Abstract: A real time directional orientation apparatus is disclosed for use in a two pi (2.pi.) geometry. The apparatus is to be affixed to an object which translates in space. A cylindrical disk is suspended in a fluid in concert with a magnet. The cylindrical disk is disposed inside a cylindrical housing. A light source is in communication with the disk and the light is propagated through the disk where it is finally projected from the disk in a radial fashion. The light beam projected is detected by a bank of photon sensitive detectors lining the interior of the cylindrical housing. The light source is propagated through two coplanar, orthogonal light channels which emanate from the center of the disk in a radial fashion. The photon sensitive detectors register the orientation of the light channels against a known starting value.

Abstract: A gimballed compass apparatus is disclosed which provides directional and inclinational data. The apparatus comprises a rotatably mounted slotted disk wherein the slot is continuously varying in width around the circumference of the disk. The disk incorporates an elongated magnet which causes it to rotate in relation to an external magnetic field. A first and second aperture are located on the top and bottom elements of the chamber defining a emission passage. The apertures have a rectangular length approximately the maximum width of the slot. The slotted disk is positioned intermediate the apertures. An emission housing is provided below the chamber and includes an emission source and a first source detector. A second source detector is provided above the chamber. The source detectors provide a response to the intensity of emission incident upon them.

Abstract: A low cost, simple apparatus is disclosed which can be used to provide positional information relative to an external magnetic field. The apparatus comprises a rotatably mounted slotted disk wherein the slot is continuously varying in width around the circumference of the disk. The disk incorporates an elongated magnet which causes it to rotate in relation to an external magnetic field. The slotted disk is placed in a fluid filled chamber. A first and second aperture are located on the top and bottom elements of the chamber defining an emission passage. The apertures have a rectangular length approximately the maximum width of the slot. The slotted disk is intermediate the apertures. A source detector is provided below the chamber proximal an emission source, and a second source detector is provided above the chamber. The source detectors provide a response to the intensity of emission incident upon them.