Environment-Adaptive Localization based on GNSS, Odometry and Lidar Systems

In this thesis, an extension of the existing localization system of the ABSOLUT project is presented, with the aim of making it more resistant to GNSS errors. This enhanced system is based on the integration of a LiDAR sensor. Initially, a 3D map of the traversed route is created using the LiDAR sensor. This process employs an existing factor graph-based SLAM algorithm, which is made more stable and accurate through the inclusion of a surveyed elevation profile of the environment, the integration of vehicle odometry sensors, and bias estimates of the IMU. The generated map is used during the drive to determine the vehicle's position by comparing it with the currently captured point clouds. This procedure relies on a newly developed Error-State Kalman Filter that fuses LiDAR odometry with absolute LiDAR position estimates. To optimally use the pose estimation from the various sensor systems, an approach is proposed that adaptively combines the estimates based on the environment. The performance of the developed system is evaluated using real driving data