Nonlinear Asymptotic Attitude Estimation Using Double GPS Receivers and Gyro

We present an asymptotically convergent nonlinear attitude estimator using a rate gyro and GPS. Double-difference (DD) carrier phase measurements are provided by at least two GPS antennas. The unknown integer ambiguity factor related to GPS carrier phase measurement is estimated along with the attitude. An observability condition is derived to guarantee the convergence of the estimator when a single baseline vector is available with more than four satellites in view. A systematic procedure for tuning observer parameters is also presented. Finally, the experimental test from a light fixed-wing aircraft illustrates the performance of the proposed observer.