Building Robust GNSS–GIS Data Fusion Platforms for Autonomous Robots: Perspectives and Recommendations

Abstract

In this work, we provide a conceptual overview of the research pertaining Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) integration in autonomous robotic platforms. Instead of presenting a full localization pipeline, our focus is on discussing which GIS-based tools and methods can most effectively complement GNSS in degraded environments and how this GIS-GNSS integration has been achieved so far. We further outline how GIS elements could be integrated into a new architecture. A front-end would provide real-time visualization of the robot state, mission planning interfaces, and terrain layers, while a back-end would support GNSS correction distribution, GIS dataset management, and semantic access to spatial information. Together, these elements define a roadmap for a future robust GNSS–GIS fusion platform.