The GPS/GNSS Survey Simulator is a powerful interactive application designed to help land surveyors in training gain a deeper understanding of GPS/GNSS workflows and survey techniques. This tool combines real-time simulations with intuitive interfaces, allowing users to experiment with GNSS parameters and survey practices in a controlled virtual environment.

1. User Interface and Layout

Three-Column Layout

• Left Sidebar:
  • Displays real-time GNSS status and position data.
  • Provides quick-access controls for starting surveys, saving points, and setting up equipment.
• Central Map View:
  • A high-resolution Mapbox-based 3D map with interactive terrain and building layers.
  • Enables users to visualize survey points and perform GNSS-based navigation.
• Right Sidebar:
  • Satellite View: Tracks satellites used in positioning.
  • Survey Log: Lists recorded survey data points and metadata for review.

Toolbar

• Positioned at the top of the map, offering tools for:
  • Adding points.
  • Measuring distances.
  • Adjusting map layers.
  • Managing offsets.

Status Bar

• Provides a real-time overview of:
  • RTK connection status.
  • Battery life.
  • Survey time elapsed.

2. Core Functionalities

1. Real-Time GNSS Data Simulation

• Solution Type:
  • Displays the type of GNSS solution (e.g., RTK Fixed) to teach the importance of precision-level indicators.
• Dynamic DOP Values:
  • Continuously updates PDOP, simulating how satellite geometry affects positioning accuracy.
• Signal Quality Indicators:
  • Uses color-coded dots (e.g., green for good, yellow for medium, red for poor) to represent satellite signal quality.

2. Positioning and Accuracy

• Latitude, Longitude, and Height:
  • Displays real-time GNSS-derived coordinates.
• Horizontal and Vertical Accuracy:
  • Simulates real-world variations in accuracy, reflecting environmental and satellite configuration changes.

3. Survey Simulation

• Survey Point Collection:
  • Points can be added by clicking on the map.
  • Includes metadata such as accuracy and timestamps for each point.
• Log and Export:
  • Survey points are logged for review and can be exported for post-processing.

4. Satellite Tracking

• Real-Time Sky View:
  • Displays the active satellites used for positioning, categorized by constellation (e.g., GPS, GLONASS).
• Satellite Metrics:
  • Includes azimuth and elevation angles, enabling users to visualize satellite availability.

5. Map Features

• Map Layers:
  • Provides a 3D visualization of terrain and buildings.
  • Dynamic terrain exaggeration offers enhanced visualization of elevation changes.
• Navigation Controls:
  • Pan, zoom, and rotate the map to explore survey sites effectively.

6. Simulation Controls

• Adjustable GNSS Parameters:
  • Modify GNSS settings like satellite count and DOP values to simulate varying conditions.
• Dynamic Updates:
  • The tool updates satellite configurations, PDOP values, and survey durations in real-time.

3. Advanced Features

Custom Survey Configurations

• Users can simulate different survey techniques, such as:
  • RTK-based point collection.
  • Terrain mapping with GNSS precision.

Interactive Map Integration

• Mapbox GL-powered map allows high-detail visualization of urban and rural survey scenarios.

Point Metadata

• Each survey point includes:
  • Timestamp.
  • GNSS accuracy.
  • Coordinates (latitude, longitude, and elevation).

Visual Feedback

• Sky plot and satellite views dynamically reflect satellite movements, teaching spatial relationships between satellites and receivers.

4. Practical Applications for Trainees

Learning GNSS Basics

• Understand how satellite constellations contribute to positioning.
• Experiment with DOP values and signal quality.

Field-Like Practice

• Provides a hands-on approach to GNSS-based surveying without needing expensive equipment or ideal weather conditions.

Error Analysis

• Observe the effects of poor satellite geometry or reduced visibility on positioning accuracy.

Data Review

• Analyze logged points and their associated metadata to develop efficient surveying techniques.

5. Learning Benefits

Hands-On Training

• Simulates the entire GNSS survey workflow, from equipment setup to point collection and data export.

Spatial Understanding

• Real-time sky plot and map views enhance spatial awareness of GNSS concepts.

Technical Proficiency

• Develops skills in using GNSS data for accurate surveying.

Error Management

• Demonstrates the impact of varying GNSS conditions, preparing trainees for real-world scenarios.

6. Key Benefits

• Realism: Mimics field conditions with simulated GNSS updates and map visualizations.
• Customizability: Allows adjustments to GNSS parameters for a variety of training scenarios.
• Visualization: Offers real-time feedback on satellite visibility and positioning accuracy.
• Accessibility: Makes GNSS survey training available to students without requiring physical equipment.

Conclusion

The GPS/GNSS Survey Simulator is an essential training tool for land surveyors, offering a comprehensive introduction to GNSS principles and practices. By blending interactive visuals with real-time GNSS simulations, this tool prepares trainees to handle real-world surveying challenges effectively.