GPS World, April 2014

EXPERT ADVICE Conclusions A common standards framework for all data files and streams within the GPS system would significantly improve interoperability between data centers processing centers and user tools In addition to a common encoding common models for equivalent message or data records would also be important for interoperability among data processing centers and the tools Common models and a common data framework enable rapid reconfiguration of workflows using different GPS processing products Likewise the availability of a common Web service interface enables one to rapidly and flexibly request specific data products and feed them into an executable workflow Here are further benefits SWE Common Data framework is fully self described and machine readable Common models for all data would support mix andmatch capabilities within the processing workflows SWE Web services enable on demand access to various GPS data products using a common framework SWE Common Data enables use of SensorML for readily defining and executing various workflows on demand Future Directions Further research and development should move closer to a highly interoperable GNSS system that meets the needs of a broader community of users and enables the development of new supporting software by outside communities Thus the following are recommended Design and reach consensus on consistent data models for all message types in navigation observation and state data streams Incorporate SWE Common Data readers writers in the GPSTk toolkit Create SensorML descriptions for GPSTk apps Demonstrate on demand design and execution of SensorML defined workflows for GPS correction Demonstrate on demand geolocation of UAV groundvehicle and hand held sensors using SWE services and encodings Some of these needs will be addressed in the OWS 10 Testbed that is currently ramping up in the OGC MIKE BOTTS is president and CTO of Botts Innovative Research Inc specializing in the design and application of open standards for sensor systems He is the creator and chief architect of Sensor Model Language SensorML an OGC technical standard for describing the measurement and processing of observations from virtually any sensor system www gpsworld com April 2014 GPS World 13