GPS-based attitude and guidance displays for general aviation

GPS was used with a short baseline (1 and 2 wavelengths) triple antenna configuration to obtain attitude in conjunction with solid state rate gyros. The system was used to provide an inexpensive attitude-heading reference system (AHRS) for use by small general aviation aircraft. The gyros enabled a high bandwidth output while the GPS was used to estimate the gyro drift rate. The resulting attitude information was used, along with GPS-based position, by a graphical “out-the-window” view with tunnels indicating the desired path in the sky for the current phase of flight. Accuracy and ease of flying are enhanced by the system