Doppler
In inertial navigation, Doppler refers to the Doppler effect, which is the change in frequency of a signal due to the relative motion between a transmitter and receiver. Doppler measurements are often used to assist Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) by providing velocity data, especially in GNSS-denied environments. How Doppler Effect is Used in INS? Doppler […]
Destination
In inertial navigation, a destination refers to the final target location that a vehicle, aircraft, or vessel is navigating toward. Since an Inertial Navigation System (INS) determines position based on dead reckoning (acceleration and angular velocity integration) rather than external references like GPS, the system must continuously update its estimated position relative to the destination. […]
Dead-Reckoning(DR)
Dead reckoning (DR) in inertial navigation refers to the process of determining a vehicle’s current position based on its previously known position, velocity, and heading over time—without external references like GPS. An Inertial Navigation System (INS) relies on accelerometers and gyroscopes to continuously compute position changes, making dead reckoning a fundamental principle of inertial navigation. […]
Coriolis Effect
The Coriolis Effect refers to the apparent force that acts on a moving object due to the Earth’s rotation. This effect must be accounted for in Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) to ensure accurate positioning and navigation. How the Coriolis Effect Impacts INS Influences Accelerometer Readings – The Coriolis force introduces errors in acceleration measurements, which […]
UTC
Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) is the global time standard used in inertial navigation systems (INS) to synchronize data with GNSS, sensors, and external systems. UTC provides a precise, uniform time reference essential for accurate positioning, velocity calculations, and system coordination. Why is UTC Important in Inertial Navigation? Time Synchronization – Ensures IMU, GNSS, and external […]
Coordinate
In inertial navigation, the term constellation refers to the network of satellites used for positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) when an INS (Inertial Navigation System) is integrated with GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). A satellite constellation consists of multiple satellites working together to provide global coverage and accurate location data. Major GNSS Constellations Used in […]
Constellation
In inertial navigation, the term constellation refers to the network of satellites used for positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) when an INS (Inertial Navigation System) is integrated with GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). A satellite constellation consists of multiple satellites working together to provide global coverage and accurate location data. Major GNSS Constellations Used in […]
Compass
In inertial navigation, a compass refers to a device used to determine direction relative to the Earth’s magnetic field. It is often integrated with an Inertial Navigation System (INS) to provide heading information, which helps correct drift errors in long-duration navigation. Types of Compasses in Inertial Navigation Magnetic Compass – Measures Earth’s magnetic field to […]
Communications Protocol
A communications protocol in inertial navigation refers to the standardized rules and formats used for transmitting data between an Inertial Navigation System (INS) and other systems, such as GNSS receivers, flight control systems, autonomous vehicles, or mission computers. These protocols ensure accurate, reliable, and efficient data exchange for navigation, positioning, and sensor fusion. Why is […]
Checksum
A checksum in inertial navigation is a data integrity verification method used to detect errors in transmitted or stored data. It is a mathematical value calculated from a data set (such as a navigation message from an IMU, INS, or GNSS receiver) and transmitted along with the data. The receiver or processing unit recalculates the […]
