A Navigation Grade Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) is a highly precise and reliable device used for applications requiring exceptionally accurate positioning, such as in ships, spacecraft, and aircraft. The primary distinctions between Navigation Grade IMUs and other types of IMUs lie in their levels of accuracy, stability, and overall performance capabilities. Navigation Grade IMUs offer superior accuracy and stability compared to commercial-grade, tactical-grade, and industrial-grade IMUs, making them ideal for highly demanding navigation and positioning tasks.
While Navigation Grade IMUs provide the highest performance, characterized by low drift and robust error handling, other IMU types serve different application needs:
- Tactical-grade IMUs are typically used for unmanned aerial systems and offer a balance between performance and size for mid-level accuracy needs.
- Industrial-grade IMUs are suited for more general purposes or less stringent applications, providing suitable performance with lower accuracy and stability compared to Navigation Grade units.
Navigation Grade IMUs thus deliver the highest levels of precision and reliability, which come at a premium, making their selection critical for high-stakes navigation and control applications.