MEMS sensor and integrated navigation technology for precision guidance

Atlantic Inertial Systems, based at Plymouth UK, has developed a range of Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) based on vibrating structure MEMS sensors. The first generation IMU is in military service and in volume production, a second generation IMU, using digital control and providing enhanced performance and shock tolerance, is presently completing development and is in production. To provide a full navigation capability, the MEMS IMU has also been ultra tightly coupled with a suitable GPS receiver, using a highly efficient modular Kalman Filter, in a package designed for missile, munition and projectile guidance. This paper describes the capabilities of MEMS inertial sensors applied to military guidance applications The technologies associated with vibrating structure sensors are explained with consideration to how the key objectives of miniaturisation, survivability, affordability and performance are achieved in a gun hard IMU. A programme of analysis and testing, aimed at establishing design margins, has been conducted, This has included a number of firing trials to confirm reliable operation following exposure to over 20,000g launch shock Results from these tests are presented, including integrated navigation performance for a unit following a 155mm artillery firing.