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Navigation grade 100G MEMS accelerometer for Inertial Navigation

Abstract

This innovative project will deliver a 100g MEMS (micro-electrical mechanical systems) accelerometer, bringing MEMS technology into the navigation grade inertial sector and providing UK sovereign capability in a key technology area.

Operating in GPS denied environments has become a critical area of focus with Inertial Navigation (INS) providing a resilient tool based on accelerometers and gyroscopes. GPS denied does not only apply when signals are jammed but also other applications such as underwater navigation and tracking of personnel in buildings. IMU is a dual use technology with multiple civilian applications including autonomous vehicles, robotics and aerospace.

SMG has spent 7 years of research and development on our resonant MEMS accelerometers and gyroscopes. MEMS is smaller, lighter and with lower power consumption than traditional technologies. MEMS can be volume manufactured with associated cost savings.

Our vision is to deliver a matchbox sized, navigation grade IMU system which will be game changing in multiple markets. We are not there yet but we have now developed a 25G accelerometer with a total bias of 35µg which puts it at navigation grade performance.

This proposal is to work with Collins Aerospace, a Tier One defence contractor, to develop a 100g navigation grade accelerometer and to bring it to market for the UK defence supply chain. At the end of this project we will have completed the technical development and taken the manufacturing level to MRL5\.

Lead Participant

Project Cost

Grant Offer

SILICON MICROGRAVITY LIMITED £768,249 £ 384,124

Publications

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