Compass & Motion Sensors

The compass and motion attitude systems are indispensable core components in marine surveying and vessel-mounted sensing equipment. Their primary function is to provide real-time heading and attitude information of ships or underwater vehicles, helping to correct data deviations caused by navigation or changing sea conditions. These systems come in various forms, including magnetic compasses, fiber optic gyroscopes (FOG), inertial measurement units (IMU), motion reference units (MRU), and attitude and heading reference systems (AHRS).

Magnetic compasses are traditional but susceptible to interference, while fiber optic gyroscopes offer high precision and maintenance-free operation, making them ideal for advanced sonar and navigation systems. IMUs and MRUs provide three-axis angular and acceleration data and are commonly used in combination with sonar or multibeam echo sounders to compensate for vessel movement in real time. AHRS further integrates multiple sensors to deliver a comprehensive and stable reference for attitude and heading.

These systems not only enhance data accuracy but are also key technologies in ensuring the reliability of underwater mapping and scientific research outcomes.