Geonav introduces GPS fiber optic compass

Offshore Staff

HOUSTON -- Geonav Marine Systems has launched I-Compass, a GPS-aided fiber optic gyro compass.

I-Compass is an integration of fiber optic gyro (FOG) technology with GPS (Global Positioning System) technology to provide heading, pitch, and roll measurements with the accuracy of higher priced FOG systems, according to Geonav.

By integrating these technologies, I-Compass takes advantage of absolute heading values to convert a rate compass from a relative heading device to a true-north heading sensor, the company says

The fiber optic gyro technology allows the I-Compass to maintain heading accuracy even through GPS outages, and it eliminates GPS noise instability and maintenance costs associated with mechanical gyros. I-Compass operates with a rate of turn of up to 100 degrees per second and outputs GPS time-stamped data on four independently configurable ports.

It also offers data output rates of up to 20 Hz; minimal export restrictions; easy installation and set-up; GPS position and velocity output; and an optional magnetic sensor that provides data through long-term GPS outages.

05/22/2008