Murata has developed a new MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) 6DoF (Six Degrees of Freedom) inertial sensor for autonomous Off-Highway vehicles, dynamic inclination sensing and GNSS positioning support. The sensor enables further advancement in technology and novel solutions for advanced driver / operator assistance systems, autonomous vehicles and GNSS based measurement instruments. The product delivers highest performance available on component level in key parameters like bias stability and noise. Murata calibrates orthogonality of all measurement axes. This allows our customers and system integrators to skip this costly and performance-critical process step.
Murata’s new SCHA63T sensor is the world's first single package 6DoF component with this level of performance. Traditionally this level of inertial sensor performance has only been available on expensive high-end IMU modules. The sensor can enable centimetre-level accuracy in machine dynamics and position sensing, and can assist ensuring safe, robust and verified designs. One of the key focus areas in product development for SCHA63T has been to ensure operation during high mechanical shock and vibration. Within the same product family, there are also sensor variants qualified according to automotive AEC-Q100 standard. SHCA63T sensor includes several advanced self-diagnostic features and can achieve full compliance with ASIL-D (Automotive Safety Integrity Level).
Murata has more than 20 years of experience of providing inertial sensors for safety critical automotive applications like electronic stability control (ESC). We have utilized this expertise in the development of this sensor family. SCHA63T sensor features extensive failsafe functions and error bits for diagnostics. These include internal reference signal monitoring, checksum techniques for verifying communication, and signal saturation/over range detection. The unique diagnostic feature of Murata's 3-axis accelerometer is the continuously operating self-test function, which monitors the sensor during measurement. This patented self-test function verifies the proper operation of the entire signal chain from MEMS sensor element movement to signal conditioning circuitry for every measurement cycle. Even if the system using SCHA63T is not required to follow international Functional Safety standards, the provided design support documentation enables for customers a cost effective, robust & fast design process.
The SCHA63T is suitable for various applications requiring 6DOF measurement capability with high precision and reliability. The factory dynamic calibration removes the need for cost intensive and complex calibrations at module level in applications requiring accurate inertial data. Use cases are vast in various application areas like precision agriculture, construction machines and instruments, material-handling systems, robotics, professional drones, and all moving machine type of environments. Integration to GNSS will provide robust & accurate positioning with reliable, frequently updated inertial data. Murata’s partners are capable of providing algorithms, which optimize the performance for dynamic inclination sensing. Having robust inclination sensing for example in construction & Off-Highway road vehicles enables large variety of applications that support autonomous operation and improve productivity.
Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. is a worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and sale of ceramic-based passive electronic components & solutions, communication modules and power supply modules. Murata is committed to the development of advanced electronic materials and leading edge, multi-functional, high-density modules. The company has employees and manufacturing facilities throughout the world. For more information, visit Murata's website at www.murata.com