Unique and Comprehensive Laboratories

Designed specifically to cater for the needs of the applications and research development community, the Nottingham Geospatial Building (NGB) provides a comprehensive environment for the simulation, R&D and testing of GNSS, PNT and geospatial applications.

Roof Based Laboratory

A unique feature of the facility is the Roof Based Laboratory of the NGB (560 sq. metres). It can be used to carry out a range of R&D, simulation and test activities. Seven stable pillars supported through the whole of the building and into the foundations provide precise antennae mounting points and the capability for the simultaneous testing of multiple sensors. The roof also houses a unique state of the art 120m kinematic test-track.

Covered with a multipath reducing surface and with obstructions designed to be at a minimum, the Roof Based Laboratory provides a high-tolerance geo-referenced platform for testing continuously operating GNSS receivers.

GPS/Galileo RF Signal Simulation

GRACE has taken delivery of an advanced GSS8000 hardware simulation system from Spirent Communications. Industry and researchers looking to develop and test new applications using satellite navigation technology can benefit from the advanced simulation capabilities of the system. With a total of 96 channels and the capability to simulate GPS L1, L2 and L5, Galileo E1, E5ab and E6, the GSS8000 allows comprehensive, repeatable and cost-effective multi-system, multi-constellation GNSS testing. Download the GSS8000 brochure.

Indoor PNT Environment

Providing a state of the art test environment and showcase for indoor PNT applications, the NGB has been designed as a test-bed for integrated PNT technologies. It is equipped with an RFID navigation platform that includes more than 1000 RFID tags positioned under the carpet of the first floor of the building as well as the GNSS laboratory. Wi-Fi access is provided and an Ultra Wide-Band (UWB) system is under development enabling R&D in seamless, integrated indoor navigation technologies.

Mobile Laboratory

The mobile laboratory allows repeatable kinematic experiments in real-life conditions. The customised Mercedes Vito van has a fixed steel frame on the top with 6 surveyed positions for the installation of GNSS receivers, internal chambers for navigation-grade IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units), 2 industrial computers and operator desk space inside.

Other Facilities

Other facilities within the NGB include a GNSS development laboratory (40 sq. metres), an applications development laboratory (32 sq. metres), a visualisation laboratory (72 sq. metres), and a secure-access laboratory (26 sq. metres).