Real-Time Inertial Measurement Unit Simulator

This SBIR Phase I project proposes the development of a real-time IMU simulator which can inject simulated electronic signals into the GPS guidance receiver with least intrusion and is applicable to a wide range of navigation systems. The proposed IMU Simulator consists of a PC compatible microcomputer, a set of plug -in IMU signal generator boards, and a set of general purpose flight simulator interface boards. The major efforts in this project include: (1) Configuration design of the IMU simulator. The overall task of the simulator is analyzed and the design trade off between hardware and software requirements is accomplished to achieve an optimal configuration design: (2) Dynamic inertial measurement model and program design. Measurement models of gyros and accelerometers in the IMU are proposed; (3) Error models of the IMU. The gyros and accelerometers error models in the IMU and simulation method for them are proposed and investigated; (4) The IMU signal generator design. Three types of signal output modes will be developed: analog signals, pulse signals, and digital signals. The multiple signal output makes the IMU simulator applicable to different types of INS or GPS receiver; (5) Validation test plan for the IMU simulator. Two verification methods for the IMU are suggested, one for the deal sensor condition and the other for the sensor error condition.