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Imu Magnetism and Gyro
Imu Magnetism and Gyro
BLOCK 1
UNIT 1
Topic 1.3
State that ships heading information from the main gyro compass
is transmitted to many other gyro repeaters fitted at different
locations on board as well as to various other electronic
navigation equipments
BRIDGE EQPT and WATCHKEEPING
BLOCK 1
UNIT 1
Topic 1.4
Compass Binnacle
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Soft iron
spheres
Compass binnacle
Pelorus or
Azimuth Ring
Compass on monkey island // 2 black
spheres are soft iron spheres
Compass binnacle showing ( green and red
soft iron spheres )
Soft iron spheres
Compass binnacle
Construction
of a compass
OFFICIAL DIAGRAM
East declination
East declination
West declination
C ADE T
No declination
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
True North Magnetic
Meridian
East Variation
Magnetic
Meridian West Variation
+ve added
-ve
minused
No Variation
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
East declination
West declination
No declination
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Variation
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Variation > the difference between magnetic
north and true north
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
The angular difference
between True North and
Magnetic North varies
with your location and
because the Magnetic
Pole is slowly moving , it
also changes from year to
year
Applying Variation
Variation is found by referencing the compass rose closest to the ship’s
position
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Earths
Magnetic
Lines of
force
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Earths
Magnetic
Lines of
force
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Earths
Magnetic
Lines of
force
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Earths
Magnetic
Lines of
force
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Earths
Magnetic
Lines of
force
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Earths
Magnetic
Lines of
force
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Compass
rose on a
chart shows
variation
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Compass
rose on a
chart shows
variation
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
1>> the earth is a core of iron , which acts as a large magnet , with its poles aligned to
the earths axis
2>> The sum total of these forces pulls the compass slightly away from
the magnetic North , producing deviation
Deviation
3>>Each ship is made of iron and steel
4>> It has its own magnetic field that can effect changes in the magnetic
compass
Deviation
5>>Determined by angle in which ships keel is laid during construction
Deviation
Table
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Deviation
Card
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Deviation
Card
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC COMPASS
Deviation
Card
Deviation
Card
Deviation
Card
Deviation
Card
Deviation
Card
Ships Magnetic Lines
BRIDGE EQPT and WATCHKEEPING
BLOCK 1
UNIT 1
Topic 1.4
Usually gyroscopes take the form of a disc shaped object but can be
any object that produces an effective gyroscopic behavior. Most of
the gyroscopes mass should be as far away from the center as
possible. This often results in a disc with a large heavy rim. When the
gyroscope isn't rotating it behaves like any other object, however
when the gyroscope is spun on its axis at high speed it resists
movements in certain directions.
Gyroscope Principles
Rigidity is the ability of a freely rotating mass to maintain its plane of spin
when any external force is applied to it.
A gyroscope
consists of a
spinning disk
about an axis
that is free to
assume any
orientation. Rotor
Gyro - principle
Gyro Precession
Gyro – Precession
Precession
Stability
Compass
STARTING OF GYRO:
2>> Gimbals shall be kept clean and greased for free movement.
1> Go to the Master gyro control panel and see the gyro compass
heading
2> go to the repeater and switch off the power
3> using the heading adjustment knob at the side of the repeater ,
adjust by moving clockwise or anticlockwise the knob and align
the compass heading on the repeater same as the master gyro
4> once it has been aligned put on the power switch again
Gyro Compass
Gyrocompass:
The gyrocompass receives its directional information from a rapidly
spinning gyroscope driven by electric motors. Its directive action is
based on the mechanical laws governing the dynamics of rotating
bodies. When any object is spinning it tends to keep its axis pointed in
the same direction, and if a force is applied to deflect its orientation it
responds by moving at right angles to the applied force.
Gyro Compass
Gyrocompass:
The gyrocompass consists of a gimbal-mounted spinning gyroscope
made north-seeking by placing a weight below the axis. As the Earth
rotates gravitational pull on the weight attempts to change the
gyroscope's axis of rotation. The resulting motion of the axis of the
gyroscope at right-angles to the applied force causes it to move so as
to align itself with the Earth's axis of rotation.
Gyro Compass
Gyrocompass:
A few hours of operation is usually sufficient to align the gyrocompass with the
Earth's axis. Errors that would be introduced by changing latitudes as when the
submarine is steaming towards the north or south are eliminated through
periodic adjustments to compensating systems within the gyrocompass by the
Navigator.
Gyro Compass
Gyrocompass:
An electrical servo mechanism and dial mechanically connected to the
gyrocompass has the points of the mariner's compass marked on it and indicates
the ships true course. Repeaters connected to the servo mechanism are located
throughout the submarine to provide true course information where needed.
Gyro Compass
000 T Relative Bearings
270 T 090 T
270 R
180 T
000 R
180 R
090 R
Gyrocompass Error
G E T
#7 029 1.0W 028
#8 254 2.0 W 252
#9 175 1.0 E 176
1 gyroscopic inertia,
2 precession,
3 earth’s rotation,
4 and gravity.
618. Gyrocompass Operation
To make it seek and maintain true north, three things are necessary. First, the
gyro must be made to stay on the plane of the meridian.
Second, it must be made to remain horizontal.
Third, it must stay in this position once it reaches it regardless of what the
vessel on which it is mounted does or where it goes on the earth. To make it
seek the meridian, a weight is added to the bottom of the vertical ring, causing
it to swing on its vertical axis, and thus seek to align itself horizontally. It will
tend to oscillate, so a second weight is added to the side of the sphere in which
the rotor is contained, which dampens the oscillations until the gyro stays on
the meridian. With these two weights, the only possible position of equilibrium
is on the meridian with its spin axis horizontal.
To make the gyro seek north, a system of reservoirs filled with
mercury, known as mercury ballistics, is used to apply a force
against the spin axis. The ballistics, usually four in number, are
placed so that their centers of gravity exactly coincide with the CG
of the gyroscope. Precession then causes the spin axis to trace an
ellipse, one ellipse taking about 84 minutes to complete. (This is the
period of oscillation of a pendulum with an arm equal to the radius
of the earth.) To dampen this oscillation, the force is applied, not in
the vertical plane, but slightly to the east of the vertical plane. This
causes the spin axis to trace a spiral instead of an ellipse and
eventually settle on the meridian pointing north.
