Septentrio has introduced the AntaRx-Si3, a GNSS/INS Smart Antenna designed to advance navigation solutions for autonomous vehicles. Announced on February 5, 2024, in Leuven, Belgium, the AntaRx-Si3 combines Septentrio’s high-accuracy GNSS positioning with an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) in a single, ultra-rugged enclosure, employing FUSE+ technology for optimal performance.
The AntaRx-Si3 is specifically engineered for integration into autonomous machinery, including agricultural robots and autonomous vehicles operating in challenging environments where GNSS signals are prone to obstruction. By incorporating an IMU sensor, the AntaRx-Si3 enables continuous position availability and enhances the integrity and reliability of positioning data, a critical factor for the safety and efficiency of autonomous systems.
Danilo Sabbatini, Product Manager of GNSS/INS at Septentrio, emphasized the antenna’s installation ease and security benefits, stating, “With AntaRx-Si3 you get a receiver delivering positioning information with a high level of availability and integrity, that you can install with minimal effort. This is especially beneficial for after-market upgrades. It also allows removal of this valuable component at the end of the day to protect against theft or vandalism.”
Constructed to withstand the rigors of outdoor autonomous operations, the AntaRx-Si3’s enclosure is made of impact-resistant polycarbonate rated at IP69K, capable of enduring extreme shocks, vibrations, and environmental conditions. This multi-frequency receiver delivers Septentrio’s RTK positioning accuracy to the centimeter level. Additionally, the built-in 4G cell modem simplifies the acquisition of high-accuracy corrections, removing the need for separate modem integration.
The AntaRx-Si3 smart antenna leverages Septentrio’s advanced GNSS+ algorithms, including multipath mitigation, ensuring uninterrupted operation in environments with potential signal reflections from nearby machinery or structures. With its high update rate and low latency, the AntaRx-Si3 is optimized for the control loops of autonomous vehicles, facilitating navigation and operational efficiency in autonomous applications across various industries.