The devices are designed for applications such as drones (UAVs), legged robots, and autonomous ground vehicles, where the accuracy of inertial measurements is essential for estimating orientation and movement. The 3DM-CX7 series incorporates several inertial measurement units (IMUs) that enable real-time cross-checking and automatic rejection of outliers.
This architecture works in conjunction with MicroStrain's self-adaptive Extended Kalman Filter (EKF), designed to maintain reliable orientation and motion estimates under demanding dynamic conditions. Furthermore, each unit is individually calibrated across its entire operating temperature range to minimize errors caused by thermal variations.
Up to 1 kHz output frequency and only 8.3 grams
The 3DM-CX7 family of sensors offers the following technical characteristics:
Gyroscope polarization instability: 2.1°/h.
Acceleration measurement range: up to ±32 g.
Angular velocity range: up to ±4,000°/s.
Output frequency: up to 1 kHz.
Weight: 8.3 g.
Operating temperature: −40 to +85 °C.
The series is available in three configurations, adapted to different measurement and navigation needs.
The 3DM-CX7-AR provides roll, pitch, and relative heading information. It is geared toward applications where using a magnetic reference is impractical, such as certain automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and legged robots.
The 3DM-CX7-AHRS incorporates a three-axis magnetometer for absolute magnetic heading reference. This version is designed for drones and robotic platforms subjected to vibrations and rapid movements.
Meanwhile, the 3DM-CX7-INS combines inertial measurements with external inputs of position, speed, and heading to make more complete navigation estimates.
Integration with ROS, PX4 and development tools
To facilitate its integration into autonomous systems, the 3DM-CX7 family is compatible with ROS and PX4 environments.
MicroStrain also provides the MSCL API and the MIP SDK, which include documented interfaces and code examples for communicating with sensors and developing embedded applications.
The InertialConnect and SensorConnect tools allow you to configure devices, adjust parameters, and collect and visualize data.
