techniques, including Fourier-domain analysis allows for decomposition and identification of the various movements seen by the simulator. The paper also incorporates a brief discussion on the impact of the upcoming deployment of the Galileo system.