619. Gyrocompass Errors
The total of the all the combined errors of the gyrocompass is
called gyro error and is expressed in degrees E or W, just like
variation and deviation. But gyro error, unlike magnetic compass
error, and being independent of Earth’s magnetic field, will be
constant in one direction; that is, an error of one degree east will
apply to all bearings all around the compass.
The errors to which a gyrocompass is subject are speed error,
latitude error, ballistic deflection error, ballistic damping error,
quadrantal error, and gimballing error. Additional errors may be
introduced by a malfunction or incorrect alignment with the
centerline of the vessel.
Speed error is caused by the fact that a gyrocompass only moves directly east
or west when it is stationary (on the rotating earth) or placed on a vessel moving
exactly east or west. Any movement to the north or south will cause the
compass to trace a path which is actually a function of the speed of advance and
the amount of northerly or southerly heading. This causes the compass to tend
to settle a bit off true north. This error is westerly if the vessel’s course is
northerly, and easterly if the course is southerly. Its magnitude depends on the
vessel’s speed, course, and latitude. This error can be corrected internally by
means of a cosine cam mounted on the underside of the azimuth gear, which
removes most of the error. Any remaining error is minor in amount and can be
disregarded.
Tangent latitude error is a property only of gyros with mercury
ballistics, and is easterly in north latitudes and westerly in south
latitudes. This error is also corrected internally, by offsetting the
lubber’s line or with a small movable weight attached to the casing.
Ballistic deflection error occurs when there is a marked change in
the north-south component of the speed. East-west accelerations have
no effect. A change of course or speed also results in speed error in
the opposite direction, and the two tend to cancel each other if the
compass is properly designed. This aspect of design involves slightly
offsetting the ballistics according to the operating latitude, upon
which the correction is dependent. As latitude changes, the error
becomes apparent, but can be minimized by adjusting the offset.
Ballistic damping error is a temporary oscillation introduced by
changes in course or speed. During a change in course or speed, the
mercury in the ballistic is subjected to centrifugal and
acceleration/deceleration forces. This causes a torquing of the spin
axis and subsequent error in the compass reading. Slow changes do
not introduce enough error to be a problem, but rapid changes will.
This error is counteracted by changing the position of the ballistics so
that the true vertical axis is centered, thus not subject to error, but
only when certain rates of turn or acceleration are exceeded.
Quadrantal error has two causes. The first occurs if the center of gravity of the gyro is not
exactly centered in the phantom. This causes the gyro to tend to swing along its heavy axis as
the vessel rolls in the sea. It is minimized by adding weight so that the mass is the same in all
directions from the center. Without a long axis of weight, there is no tendency to swing in one
particular direction. The second source of quadrantal error is more difficult to eliminate. As a
vessel rolls in the sea, the apparent vertical axis is displaced, first to one side and then the
other. The vertical axis of the gyro tends to align itself with the apparent vertical. On
northerly or southerly courses, and on easterly or westerly courses, the compass precesses
equally to both sides and the resulting error is zero. On intercardinal courses, the N-S and E-
W precessions are additive, and a persistent error is introduced, which changes direction in
different quadrants. This error is corrected by use of a second gyroscope called a floating
ballistic, which stabilizes the mercury ballistic as the vessel rolls, eliminating the error.
Another method is to use two gyros for the directive element, which tend to precess in
opposite directions, neutralizing the error.
Gimballing error is caused by taking readings from the
compass card when it is tilted from the horizontal plane. It
applies to the compass itself and to all repeaters. To minimize
this error, the outer ring of the gimbal of each repeater should
be installed in alignment with the fore-and-aft line of the
vessel. Of course, the lubber’s line must be exactly centered as
well.
620. Using the Gyrocompass
Since a gyrocompass is not influenced by magnetism, it is not subject to variation or deviation.
Any error is constant and equal around the horizon, and can often be reduced to less than one
degree, thus effectively eliminating it altogether. Unlike a magnetic compass, it can output a
signal to repeaters spaced around the vessel at critical positions.
But it also requires a constant source of stable electrical power, and if power is lost, it requires
several hours to settle on the meridian again before it can be used. This period can be reduced
by aligning the compass with the meridian before turning on the power.
The directive force of a gyrocompass depends on the amount of precession to which it is
subject, which in turn is dependent on latitude. Thus the directive force is maximum at the
equator and decreases to zero at the poles. Vessels operating in high latitudes must construct
error curves based on latitudes because the errors at high latitudes eventually overcome the
ability of the compass to correct them.
The gyrocompass is typically located below decks as close as possible to the
center of roll, pitch and yaw of the ship, thus minimizing errors caused by the
ship’s motion. Repeaters are located at convenient places throughout the ship,
such as at the helm for steering, on the bridge wings for taking bearings, in after
steering for emergency steering, and other places. The output can also be used to
drive course recorders, autopilot systems, plotters, fire control systems, and
stabilized radars. The repeaters should be checked regularly against the master to
ensure they are all in alignment. The repeaters on the bridge wing used for taking
bearings will likely be equipped with removable bearing circles, azimuth circles,
and telescopic alidades, which allow one to sight a distant object and see its exact
gyrocompass bearing.
Gyro Advantage:
• It always shows true north.
• The gyro will have a number of repeaters.
• Gyro input can be fed to RADAR/ARPA/AUTO
PILOT/ Echo Sounder.
• Does not use earth’s magnetic field for
reference.
• It will not deflected by any external force
such as magnet, iron etc.
Gyro disadvantage:
• It is run with electrically, so when electricity fails gyro
also fails.
• If the axle was out by more than 20 degree, then It
might take 5 to 6 hrs to settle down but if its only 1
degree out, then it takes about 1/2 hr to settle down.
• When gyro compass stops for any reason , it will take
some time to settle. depends on where the axle was
when gyro was started.
Gyrocompass has the following advantages over the magnetic compass.
It seeks the true north instead of the magnetic north.
It can be used near the earth’s magnetic poles, where the magnetic
compass is useless.
It is not being influenced by surrounding magnetic or electric materials
which might influence the readings of the magnetic compass.
Its information can be fed electronically into automatic steering unit or
autopilot.
It also indicates the ship’s rolling and pitching data needed for instruments
used for celestial navigation.
Corrections like variation and deviation need not be applied in the readings
of gyrocompass and the readings are very accurate.
