Locating GCP's in Static vs Kinematic?

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Hey guys I have a question about locating GCP’s. What is the difference or issue with locating GCP’s in Static vs Kinematic?

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When discussing the use of Ground Control Points (GCPs) in GNSS surveying and the potential impact of Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) corrections, it’s essential to understand both the traditional static and kinematic methods and how RTK can enhance each.

1. Static GNSS Surveying:

  • Definition: In a static GNSS survey, the GNSS receiver remains stationary for a certain period, often for several minutes to hours, at each survey point.
  • With RTK: Incorporating RTK can significantly reduce occupation times needed for high precision in static surveying. This combination allows for quicker establishment of GCPs while maintaining high accuracy, provided the RTK solution remains stable and accurate.
  • Advantages: Traditionally, the static method offers higher accuracy and is suitable for establishing control networks. When combined with RTK, it reduces the time required at each point without sacrificing precision.
  • Disadvantages: It’s slower than kinematic methods, but the introduction of RTK can help mitigate this disadvantage to some extent.

2. Kinematic GNSS Surveying:

  • Definition: Here, the receiver is on the move, recording positional data at specified intervals.
  • With RTK: RTK shines when combined with kinematic surveying. The roving GNSS receiver is continuously corrected in real-time by the base station, achieving centimeter-level accuracy even while in motion.
  • Use for GCPs: While traditional kinematic methods might not be preferred for GCPs due to relative inaccuracy, incorporating RTK changes this. The RTK-kinematic combination is suitable for quickly establishing GCPs with high precision.
  • Advantages: This combination offers the best of both worlds—rapid data collection from kinematic surveying with the high accuracy provided by RTK. It’s ideal for projects requiring both speed and precision.
  • Considerations: It’s vital to ensure a stable connection to the base station and be wary of interruptions or multipath errors that could affect the RTK solution’s quality.

In summary, while static and kinematic GNSS surveying methods each have their advantages and potential pitfalls, the incorporation of RTK can enhance their efficiency and accuracy dramatically. This is particularly evident in the realm of GCP establishment, where precision and speed are often both essential.

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