Our Technology
Polhemus is known for its proprietary alternating current (AC) electromagnetic tracking. Our technology is capable of tracking a wide variety of objects, as well as people, by attaching or embedding small and lightweight sensors.
Polhemus technology delivers true six degrees of freedom (6DOF) as both position and orientation are measured natively - no hybrid data collection or calculations are required. The person or object's position is tracked within X, Y and Z coordinates of a space, as well as the object's orientation (pitch, roll, yaw). All Polhemus systems deliver reliable data with repeatable results.
What are the benefits?
Because no line-of-sight is required, you can embed Polhemus sensors inside almost anything, which makes it the top choice for many training and simulation applications. The source, sometimes referred to as a transmitter, can also be embedded or covered while maintaining tracking accuracy. Polhemus AC electromagnetics deliver a longer tracking range than similar competing technologies, and operate at lower power levels.
Additionally, it offers the best signal-to-noise ratios and multiple tracking systems can be used in the same environment, without cross-talk interference. Many Polhemus electromagnetic motion tracking systems are scalable so you can increase your tracking area simply by adding additional components.
Why Choose EM Tracking?
EM tracking is unique - our technology natively provides 6DOF data without the use of hybrid technology. You can track through walls, clothes, and other objects, as long as your sensors remain within the magnetic field.
Optical tracking uses cameras to determine an object or person’s position and movement. Due to the use of a camera, there is a need for unobstructed line of sight. These trackers often only provide 3DOF tracking (orientation only) and can be sensitive to environmental factors. Dust, lighting conditions, and background clutter can impact accuracy or completely prevent motion tracking data from being processed.
There are additional technologies available for motion tracking, such as inertial measurement units (IMU). Often they can detect position and orientation change, however, these trackers struggle with data drift and require calibration while in use. These are typically used as a secondary tracking input to supplement information and improve tracking accuracy.
EM tracking is perfect for many tracking applications. Tracking head, hand and finger, or object movement can be imperative in simulation trainings, biometrics research, and many others.
What do we offer?
We offer a range of electromagnetic motion tracking products to help fit a variety of tracking challenges. Wired or wireless, one sensor to sixteen, or purpose built head trackers, our products can withstand complex motion tracking questions. For more information on what we offer, please visit our All Trackers page. Additionally, you can contact our sales team at sales@polhemus.com to get a comprehensive look at which tracker fits your use case.