Technologies
Magnetometer-Based Attitude Determination System for Space and Earth Applications
Technology description
The magnetometer-based attitude determination system from KM Sense was initially designed for satellite attitude determination and space environment monitoring. Its key components includes a 3-axis magnetometer (captures precise magnetic field data) plus accelerometer and gyroscope (provides additional stability and correction data). There is also an embedded microcontroller and software, which features state-of-the-art sensor fusion algorithms for real-time attitude calculation. This system is already flight-proven, with two sensors launched into space onboard Hello Test 1 and Hello Test 2 satellites via SpaceX Falcon 9 Transporter-9 Mission on 11 Nov 2023. It has successfully provided attitude data, magnetic field measurements and angular velocity readings in orbit. The sensor's robust calibration and compensation techniques ensure high accuracy across multiple domains, including: satellite attitude control systems; autonomous unmanned platforms (air, land and sea); and surveillance and defence applications; laser rangefinders, gimbals and pan-tilt systems.
Innovative Aspects
- High-accuracy magnetic sensing: Achieves up to 0.1-degree heading accuracy, improving navigation and control systems
- Radiation-resistant & space-tested: Successfully validated in orbital conditions
- Multi-sensor fusion algorithms: Combines magnetic, gyroscopic and acceleration data for enhanced reliability
- Compact & lightweight design: Easily integrates into a wide range of aerospace and terrestrial systems
- Scalable for Earth applications: Can be used in UAVs, robotics, defence and industrial navigation
Application Areas
