SBG Systems has unveiled version 1.7 of the firmware for its Ellipse and Ellipse Micro series, which cater to IMU, AHRS, and INS sensors designed for UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and various robotic platforms. This notable update introduces a range of new features and enhancements:
Enhanced Odometer Options for Autonomous Testing
CAN Odometer Integration: Users can now select between an external odometer (DMI) that operates with pulses or utilize the vehicle’s built-in odometer that provides velocity data. During the installation process, users can input an approximate resolution, allowing the sensor to fine-tune parameters for optimal performance automatically.
New Automotive Data Outputs
Body Velocity and Slip Angle: The latest update includes outputs for body velocity and slip angle, which measures the “drift” angle between the vehicle’s intended path and its actual trajectory.
Refined Lever Arms Mode
Fixed Lever Arms Functionality: The Ellipse Kalman filter can now operate without the need for lever arm estimation, ensuring centimeter-level accuracy for RTK applications. This enhancement also facilitates low-dynamics operations and minimizes warm-up times. Users can achieve centimeter-level calibration for lever arms using Qinertia Lite, while the standard mode that refines lever arms in real-time remains available for general applications.
Advancements in Marine Technology
Support for DVL Aiding: The new firmware enhances underwater navigation by reducing drift from inertial sensors, making it suitable for short subsea navigation tasks with cost-effective inertial sensors. Additionally, a new output message (INDYN) has been introduced to support high-performance sailing autopilots, such as the B&G H5000.
Improved Magnetic Calibration Techniques
Enhanced Calibration Algorithm: The sbgCenter now features an upgraded magnetic calibration algorithm that boosts overall performance, even in challenging calibration environments, while offering better quality feedback.
the latest firmware update is available for download on SBG’s official website.
