Murata Electronics announced a new Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) Six Degrees of Freedom (6DoF) inertial sensor for safety-critical automotive applications.

The SCHA600 combines a XYZ-axis gyroscope and XYZ-axis accelerometer with Digital SPI Interface to provide stability and noise performance for safety-critical automotive applications. The orthogonality of the measurement axes is calibrated at the manufacturing level. 

This new sensor allows for Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Automated Driving (AD) functionality through data fusion with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and various perception sensors such as camera, radar, and lidar. 

According to the company, the SCHA600 enables centimeter-level accuracy with regard to vehicle dynamics and position for AD. Its patented self-test function verifies the proper operation of the entire signal chain, from MEMS sensor movement to signal conditioning circuitry, for every measurement cycle.

In developing the sensor, attention was placed on operation during high mechanical shock and vibration. The sensor is qualified according to the AEC-Q100 standard, includes several advanced self-diagnostic features, and is Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL-D) compliant.

The SCHA600 is suitable for any automotive application requiring 6DoF measurement capability. The performance has been optimized for usage as a primary inertial measurement unit for AD, while the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) unit provides robust redundancy. Integration with the GNSS delivers positioning and the updated inertial data can be used to improve AD vehicle motion calculation.

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