ST LSM6DSV80X: Advanced Dual-Range IMU for Wearables and Trackers

STMicroelectronics introduces the LSM6DSV80X, an innovative inertial measurement unit (IMU) that integrates dual-range MEMS accelerometers (16g and 80g), a 4000dps gyroscope, and an embedded intelligent core within a single package. This advanced sensor accurately detects both subtle movements and high-impact events, making it ideal for wearables and motion trackers with enhanced performance requirements.

The LSM6DSV80X sets a new benchmark for consumer and professional-grade wearable devices. By incorporating this sensor, personal electronics can provide athletes with training analytics, performance benchmarks, and advanced motion tracking. The low-range accelerometer enables precise recognition of walking, running, and gesture-based controls, while the high-range sensor captures extreme impacts that would typically exceed conventional IMU capabilities, potentially affecting measurement accuracy.

With its unique capabilities, the LSM6DSV80X is well-suited for sports equipment applications, such as tracking athletic performance during dynamic exercises. Downhill running and high-intensity training can generate impacts exceeding 30g, exerting significant stress on joints like knees and ankles. This sensor enables cost-effective monitoring of such forces. In boxing, where impact forces often surpass 60g, wearables equipped with the LSM6DSV80X allow athletes to capture performance data, enhance power and explosiveness, and even detect concussions for improved safety. Additionally, high-impact measurement capabilities benefit sports like tennis by providing critical data to optimize racket control, impact precision, and acceleration, ultimately improving shot accuracy and speed.

Beyond its advanced accelerometer architecture, the LSM6DSV80X integrates a MEMS gyroscope, a digital signal processor, and a low-power Sensor Fusion & Low Power (SFLP) algorithm for spatial orientation and gesture recognition. Furthermore, ST’s Machine Learning Core (MLC) and Finite State Machine (FSM) enable edge processing for enhanced system performance and power efficiency. By locally processing raw sensor data, the IMU can autonomously recognize user activities, reducing the need for extensive communication with the main control unit, thereby improving response times and lowering energy consumption. This feature allows for comprehensive athlete performance analysis and movement accuracy assessment. The sensor also incorporates Adaptive Self-Configuration (ASC) to dynamically adjust to different activity scenarios.

Developers can access full support resources for the LSM6DSV80X via the ST MEMS Studio software suite. This free graphical development environment includes sensor configuration tools, MLC decision tree training utilities, and testing functionalities. Additionally, ST offers a range of cost-effective evaluation boards, such as the STEVAL-MKI109D professional MEMS tool and the SensorTile.box PRO (STEVAL-MKBOXPRO). These evaluation kits, along with dedicated adapter boards, facilitate seamless integration with development platforms.

Conclusion

With its dual-range accelerometer, advanced motion sensing capabilities, and power-efficient design, the LSM6DSV80X is an ideal solution for next-generation wearables and motion tracking applications. It delivers precise motion capture across a wide range of activities, from everyday movement to extreme-impact sports, while embedded intelligent processing enhances responsiveness and reduces power consumption. Supported by ST’s development ecosystem, engineers can rapidly integrate the LSM6DSV80X into new designs, accelerating time-to-market. Scheduled for mass production by April 2025, this sensor is poised to redefine the standards of motion sensing in both consumer and professional applications.