MAV attitude determination by vector matching

An attitude determination algorithm suitable for micro aerial vehicle (MAV) applications is developed. The algorithm uses Earth´s magnetic and gravity field vectors as observations. The magnetic field vector measurements are obtained from a magnetometer triad. The gravity field vector is measured by fusing information from an accelerometer triad with GPS/WAAS (wide area augmentation system) velocity measurements. Two linearization and estimator designs for implementing the algorithm are discussed. Simulation and experimental flight test results validating the algorithm are presented.