Limitations
b) Useless at the magnetic poles and is sluggish and unreliable in areas near the poles.
d) Deviation changes with heading. The ship as well as the earth may be considered as
a magnet. The effect of the ship’s magnetism upon the compass changes with the
heading.
a) The doors giving access to the connector magnets should always be kept locked and the
key kept in safe custody.
b) The wooden part of the binnacle should be varnished not pointed, as paint may cause
the doors to jam.
c) The safe iron spheres and their brackets should be painted. This prevents rust.
e) All magnetic materials such as aerials, stays electrical machinery, electric wires etc
should be kept well away from the compass.
There are three celestial methods used for finding gyrocompass error.
They are:
Azimuth of the Sun
Azimuth of Polaris
Amplitude of the Sun
In each case, you are required to gather data for use in computation.
This data may be in the form of sights from the sextant, time in
GMT,DR Lat. and Long., and so forth.
For each celestial method, we will begin with gathering the necessary
data and then working the solutions.
METHODS FOR GYRO ERROR
1) At berth
2) Transit bearings
3) Leading lights
Navigation Transit Bearing
As the earth rotates , the gyro will experience a movement , under the influence of both tilt
and azimuth motion.
Section
End
Gyro and Magnetic Compass
PART 2
NAVIGATION I
Compasses – Magnetic and Gyro
STCW Code Table A- II/ 1
STCW Code Table A- II/ 1
Function:
Navigation at the Operational Level
STCW Code Table A- II/ 1
Competence:
1. Plan and conduct a passage and determine position
2. Determine and allow for compass errors
STCW Code Table A- II/ 1
Learning Outcome:
Topic No. 1
The Magnetism of the Earth and the Ship's
Deviation
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Terminology
1. Ferromagnetic materials - is one that has magnetic properties
similar to those of iron. In other words, you can make a
magnet out of it.
2. Magnetic domain - is a region within a magnetic material in
which the magnetization is in a uniform direction. This means
that the individual magnetic moments of the atoms are
aligned with one another and they point in the same
direction.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Terminology
3. Hard Iron - in hard iron, the domains will not shift back to
their starting points when the field is taken away. Is used in
permanent magnets.
4. Soft Iron - in soft iron, the domains return to being randomly
aligned when the field is removed.
5. Intensity of magnetization - represents the extent to which
the material is magnetized, defined as the magnetic moment
per unit volume of the magnetized material.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Terminology
6. Permeability - is the measure of the ability of a material to
support the formation of a magnetic field within itself
7. Magnetic susceptibility - is a dimensionless proportionality
constant that indicates the degree of magnetization of a
material in response to an applied magnetic field.
8. Magnetic North - the direction in which the north end of a
compass needle or other freely suspended magnet will point
in response to the earth's magnetic field
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Terminology
9. Magnetic poles - a point where the magnetic field is
vertical. This can be determined by measuring the
inclination. The inclination of the Earth's field is 90°
(upwards) at the North Magnetic Pole and -
90°(downwards) at the South Magnetic Pole.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Terminology
10. Secular Variation - Changes in Earth's magnetic field on a
time scale of a year or more
11. Diurnal Change in variation- daily changes which are
caused by the movement of the magnetic poles in an orbit
having a diameter of about 50 miles.
12. Annual Change in variation - the yearly permanent
changes in the earth's magnetic field.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Topic No. 2
The Magnetic Compass
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
VARIATION
Where to get the value of variation on the area?
1. Compass Rose on the navigational charts
2. Isogonic Lines on the navigational charts
3. Most GPS gives value of the variation on certain areas
4. ECDIS
5. Nautical Publications
6. Notice to Mariners
7. Etc…
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
DEVIATION
• As previously explained, a ship’s magnetic influence will
generally cause the compass needle to deflect from the
magnetic meridian.
• This angle of deflection is called deviation.
• If the north end of the needle points east of the magnetic
meridian, the deviation is easterly; if it points west of the
magnetic meridian, the deviation is westerly.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
GIVEN: SHIP’S COURSE = 180 DEG psc
Dev = 2 deg west
Var = 3 deg east
C = 180
DEV = 2 w (-)
-----------------------------------------
M = 178
VAR = 3 e (+)
------------------------------------------
TRUE = 181 true course
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
COMPASS HEADING/COURSE/BEARING
DEVIATION
MAGNETIC HEADING/BEARING
VARIATION
TRUE COURSE/HEADING/BEARING
(+) EAST
(-) WEST
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
COMPASS HEADING/COURSE/BEARING
DEVIATION
MAGNETIC HEADING/BEARING
VARIATION
TRUE COURSE/HEADING/BEARING
(+) EAST
(-) WEST
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
DEVIATION
Methods of determining Deviation:
• Compare with a magnetic compass of known deviation.
• Determine deviation of the magnetic compass by a range.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
DEVIATION
Recording Deviation:
• Deviation is not the same on every heading. Therefore, the
deviation that exists on the various headings must be recorded so
the correction for compass error will be known.
• A process called "swinging ship" is used to determine and record
the deviation your ship is headed through every 15° of the
compass.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
DEVIATION
Recording Deviation:
• When the process of swing ship
is completed and the deviation
for the 24 headings recorded,
the deviations are transferred to
a deviation card.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
DEVIATION
Recording Deviation:
• Before a final recording is
posted on the deviation card, a
simple graph or deviation curve
is made to plot the recorded
deviations.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Compass Error
• Defined as the angular difference between
the compass direction and the
corresponding true direction, may be easily
computed since it is the algebraic sum of
variation and deviation.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Compass Error
• Compass error must be
applied to the compass
direction to get true direction
and must be applied to true
direction, with a reversal of
the sign, to arrive at
compass direction.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
How to get bearings of terrestrial and celestial objects
Equipment:
• Azimuth Circle - a device for
measuring azimuths, consisting of a
graduated ring equipped with a
sighting vane on each side, which fits
concentrically over a compass.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
How to get bearings of terrestrial and celestial objects
Equipment:
Gyrocompass Operation
To make it seek and maintain true north, three things are necessary:
• Gyro must be made to stay on the plane of the meridian
• It must be made to remain horizontal
• It must stay in this position regardless of what the vessel does
or where it goes on the earth
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Gyrocompass Operation
To make it seek the meridian:
• A weight is added to the bottom of the vertical ring, causing it to
swing on its vertical axis, this seek to align itself horizontally.
