Augmenting the Accuracy of EPTS and Smartwatches Using Multiband RTK GNSS Module and UWB Positioning System

Abstract

With recent advances in navigation and communication, physical activity monitoring smartwatches have experienced rapid growth. Similar to activity tracking smartwatches, Electronic Performance Tracking Systems (EPTS) can be used specifically by professional sports people to track athletes during matches. By increasing the positioning accuracy of these tracking devices, more meaningful data can be generated which will further increase the demand for these devices. EPTS or fitness tracking smartwatches should be lightweight, compact, and have low power consumption so that they do not create any hindrance to physical movement. With these limitations, certain high accuracy positioning techniques that are deployed in robotics, construction, and navigation, cannot be used in these devices. However, using the latest positioning solutions, it is now possible to increase the accuracy of these devices up to a few centimeters. In this paper, we present two solutions. First, to increase the positioning accuracy of present EPTS from meters to centimeters and enabling them to track an athletes movements indoor. Second, directing correction data from a source to a GNSS receiver via mobile phone using a Bluetooth module we present a solution that can sharply increase the accuracy of fitness tracking smartwatches.