An Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) is a device that measures and reports a body's specific force, angular rate, and sometimes magnetic field. It typically consists of accelerometers, gyroscopes, and sometimes magnetometers, which work together to provide data about the object's motion and orientation in space. IMUs are widely used in various applications, including robotics, aerospace, and mobile devices.
IMUs play a crucial role in navigation systems, helping to determine position and movement without relying on external references. They are essential in technologies like drones, smartphones, and automobiles, where accurate motion tracking is necessary for functionality and safety.