Importance

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Abstract

A method for correcting yaw in a DGPS (global positioning system) based guidance system mounted on a vehicle. The method corrects for a yaw induced heading/cross track error due to a DGPS antenna being mounted a significant distance from the point of operation (e.g., the vehicle operator's location, the center of the vehicle, etc.). The method determines a ground track of a vehicle using a DGPS system and a coupled antenna mounted on the vehicle. A heading of the vehicle is also determined using a compass mounted on the vehicle. The heading and the ground track are compared to determine whether a difference exits and the magnitude of the difference. Using the difference, the DGPS determined position is adjusted to be the position of the operator/center of the vehicle. Using this guidance information, an indication is generated operable for directing the vehicle to maintain a desired ground track. The indication is generated such that it compensates for the difference between the ground track at the point of operation and the desired ground track. The indication is generated to compensate for the specific mounting location of the DGPS antenna on the vehicle. In so doing, the indication properly directs the vehicle to maintain the desired ground track regardless of any yaw, crab, etc., of the vehicle, or any offset of the DGPS antenna due thereto.

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First Claim