Hillcrest Labs introduces 9-Axis Freespace sensor module

Hillcrest Labs The FSM-9 from Hillcrest Labs is a fully-integrated 9-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU). The FSM-9 combines Hillcrest’s MotionEngine Universal software on an embedded 32-bit microcontroller (MCU), along with a 3-axis digital gyroscope, 3-axis digital accelerometer and 3-axis magnetometer (compass) in a compact surface-mount package. The FSM-9 is designed to enable fast development of high quality motion controlled products.

MotionEngine software combined with a proprietary factory testing and calibration process provides 360 degrees of high-performance motion data, including: heading, linear acceleration, angular position, angular velocity, and cursor position. Key features of the FSM-9 include: configurable sampling rates for motion output up to 250 Hz, contextual smoothing for jitter-free visualization, proprietary calibration methods to reduce gyro drift, comprehensive automated calibration, and advanced magnetic field interference tracking and filtering to improve performance in various environmental settings. Motion data communication is through either USB or SPI, and the module is supported by libfreespace, Hillcrest’s open source motion control API, enabling easy integration into existing applications.

Compared to Hillcrest’s 6-axis module (the FSM-6), the 9-axis module includes a heading reading, offers enhanced angular position accuracy, and reduces gyroscope drift. As such, the FSM-9 is an ideal solution for head-mounted displays (HMDs) and wearable computing used for virtual/augmented reality systems, military simulation, and law enforcement applications. In addition, the FSM-9 can be used in industrial automation, robotics, pedestrian navigation, health and fitness, and medical diagnostic products. Hillcrest currently works with numerous companies in these specialty areas, and expects the FSM-9 to be used by select customers in the coming months.