Developments in localisation sensor systems

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the development trends and emerging applications of non‐GPS localisation sensors.

Design/methodology/approach

The principles of gyroscopes and micro‐electro‐mechanical systems‐based inertial sensors are introduced, followed by a review of products from various companies, and their applications.

Findings

Highly integrated systems in robust solid‐state materials are being packed into smaller housings, opening up new applications for inertial navigation sensors. The Kalman filter algorithm is widely used to remove noise from multi‐sensor data and provide reliable attitude and heading measurements. Applications range from stabilising cameras and detecting the motion of towed sonar arrays, to autonomous robot navigation, motion analysis in sports science, and navigating first‐response rescue workers in disaster zones.

Originality/value

Concentrates on non‐GPS localisation technology, and shows that new developments are revolutionising position‐finding and position‐controlling applications.

Citation

Connolly, C. (2008), "Developments in localisation sensor systems", Sensor Review, Vol. 28 No. 2, pp. 98-101. https://doi.org/10.1108/02602280810856642