Sensor combines gyro and accelerometer for automated driving

Murata has launched a sensor that combines a gyroscope and accelerometer with data fusion for automated driving and ADAS safety designs.

The SCH1633-D01 micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) sensor is optimized for zonal architecture where all required subsystems, like GNSS integration, chassis control, and vehicle attitude sensing (camera and headlight alignment) can use its measurements. It is targeted for deployment in the central vehicle inertia measuring unit (IMU) providing a high-quality signal for all subsystems within the vehicle to reduce system complexity and cost.

A proprietary 24-pin SOIC housing uses the SafeSPI 2.0 interface with an up to 20-bit data frame for a high-resolution output and supports various system-level time synchronization features so that the data can be used across the entire vehicle for inertial navigation, vehicle stability control, and camera or headlight alignment.

The SCH1633-D01 is designed to provide a high-quality output, even in harsh temperature conditions. It features AEC-Q100 grade 1 qualification to guarantee reliable use throughout the whole component lifetime and is ISO26262 compliant with ASIL-B+ rating (up to ASIL-D via system integration) for built-in safety. Self-diagnostics features cover 200 monitoring signals.

Hexagon has been using the SCH1633-D01 in their products. Gordon Heidinger, Segment Manager, Automotive and Safety-Critical Systems at Hexagon’s Autonomy & Positioning division, remarked, “The SCH1633-D01 is displaying exceptional performance for a single MEMS sensor. We’re pleased to promote this sensor integrated with our positioning solution”.

Murata has also successfully demonstrated that the UNECE headlight leveling regulation can be fulfilled with the SCH1633-D01 sensor in combination with a commercially available alignment algorithm.

“Automotive 6DoF applications are rapidly developing, with fierce competition among manufacturers to capture a share of the market. This product offers high performance, demanded by the latest systems, while also providing a much-needed cost-saving opportunity,” said Ville Nurmiainen, General Manager of Product management at Murata Electronics. “The SCH1633-D01 will give both a technological and cost down advantage to OEMs choosing to utilize the product to its full potential and will help them to further drive automotive applications forward and create safer roads for us all.”

Preliminary samples are available now. Mass production of this exciting new solution is planned for early 2025.