Inverted USBL

Inverted USBL (Ultra-Short Baseline) is an underwater acoustic positioning system used in inertial navigation to determine the position of a surface or aerial vehicle relative to an underwater object. It is the reverse of traditional USBL, where the transceiver is placed underwater and tracks an acoustic beacon on a surface vessel, autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), […]

Interferometry

Interferometry in inertial navigation refers to the use of wave interference principles (typically light or radio waves) to measure precise motion, orientation, and distance. It is commonly applied in high-precision gyroscopes, such as Fiber Optic Gyroscopes (FOG) and Ring Laser Gyroscopes (RLG), which are essential for aerospace, defense, and submarine navigation. How Interferometry Works in […]

Initial Bias

In inertial navigation (INS), initial bias refers to the constant sensor error present at the start of operation, particularly in gyroscopes and accelerometers. This bias can cause navigation drift, affecting position, velocity, and orientation accuracy over time. Sources of Initial Bias in INS Gyroscope Bias – Small errors in measuring angular velocity lead to incorrect […]

IMU

An IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) is a sensor module used in Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) to measure an object’s motion, orientation, and acceleration. It consists of gyroscopes, accelerometers, and sometimes magnetometers, making it a key component for GNSS-aided and standalone navigation in aerospace, defense, autonomous vehicles, and robotics. How an IMU Works in INS? Gyroscopes […]

IMO

In inertial navigation (INS), IMO (International Maritime Organization) is the United Nations agency responsible for setting global maritime safety, navigation, and environmental standards. For marine INS applications, IMO regulations define the required accuracy, reliability, and integration of navigation systems used in commercial ships, submarines, and naval vessels. How IMO Regulations Impact Inertial Navigation? IMO Performance […]

HAPS

HAPS (High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite) refers to unmanned aerial platforms operating in the stratosphere (above 18 km or 60,000 feet) that provide persistent surveillance, communications, and navigation support. In inertial navigation (INS), HAPS can serve as a GNSS alternative or augmentation, improving navigation accuracy in GNSS-denied environments. How HAPS Supports Inertial Navigation? GNSS Augmentation – HAPS can […]

Gyroscope

A gyroscope is a rotation-measuring sensor used in Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) to track angular velocity and determine an object’s orientation and movement. It is a key component of an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and enables precise navigation in aircraft, ships, submarines, missiles, and autonomous systems. How a Gyroscope Works in INS Detects Angular Velocity […]

Gyrocompassing

Gyrocompassing is a navigation technique used in Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) to determine true north by detecting the Earth’s rotation. Unlike a magnetic compass, which is affected by local magnetic fields, gyrocompassing relies on high-precision gyroscopes, making it essential for submarines, ships, aircraft, and military vehicles. How Gyrocompassing Works in INS? Measures Earth’s Rotation Rate […]

Gyrocompass

A gyrocompass is a navigation device that determines true north using the Earth’s rotation rather than relying on magnetic fields. In inertial navigation systems (INS), gyrocompasses provide high-precision heading information, making them essential for marine, aerospace, and military applications. How a Gyrocompass Works in INS Detects Earth’s Rotation – A spinning gyroscope aligns with the […]

Geospatial Data

In inertial navigation (INS), geospatial data refers to location-based information that helps enhance positioning, mapping, and navigation accuracy. It includes coordinates, elevation, terrain models, maps, and environmental data, often integrated with INS/GNSS systems for precise navigation. Types of Geospatial Data Used in INS Geodetic Coordinates – Latitude, longitude, and altitude from GNSS or geodetic models. […]