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Ellipse D INS Unit Right
Ellipse D INS Unit Front
Ellipse D INS Unit Hand
Ellipse D INS Unit Left

Ellipse-D The most accurate & compact dual-Antenna RTK INS

Ellipse-D belongs to Ellipse series line of miniature, high-performance GNSS-aided inertial navigation systems, designed to deliver reliable orientation, position, and heave in a compact package.

Combining an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) with an internal dual band, quad constellation GNSS receiver and using an advanced sensor fusion algorithm, Ellipse-D provides accurate positioning and orientation, even in challenging environments.

It features dual-antenna heading for applications that require precise and stable heading in static conditions.

Ellipse-D features

Ellipse-D embeds a high performance GNSS receiver (L1/L2 GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BEIDOU), capable of DGNSS, SBAS and RTK positioning.
Our sensor also features a dual antenna heading delivering robust and accurate heading angle in the most challenging conditions.
Additionally, it offers a DVL input as an additional feature to improve performance in challenging marine and subsea environments, such as areas under bridges or trees, in addition to GNSS aiding.
The DVL input provides reliable velocity information even when GNSS signals are unavailable, leading to a significant improvement in dead reckoning accuracy.

Precision Blue White
HIGH PRECISION INERTIAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM With calibrated high performance IMU and advanced sensor fusion algorithm, the Ellipse provides precise orientation and position data.
Robust Position
ROBUST POSITION DURING GNSS OUTAGES The embedded sensor fusion algorithm combines inertial data, GNSS, and inputs from external sensors like DVL, odometers, and air data to enhance positioning accuracy in challenging environments (bridge, tunnel, forest, etc.).
Porcessing Made Easy@2x
EASY-TO-USE POST-PROCESSING SOFTWARE Ellipse sensors embed an 8 GB data logger for post-operation analysis or post-processing. Qinertia post-processing software enhances SBG INS performance by post-processing inertial data with raw GNSS observables.
Interference White
JAMMING AND SPOOFING Integrates advanced features to detect and mitigate GNSS jamming and spoofing. It provides real-time flags to alert users of potential signal interference or manipulation.
6
Motion sensors: 3 MEMS capacitive accelerometers and 3 high performance MEMS gyroscopes.
6
Constellations GNSS (GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, Beidou, QZSS & SBAS)
18
Motion profiles : Air, Land and Marine
6 W
Power consumption
Read More →

Ellipse-D specifications

Motion & navigation performance

Single point position horizontal
1.2 m
Single point position vertical
1.5 m
RTK position horizontal
0.01 m + 1 ppm
RTK position vertical
0.02 m + 1 ppm
PPK position horizontal
0.01 m + 0.5 ppm *
PPK position vertical
0.02 m + 1 ppm *
Single point roll/pitch
0.1 °
RTK roll/pitch
0.05 °
PPK roll/pitch
0.03 ° *
Single point heading
0.2 °
RTK heading
0.2 °
PPK heading
0.1 ° *
* With Qinertia PPK software

Navigation features

Alignement mode
Single and dual GNSS antenna
Real time heave accuracy
5 cm or 5 % of swell
Real time heave wave period
0 to 20 s
Real time heave mode
Automatic adjustment
Delayed heave accuracy
2 cm or 2.5 %
Delayed heave wave period
0 to 40 s

Motion profiles

Land
Car, automotive, train/railway, truck, two wheelers, heavy machinery, pedestrian, backpack, off road
Air
Plane, helicopters, aircraft, UAV
Marine
Surface vessels, underwater vehicles, marine survey, marine & harsh marine

GNSS performance

GNSS receiver
Internal dual antenna
Frequency band
Multi-frequency
GNSS features
SBAS, RTK, RAW
GPS signals
L1C/A, L2C
Galileo signals
E1, E5b
Glonass signals
L1OF, L2OF
Beidou signals
B1/B2
Others signals
GNSS time to first fix
< 24 s
Jamming & spoofing
Advanced mitigation & indicators, OSNMA ready

Environmental specifications & operating range

Ingress protection (IP)
IP-68
Operating temperature
-40 °C to 85 °C
Vibrations
8 g RMS – 20 Hz to 2 kHz
Shocks
500 g for 0.1 ms
MTBF (computed)
218 000 hours
Compliant with
MIL-STD-810

Interfaces

Aiding sensors
GNSS, RTCM, odometer, DVL, external magnetometer
Output protocols
NMEA, Binary sbgECom, TSS, KVH, Dolog
Input protocols
NMEA, Novatel, Septentrio, u-blox, PD6, Teledyne Wayfinder, Nortek
Output rate
200 Hz, 1,000 Hz (IMU data)
Serial ports
RS-232/422 up to 2Mbps: up to 3 inputs/outputs
CAN
1x CAN 2.0 A/B, up to 1 Mbps
Sync OUT
PPS, trigger up to 200 Hz – 1 output
Sync IN
PPS, event marker up to 1 kHz – 2 inputs

