A gyrocompass is a device used in maritime navigation to measure a ship's orientation in relation to magnetic north. It consists of a box containing a rotor with a permanent magnet that rotates on an axis. The rotor is mounted on a support with precision bearings that allow it to rotate freely. The mount is connected to an indicator that shows the ship's orientation in degrees relative to magnetic north.
The gyro compass is a critical component in a ship's navigation system, providing precise information on the ship's orientation, which is essential for maintaining a safe course and avoiding collisions. It is also used in instrument navigation to determine the direction of flight of an aircraft.
Modern gyros are usually electronic, using Hall effect sensors or magnetometers to measure the orientation of the magnet. These devices are more accurate and reliable than older mechanical gyros and require less maintenance.
Some ships also have an auxiliary or backup gyro to use in case of failure of the main gyro. It is important to periodically calibrate the gyro to ensure its accuracy and detect any problems with the system.
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