Differences between MEMS IMU and FOG IMU

 

Due to the different gyroscopes they have, these two types of IMUs are very different. Their 10 differences will be introduced below.

1.Technology:
MEMS IMUs use microelectromechanical systems with accelerometers and gyroscopes based on micromachining technology.The FOG IMU uses a fiber optic gyroscope, which utilizes the principle of light interference in optical fibers.

2.Working principles:
MEMS IMUs use the deflection of microstructures due to acceleration or rotation to measure motion.
The FOG IMU measures motion by detecting the phase shift of light due to rotation in a fiber optic coil.

3.Accuracy:
Compared to MEMS IMUs, FOG IMUs have higher accuracy and precision. This makes them particularly useful in situations where users rely on the IMU for long periods of time: accurate systems can calculate a position close to the true position even after hours.

4.Size and shape:
MEMS IMUs are smaller and more compact, making them suitable for integration into smaller devices such as consumer electronics.
FOG IMUs are typically larger and heavier, and are often used in larger systems such as aerospace and defense applications.

5.Cost:
MEMS IMUs are generally more cost-effective than FOG IMUs, making them widely used in consumer products.
FOG IMUs are more expensive due to their greater precision, highly specialized internal components, and complex advanced manufacturing processes.

6.Energy consumption:
MEMS IMUs typically have lower power consumption, making them suitable for portable and battery-operated devices.
FOG IMUs consume more power, which is less important in applications such as land vehicles and aircraft where power supplies are readily available.

7.Application:
MEMS IMU can be used for north seeking in logging tools/gyro tools, pointing, steering and initial alignment in guided weapons/drone launch systems in advanced mining/drilling equipment, direction in satellite antennas, target tracking systems , pointing and tracking navigation-level MEMS guidance and navigation in weapon systems, directional railway train systems, navigation-level MEMS IMU/INS for precise attitude and position, measurement of north seeking and positioning in geodesy/land mobile mapping systems, Oil exploration, bridges, high-rise buildings, towers, dam monitoring, geotechnical monitoring, mining, etc.
FOG IMUs are commonly used in aerospace, defense, marine navigation and other high-precision applications, particularly where GNSS is unavailable or unreliable, such as underground mining or military environments.

8.Robustness:
MEMS IMUs can be susceptible to environmental factors such as extreme temperatures and high vibrations, which can affect their accuracy.
The FOG IMU is more robust and stable, making it better suited for particularly harsh and demanding environments.

9.Calibration and automatic north seeking:
Due to possible drift over time, MEMS IMUs may require more frequent calibrations to maintain accuracy. They are not sensitive enough to automatically find an accurate heading unless connected to a GNSS receiver.
FOG IMUs have better long-term stability and typically require less frequent calibrations to maintain accurate heading or position. The most accurate fiber optic gyroscope systems are so sensitive that they can determine where north is by detecting the Earth’s rotation.

10.Integration:
Because MEMS IMUs are smaller and have lower power requirements, they are easier to integrate into compact devices.
FOG IMUs are typically used in larger systems to accommodate their size and weight and their higher power needs.

Selection of MEMS IMU and FOG IMU
In summary, the choice of IMU depends on the application and environment. You can choose the IMU type that suits you according to different application scenarios, accuracy requirements, etc.

MEMS IMUs are ideal for: lightweight, small size, low power consumption, short-range pointing sensors, and GNSS integration in predictable dynamic environments.

FOG IMU is suitable for: absolute attitude accuracy, high temperature, high vibration, bias stability over time.

The above content is just a brief introduction to MEMS IMU and FOG IMU from three aspects, which can be used as a reference for selecting IMU. If you want to know more about IMU products, please click the link below.

website：https://www.ericcointernational.com/inertial-measurement-units

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