I've recently build a mini prototype of a GPS reciever that 1) gets an instant fix on the location as soon as you turn it on and 2) does not require line of site to the sky to calculate your location. It does this by using an integrated accelerometer and gyroscope (technically only one is needed) to estimate the person's location based on movement. Both of those circuits can be calibrated by using the GPS when there is a strong signal, when there is loss of the GPS signal, those instruments will continue to calculate your location based on your current speed, direction, etc. And if you store the last known location and the device is powered off, you could use the last known location to instantly calculate the device's location using the accelerometer and and gyroscope....of course this would only work if the device wasn't moved while it was powered off. Lastly you can use these devices to calibrate the GPS's signal....since GPS has some inaccuracies you can "adjust" your position to the exact location on a map then use the GPS + accelerometer/gyro to keep a fix on the offset. My prototype works, however I only spent about $10 on the parts + the cost of the GPS equipment...so the accuracy isn't perfect, I suspect if higher quality parts were use the accuracy could be made nearly perfect plus it wouldn't add much to the cost of the GPS equipment.

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