The Shimmer 9DoF (9 degree of freedom) expansion module combines the feature of the Gyro and Magnetometer sensing board to provide a comprehensive kinematic sensing solution.

*Must be connected to the Shimmer platform to be operational

Description

Utilising a single and dual axis angular rate gyroscopes, and a 3 axis digital compass the Shimmer 9DoF module can perform provide static and dynamic orientation, inertial measurement, and complex 3D motion sensing . When combined with the Shimmer platform’s integrated accelerometer the assembled unit provides 9 degrees of freedom motion capture via the tri-axial accelerometer, tri-axial gyro, tri-axial magnetometer. See how the 9DoF module is connected to the Shimmer platform.

The unit is highly configurable and the output may be programmed to provide raw or calibrated inertial measurements, static and dynamic orientation. The streamed data cam then be processed to provide pitch, roll and yaw.

The magnetic sensing reduces drift error in kinematic calculations and the board has fixed sensor alignment. The Shimmer 9DoF allows excellent data capture for a range of applications including object tracking, rehabilitation and sports training. The software interface includes gain, rate, and single/continuous conversion selection, calibration.

Technical Highlights

Magnetometer: Honeywell HMC5843

• Spec: Honeywell HMC5843 3-Axis Digital Compass IC
• Conversion Rate: 0.5-50Hz
• Gain: 390 – 1620 counts/milligauss
• Input Field Range: =/- 0.7-4.5Ga
• Resolution 12 bit signed

Gyro:  InvenSense 500 series MEMS Gyros

• Full Scale Range (°/sec): ±500
• Sensitivity (mV/°/sec): 2

Features and Benefits

9DoF Sensing Capabilities

• Calibration available with Shimmer standaolone LabVIEW application
• Magnetic sensing reduces drift error in Kinematic calculation
• Auto-Zero for precision sensing application
• Lower power and a rigid board implementation reduces alignment error and provides mechanical stability
• Sensors can be disabled to save power
• Supports 0.5-50Hz output data rate without require multiplexed analog sampling

Highly Flexible Solution Across a Range of Applications

• Designed to be wearable, provides full mobility either as a wireless transmitter or autonomous data logger
• Real-time signal viewing on computer (or other data acquisition system) or store to microSD card for later download and analysis
• Small size and weight of 25g provides unrestricted movement, use on any body segment, and ideal for athletes, children, elderly, or patients with a disability
• Supported by Shimmer LabVIEW Library and the ShimmerConnect application

Improved User Functionality

• Programmable button for application control (such as sampling start/stop, RF transmission start/stop, data marker)
• Programmable indicator
• Pinhole reset

Adaptability (Wired vs. Wireless)

• Offers greater ergonomic value than wired units or camera based solutions
• Easily combine Gyro/Mag data with Shimmer’s integrated accelerometer for greater contextual information
• Easily combine Gyro/Mag data with the full range of Shimmer Biophysical, Kinematic and Ambient sensor modules

Raw Data Capture

• Transmitted to a host in real time with the Shimmer device
• Stored locally for a later upload of data captured

Standard Shimmer Functionality

• MSP430 microcontroller (8mHZ, 16 Bit), Bluetooth – RN-42, 802.15.4 radio - TI CC2420, Integrated 2GB micro SD card, 450mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery, stylish enclosure, wearable and highly configurable to user/developer’s specific needs

Applications

The Shimmer 9DoF board provides 9 degrees of freedom motion capture for a range of kinematic sensing applications including:

• Accurate navigation and tracking of objects or people
• Rehabilitation, Fitness, and Sports training
• Gestural computing and human-computer interface research
• Field detection environmental and marine sensing
• Virtual reality and Gaming
• Remote Home Monitoring and mHealthcare

Download the Shimmer Wireless 9DoF Kinematic Sensor Module Data Sheet