(iTers News) – Seiko Epson Corporation, a leading provider of crystal-based electronic components, and Swiss u-blox, the leader in cellular and positioning semiconductors, have collaborated to create a 3D Automotive Dead Reckoning blueprint. Based on u-blox’ satellite positioning chip and Epson’s high-precision gyroscope technology, the example design is the most accurate 3D Automotive Dead Reckoning (ADR) solution available.

Targeted specifically at vehicle navigation and positioning applications such as tracking and road pricing, the solution enables reliable positioning in areas of poor or no satellite coverage such as tunnels, underpasses and park houses.

Masayuki Kitamura, chief operating officer of Epson's Microdevices Operations Division, said "We are proud that u-blox' has chosen our gyro sensor for this design. Their decision underscores our sensors' superiority in key characteristics such as linearity, zero-point-drift, temperature stability and small size. The use of our XV4001BC gyro sensor in u blox' dead reckoning blueprint is fully in line with our strategy to provide best-in-class gyros specifically for demanding vehicle applications."

“When satellite visibility is compromised, our GNSS receiver chip relies on precise sensor data to determine a vehicle’s position in three dimensions. Epson’s ultra-precise surface-mount automotive grade gyroscope has proven to be the ideal sensor for delivering vehicle heading when satellites are out-of-sight” said Petri Henttinen, VP Application Engineering Positioning Products at u-blox.

When used in the conjunction with u-blox’ UBX-M8030-Kx-DR satellite positioning chip with built-in ADR, Epson’s XV4001BC delivers precise changes in a vehicle’s heading. Combined with vehicle odometer and accelerometer readings, the solution delivers uninterrupted navigation and positioning in even the most challenging urban environments.