• It will tend to oscillate, so a second weight is added to the side of
the sphere in which the rotor is contained, which dampens the
oscillations until the gyro stays on the meridian.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Gyrocompass Operation
To make the gyro seek north:
• A system of reservoirs filled with mercury, known as mercury ballistics, is used to
apply force against the spin axis.
• Precession then causes the spine axis to trace an ellipse, one ellipse taking about
84 minutes to complete.
• To dampen this oscillation, the force is applied slightly to the east of the vertical
plane
• This causes the spin axis to trace a spiral instead of an ellipse and eventually
settle on the meridian pointing north.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Gyrocompass Repeaters
•Gyro repeaters mounted on the bridge
wings are located in stands somewhat similar
to the binnacle.
•These instruments display directional
information on the basis of electrical signals
received from the ship's master gyrocompass
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Gyrocompass Errors
GYRO ERROR
• Total of the all the combined errors of the gyrocompass
• It is expressed in degrees E or W
• Independent of Earth’s magnetic field, will be constant in one
directions
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Gyrocompass Errors
Identify the causes of the following:
• Speed Error
• Latitude Error
• Ballistic Deflection Error
• Ballistic Damping Error
• Quadrantal Error
• Gimballing Error
• Additional errors may be introduced by a malfunctioning or incorrect alignment
with the centerline of the vessel
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Gyrocompass Errors
Modern ships use a GPS system or other navigational aids feed
data to the Gyrocompass for correcting the error
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
2.5 All ships of 500 gross tonnage and upwards shall, in addition to
meeting the requirements of paragraph 2.3 with the exception of
paragraphs 2.3.3 and 2.3.5, and the requirements of paragraph 2.4, have:
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
2.3.2 A 9 GHz radar, or other means to determine and display the range
and bearing of radar transponders and of other surface craft, obstructions,
buoys, shorelines and navigational marks to assist in navigation and in
collision avoidance;
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Research Project
Print out a sample of a Gyrocompass Operators Manual and:
1.Explain the necessary time for the compass to settle after switching on prior to sailing
3. Explain how the repeater system is switched on and aligned with the master gyro-compass
Topic No. 4
Compass Course and Bearing Corrections
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
1. True North
2. Magnetic North
3. Compass North
4. Course - True Course, Magnetic Course,
Compass Course
5. Heading – True Heading, Magnetic Heading
6. Bearing - True Bearing, Compass Bearing,
Relative Bearing,
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Topic No. 5
Errors of the Compass and Azimuths
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
.. So that would make it either 059 or 301 degrees. This is the true
bearing of the object.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
•Whenever going away from True, you add West Errors and subtract East
Errors. Going toward True - add East & subtract West
•Memory Aid:
Can Dead Men Vote Twice at elections
True Virgins Make Dull Companions at weddings
GET Gyro + East = True
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Zn 097.7°
Zn (pgc) 096.5°
Gyro Error 1.2°E
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
In this case, the gyro is higher (“best ”) than the observation, so the error is
3° W.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
c) If the sun is observed rising at 068° T, while the calculated sunrise is 065°
T, the gyro error is 068° - 065° = 3°W
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Sample 2 Sample 4
CE = 4°E CE = 2°12’E
Var = 9°52’E__ Var = 5°06’W__
Dev = 5°52’W Dev = 7°18’E
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Sample COMPASS
ERROR form
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Topic No. 6
Fluxgate Compasses
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
• The basic fluxgate compass is a
simple electromagnetic device that
employs two or more small coils of
wire around a core of highly
permeable magnetic material, to
directly sense the direction of the
horizontal component of the
earth's magnetic field.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
• Fluxgate compasses and gyrocompasses complement one another
nicely.
• The fluxgate provides a directional reference that's stable over the long
term, apart from changing magnetic disturbances, and the gyrocompass
is accurate over the short-term, even against acceleration and heeling
effects.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
• The fluxgate compass is used in ships mainly for the purpose of steering.
• Since the compass is an electronic one, the scope of errors is greatly
reduced.
• In addition to manual steering, such a compass can also be utilized when
the ship is on autopilot.
• Even chartplotters and radars use this system to provide them with
accurate geographic indications.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
ADVANTAGES:
1. Solid state electronics, no moving parts
2. Operation ate very low power
3. Easy back-up power from independent sources
4. Standardized digital output
5. Zero friction, drift or wear
6. Compact, lightweight and inexpensive
7. Rapid start-up and self-alignment
8. Low sensitivity to vibration, shock and temperature changes
9. Self-correcting
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
DISADVANTAGES:
However, the disadvantage of having an electronic compass is that
• If there is a complete lack of electricity on the ship then the device will not
function making the navigators rely again on the magnetic compass.
• The parts used in the compass have to be constantly checked. If there is any
problem even with a small part of the device, the directions provided by the
compass will be faulty leading to a lot of problems for the navigators.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
STANDARD OPERATION MODES:
1. Set Course Mode – a course can be set and be
remembered by the system which then provides the
helmsman a graphic steering aid.
2. Display Response Damping – a switch is used to change
the rate of damping and update of the display in
response to changes in sea condition and ship’s speed.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
STANDARD OPERATION MODES:
3. Auto-Compensation – used to determine the deviation
curve for the vessel as its steams in a complete circle.
Automatically computes correction factors.
4. Continuous Auto-Compensation – runs the
compensation algorithm each time the ship completes a
360 degree turn in two minutes.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
STANDARD OPERATION MODES:
5. Pre-set Variation – Allows the application of magnetic
variation to the heading, resulting in a true output
(assuming the unit has been properly compensated and
aligned).
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
Transmitting Magnetic Compasses
A transmitting magnetic compass (TMC) is used to take the
magnetic heading and convert it into a digital signal. This
can be used for a variety of reasons including:
•A back up heading to the auto pilot
•An independent off course alarm
•Showing the magnetic heading in more than one place
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Fluxgate Compasses
Advantages of the TMC repeater system:
1. Extra repeaters can be installed simply to provide
information at other stations (Chart table, Masters cabin
etc)
2. Steering and Digital display in one repeater
3. Reduced Shipyard Installation time saving on costs.
4. Not affected by vibration and image distortion.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Topic No. 7
The parts of the magnetic compass and
their function
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
SOLAS Regulation
RESEARCH:
1. The requirements of SOLAS chapter V - Regulation 19, in
regard to the requirements for the carriage of magnetic
compasses
2. The ships must also be fitted with a pelorus, or other
means, to take bearings over an arc of 360° of the horizon.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
SOLAS Regulation
SOLAS CHAPTER V, REGULATION 19.2.1:
"All ships irrespective of size shall have:
1. a properly adjusted standard magnetic compass, or other means,
independent of any power supply, to determine the ship's heading and
display the reading at the main steering position.
