Solution launched to run ultra-low power machine learning models on a six-axis IMU

TDK Corporation now offers the InvenSense SmartEdgeML, an advanced edge ML solution allowing new possibilities for wearables, hearables, AR glasses, IoT, and other products that benefit from ML at the sensor chip level. The solution is the first to generate and run ML models on a 2.5mm x 3mm six-axis motion sensor IMU at <30µA.

"TDK's SmartEdgeML is a paradigm shift in edge machine learning, as it will allow developers, ODMs, and OEMs to implement ML-optimised motion sensor algorithms on an IMU sensor chip. This reduces the amount of raw data going to edge processors, which significantly improves device battery life, data privacy, and system latency," said Sahil Choudhary, director of Motion Sensors and Software at InvenSense, a TDK Group company.

The company also announced the availability of the InvenSense SmartBug 2.0 (MD-45686-ML), a multi-sensor wireless module comprising the InvenSense ICM-45686-S IMU. This module is an excellent evaluation system for users with the InvenSense SIF and the ICM-45686-S IMU. The SIF is now downloadable, while the MD-45686-ML and ICM-45686-S will be available at distributors by 1 February 2024.

The three components of SmartEdgeML include:

SIF, the software component of SmartEdgeML, is a complete machine learning framework by the company, supplying a one-stop-shop for users to collect IMU sensor data, select custom features, build ML models, test ML performance, deploy and run those models on the ICM-45686-S IMU through the SmartBug 2.0. Tested examples include algorithms such as exercise classification (squats, jumping jacks, lateral raises, or push-ups) and wrist gesture classification (fight, turn, shake, or still).

ICM-45686-S IMU is the hardware component of SmartEdgeML. The SmartMotion ICM-45686-S is a 2.5mm x 3mm IMU from the company's BalancedGyro family that allows ML decision tree models to be run on-chip at the lowest current consumption (<30µA). This new IMU delivers premium temperature stability and vibration rejection, making it optimal for applications such as AR glasses, VR, OIS, drones, TWS, and robotics that need a combination of high-performance and ultra-low-power machine learning algorithms.

SmartBug 2.0 (ML version) is an all-in-one multi-sensor wireless module with the ICM-45686-S six-axis motion sensor compatible with the SIF. The small form factor and BLE + USB interface of SmartBug 2.0 enable users to get started quickly with SIF so they can move easily from data collection to building ML models to deploying on the ICM-45686-S IMU. This is the go-to device for getting started with SmartEdgeML.