Real-time kinematic (RTK) is a surveying technology that measures the relative positions using two Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) antennas in real-time with better accuracy. The errors found in GNSS results are determined and corrected using RTK technology.Â
This article discusses the working and benefits of RTK surveying in the construction industry.
Components and Working of Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) Survey
An RTK setup consists of two receivers. One of them, called the base station or GNNS receiver, is stationary, while the second receiver called rover moves freely.
The base station is a static point whose coordinates are fixed and determined by other precision methods in surveying. It uses GNSS to compute errors in this point by comparing it to its precise location. The error determined is transmitted in real-time to the rover. The objective of the antenna at the base station is to remain at one point and send the corrections to the moving receiver.
Rover uses these corrections to improve its computed position from the GNSS and achieve centimeter-level precision. More than one rover is used and can be connected to one base if their input settings match with the output from the base.
Traditional GNSS receivers measure the time taken for a signal to travel from a satellite to the receiver. These receivers determine the position with 2-4 meter accuracy. But the incorporation of RTK gives the relative position in centimeter accuracy.
RTK is mainly used for construction applications that require higher frequency like cadastral survey, drone navigation, and other construction activities.
Advantages of RTK in Construction
The benefits of RTK in construction are:
- RTK technology provides centimeter-level accuracy and eliminates human errors caused in traditional surveying.
- RTK systems rely on satellite, radio positioning and communication, thereby helping conduct surveying faster than traditional methods.
- RTK survey helps to develop construction layouts quickly.
RTK technology is unavailable in marine areas, lands with obstructions (trees, mountains, etc.), or projects that disrupt communication. The system requires a pre-surveyed base station with known coordinates.
FAQs
Real-time kinematic (RTK) is a surveying technology that measures the relative positions using two Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) antennas in real-time with better accuracy. The common errors found in GNSS results are determined and corrected using RTK technology.Â
RTK is mainly used for construction applications that require higher frequency like cadastral survey, drone navigation, and other construction activities.
RTK technology is unavailable in marine areas, lands with obstructions (trees, mountains, etc.), or projects that disrupt communication. The system requires a pre-surveyed base station with known coordinates.
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