Omega Lane Ambiguity Resolution Using Methods of Statistical Decision Theory

Lane ambiguity is an inherent problem of navigation systems using phase measurements. A lane ambiguity resolution technique combining methods of hyperbolic and range-range modes of navigation has been developed. The basis of this approach is that the ensemble of received phases at any location forms a unique set and therefore the lane resolution problem reduces to finding a position such that the expected set of phases (or the phase predicted for the position of the navigator) matches the received set. This method of lane resolution is not constrained by lane widths and using the phase data of 10.2, 13.6, and 11⅓ kHz; lane resolution has been accomplished for distances of up to 120 nmi. This method of lane resolution requires phase data from at least four stations at any frequency and is very sensitive to uncompensated propagation phase shifts.