Operating principle of the inertial measurement unit
The inertial measurement unit measures up to six dimensions: yaw, roll and pitch rate as well as lateral, longitunal and vertical accelerations. For the measurements the inertial measurement unit uses measuring elements in surface micromechanics. The yaw-rate sensor’s measuring element works according to the Coriolis principle, meaning it utilizes the inertia force of an oscillating mass in a rotating system. Due to the high resonance frequency of 25 kilohertz and the closed drive and evaluation unit, the measuring element is very insensitive to mechanical interference. Acceleration is measured on the basis of the capacitive change in the micromechanical structures.
The inertial measurement unit contributes to the functionality of active and passive safety systems like the ESP® and the airbag control unit as well as to driver assistance systems like the adaptive cruise control, and improves the offset performance with an integrated microcontroller. The inertial measurement unit is available for a multitude of automotive applications as well as for future advanced driver assistance systems functions and automated driving.