2. a pelorus or compass bearing device, or other means, independent of
any power supply, to take bearings over an arc of the horizon of 360°".
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Magnetic Correctors
Correctors are present in the form of:
1. Vertical permanent heeling magnet in the central vertical tube,
2. Fore-and-aft B permanent magnets in their trays,
3. Athwartship C permanent magnets in their trays,
4. Vertical soft iron Flinders bar in its external tube,
5. Soft iron spheres.
The heeling magnet is the only corrector that corrects for both permanent
and induced effects, and consequently must be readjusted occasionally with
radical changes in latitude of the ship.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Magnetic Correctors
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Performance Standards
Library Research Activity:
List down the Performance Standards for Magnetic Compass as per IMO
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Performance Standards
The Equipment must comply with the IMO Performance Standards as follows:
Topic No. 8
The errors of the magnetic compass and
their correction
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Deviation
Compass Deviation is the difference between magnetic north and the
direction in which the compass is pointing. Both variation and
deviation are measured in degrees east (+) or west (-).
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Deviation
Causes:
All vessels have numerous magnetic fields. Some of these fields are
permanently built into the structure of the vessel and some are
caused by the type of cargo carried, electronic instruments, electrical
appliances, position of machinery and equipment, etc.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Deviation
• These magnetic fields can combine to cause the compass needle to point away,
or deviate, from magnetic north. The amount of deviation can vary considerably from
heading to heading as the vessel's magnetism is influenced by the earth's own.
• The vessel's soft iron magnetism changes with the orientation and location of the
vessel and is also known as induced magnetism.
• Hard iron magnetism remains constant, is built into the vessel and is also known
as permanent magnetism. Equipment, machinery, cargo, etc can produce both
permanent and induced magnetic fields.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Deviation
• The aim of the compass adjuster is to nullify the effect of the unwanted magnetic
fields by placing correctors (magnets and soft iron) adjacent to the compass.
• These create equal but opposing magnetic fields, thus eliminating the deviating
fields around the compass, enabling it to align correctly.
• Each axis, vertical, longitudinal and athwartships is treated separately.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
• Magnets are aligned fore and aft and athwartships to create horizontal magnetic fields to
compensate for the permanent horizontal components of the ship's magnetism.
• Soft iron correcting spheres or plates and the Flinders bar compensate for
the induced magnetism caused by the effect the earth's magnetic field has on the ship's
magnetism.
• Heeling error magnets compensate for the vertical component of the ship's magnetism.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
A current deviation card / certificate of adjustment is a legal requirement on all sea going
commercial vessels.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Compass Adjustment
In addition to regular routine checking of the compass for deviation, and adjustment for
survey compliance, all sea going vessels should have their compass inspected, swung and
adjusted, and a new deviation card issued, when any of the following apply:
♦ On a new vessel
♦ After periods of lay up
♦ When a new compass is installed
♦ When deviation exceeds 5 degrees on any heading
♦ After trauma, such as lightning strike, grounding, fire, etc
♦ When compass performance is unsatisfactory or unreliable
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Compass Adjustment
♦ When a record of compass deviation has not been maintained
♦ After alterations & additions to vessel's structure & equipment
♦ After repairs involving welding, cutting, grinding, etc which may affect the compass
♦ When electrical or magnetic equipment close to the compass is added, removed or altered
♦ When compass deviation does not appear to correspond with that shown on deviation
card
♦ When the validity period of the deviation card set by the national or state marine authority
is due to expire
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
With the ship on an even keel, the resultant vertical induced magnetism, if not directed through the
compass itself, will create deviations that plot as a semicircular deviation curve.
As long as the ship is in the same magnetic latitude, its vertical induced pole swinging about the
compass will produce the same effect on the compass as a permanent pole swinging about the
compass
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Compass operation
The figure illustrates a point about compass
operation. Not only is an uncorrected compass
subject to large deviations, but there will be
sectors in which the compass may sluggishly turn
with the ship and other sectors in which the
compass is too unsteady to use.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Compass operation
Correction of compass errors is generally achieved by applying correctors so as to reduce the
deviations of the compass for all headings of the ship.
The deviation method is more generally used because it utilizes the compass itself to indicate
results, rather than some additional instrument for measuring the intensity of magnetic fields.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Compass operation
Listed below are several reasons for correcting the errors of the magnetic compass:
1. Should the compass have a small bubble, compass fluid may be added by means of the filling
plug on the side of the compass bowl. If an appreciable amount of compass liquid has leaked
out, a careful check should be made on the condition of the sealing gasket and filling plug. U.S.
Navy compass liquid may be a mixture of 45% grain alcohol and 55% distilled water, or a
kerosene-type fluid.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
2. The compass should be removed from the ship and taken to some place free from all magnetic
influences except the earth's magnetic field for tests of moment and sensibility. These tests
involve measurements of the time of vibration and the ability of the compass card to return to a
consistent reading after deflection.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
3. A careful check should be made on the spheres and Flinders bar for residual magnetism. Move
the spheres as close to the compass as possible and slowly rotate each sphere separately. Any
appreciable deflection (2° or more) of the compass needles resulting from this rotation indicates
residual magnetism in the spheres.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Cont…
3. This test may be made with the ship on any steady heading. The Flinders bar magnetization
check is preferably made with the ship on steady east or west compass heading. To make this
check:
(a) note the compass reading with the Flinders bar in the holder;
(b) invert the Flinders bar in the holder and again note the compass reading.
Any appreciable difference (2° or more) between these observed readings indicates residual
magnetism in the Flinders bar.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
4. Correct alignment of the lubber's line of the compass, gyro repeater, and pelorus with the
fore-and-aft line of the ship is of major importance. Such a misalignment will produce a constant
A error in the curve of deviations. All of these instruments may be aligned correctly with the
fore-and-aft line of the ship by using the azimuth circle and a metal tape measure.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
5. Expeditious compass adjustment is dependent upon the application of the various correctors
in an optimum sequence so as to achieve the final adjustment with a minimum number of steps.
