What Is an Inertial Navigation System? A Guide

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 understand 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 travelling for work by plane or by ferry for pleasure, there’s a great chance that an inertial navigation system will help you get there. Read on to learn all about it.

Inertial Navigation System

• An INS system has multiple components. The IMU is the initial measurement unit. This is a microelectromechanical system that functions at peak performance measure specific applications. IMUs play a massive 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 worldwide.
• Gone are the days of the old-fashioned magnetic compass and gyroscope. 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.
• In the long term, this crucial information can help promote safety and caution for drivers of all magnitudes. It 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 a motor vehicle’s orientation.
• 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.
• More information is 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.