BNO055: Definition of heading

[DRA]

The datasheet of the BNO055 holds an extensive section about axis remapping, however, I struggle to find a definition of the heading:

Given the sensor is configured in P1 axis map (which is the default), which axis needs to be parallel to true north direction in order for the sensor to indicate 0° heading?

[FAE_CA1 · Accepted solution]

Hi,

Thanks for your inquiry.

BNO055 heading is aligned to its +y axis. This means that when BNO055 +y axis is pointing to north, the heading angle is 0 degree. Please refer to BNO055 quick start guide app note at https://www.bosch-sensortec.com/media/boschsensortec/downloads/application_notes_1/bst-bno055-an007.....

In BNO055 datasheet, at P1 orientation BNO055 x/y/z axes are aligned with product body X/Y/Z axes and with the same sign direction. Therefore, the heading 0 degree is when product body +Y axis (or BNO055 +y axis) is pointing to north. If for example BNO055 +y axis is mapped to product body -X, then when -X is pointing to north BNO055 heading output will be 0 degree.

Please see the attached "BNO055 axis remapping v2.pdf" for more info.

Thanks.