Certain adjustments may be made conveniently at dockside so as to simplify the adjustment
procedures at sea.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
6. Having adjusted the length of Flinders bar, place the spheres on the bracket arms at the best
approximate position. If the compass has been adjusted previously, place the spheres at the best
position as indicated by the previous deviation table. In the event the compass has never been
adjusted, place the spheres at midposition on the bracket arms.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
7. The next adjustment is the positioning of the heeling magnet by means of a properly balanced
dip needle.
8. These three adjustments at dockside - Flinders bar, spheres, and heeling magnet - will
properly establish the conditions of mutual induction and shielding on the compass, such that a
minimum of procedures at sea will complete the adjustment.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
• The D error is due only to induction in the symmetrical arrangements of horizontal soft iron,
and requires correction by spheres, generally athwartship of the compass.
• The existence of E error of appreciable magnitude is rare, since it is caused by induction in the
asymmetrical arrangements of horizontal soft iron.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Before proceeding with the adjustment at sea, the following precautions should be observed:
(1) Secure all effective magnetic gear in the normal seagoing position.
(2) Make sure the degaussing coils are secured, using the reversal sequence, if necessary. The
adjustments are made with the ship on an even keel, swinging from heading to heading
slowly, and after steadying on each heading for at least 2 minutes to avoid Gaussin error
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Most adjustments can be made by trial and error, or by routine procedure. However, it is more
desirable to follow some analytical procedure whereby the adjuster is always aware of the
magnitude of the errors on all headings as a result of his movement of the different correctors.
Two such methods are presented:
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
The last step, after completion of either of the above methods of adjustment, is to secure all
correctors in position and to swing for residual deviations. These residual deviations are for
undegaussed conditions of the ship, which should be recorded together with details of corrector
positions.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
On these swings extreme care should be exercised in taking bearings or azimuths and in
steadying down on each heading since this swing is the basis of standard data for that particular
compass. If there are any peculiar changeable errors, such as movable guns, listing of the ship, or
anticipated decay from deperming, which would effect the reliability of the compass, they should
also be noted on the deviation card at this time.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Permanent Magnetism
a) Parameter P - fore and aft component
- ( + ) if it is the equivalent of a blue pole forward of the compass and
( – ) if red
Deviation
a) Semi-circular Deviation
- E throughout 180˚ of heading and W throughout the remainder
- sign remains unchanged throughout a semi-circle
000˚ 000˚
E W
270˚ 090˚ 270˚ 090˚ E W W E
W E
180˚ 180˚
b) Quadrantal Deviation
- changes sign in each quadrant, being E in two opposite quadrants
and W in the other two. 000˚
000˚
E W W E
270˚ 090˚ 270˚ 090˚
W E E W
180˚ 180˚
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
1. Fore-and-aft magnets
– compensates for deviation caused by permanent
2. Athwartship magnets magnetism
What compass corrector can be set while the vessel is on a heading of magnetic
north or magnetic south?
What compass corrector cannot be set while the vessel is on a heading of magnetic
north or magnetic south?
N or S E or W NE, SE, SW or NW
000˚
090˚
Athwartship Magnets
Fore-and-Aft Magnets
180˚ 270˚
Compass Compensation
Note :
a. The fewer the magnets used, the better it is for the compass
b. The farther the magnets from the compass, the better it is for the compass
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Compass Compensation
Inter-cardinal headings – NE (045˚), SE (135˚), SW (225˚), NW (315˚)
Westerly Deviation
1. Move the quadrantal spheres inward M = 315˚
C = 317˚
2. If all the way in, change to bigger spheres D = 2˚ W
Easterly Deviation
1. Move the quadrantal spheres outward
M = 315˚
2. If all the way out C = 313˚
a) change to smaller spheres or D = 2˚ E
b) remove one sphere
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Topic No. 9
The Principles of Gyro-Compass
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
ACTIVITY:
Explain how a gyroscope becomes a Gyrocompass.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
ACTIVITY:
Compare the different types of Gyrocompass by listing down their advantages
and disadvantages.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Topic No. 10
Gyro-Compass Errors and Corrections
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Gyro Error
Total of all combines errors of the gyrocompass. Expressed in E
or W, just like variation and deviation.
Unlike magnetic compass error, GE will be constant in one
direction.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Gyro Error
1. Speed Error
2. Latitude Error
3. Ballisic Deflection Error
4. Ballistic Damping Error
5. Quadrantal Errors
6. Gimballing Error
7. Additional Errors maybe introduced by
malfunction or incorrect alignment
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Speed Error
Dependent upon:
• Vessel’s speed,
• Course and
• Latitude of the ship in which the compass is installed
Speed Error
This causes the compass to settle a bit off True North.
This error is Westerly if the vessel’s course is to northerly.
Easterly if the vessel’s course is southerly.
Corrected internally by offsetting the lubber’s line or with a small movable weight
attached to the casing.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
A change of course or speed also result in speed error in the opposite direction this
cancelling each other if the compass is well designed.
This involves slightly offsetting the ballistics according to the operating latitude .
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Slow changes do not introduce enough error but rapid changes will.
This is counteracted by changing the position of the ballistics so that the true
vertical axis is centered, thus not subject to error.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Quadrantal Error
Causes:
• Occurs if the center of gravity of the gyro is not exactly centered in the phantom,
minimized by adding weight so that the mass is the same in all directions from
the center
• The 2nd source is when a vessel rolls in the sea, the apparent vertical axis is
displaced, first to one side then the other. This error is corrected by used of a 2nd
gyroscope called a floating ballistics which stabilizes the mercury ballistics as the
vessel rolls.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Gimballing Error
Caused by taking readings from the compass card when it is tilted from the
horizontal plane.
To minimize this error, the outer ring of the gimbal should be installed in alignment
with the fore-and-aft line of the vessel.
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
Topic No. 11
Systems under the control of the master gyro
and the operation and care of the main types
of gyro-compasses in use at Sea
COMPASS – Magnetic and Gyro
End of Presentation
Gyro and Magnetic Compass
END OF PART 2
Interactive – Magnetism and Gyro
Variation
Compass
Error
Deviation
Interactive – Magnetism and Gyro
True north
Magnetic north
7E
Magnetic bearing
63 T
Lighthouse bearing 63 T
Variation 07 E
Magnetic bearing 56 M
Interactive
Lines of equal
variation value are
called
Remote
Display
2.3-26
Digital Flux Gate Compass:
– Antennae is located at the top of the
mast to remove metallic effects of
the hull.
