Miniature Self-Calibrating Fluxgate Magnetometer for GPS-Denied Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetometers are large, expensive, and lack dynamic range to effectively operate in demanding environments like gun launch conditions, and GPS systems are vulnerable to jamming, making precision guidance challenging in GPS-denied or degraded areas.
Innovation Solution
A miniature multi-IMU package with multiple low-accuracy IMUs combined through a sensor fusion algorithm to create a high-performance IMU, capable of operating in high-g and high-spin environments, and a self-calibrating fluxgate magnetometer for precise location and guidance, allowing for accurate navigation in GPS-denied areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional fluxgate magnetometers are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the magnetometer into three separate orthogonal measurement units, each measuring magnetic field along one axis (x, y, or z). Each unit contains its own fluxgate sensor and processing circuitry. This segmentation allows for miniaturization of individual sensors while achieving complete three-dimensional magnetic field measurement capability through combination of the three units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges three separate orthogonal magnetometer units into a single integrated device that measures magnetic field vectors in three dimensions. By combining the measurements from x, y, and z axis sensors, the system achieves comprehensive magnetic field characterization while maintaining compact form factor through integrated circuit design.
2Measurement precision
If traditional magnetometers are used, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive fluxgate sensor designs that can be manufactured at low cost using standard semiconductor fabrication processes. The simplified sensor structure and integrated circuit implementation reduce manufacturing complexity and material costs, making precision magnetometry accessible for mass-market applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fluxgate structures with integrated circuit implementations. By using planar spiral inductors and transistor-based sensing elements fabricated on silicon substrates, the system eliminates complex mechanical assembly while achieving equivalent or superior measurement precision through electronic design.
3Reliability
If standard IMUs are used in GPS-denied environments, then location guidance is provided, but accuracy decreases in high-dynamic conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where magnetometer measurements provide absolute orientation references that correct drift in inertial sensor measurements. The system continuously compares predicted orientation from IMU integration with actual magnetic field-derived orientation and applies corrective feedback to maintain accuracy during high-dynamic maneuvers in GPS-denied environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional navigation system that combines inertial measurement unit capabilities with magnetometer orientation sensing. This universal navigation platform provides reliable location and guidance across diverse operating conditions including GPS-denied environments, high-g maneuvers, and high-spin conditions by leveraging the complementary strengths of both sensor types.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides robust and cost-effective precision guidance in GPS-denied environments, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of navigation systems, particularly in military and automotive applications, by leveraging redundant sensor measurements and adaptive calibration.
Implementation Method 1
An alternating electric current is passed through one coil, driving the core through an alternating cycle of magnetic saturation; i.e., magnetized, unmagnetized, inversely magnetized, unmagnetized, magnetized, and so forth.
Implementation Method 2
A wide variety of sensors is currently available and used to measure magnetic fields. Fluxgate compasses and gradiometers measure the direction and magnitude of magnetic fields.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a sensor suite comprising at least one sensor. More particularly, the present invention relates to a sensor suite for measuring absolute and/or relative position, location and orientation of an object on or in which the sensor suite is employed. The present invention further relates to improved, novel sensor types for use in the sensor suite. More particularly, the present invention relates to an improved, novel magnetometer that is self-calibrating and scalable. Still more particularly, the present invention relates to such a magnetometer that is miniaturized. Further embodiments of the present invention relate to systems and methods for providing location and guidance, and more particularly for providing location and guidance in environments where global position systems (GPS) are unavailable or unreliable (GPS denied and/or degraded environments).