An integrated approach to electronic navigation

Abstract

In today's Global Positioning System (GPS) dependent world, some have the notion that navigation is simply and almost solely accomplished through the use of GPS. While GPS is and will continue to be an excellent navigation system, it is neither flawless nor is it the only system employed in the navigation of today's seagoing war fighters. The modern war fighter must operate with dominant maneuverability, precision engagement capability, full dimensional protection and focused logistics. In order to meet these requirements an integration of independent, self-contained, self-initiated and externally referenced systems must be realized. The Navigation Sensor System Interface (NAVSSI) AN/SSN-6 (V) is a system that provides this capability through the real time collection, processing and distribution of accurate and reliable positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) data from varied shipboard sensors and systems. NAVSSI adds to this an electronic navigation capability that provides the ship navigation team with route planning, route monitoring and safety of navigation capabilities. The NAVSSI system is actually an integration of subsystems. The realtime subsystem (RTS) which collects, processes and distributes the PNT data uses a set of navigation source integration algorithms to blend input data from sensors such as GPS and inertial navigation systems (INS) to produce a highly accurate and robust navigation solution. When required, this solution is referenced to the own ship's reference point (OSRP). The display control subsystem (DCS) provides the operator interface to the RTS. It also contains the electronic charting and navigation capabilities as well as a radar interface and chart product distribution capability. The charting software used is the United States Coast Guard developed Command Display and Control Integrated Navigation System (COMDAC INS). The DCS and COMDAC INS software packages are built on the Defense Information Infrastructure Common Operating Environment (DII COE) and together will enable NAVSSI to lead the way to Electronic Chart Display Information System Navy (ECDIS-N) compliance.