– Allows Deviation to be “Zeroed” by
auto-compensation
– Guides to Magnetic North
– Variation may be manually or
automatically entered.
Gyroscope Theory
Official
diagram
The
Gyroc
ompas
s
Repea
ter
Gyrocompass
Pro’s and Con’s
Advantages: Disadvantages
· Seeks geographic (true) · Intricate electronic
north instead of magnetic. instrument.
· Can be used near the earth’s · Requires a constant source
magnetic poles, where of electrical power and is
magnetic compass is sensitive to power
useless. fluctuations.
· Unaffected by surrounding · Requires periodic
metals. maintenance by qualified
technicians.
· Signal can be fed to other
systems (weapons, nav).
Compass error
Terms
· Compass course:
The heading indicated by the magnetic
compass toward where the ship is
traveling.
· Compass Heading:
The Course That the Ship Is Steering,
Using the Ship’s Magnetic Compass
- This Heading Includes the Compass Error
Terms Associated With the
Gyro Compass
· True North:
– Direction referenced to True North, measured clockwise from 000° to
359°
· Gyro Error (East or West):
– The Difference between True North and the Gyro Compass Reading
· Gyro Repeater Error:
– The Difference between the Gyro Compass and Gyro Repeater
Gyrocompass Error
steering magnetic compass, as defined in Annex II, unless the heading information provided by the standard
compass, required under sub-paragraph (a), is made available and clearly readable by the helmsman at the main steering
position;
adequate means of communication between the standard compass position and the normal navigation control
position to the satisfaction of the Administration.
Imo Performance standard for MAG Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
1 Definitions
1.1 A magnetic compass is an instrument designed to seek a certain direction in azimuth and
to hold that direction permanently, and which depends, for its directional properties, upon
the magnetism of the earth.
1.2 The standard compass is a magnetic compass used for navigation, mounted in a suitable
binnacle containing the required correcting devices and equipped with a suitable azimuth
reading device.
Gyro – Principle
Imo Performance standard for MAG Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
1.3 The steering compass is a magnetic compass used for steering purposes
mounted in a suitable binnacle containing the required correcting devices.
2 Compass Card
2.1 The compass card should be graduated in 360 single degrees. A numerical indication
should be provided every ten degrees, starting from North (000°) clockwise to 360°. The
cardinal points should be indicated by the capital letters N, E, S and W. The North point may
instead be indicated by a suitable emblem.
2.2 The directional error of the card, composed of inaccuracies in graduation, eccentricity of
the card on its pivot and inaccuracy of orientation of the card on the magnetic system should
not exceed 0.5° on any heading.
Gyro – Stability
Imo Performance standard for MAG Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
3 Materials
3.1 The magnets used in the directional system and the corrector magnets for correcting the
permanent magnetic fields of the ship should have a high coercivity of at least 11.2 kA/m.
3.2 Material used for correcting induced fields should have a low remanence and coercivity.
3.3 All other materials used in the magnetic compass and in the binnacle should be non-
magnetic, so far as reasonable and pracicable and such that the deviation of the card caused
by these materials should not exceed (9/H)°, where H is the horizontal component of the
magnetic flux density in μT (micro Tesia) at the place of the compass.
Imo Performance standard for MAG Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
4 Performance
The magnetic compass equipment should operate satisfactorily and remain usable under
the operational and environmental conditions likely to be experienced on board ships in
which it is installed.
Imo Performance standard for MAG Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
5 Constructional Error
5.1 With the compass rotating at a uniform speed of 1.5° per second and temperature of the compass of 20°C
± 3°C the deflection of the card should not exceed (36/H)°, if the diameter of the card is less than 200 mm. If
the diametter of the compass card is 200 mm or more, the deflection of the card should not exceed (54/H)° ;
H being defined as in sub-paragraph 3.3.
5.2 The error due to friction should not exceed (3/H)° at a temperature of 20°C ± 3°C; H being defined as in
sub-paragraph 3.3.
5.3 With a horizontal component of the magnetic field of 18 μT the half period of the card should be at least
12 seconds, after an initial deflection of 40°. The time taken to return finally to within ±1° of the magnetic
meridian should not exceed 60 seconds after an initial deflection of 90°. Aperiodic compasses shall comply
with the latter requirements only.
Gyroscopic precession
Gyroscopic precession
Gyroscopic precession
With this arrangement, the axle can be pointed in any direction without altering the
geometrical center of the assembly.. "Gyroscopic inertia" may be illustrated by spinning the
rotor and placing it in the position shown in Figure 2a. If the base of the gyroscope is tilted,
as shown in Figure 3a, the rotor, instead of tipping over as it would if not revolving,
maintains its original plane of rotation. It will continue to do so, no matter how much the
base of the gyro is moved about, as long as it continues to spin with sufficient velocity to
overcome the friction between itself and its supporting bearings.
Gyroscopic precession
"Precession" may be illustrated by applying a force or pressure to the gyro
about the horizontal axis as shown in Figure 4a. It will be found that the
applied pressure meets with resistance and that the gyro, instead of turning
about its horizontal axis, turns or "precesses" about its vertical axis in the
direction indicated by the arrow P. Similarly, if we apply a pressure about
the vertical axis, the gyro will precess about its horizontal axis as shown at
P in Figure 5a. If there were a complete absence of inertia and friction
about the precessional axis, the rate of precession would be such that the
resistance of the gyro would be exactly equal to the applied pressure at any
instant, and no movement from this pressure could ensue until the gyro had
precessed so that its plane of rotation coincided with the plane of the
applied pressure. Then the precession would cease and, with it, all
resistance to the applied pressure.
Gyroscopic precession
Imo Performance standard for MAG Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
6 Correcting Devices
6.1 The binnacle should be provided with devices for correcting semicircular and quadrantal deviation due to:
heeling error;
Regn 12 of solas ch v
7 Construction
7.1 Primary and emergency illumination should be installed so that the card may be read at all times. Facilities for
dimming should be provided.
7.2 With the exception of the illumination, no electrical power supply should be necessary for operating the magnetic
compass.
7.3 In the case where an electrical reproduction of the indication of the standard compass is regarded as a steering
compass, the transmitting system should be provided with both primary and emergency electrical power supply.
7.4 Equipment should be constructed and installed in such a way that it is easily accessible for correcting and
maintenance purposes.
Imo Performance standard for MAG Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
7.5 The compass, binnacle and azimuth reading device should be marked to the satisfaction of the
Administration.
