Vectorial integer bootstrapping: flexible integer estimation with application to GNSS

Abstract

In this contribution, we extend the principle of integer bootstrapping (IB) to a vectorial form (VIB). The mathematical definition of the class of VIB-estimators is introduced together with their pull-in regions and other properties such as probability bounds and success rate approximations. The vectorial formulation allows sequential block-by-block processing of the ambiguities based on a user-chosen partitioning. In this way, flexibility is created, where for specific choices of partitioning, tailored VIB-estimators can be designed. This wide range of possibilities is discussed, supported by numerical simulations and analytical examples. Further guidelines are provided, as well as the possible extension to other classes of estimators.