Alternatives to GPS Navigation

ABSTRACT

Current terrestrial navigation and location services are heavily dependent on the Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) but these systems are vulnerable to interference and not always available. The Seeker is searching for alternative means of navigation and determining location in lieu of GPS/GNSS (with accuracy equivalent to that provided by current GNSS systems) and are particularly interested in utilizing the proliferation of commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations and/or other signals of opportunity.

This Theoretical Challenge requires only a written proposal.

 

OVERVIEW

The Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS, for example Galileo, Beidou, GLONASS) are universally used for navigation and location services. The signals these systems utilize are, in general, low power and vulnerable to incidental and deliberate interference and it is desirable to have alternative methods available for navigation and determining location to both replace and validate information provided by GPS/GNSS. The Seeker is interested in proposed systems that utilize alternate signals of opportunity such as commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations to provide terrestrial location and navigation services in the absence of GPS/GNSS signals. Solutions are not required to provide the same level of location precision as GPS/GNSS but should be low cost and low size, weight, and power, and must work in all regions of the earth.

This is a Theoretical Challenge that requires only a written proposal to be submitted. The Challenge award will be contingent upon theoretical evaluation of the proposal by the Seeker.

To receive an award, the Solvers will have to transfer to the Seeker their exclusive Intellectual Property (IP) rights to the solution. 

Submissions to this Challenge must be received by 11:59 PM (US Eastern Time) on 14-Mar-2022.
Late submissions will not be considered.

 

What is InnoCentive?

InnoCentive is the global innovation marketplace where creative minds solve some of the world's most important problems for cash awards up to $1 million. Commercial, governmental and humanitarian organizations engage with InnoCentive to solve problems that can impact humankind in areas ranging from the environment to medical advancements.

What is an InnoCentive Theoretical IP Transfer Challenge?

An InnoCentive Theoretical Challenge builds upon an idea but is not yet a proof of concept. A solution to a Theoretical Challenge will solidify the Solver's concept with detailed descriptions, specifications and requirements necessary to bringing a good idea closer to becoming an actual product or service.

This Challenge is a Theoretical IP Transfer Challenge, meaning that Solvers must transfer all rights to the Intellectual Property (IP) for which they are awarded. Solvers that do not win retain the rights to their solution after the evaluation period is complete. The Seeker retains no rights to any IP not awarded.