TDK has launched its second generation of 6-axis IMUs for automotive safety applications, writes Nick Flaherty.

The IMU provides reliable motion data for decision-making algorithms, and it can accurately detect vehicle dynamics in real time.

The 6-axis IAM-20689 IMU has a set of safety mechanisms that ensure real-time monitoring of sensor parameters, and 30 embedded diagnostics elements eliminate the need for an external controller to reach the required functional safety as a Safety Element Out-of-Context (SEooC).

This allows customers to easily integrate the MEMS IMUs into safety applications up to ASIL D in critical automotive applications, such as electronic/roll-stability control (ESC/RSC) and drive-by-wire.

“With the IAM-20689, TDK can offer more flexibility to automotive safety customers by eliminating the need for multiple 3-axis sensors in the vehicle,” says Alberto Marinoni Sr, director, product marketing automotive at InvenSense, a TDK Group company.

“This simplifies system complexity, enhances ease of use and provides opportunities for miniaturisation.

“Most safety applications today rely on a limited number of axes, rendering current solutions partially blind and unable to gather all vehicle dynamics. Transitioning to a 6-axis solution ensures no motion information is missed, unlocking broader application possibilities for developers.”

There are 16 bit analogue-to-digital converters (ADCs), programmable digital filters and embedded self-testing on the device, which has an operating range of 3-5.5 V and current consumption below 10 mA in all operating conditions.

The sensor is available in a small, 4.5 x 4.5 x 1.1 mm³ QFN package with wettable flank options that allow visual inspection at the end of the assembly line for automotive-quality levels.