Understanding Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU): Basics, Applications, and Future Trends

An Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) is a device that measures acceleration, angular velocity, and sometimes magnetic fields to determine an object’s orientation and position. IMUs are essential in navigation, control systems, and motion tracking. By combining sensor data, IMUs enable precise tracking of motion and orientation in environments where GPS signals may be weak or unavailable.

Inertial Guidance: A Complete Guide

Inertial Guidance is a navigation method that allows an object—such as a missile, aircraft, spacecraft, or even a robot—to determine its position and orientation without the need for external references like GPS, radar, or beacons. It relies on inertial sensors, such as gyroscopes and accelerometers, to measure changes in velocity and direction, which are then used to calculate the object’s position and trajectory.