INS : Gyroscope errors : transport wander, apparent drift , coriolis effect ?

In summary: Therefore, the Coriolis effect can cause errors in the gyroscope's measurements and affect the accuracy of the inertial navigation system.In summary, gyroscopes used in inertial navigation systems of aircraft can experience errors such as transport wander, apparent drift, and the Coriolis effect. These errors can affect the accuracy of the measurements and must be accounted for in order to ensure the proper functioning of the system. RLGs have become the standard in the past 20 years due to their improved accuracy and reliability compared to traditional gyroscopes.
  • #1
gkraju
16
0
can anyone please explain me following errors of gyroscopes used in inertial navigation systems of aircraft :
a) what is transport wander , how actually it happens ?
b) what is apparent drift in gyroscope ?
c) what is coriolis effect and how it causes errors in gyroscopes ?
 
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  • #2
Not used anymore. RLGs (ring laser gyroscopes) have been the standard for the last 20 years.
 
  • #3


Sure, I can try to explain these errors to you.

a) Transport wander is a phenomenon that occurs when a gyroscope is being transported from one location to another. During the transportation, the gyroscope experiences vibrations and movements that can cause its axis to deviate from its original position. This can result in errors in the gyroscope's measurements, which can affect the accuracy of the inertial navigation system.

b) Apparent drift in a gyroscope refers to the gradual change in the measured output of the gyroscope over time, even when it is not experiencing any external forces. This can be caused by imperfections in the gyroscope's construction, temperature changes, or other environmental factors. If left unchecked, apparent drift can accumulate and lead to significant errors in the inertial navigation system.

c) The Coriolis effect is a phenomenon that occurs when a body is in motion in a rotating reference frame, such as the Earth's surface. In an inertial navigation system, the gyroscope is used as a reference frame, and the Coriolis effect can cause the gyroscope to experience apparent forces that can result in errors in its measurements. This is because the gyroscope is not actually moving, but the Earth is rotating, creating a difference between the gyroscope's reference frame and the actual motion of the aircraft.
 

1. What is the coriolis effect and how does it affect INS gyroscope errors?

The coriolis effect is a phenomenon in which an object moving in a rotating frame of reference experiences a force perpendicular to its direction of motion. In INS gyroscope errors, this force can cause the gyroscope to drift and introduce errors in its measurements.

2. How is transport wander different from apparent drift in INS gyroscope errors?

Transport wander refers to the bias or drift in the gyroscope's measurement caused by the motion of the platform or vehicle carrying the INS. Apparent drift, on the other hand, is the result of the coriolis effect and other external forces acting on the gyroscope. While transport wander can be corrected by calibrating the INS on a stationary platform, apparent drift requires additional compensation techniques.

3. Can INS gyroscope errors be completely eliminated?

No, it is not possible to completely eliminate INS gyroscope errors. These errors are inherent to the system and can only be minimized through proper calibration, compensation techniques, and regular maintenance.

4. How does the gyroscope's orientation affect INS gyroscope errors?

The orientation of the gyroscope plays a crucial role in its accuracy and stability. In INS systems, the gyroscope's orientation should be aligned with the vehicle's axis of rotation to minimize errors. Any misalignment can result in significant errors, especially in high-precision applications.

5. What are some common sources of INS gyroscope errors?

There are several sources of INS gyroscope errors, including mechanical imperfections, temperature changes, external forces, and vibration. These errors can also be caused by human error, such as improper calibration or installation of the INS system.

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