What Is an Inertial Navigation System? A Guide

What Is an Inertial Navigation System? A Guide

Written by Deepak Bhagat, In Technology, Published On
September 3, 2021
, 196 Views
Last modified on July 19th, 2022

There are endless clichés about arriving at your destination.

The great philosophers of our time discussed the intricacies of navigation, perhaps over a hearty dose of ambrosia.

They created maps by using their feet on unchartered land. They observed the contour of the earth’s ridges and delivered that information to the rest of their communities.

Today, mapping looks a lot different. The goal is to know how to get where you’re going, and know that you won’t die trying to get back.

Thanks to Inertial Navigation Systems, we have the gift of technology to guide us through every crack and crevice.

So whether you’re traveling for work by plane or by ferry for pleasure, there’s a great chance that an inertial navigation system helped you get there. Read on to learn all about it.

Inertial Navigation System Guide

  • There are multiple components to an INS system. The IMU is the initial measurement unit. This is a micro electro mechanical system that functions at peak performance navigation system to measure certain applications. IMUs provide play a huge role in INS.
  • The navigation computer logs all IMUs and uses that information to decipher velocity and final positioning.
  • The IMU determines how something has moved through a space containing three dimensions. It calculates the direction it’s going and how fast it will get there. INS is pioneering navigation systems across the globe.
  • Gone are the days of the old-time magnetic compass is and gyroscopes. Modern IMUs have revolutionized the way that 3-axis systems communicate with the INS.
  • Gathering geospatial information can enable us to map out environments where vehicles move through. Mapping systems receive data about winding slopes and road conditions through INS.
  • This crucial information, in the long term, can help promote safety and caution for drivers of all magnitudes. This is particularly helpful for large rigs that may be unprepared for steep grades in the mountains.
  • INS exists to track your position relative to its last known position. A combination of rotation, motion and magnetic sensors bounce signals off each other to calculate the orientation of a motor vehicle.
  • These inertial navigation systems only continue to evolve. When you add accessibility to micro adaptation, INS becomes more reachable through a broader range of markets.
  • Autonomous navigation is a gift to the industrial world. Between aerospace technologies, robotics, and a wide range of manufacturing, INS continues to apply modern accommodations to product development.
  • There is more info available to keep in mind when considering utilizing GPS inertial navigation systems.

A Certain Future

  • Some days, it feels utterly impossible to keep up with ever-evolving technology. And inertial navigation systems aren’t an exception.
  • One day we’re looking at a cybersecurity meltdown and the next we’re sending robots into the mesosphere.
  • We’ve made leaps and bounds since the age of sundials. Our ancestors would probably be eager to see how we’ve manipulated problem-solving to our advantage.
  • Are you looking for more innovation-based information? If so, consider checking out our technology sector for more updates.
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