> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://carec.gitbook.io/carec-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://carec.gitbook.io/carec-docs/documentation/reference/units-frames-and-time.md).

# Units, Frames, and Time

## Units

Use SI units unless an interface explicitly requires otherwise:

* Distance: meters
* Linear velocity: meters per second
* Angular velocity: radians per second
* Acceleration: meters per second squared
* Angle: radians internally; degrees only for user-facing output
* Time: seconds with explicit resolution
* Temperature: degrees Celsius
* Voltage/current: volts and amperes

## Coordinate frames

Define a stable base frame, odometry frame, map frame, sensor frames, and drive/control frames. Document axis direction, origin, mounting transform, calibration version, and allowed update source.

## Time

Specify clock source, monotonic versus wall time, synchronization, timestamp at capture, maximum age, and behavior after clock reset.

Measurements include validity, uncertainty or covariance, and health where they affect safety or autonomy.


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