Stabilization system for sensors on moving platforms
US8456159B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 15, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jun 4, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 6, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V3/165
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A stabilized field sensor apparatus collects field data, in particular magnetic field data, with reduced motion noise. The apparatus includes a tear drop shaped housing, a tow frame in the housing, a plurality of vibration isolating dampers spaced around the frame, a base assembly mounted to the dampers, a support pedestal having a bottom end fixed to the base assembly and an upper free end, a single spherical air bearing connected to the upper free end of the pedestal, an instrument platform with a lower hollow funnel having an upper inside apex supported on the air bearing for a one point support, principal and secondary gyro stabilizers for maintaining pivotal and rotational stability, and at least one field sensor mounted to the instrument platform for collecting the field data while being stabilized against motion noise including vibration, pivoting and rotation from the base assembly, from the tow frame and from the housing. Stabilization of the instrument platform is enhanced by preserving accurate balance through a dynamic balancing system whereby small masses are moved under computer control to maintain the center of mass of the instrument platform at the center of rotatio…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.