Fixposition AG Vision-RTK 2

The Vision-RTK 2 from Swiss company Fixposition AG is a positioning unit with sensor fusion: it combines two multi-band RTK GNSS receivers with visual-inertial odometry, that is, motion estimation from camera images and inertial sensors. The class is given as a medium-class multicopter, but the emphasis of this design lies in ground robotics.

Multi-band means the receivers use several signal bands at once and remove the ionosphere, which makes the RTK solution faster and more stable. The real gain of the unit is the fusion. Where satellite signals drop out, for example under bridges, between buildings or at the edge of a forest, the odometry bridges the gap so the position does not break off. The operating temperature range runs from -35 to +85 °C. Connection is through industrial-standard connectors.

Camera-based odometry needs light and image structure: in darkness, fog or uniform surfaces it loses its grip, and then the GNSS side alone carries. Anyone wanting to use the unit on a drone should clarify mass, mounting position and interfaces to the flight controller with the manufacturer. The EU classes apply to the aircraft: from C1 upward geo-awareness and remote ID are mandatory, both resting on the GNSS position, and sensor fusion replaces none of these duties. Correction data come from a base or an NTRIP service.

For selection, rigid mounting matters: camera and inertial sensor must sit firmly relative to each other and to the aircraft so that the fusion assigns motion correctly. The lens is kept clean and free of fogging, and the antennas need a clear view and distance from transmitters. Firmware belongs to upkeep, because it controls fusion and receivers together.