Attitude & Heading Reference Systems (AHRS)
Reliable Roll, Pitch, Yaw & Heading for UAVs, Robotics, Defence, Marine & Industrial Applications
An Attitude & Heading Reference System (AHRS) combines an IMU with onboard algorithms to deliver real-time roll, pitch, yaw and heading information. Because of this, AHRS units are ideal for systems that need stable and accurate orientation data.
Metromatics supplies AHRS solutions from leading manufacturers. These systems offer dependable orientation for UAVs, robotics, defence platforms, marine vehicles and industrial equipment. As a result, they are widely used in applications where stability and accuracy are essential.
Read more about Attitude & Heading Reference Systems
What Is an AHRS?
An AHRS uses several sensors working together. These include:
- 3-axis gyroscopes to measure rotation
- 3-axis accelerometers to measure movement
- 3-axis magnetometers to support heading
- Onboard filtering algorithms to combine the data
Unlike an IMU, which provides raw data only, an AHRS processes the measurements and outputs clear orientation values. This means you get:
- Roll
- Pitch
- Yaw
- Heading (magnetic or GNSS-based)
Key Features of Modern AHRS
- Accurate roll, pitch and yaw outputs
- Magnetic or GNSS-assisted heading
- Stable performance across temperatures
- Smooth attitude data thanks to EKF filtering
- Compact and rugged designs
- Fast update rates for real-time control
- Interfaces such as USB, UART, CAN, SPI or Ethernet
Types of AHRS Available
Magnetometer-Based AHRS
These AHRS units rely on magnetometer data to determine heading. They work well in areas with low magnetic interference.
GNSS-Assisted AHRS
These systems combine IMU, magnetometer and GNSS data. As a result, they offer strong heading accuracy even when magnetic environments are noisy.
Tactical-Grade AHRS
Tactical-grade AHRS units include extremely stable inertial sensors. Because of this, they are used in defence, aerospace and high-performance robotics.
Typical Applications for AHRS
UAVs & Drones
- Flight stability
- Navigation support
- Gimbal and payload control
Robotics
- Platform orientation
- Localization and mapping support
- Movement control
Defence & Military Systems
- Guidance systems
- Targeting and alignment
- Vehicle orientation tracking
Marine & Subsea
- AUV and ROV orientation
- Antenna alignment
- Stabilisation for marine platforms
Gimbals & Stabilised Payloads
- Pointing control
- Camera and sensor stabilisation
AHRS Products Supplied by Metromatics
Metromatics offers AHRS devices for many different uses. For example:
- Compact AHRS for UAVs and small robots
- Industrial AHRS for automation and machinery
- Tactical-grade AHRS for defence and aerospace
- GNSS-assisted AHRS for high-accuracy heading
The product grid below shows all AHRS units available from Metromatics.
How to Choose the Right AHRS
| Requirement / Use Case | Recommended AHRS Type |
|---|---|
| Small UAVs and robots | Compact industrial AHRS |
| Magnetic interference present | GNSS-assisted AHRS |
| High orientation accuracy | Industrial or tactical-grade AHRS |
| Defence and aerospace use | Tactical-grade AHRS |
| Marine or antenna alignment | Magnetometer-based AHRS |
FAQ’s About AHRS
Q1. What is the difference between an IMU and an AHRS?
An IMU gives raw data. An AHRS uses that data to calculate roll, pitch, yaw and heading. Because of this, an AHRS is easier to integrate for orientation tasks.
Q2. Do AHRS units need GPS?
Not always. Magnetometer-based AHRS units work without GPS. However, GNSS-assisted AHRS provides more accurate heading in many environments.
Q3. Can AHRS units handle vibration?
Yes. Industrial and tactical AHRS devices are designed to work during vibration, movement and rapid motion.
Q4. Do AHRS systems work in GPS-denied areas?
Yes. AHRS units continue to provide roll, pitch and yaw even without GPS. GNSS is only required for GNSS-based heading.
Why Buy AHRS from Metromatics?
- Trusted global AHRS manufacturers
- Local engineering support in Australia
- Experience with defence, UAVs, robotics and marine systems
- Help with selection, setup and system integration
