High Precision Fiber Optic North Finder for Accurate True North Determination
The Fiber Optic Gyroscope (FOG) North Finder is a high-precision instrument designed for rapid, autonomous determination of true north. By detecting the Earth's rotation angular rate through a FOG and resolving it into directional components, the system accurately calculates the azimuth between the gyroscope's main axis and geographic north.
This compact electromechanical system integrates a fiber optic gyroscope, accelerometer, rotation control mechanism, and embedded computer. With a north-seeking time of ≤3 minutes and accuracy up to 0.3° (1σ), it delivers reliable azimuth and attitude information for vehicles, ships, and other mobile platforms.
Operating in temperatures from -40°C to +70°C, powered by DC 12-24V, and communicating via RS-422, the lightweight (≤2 kg) FOG North Finder features fast startup, automatic self-test, and robust performance in harsh environments.
115 × 90 × 110 mm
- North seeking time: ≤ 3 minutes
- North seeking accuracy (1σ): ≤ 0.3° (NF701A); ≤ 0.5° (NF701B)
- Horizontal accuracy: ≤ 0.05° (1σ)
- Circumference: ≤ 0.5° (1σ)
- Weight: ≤ 2 kg
- Power supply: DC 12V ~ 24V
- Power consumption: 15 W (peak)
- Interface: RS422
- Working mode: Automatic self-check on power-up, controlled north seeking via upper computer, with results transmitted upon completion
- Operating temperature: -40°C to +70°C
- Storage temperature: -55°C to +85°C
- Humidity: Relative humidity less than 95%
- Appearance: Metal surfaces free of rust, coatings without blistering or peeling
Insulation resistance: ≥10 MΩ between independent circuits and between circuits and housing under standard atmospheric conditions.
- MTBF ≥ 1000 hours
- MTTR ≤30 minutes
- DC12V ~ 24V power input
- Serial port output function
| Plug Pin Number | Functional Definition |
|---|---|
| a | DC12V ~24V |
| b | DC12V ~24V GND |
| c | TD+ |
| d | TD- |
| e | RD+ |
| f | RD- |
| g | GND |
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