Which elements are essential components of an inertial navigation system?

An inertial navigation system relies primarily on the principles of physics to track the position and velocity of objects, typically by measuring acceleration and rotation. The key components of such a system involve accelerometers and gyroscopes which serve vital functions. Accelerometers measure linear acceleration, while gyroscopes measure the rate of rotation around an axis.

The inclusion of integrators within the system is crucial as they process the data from the accelerometers and gyroscopes to calculate changes in velocity and orientation over time. Furthermore, a stable platform is needed to ensure that the readings from these sensors remain accurate despite external movements or variations in the surrounding environment. The computer component is essential for processing the data collected by the sensors and providing real-time navigation information, allowing for accurate tracking and navigation.

Other components, while important in different types of systems, do not play the pivotal roles found in an inertial navigation system. For instance, radios and transponders typically relate to communication capabilities rather than the core navigation functionalities.