Drift-Free MEMS IMU Antenna Stabilization

Antenna stabilization without the use of external references requires sensors that are more stable than the level of stability specified, otherwise the sensor instability is reflected in apparent antenna instability. We propose a Stabilized MEMS IMU based on MSSA’s IMU Sensor Chip that integrates three gyros and six accelerometers on the same chip. Stabilization algorithms are introduced to remove bias instability from the gyro and accelerometer signals and to continuously measure scale factor. The result is improved precision and accuracy for dependable day-to-day autonomous antenna stabilization. The stabilization algorithms essentially elevate the long-term drift performance of the MEMS sensors to that of much larger instruments. Because of their small size and low cost they enable advanced operation at an affordable price. BENEFIT: IMUs built from MSSA’s embeddable single-chip MEMS IMU sensor will be substantially smaller and less expensive, and will facilitate more highly-integrated applications, including stabilized versions, than is possible with other MEMS IMUs. Commercial applications include: IMUs for GN&C of small UAVs and UUVs (and stabilization of their sensors, seekers and cameras), for border patrol, search & rescue, fire-fighting and police operations; IMUs for air, land and water vehicle navigation, with or without GPS-aiding; IMUs for integration into GPS/Dead Reckoning Systems for “first responders”, (i.e. “Personal Navigation” or "Personnel Locators"); Robotic stabilization, especially for small, versatile robots; Precision motion tracking for portable and wearable systems, such as high-end virtual reality headsets, and heavy-duty stabilization for surveying, precision pointing and tracking of antennas and telescopes.