This is a non-working example of an inertial navigation system for commercial aircraft. It was prepared by the Delco Division of General Motors, the manufacturer, for display purposes. Using a set of gyroscopes, accelerometers, and associated electronics, the system could determine an aircraft's position with no reference to the outside world (i.e. no radio beams or stellar sightings), assuming it is initialized properly. Such devices were in common use in trans-oceanic flights when they were out of range of ground-based radio navigation systems.
Gift of the Delphi Corporation.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
INSTRUMENTS-Navigational
Manufacturer
Delco Co.
Physical Description
Rectangular case consisting of an inertial reference system using a set of small gimbaled gyroscopes, and a set of printed circuit boards that process the data from the gyros to give an aircraft's position.
Cover was removed prior to donation.
Dimensions
3-D: 25.4 × 54.6 × 20.3cm, 18.7kg (10 in. × 1 ft. 9 1/2 in. × 8 in., 41.2lb.)
Materials
Aluminum
Iron Alloy
Copper
Electronic Components
Plastics
Adhesive
Inventory Number
A20090051000
Credit Line
Gift of Delphi Electronics & Safety
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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