Evaluation of multipath error and signal propagation in a complex scenario for GPS multipath identification

For precise GPS kinematic positioning one major source of error is the multipath signal propagation. Therefore, it is very important to get more information about the possible multipath signals in a complex scenario. Doing measurements in such a scenario for detecting multipath signal propagation is very time consuming and cast intensive. Several measurements corresponding to the various receiver and satellite positions are basically required for assessing the multipath phenomenon. With a simulation it is possible to predict a multipath signal propagation and the corresponding Hence, for choosing the best antenna position of a reference receiver, for optimization of the positioning of an aeroplane antenna, or for certification of an aircraft landing and taxi guidance system, a simulation is more effective than multiple measurement series. For verification of our simulation we conducted several measurement experiments in special test scenarios, which were selected to investigate the particular effects of multipath signal propagation. An excellent area for multipath signal propagation is the apron in front of DLR's hangar. There is a metal door which is about 50 meters wide, 8 meters high and orientated to the south-east. This landscape-scenario, consisting of the surrounding buildings, the apron and the taxiway, was modelled in a simulation environment. With this coded geometry a simulation with a static receiver placed in front of the metal gate was run. For the satellite transmitters we chose real GPS satellite positions. The signal propagation for all satellites which were visible within a certain time interval was simulated.