Helix Geospace has been selected for the Zenzic CAM Scale-Up Programme Exploitation Phase, a pivotal initiative dedicated to advancing connected and automated mobility (CAM) technologies in the UK. In collaboration with Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation (Sony), Helix Geospace will develop an Advanced Adaptive Antenna that overcomes GNSS resilience challenges in urban environments.
While standard GNSS solutions, such as GPS, typically offer positional accuracy of 5–10 meters, this innovative technology delivers resilient, centimetre-level precision, representing a significant leap forward for micromobility and CAM systems operating in dense urban landscapes.
Addressing a Critical Urban Challenge
Urban environments present significant obstacles for reliable GNSS navigation due to limited satellite visibility and signal interference caused by tall buildings, infrastructure, and high device density. These challenges lead to:
Multipath Errors and Atmospheric Interference
GNSS signals reflecting off buildings create multiple paths before reaching the receiver, while atmospheric conditions exacerbate errors.
Limited Satellite Visibility
Obstructions reduce the number of satellites a receiver can access, hindering precise position calculations.
Signal Crowding
A high density of devices competing for satellite connections leads to signal congestion.
Design Constraints
Tight device enclosures and surrounding metal components impact antenna performance.
Collectively, these challenges underscore the urgent need for energy-efficient and robust GNSS solutions in congested urban spaces.
Innovative Integrated Solution
Our advanced adaptive GNSS antenna system integrates innovative technologies to combat urban GNSS challenges. By combining cost-effectiveness with energy efficiency, it ensures reliable positioning in dense, signal-restricted environments.
The system is built on Dielectrix™ technology, a dielectric-loaded, multi-filar antenna design that minimises intra-element coupling. Enhancing the antenna's capabilities, Sony’s CXD5610 chipset adds multi-constellation GNSS support (L1 and L5 bands) for improved accuracy and operates with ultra-low power consumption at just 5.6 mW in low-power mode. Its compact 3.2 x 3.7 mm XFGBA footprint makes it ideal for space-constrained applications. The inclusion of a disciplined Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) further increases accuracy by utilising sophisticated algorithms to maintain reliable navigation even when GNSS signals are weak or unavailable.
By combining multi-band capabilities, advanced algorithms, and energy efficiency, the system enhances battery performance and reduces costs, making it an excellent choice for mass-market IoT and mobility applications.
Advancing Connected and Automated Mobility
This Advanced Adaptive Antenna is poised to support the evolution of connected and automated mobility by ensuring consistent and accurate positioning in densely populated urban areas. Its low-power, highly resilient design is essential for the safe and efficient operation of autonomous and connected vehicles.
Key Benefits for CAM Applications:
Enhanced Safety & Compliance
Precise position and geofencing ensures regulatory compliance and reduces unauthorised travel.
Improved Autonomous Navigation
Reliable GNSS positioning for safe operation in complex urban environments.
Energy Efficiency
Low-power tech extends battery life for sustainable e-vehicles and micromobility.
Reliable Micromobility Performance
Accurate tracking supports navigation, crash detection, and usage monitoring.
Actionable Data Insights
High-quality positioning data enables route optimization, predictive maintenance, and fleet efficiency.
A Step Forward for the UK's CAM Industry
Through participation in the Zenzic Partnership Phase 3, Helix Geospace is collaborating with industry leaders, government bodies, and academic institutions to propel the UK's position in the global CAM sector. This partnership enables us to contribute significantly to the development of safer, more efficient, and sustainable mobility solutions.
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