The SuperGPS-project aims to develop a hybrid optical-wireless terrestrial system for accurate positioning through a grid of radio transmitters, synchronized with extremely high accuracy through an optical telecommunication network.

Challenges of the project lie in:

  • the architecture and implementation of precise time distribution over an optical network
  • the synchronization of the radio-transmitters using the optical network
  • radio waveform design and associated efficient signal processing for wireless positioning and time distribution - specifically, the radio signal needs to have a high 'time resolution' in particular to be able to combat multipath effects
  • efficient use of the radio spectrum and spectrum-aware medium-access
  • optimal positioning algorithms for short range positioning and dealing with Non-Line-of-Sight propagation
  • developing an operational demonstrator for a highway scenario