What can RTK do?

• Base Station:

  This is a receiver erected at a point with precisely known coordinates. It continuously receives satellite signals and calculates the error in the satellite signals (i.e., differential correction data) based on its own precise coordinates.

• Data Link:

  This is responsible for transmitting the differential correction data calculated by the base station to the rover station in real time via radio or mobile network (such as 4G/5G).

• Rover Station:

  This is the user-carried device that receives satellite signals at the target location. Simultaneously, it receives correction data from the base station via the data link. Finally, it processes its own observation data and correction data together to calculate centimeter-level precise coordinates in real time.

RTK technology offers significant advantages over traditional surveying methods:

• High Efficiency:

  Traditional surveying methods require post-processing to achieve centimeter-level accuracy, while RTK provides results in real-time in the field, greatly improving operational efficiency.

• High Accuracy:

  It can provide centimeter-level (and even millimeter-level) positioning accuracy.

• Manpower Saving:

  Usually, only one person is needed to operate the rover.

• No Line-of-Sight Required:

  Unlike traditional surveying methods, RTK does not require line-of-sight between measurement points, which is particularly advantageous in complex terrain.

However, RTK technology also has its limitations:

• Operating Distance Limitations:

  To ensure accuracy, the distance between the rover and the base station should generally not exceed 10-15 kilometers; otherwise, errors will increase.

• Signal Quality Dependence:

  In environments where satellite signals are easily blocked or interfered with, such as near tall buildings or in forests, positioning accuracy and reliability will decrease.

Due to its high precision and real-time performance, RTK technology has been widely applied in many fields:

• Surveying Engineering:

  Topographic mapping, engineering layout, and control surveying are classic applications of RTK.

• Unmanned Applications:

  Providing high-precision flight control and positioning for drones in fields such as power line inspection, logistics delivery, and agricultural plant protection.

• Intelligent Devices:

  For example, intelligent lawnmower robots and autonomous agricultural machinery utilize RTK for centimeter-level path planning and navigation.

• Deformation Monitoring:

  Used to monitor minute deformations of structures such as dams, bridges, and slopes.

To overcome the limitations of traditional RTK in terms of distance and stability, more advanced operating modes have been developed:

• Network RTK:

  By establishing a network of multiple base stations, virtual correction data is generated, thereby expanding the effective operating range and reducing the hassle of users setting their own base stations.

• Multi-technology Integration:

  RTK technology is deeply integrated with inertial navigation (IMU), lidar (LiDAR), and visual sensors. Even in the event of a brief loss of satellite signal (such as in a tunnel), high-precision positioning can be maintained for a short period using other sensors.