tröghetsmätare

A tröghetsmätare, or inertial measurement unit (IMU), is a device that measures and reports on a body's specific force, angular rate, and sometimes magnetic field, using a combination of accelerometers and gyroscopes, and often magnetometers. These sensors allow the IMU to determine the orientation and velocity of an object. Accelerometers measure linear acceleration, which, when integrated over time, can indicate changes in velocity. Gyroscopes measure angular velocity, and integrating this over time can determine changes in orientation. Magnetometers, when present, measure the strength and direction of the magnetic field, which can be used for absolute orientation referencing.

IMUs are crucial components in a wide range of applications. In aviation and aerospace, they are used for navigation and attitude determination in aircraft, drones, and spacecraft. In the automotive industry, IMUs contribute to electronic stability control systems and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Consumer electronics also heavily rely on IMUs for motion sensing in smartphones, gaming controllers, and virtual reality headsets, enabling features like screen rotation and gesture recognition. The data provided by an IMU allows for precise tracking of movement and orientation in three-dimensional space, making it an indispensable tool for modern technology.