Geometrical instruments – Indicator of direction of force traversing natural media – Level or plumb – terrestrial gravitation responsive
Patent
1986-05-30
1987-09-22
Stearns, Richard R.
Geometrical instruments
Indicator of direction of force traversing natural media
Level or plumb, terrestrial gravitation responsive
33346, 33396, G01C 906, G01C 912
Patent
active
046945849
ABSTRACT:
A high resolution, digital inclinometer having a full 360.degree. linear range with accuracy which is independent of the angle of inclination. The linearity of the inclinometer is essentially flat throughout its range and greatly exceeds analog equivalents. A mathematical model to predict resolution is presented which allows the designer to design the device to maximize resolution at transverse angles. The device can be used in a celestial navigational instrument by storing celestial navigation tables and providing clock and inclination angle information so that the device can be pointed at particular stars and a latitude and longitude calculated. The inclinometer is capable of minimizing effects of pressure and/or temperature which cause microbubbles to form within the supporting fluid. These microbubbles degrade the optical detection technique and are eliminated by minimizing the volume of the fluid chamber and providing large flat surfaces which are easily deflectable to compensate for changes in the volume of the fluid. The large flat surfaces are also used as optical windows to allow the optical detector to be mounted on the outer surface and eliminate the complexity of mounting the optical detector devices, which include the emitter and detector, within the fluid cavity.
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Dorr Robert C.
Stearns Richard R.
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