Mechanical & electrical specifications

Operating voltage
5 to 36 VDC
Power consumption
< 1050 mW
Antenna power
3.0 VDC – max 30 mA per antenna | Gain: 17 – 50 dB
Weight (g)
65 g
Dimensions (LxWxH)
46 mm x 45 mm x 32 mm

Timing specifications

Timestamp accuracy
< 200 ns
PPS accuracy
< 1 µs (jitter < 1 µs)
Drift in dead reckoning
1 ppm
UGV Applications

Ellipse-D applications

Ellipse-D sets a new standard in precision and versatility, powering a wide range of applications with its state-of-the-art GNSS-aided inertial navigation system. Whether in autonomous vehicles, UAVs, robotics, or marine vessels, Ellipse-D delivers unmatched accuracy, reliability, and real-time performance.
Our expertise spans aerospace, defense, robotics, and beyond, providing our partners with unparalleled quality and reliability. Our Ellipse-D, don’t just meet industry standards—we set them.

Discover how our pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication fuel the innovations that shape tomorrow’s world.

ADAS & Autonomous Vehicles Hydrography Mobile Mapping Rail inspection & mapping Road surface & pavement monitoring

Compare Ellipse-D with other products

Compare our most advanced inertial range of sensors for navigation, motion, and heave sensing.
Full specifications can be found in the Hardware Manual available upon request.

Ellipse D INS Unit Right

Ellipse-D

Ekinox Micro INS Unit Right

Ekinox Micro

Apogee D INS Unit Right

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Quanta Micro INS Unit Right

Quanta Micro

Single point position horizontal 1.2 m Single point position horizontal 1.2 m Single point position horizontal 1.0 m Single point position horizontal 1.2 m
Single point roll/pitch 0.1 ° Single point roll/pitch 0.02 ° Single point roll/pitch 0.01 ° Single point roll/pitch 0.03 °
Single point heading 0.2 ° Single point heading 0.08 ° Single point heading 0.03 ° Single point heading 0.08 °
Datalogger Datalogger 8 GB or 48 h @ 200 Hz Datalogger 8 GB or 48 h @ 200 Hz Datalogger 8 GB or 48 h @ 200 Hz
Ethernet Ethernet Full duplex (10/100 base-T), PTP master clock, NTP, web interface, FTP, REST API Ethernet Full duplex (10/100 base-T), PTP master clock, NTP, web interface, FTP, REST API Ethernet Full duplex (10/100 base-T), PTP / NTP, NTRIP, web interface, FTP
Weight (g) 65 g Weight (g) 165 g Weight (g) < 900 g Weight (g) 38 g
Dimensions (LxWxH) 46 mm x 45 mm x 32 mm Dimensions (LxWxH) 42 mm x 57 mm x 60 mm Dimensions (LxWxH) 130 mm x 100 mm x 75 mm Dimensions (LxWxH) 50 mm x 37 mm x 23 mm

Ellipse-D compatibility

Logo Qinertia Post Processing Software
Qinertia is our own PPK software that offers powerful post-processing capabilities that transform raw GNSS and IMU data into highly accurate positioning and orientation solutions.
Logo Ros Drivers
The Robot Operating System (ROS) is an open-source collection of software libraries and tools designed to simplify the development of robotic applications. It offers everything from device drivers to cutting-edge algorithms. ROS driver now therefore offers full compatibility across our entire product lineup.
Logo Pixhawk Drivers
Pixhawk is an open-source hardware platform used for autopilot systems in drones and other unmanned vehicles. It provides high-performance flight control, sensor integration, and navigation capabilities, allowing for precise control in applications ranging from hobbyist projects to professional-grade autonomous systems.
Logo Trimble
Reliable and versatile receivers that offer high-accuracy GNSS positioning solutions. Used across various industries including construction, agriculture, and geospatial surveying.
Logo Novatel
Advanced GNSS receivers offering precise positioning and high accuracy through multi-frequency and multi-constellation support. Popular in autonomous systems, defense, and surveying applications.
Logo Septentrio
High-performance GNSS receivers known for their robust multi-frequency, multi-constellation support and advanced interference mitigation. Widely used in precision positioning, surveying, and industrial applications.

Our Ellipse-D case studies

Explore real-world use cases demonstrating how our Ellipse-D enhance performance, reduce downtime, and improve operational efficiency.
Learn how our advanced sensors and intuitive interfaces provide the precision and control you need to excel in your applications.

Unmanned Solution

Ellipse used in autonomous vehicles navigation

Autonomous navigation

UNMMANED SOLUTION Autonomous Vehicles
CNES’ Cesars

Ellipse compatible with Cobham satcom

Antenna Pointing

Cobham Aviator UAV 200 And SBG INS
Resonon

Ellipse embedded in airborne hyperspectral imaging

UAV navigation

Resonon Hyperspectral Airborne Remote Sensing Systems
See All Case Studies

Ellipse-D production process

Discover the precision and expertise behind every SBG Systems products. This following video offers an inside look at how we meticulously design, manufacture, and test our high-performance inertial navigation systems.
From advanced engineering to rigorous quality control, our production process ensures that each product meets the highest standards of reliability and accuracy.

Watch now to learn more!

