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Evaluating Magnetometer Robustness in Drone Systems

The heading capability of an e-compass significantly affects a drone's flight performance. By analyzing the output data from the drone's internal magnetometer at various throttle levels or rotor RPMs, we can effectively evaluate the robustness of its heading capability.

Analysis of robustness of heading capability of e-compass on drone system
  • Robust Design: As shown in the first diagram, the magnetometer's output remains highly stable across different throttle levels (yellow line) while the drone is secured in a static position. This stability is the direct result of a robust magnetometer design.

Analysis of robustness of heading capability of e-compass on drone system
  • Flawed Design: In contrast, the bottom diagram illustrates a scenario where the magnetometer's output is negatively impacted by changes in the throttle level (blue line), even while the drone remains stationary. Furthermore, the sensor's reading fails to return to its initial baseline value once the throttle is released. This type of failure indicates underlying flaws in either the design or the application of the magnetometer.

Evaluating Magnetometer Robustness in Drone Systems | iSentek