Embedded inertial navigation system

HBK has launches what it describes as a “tactical-grade” embedded inertial navigation system in a 38 x 24 x 8.6mm 8.3g package – 18% thinner and 20% lighter than its earlier 3DMCV5.

HBK MicroStrain 3DM-CV7-HBK

3DM-CV7-INS, as it will be known, has 1.5°/hr gyro bias instability – which is where the tactical grade comment comes from, and is calibrated over its operating range of -40 to +85°C.

Alongside the gyros there are accelerometers and a magnetometer, and the unit can take in position and velocity from an external GNSS (satellite navigation) receiver. Internal Kalman filtering is used for attitude estimation.


“All models in the 3DM-CV7 series feature orientation algorithms, internal time management and an event triggering system,” according to the company. “The INS model adds external position, velocity and heading inputs as well as NMEA compatibility.”


As an alternative to NEMA, it accepts MIP aiding. “MIP-aiding enhances accuracy and reduces drift, making it the ideal choice for applications where precision is paramount,” said HBK.

Power consumption is typically 230mW (280mW max) from 3.2 to 5.2Vdc. The GPIO nominally operates at 3V but it 5V tolerant.

MTBF is 2 million hours (Telecordia, GM/35C).

Drone and robot use are two of the potential applications, for which the company has ROS1 and ROS2 drivers, while configuration, control, display and logging are supported by software called SensorConnect.

Steve Bush

Steve Bush is the long-standing technology editor for Electronics Weekly, covering electronics developments for more than 25 years. He has a particular interest in the Power and Embedded areas of the industry. He also writes for the Engineer In Wonderland blog, covering 3D printing, CNC machines and miscellaneous other engineering matters.

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