A self-driving car requires many different technologies, for example - LIDAR to create a precise 3D image of the local surroundings, radar for ranging targets using a different part of the EM spectrum, cameras to read signs and detect colour, high-definition maps for localisation, and more. Unlike the IMU, each of these technologies involves the external environment in order to provide data back to the software stack for localisation, perception, and control. This unique “independent” property of the IMU, makes it a core technology for both safety and sensor-fusion.
The following list is just a start, additional reasons and benefits of an accurate IMU are welcomed as responses to this article.
Read the full article in the August issue of DPA