SBG Systems, a frontrunner in advanced inertial technology, has unveiled a groundbreaking MEMS-based North-seeking Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU).
This pioneering development is touted as a global first, removing the reliance on GNSS assistance and representing a notable leap forward in precision navigation for high-demand applications.
By advancing MEMS technology for high-accuracy gyrocompassing, SBG Systems is paving the way for future innovations in Attitude and Heading Reference Systems (AHRS) and Inertial Navigation Systems (INS). This achievement brings the advantages of MEMS—such as compact size, reliability, and cost efficiency—to a level of navigational performance that was previously attainable only through fiber-optic or ring-laser gyroscopes.
The MEMS-based Inertial measurement Unit from SBG systems boasts remarkable heading accuracy, exceeding 1° secant latitude without GNSS support, and achieving INS heading precision of better than 0.01° when integrated with GNSS. These capabilities are powered by SBG’s advanced navigation algorithms,ensuring outstanding orientation performance across various conditions.
In contrast to conventional gyrocompasses, this innovative solution features a genuine MEMS design devoid of moving components—eliminating the necessity for carouseling mechanisms.This design choice enhances durability, reliability, and lifespan, making it perfectly suited for mission-critical applications.
Key Benefits of SBG Systems’ MEMS-Based Gyrocompassing IMU:
- Exceptional SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power) Efficiency: A compact design (52 x 52 x 36 mm, <150g) with ultra-low power consumption (2W), establishing it as the most efficient option in its category.
- Scalable Manufacturing: Engineered for high-volume production, ensuring widespread availability and cost-effectiveness.
- Robust Durability: The absence of moving parts guarantees long-lasting reliability even in the most challenging environments.
- ITAR-Free: Allows for unrestricted global deployment.
Innovative Gyrocompass Alignment Algorithms
SBG Systems has introduced state-of-the-art, patent-pending algorithms that enhance gyrocompass and INS alignment capabilities:
- Pure North-Finding Algorithm: Facilitates speedy initialization in both static and dynamic scenarios, cutting alignment time to as little as one minute.
- Advanced GNSS/INS Fusion: Utilizes high-performance gyroscope data to provide exceptional single-antenna heading accuracy, even in low-dynamic settings.
engineered for high-Stakes Applications
The MEMS-based North-seeking IMU is specifically designed to cater to industries where precision navigation is critical:
- Subsea Operations: Tailored for ROVs and AUVs functioning in extreme underwater conditions that demand reliable, high-accuracy navigation.
- Geospatial & Marine Surveying: Offers superior single-antenna heading accuracy for hydrographic mapping, dredging, and offshore positioning.
SBG systems is set to launch the first commercial solutions in early 2026.
The company will showcase the North-seeking MEMS-based IMU at Ocean Business 2025, Booth E4.