Miniature de la vidéo

Ask for a quotation: Ellipse-D

They talk about us and Ellipse-D

We showcase the experiences and testimonials from industry professionals and clients who have leveraged Ellipse-D in their projects.
Their insights reflect the quality and performance that define Ellipse-D, emphasizing its role as a trusted solution in the field.

Discover how our innovative technology has transformed their operations, enhanced productivity, and delivered reliable results across various applications.

University of Waterloo
“Ellipse-D from SBG Systems was easy to use, very accurate, and stable, with a small form factor—all of which were essential for our WATonoTruck development.”
Amir K, Professor and Director
Fraunhofer IOSB
“Autonomous large-scale robots will revolutionize the construction industry in the near future.”
ITER Systems
“We were looking for a compact, precise and cost-effective inertial navigation system. SBG Systems’ INS was the perfect match.”
David M, CEO

Ellipse-D FAQ section

Welcome to our FAQ section, where we address your most pressing questions about our cutting-edge technology and its applications.
Here, you’ll find comprehensive answers regarding product features, installation processes, troubleshooting tips, and best practices to maximize your experience with Ellipse-D.
Whether you’re a new user seeking guidance or an experienced professional looking for advanced insights, our FAQs are designed to provide the information you need.

Find Your Answers Here !

How can I combine inertial systems with a LIDAR for drone mapping?

Combining SBG Systems’ inertial systems with LiDAR for drone mapping enhances accuracy and reliability in capturing precise geospatial data.

 

Here’s how the integration works and how it benefits drone-based mapping:

  • A remote sensing method that uses laser pulses to measure distances to the Earth’s surface, creating a detailed 3D map of the terrain or structures.
  • SBG Systems’ INS combines an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) with GNSS data to provide accurate positioning, orientation (pitch, roll, yaw), and velocity, even in GNSS-denied environments.

 

SBG’s inertial system is synchronized with the LiDAR data. The INS accurately tracks the drone’s position and orientation, while the LiDAR captures the terrain or object details below.

 

By knowing the precise orientation of the drone, the LiDAR data can be accurately positioned in 3D space.

 

The GNSS component provides global positioning, while the IMU offers real-time orientation and movement data. The combination ensures that even when the GNSS signal is weak or unavailable (e.g., near tall buildings or dense forests), the INS can continue to track the drone’s path and position, allowing for consistent LiDAR mapping.

What are jamming and spoofing?

Jamming and spoofing are two types of interference that can significantly affect the reliability and accuracy of satellite-based navigation systems like GNSS.

 

Jamming refers to the intentional disruption of satellite signals by broadcasting interfering signals on the same frequencies used by GNSS systems. This interference can overwhelm or drown out the legitimate satellite signals, rendering GNSS receivers unable to process the information accurately. Jamming is commonly used in military operations to disrupt the navigation capabilities of adversaries, and it can also affect civilian systems, leading to navigation failures and operational challenges.

 

Spoofing, on the other hand, involves the transmission of counterfeit signals that mimic genuine GNSS signals. These deceptive signals can mislead GNSS receivers into calculating incorrect positions or times. Spoofing can be used to misdirect or misinform navigation systems, potentially causing vehicles or aircraft to veer off course or providing false location data. Unlike jamming, which merely obstructs signal reception, spoofing actively deceives the receiver by presenting false information as legitimate.

 

Both jamming and spoofing pose significant threats to the integrity of GNSS-dependent systems, necessitating advanced countermeasures and resilient navigation technologies to ensure reliable operation in contested or challenging environments.

What is an indoor positioning system?

An Indoor Positioning System (IPS) is a specialized technology that accurately identifies the locations of objects or individuals within enclosed spaces, such as buildings, where GNSS signals may be weak or non-existent. IPS employs various techniques to deliver precise positioning information in settings like shopping malls, airports, hospitals, and warehouses.

 

IPS can leverage several technologies for location determination, including:

  • Wi-Fi: Utilizes signal strength and triangulation from multiple access points for position estimation.
  • Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE): Employs beacons that send signals to nearby devices for tracking.
  • Ultrasound: Uses sound waves for accurate location detection, often with mobile device sensors.
  • RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification): Involves tags placed on items for real-time tracking.
  • Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs): These sensors monitor motion and orientation, enhancing positional accuracy when combined with other methods.

 

A detailed digital map of the indoor space is essential for accurate positioning, while mobile devices or specialized equipment collect signals from the positioning infrastructure.

 

IPS enhances navigation, tracks assets, assists emergency services, analyzes retail behavior, and integrates into smart building systems, significantly improving operational efficiency where traditional GNSS fails.

What is an odometer?

An odometer is an instrument used to measure the distance traveled by a vehicle. It provides important information about how far a vehicle has gone, which is useful for various purposes such as maintenance scheduling, fuel efficiency calculations, and resale value assessment.

Odometers measure distance based on the number of rotations of the vehicle’s wheels. A calibration factor, based on the tire size, converts wheel rotations into distance.

In many navigation applications, especially in vehicles, odometer data can be integrated with INS data to improve overall accuracy. This process, known as sensor fusion, combines the strengths of both systems.