Method for reducing in-transit navigational errors
US11054262B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 2, 2019 |
| Grant date | Jul 6, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 19, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01C25/005
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method for improving the accuracy of an inertial navigation system (INS) by performing a synchronization procedure to align the INS to a compass-derived initial heading comprises the steps of determining a heading of minimal error for the compass and defining that heading as the initial heading; orienting the INS to align with the so-defined initial heading; synchronizing the internal navigation system to that heading; and proceeding with navigation by use of the INS. The INS may be vehicle mounted or be contained in a portable navigation unit for swimmers or other users. The heading of minimal error may be determined by placing the compass within a multi-axis Helmholz coil system and monitoring compass readings and deviation errors as a function of actual compass positions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.