Robotics and autonomous systems depend on accurate motion, orientation, and navigation data to operate reliably in dynamic environments. Inertial navigation sensors support autonomy by providing continuous reference data for localisation, control, and sensor fusion—particularly when operating across changing terrains and environments.
VectorNav designs and manufactures MEMS-based inertial navigation products that robotics teams integrate into autonomous platforms. Especially where compact size, real-time outputs, and straightforward integration matter.
Metromatics is the exclusive distributor for VectorNav in Australia and New Zealand, providing local sales and technical support.
Inertial Navigation for Robotics & Autonomous Systems Navigation Requirements
Robotic and autonomous platforms typically require:
- Reliable orientation reference (roll, pitch, yaw)
- Accurate motion and acceleration data
- Position and velocity estimation when GNSS is available
- Time-aligned data for multi-sensor fusion
- Compact hardware suitable for embedded computing stacks
Consequently, developers commonly integrate IMU, AHRS, and GNSS-aided INS technologies as part of a broader autonomy architecture.
Embedded PNT for Autonomous Platforms
VectorNav products provide embedded positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) capability when GNSS is available most of the time.
- Positioning: GNSS-derived position for localisation reference
- Navigation: Orientation and motion derived from inertial sensors
- Timing: GNSS-derived timing for synchronisation across sensors and compute nodes
As a result, autonomy stacks can align perception, control, and navigation data streams with consistent timing.
VectorNav products assume GNSS availability for absolute position updates. While inertial sensors maintain continuity during short GNSS interruptions such as occlusions, terrain masking, or urban environments.
VectorNav Solutions for Robotics & Autonomy
VectorNav supports robotics and autonomy development through three core product categories.
IMU and AHRS
Use these devices when systems require:
- Orientation reference for control loops
- Motion sensing for stabilisation
- Inertial data for sensor fusion algorithms
IMU/AHRS devices deliver calibrated inertial data and real-time attitude outputs that integrate easily with robotic controllers and embedded compute platforms.
GNSS-Aided INS
Select GNSS-INS when platforms require:
- Position and velocity alongside orientation
- Integrated navigation outputs for localisation
- Reduced development effort through onboard estimation
GNSS-INS devices combine inertial sensors with GNSS receivers to output position, velocity, and attitude, simplifying integration into autonomy software stacks.
Dual-Antenna GNSS-INS
Use dual-antenna configurations when:
- Accurate heading is required at low speeds
- Magnetic interference affects magnetometer reliability
- Platform design supports dual GNSS antennas
By deriving heading from GNSS rather than magnetic sensors, these systems improve robustness in electrically noisy or magnetically disturbed environments.
Typical Robotics and Autonomous Uses
Across robotics and autonomous system development, VectorNav products commonly support:
- Autonomous ground, aerial, and surface vehicles
- Robotics navigation and localisation research
- Sensor fusion and state estimation development
- Motion tracking and platform dynamics analysis
- Test, validation, and field trials
In all cases, VectorNav products operate as embedded navigation subsystems within a larger autonomy framework.
What VectorNav Is Not (Context for Robotics Applications)
VectorNav products are not FOG-based or strategic-grade inertial navigation systems.
In robotics and autonomy, these higher-grade systems are typically reserved for specialised reference platforms or applications requiring extended navigation without GNSS.
VectorNav products suit autonomous platforms where GNSS is available most of the time. In addition, where compact, integratable MEMS navigation sensors provide an effective balance of performance and system complexity.
Integration Considerations
Overall navigation performance depends on system-level design choices, including:
- Sensor placement and alignment
- Platform dynamics and vibration
- GNSS availability and environment
- Integration with perception and control software
VectorNav provides inertial and navigation outputs, while developers retain control over autonomy algorithms and system-level performance.
Inertial Navigation for Robotics & Autonomous Systems with local support from Metromatics
As the Australian and New Zealand distributor, Metromatics supports robotics and autonomy teams by providing:
- Application scoping and product selection guidance
- Integration assistance with embedded compute and sensor stacks
- Local warranty handling and repairs/returns
- Responsive quoting and ongoing project support
For a broader overview of VectorNav inertial navigation technologies, including IMU, AHRS, and GNSS-INS solutions used across multiple industries, return to our VectorNav overview page.
Call to Action
Discuss your robotics or autonomous system with our team.
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