IMU have arrived to change everything

Electronics has become an essential in the automobile world. THE ADAS are mandatory And, for better or worse, driving is increasingly intrusive. In the world of motorcycle, things are different. Today, it is only mandatory that they have ABS. It is not even necessary that they incorporate traction control.

However, there is an inherited technology of aeronautics and space exploration. If you are thinking of buying a new motorcycle you may have heard of the “Imu”. A solution that is everywhere and whose operation may not be clear.

What is an Imu. The IMU or inertial measurement unit (IMU) is one of the key components in the security and electronic control systems of a motorcycle. Its main function is to measure and monitor the movement and position of the vehicle in real time. Being even more concrete, it measures the acceleration in the addresses forward -atrás, above-down and right-left and the angular velocity in the headdresses, balancing and brunette of the motorcycle.

Subsequently, This information is calculated and transmitted In real time to the rest of the motorcycle systems to control both the engine and the behavior of the chassis to help the driver.

It consists of several elements, such as gyroscopes, accelerometers or even magnetometers- this allows the rest of the elements (Traction control, ABS, inclination sensors), act accordingly.

How the IMU works. We already know that IMU is an electronic system that allows you to measure each movement and position of the motorcycle. And now what? After sending this data to the switchboard, the security systems act based on them.

One of the main historical problems of motorcycles is the difficulty of managing curve aids. ABS and traction control, acting to a greater extent than desired, are a perfect combination to go to the ground. Thanks to IMUs, ABS can manage braking pressure avoiding curve blockages. The same goes for traction control.

The “Antiwheelie” has also brought us, a perfect option to be able to make quick exits without worrying that the motorcycle is shot. If the system detects that the motorcycle is raising the rear wheel, intervenes to regulate the power.

Where do Imu come from. The origin of the IMU is most curious. The inertial measurement unit systems began to be implemented in aircraft, spacecraft, and even guided missiles. Knowing the orientation, speed and forces that affected them has always been key, and it is something that takes implementing since the 40s.

Although in the 2,000 decade they began to implement on motorcycles, it has not been until the past five years when they have begun to be practically an essential in any motorcycle that wants to lead in technology.

From the aircraft to motorcycles. The principles on stability in inertial navigation systems develop more than 100 years ago, and it was not until World War II when they began to be used in military aviation. 20 years later, between 50 and 60, NASA and the aerospace industry began to use them.

Despite the changes to adapt it to street vehicles, the origin remains the same: the need for a plane or missile to know where it is and where it goes in real time.

Image | Xataka

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