Numerical modeling, testing and bias drift analysis of MEMS based three-axis gyroscope for accurate angular rate estimation for attitude determination of nano-satellites

This paper deals with the mathematical analysis, testing and necessary assessment on the source of drift was done both statistically as well as experimentally for accurate attitude determination of specifically Nano-satellites using Micro-Electro Mechanical Systems based three-axis gyroscopes. In the recent times, the gyroscope application has been a major concern during the important missions due to their inability to transfer data efficiently and effectively during the mission period due to which there had been immense data loss and in some cases even failure. Especially, the MEMS based low cost gyroscopes are of an important concern due to their high bias drift rate in the space environment. Hence, in order to study, simulate, test, analyze and evaluate the performance of the three-axis MEMS based gyroscope, intensive research was carried out. A potential quaternion based mathematical model was simulated to scrutinize the bias drift variation in the 3-axis gyroscope and then a testing of a unique MEMS based 3-axis gyroscopes was done to practically learn and understand the variation and actual source of drift at different situations under operation. After the testing, the data was compiled and the necessary basic bias drift analysis was done. Noting the results of simulations and testing, some significant conclusions were made.