7.6 The standard compass should be suspended in gimbals so that its verge ring remains horizontal when the
binnacle is tilted up to 40° in any direction, and so that the compass cannot be dislodged under any condition
of sea or weather. Steering compasses suspended in gimbals should meet the same requirements. If they are
not suspended In gimbals they should have a freedom of the card of at least 30° in all directions
7.7 Material used for the manufacture of magnetic compasses should be of sufficient strength and be to the
satisfaction of the Administration.
Imo Performance standard for MAG Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
8 Positioning
8.1 The magnetic compass equipment should be installed If practicable and reasonable on
the ship's centreline. The main lubber mark should indicate the ship's heading with an
accuracy of ± 0.5°.
8.2 The standard compass should be installed so that from ifs position the view is as
uninterrupted as possible, for the purpose of taking horizontal and celestial bearings. The
steering compass should be clearly readable by the helmsman at the main steering
position.
Imo Performance standard for MAG Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
1 Introduction
1. Introduction
1.2 The equipment should comply with the following minimum performance
requirements.
Imo Performance standard for Gyro Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
Definitions
2. Definitions
The term "gyro-compass" comprises the complete equipment and includes all essential elements of the
complete design.
The ''true heading" is the horizontal angle between the vertical plane passing through the true meridian and the
vertical plane passing through the ship's fore and aft datum line. It is measured from true north (000°) clockwise
through 360°.
The compass is said to be "settled" if any three reading taken at intervals of thirty minutes, when the compass
is on a level and stationary base, are within a band of 0.7°.
Imo Performance standard for Gyro Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
The "settle point heading" is the mean value of ten readings taken at twenty
minute intervals after the compass has settled as defined in paragraph 2.3.
The "settle point error" is the difference between settle point heading and true
heading.
The other errors to which the gyro-compass is subject are taken to be the
difference between the observed value and the settle point heading.
Imo Performance standard for Gyro Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
3 Method of presentation
3. Method of presentation
4 Illumination
4. Illumination
5. Accuracy
5.1 Settling of equipment
5.1.1 When switched on in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions the compass
should settle within six hours in latitudes of up to 60°C
5.1.2 The settle point error as defined in paragraph 2.5 at any heading and at any latitude up
to 60° should not exceed it 0.75 x secant latitude where heading indications of the compass
should be taken as the mean of 10 readings at 20 minute intervals, and the root mean square
value of the differences between individual heading indications and the mean should be less
than 0.25° x secant latitude. The repeatability of settle point error from one run-up to another
shall be within 0.25° x secant latitude.
Imo Performance standard for Gyro Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
5.2.2 The repeatability of the settle points error of the master compass shall be within
± 1° x secant latitude under the general conditions mentioned in paragraphs 6.1 and 8
and including variations in magnetic field likely to be experienced in the ship in
which it is installed.
Imo Performance standard for Gyro Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
the residual steady state error, after correction for speed and course influences at a speed
of twenty knoll, shall not exceed ± 0.25 x secant latitude;
the error due to a rapid alteration of speed of twenty knots should not exceed ± 2°;
the error due to a rapid alteration of course of 180° at a speed of twenty knots should not
exceed ± 3° ;
the transient and steady state errors due to the ship rolling, pitching and yawing, with
simple harmonic motion of any period between six and fifteen seconds, maximum angle of
20°, 10° and 5° respectively, and maximum horizontal acceleration tool exceeding 1m/s2,
should not exceed ° x secant latitude.
Imo Performance standard for Gyro Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
5.2.4 The maximum divergence in reading between the master compass and
repeaters under all operational conditions should not exceed ± 0.5°.
Note: When the compass is used for purposes other than steering and bearing,
a higher accuracy might be necessary.
6. Power supply
6.1 The equipment should be capable of operating continuously in accordance with the
requirements of this recommendation in the presence of such variations of the power supply
as are normally expected in a ship.
6.2 Means should be incorporated for the protection of the equipment from excessive
currents and voltages, transients and accidental reversal of power supply polarity.
6.3 If provision is made for operating the equipment from more than one source of electrical
energy, arrangements for rapidly changing from one source of supply to the other should be
Incorporated.
Imo Performance standard for Gyro Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
7. Interference
7.1 All steps should be taken to eliminate as far as practicable the causes of, and to suppress,
electromagnetic interference between the gyro-compass and other equipment on board.
7.2 Mechanical noise from all units should be so limited as not to prejudice the hearing of
sounds on which the safety of the ship might depend.
7.3 Each unit of the equipment should be marked with the minimum strafe distances at
which it may be mounted from a standard or a steering magnetic compass.
Imo Performance standard for Gyro Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
9.1 The master compass and any repeaters used for taking visual hearing should be
installed in a ship with their fore and aft datum lines parallel to the ship's fore and aft
datum line to within ± 0.5°. The lubber line should be in the same vertical plane as the
centre of the card of the compass and should be aligned accurately in the fore and aft
direction.
9.2 Means should be provided for correcting the errors induced by speed and latitude.
9.3 An automatic alarm should be provided to indicate a major fault in the compass
system.
Imo Performance standard for Gyro Compass
Regn 12 of solas ch v
9.6 The equipment should be provided with an indication of manufacture, type and/or
number.
9.7 The equipment should be so constructed and installed that it is readily accessible for
maintenance purposes.
Elementary topics
True North
Compass North
Compass North
Error East
Error West
Gyro pros and cons
Gyro pros and cons
AZIMUTH CIRCLE
Making the gyroscope North seeking
The gyrospin axis can be made meridian-seeking (maintaining the spin axis
parallel to the earth’s spin axis) by the use of a pendulum acting under the
influence of earth gravity.
The pendulum causes a force to act upon the gyro assembly causing it to
precess.
Precession, the second fundamental property of a gyroscope, enables the
instrument to become north-seeking. As the pendulum swings towards the
centre of gravity, a downward force is applied to the wheel axle, which causes
horizontal precession to occur. This gravitational force acting downward on the
spinner axle causes the compass to precess horizontally and maintain the axle
pointing towards true north.
Making the gyroscope North seeking
Gyroscopic inertia depends upon the momentum of the spinning rotor. The momentum of
such a rotor depends upon three main factors:
Precession
Precession is the term used to describe the movement of the axle of a gyroscope under
the influence of an external force. If a force is applied to the rotor by moving one end of
its axle, the gyroscope will be displaced at an angle of 90° from the applied force