Introducing the VN-100 Rugged Surface Mount Orientation Sensor
VectorNav Technologies, LLC, a prominent name in embedded navigation solutions, has unveiled the VN-100 Rugged, a robust aluminum-encased variant of its well-established VN-100 surface mount orientation sensor. This compact, high-performance device integrates a 9-axis array of factory-calibrated MEMS accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers. Measuring just 33 x 26 x 9 mm and weighing only 13 g, the VN-100 Rugged is designed for seamless integration into space-constrained applications, making it perfect for use in a variety of challenging environments.
Wiht impressive accuracy levels exceeding 0.5 degrees in pitch and roll, and 2 degrees in heading, the VN-100 Rugged ensures precise orientation measurements. Each unit undergoes individual calibration for bias, scale factor, and misalignment errors. Additionally,a thermal calibration option is available,extending the calibration process across the sensor’s full operational temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.
Alongside the VN-100 Rugged, VectorNav has enhanced its sensor fusion algorithm, the Vector Processing Engine™ (VPE). Operating at a frequency of 200 Hz, the VPE enables real-time output of accurate orientation and inertial data from all VN-100 sensors.
This upgraded VPE addresses the limitations of previous algorithms that struggled with performance during magnetic and acceleration disturbances. By utilizing advanced filtering and adaptive tuning methods, the new VPE can detect and compensate for these disturbances in real-time, ensuring reliable attitude solutions. Furthermore, the VPE employs quaternion mathematics to avoid the mathematical singularities known as “gimbal lock,” which can hinder othre estimation algorithms. This allows users to operate the sensor through a full 360° range of motion and mount it in any orientation.The VPE also features real-time gyro drift compensation, providing smooth and drift-free attitude estimates. Additional capabilities of the enhanced VPE include embedded hard/soft iron calibration for continuous magnetic calibration during operation and a multi-sensor synchronization feature that enables the VN-100 to connect with other VectorNav sensors or devices like GPS.
“VectorNav was established with the vision of merging cutting-edge aerospace engineering with advanced MEMS sensor technology to deliver innovative navigation solutions to the inertial sensor sector,” stated John Brashear, President and Co-Founder of VectorNav. “The introduction of the Rugged package, along with the upgraded VPE, represents a significant advancement toward fulfilling these ambitions. By leveraging our expertise in these domains to tackle common challenges faced by customers in the inertial sensor market, we have developed a versatile and cost-effective solution that empowers applications previously deemed unattainable for those looking to push the boundaries of intelligent navigation.”
The VN-100 Rugged features Serial TTL,RS-232,and USB data interfaces,making it suitable for a diverse range of applications,including robotics,both manned and unmanned vehicles,military and maritime operations,camera stabilization,mining,and surveying.Production units are now available for order. For further details and specifications regarding the VN-100 Rugged or the Vector Processing Engine algorithm, as well as the complete range of VectorNav Technologies products, please visit www.vectornav.com.
