The Master Gyro-Compass is contained within a binnacle stand, with
glass dome top.
As shown in the photographs and sectional view, the twin gyro-wheels
are supported from a frame-work which is in turn set in gimbal rings.
The outer gimbal ring is attached to the binnacle stand by means of a
number of supporting springs. The springs are provided for protecting
the compass against sudden jars and vibrations. Figure 18 shows a
photograph of the top view, while the wheels are shown from below in
Figure 16.
A diagrammatic representation of the Sperry Gyro-Compass is shown in
plan view in Figure 17. The elevation, or side view, is shown in Figure
15. These drawings show the working parts of the Gyro-Compass. Each of
the twin gyro-wheels is enclosed in a case, which is in turn suspended
from the main frame and spider.
The wheels are spun at a high speed in unison by means of electricity.
The force of the earth’s rotation combines with the force resulting
from the rotating wheels. The resultant action of these two forces is
that both wheels turn their axes directly into, or parallel with, the
earth’s north and south meridian. The compass card, of course, also
turns and indicates direction by comparing the stationary “lubber
line,” representing the ship’s head, with the compass card.
[Illustration: Using Bearing Repeater at Sea.]
[Illustration: The trade of China is carried in clumsy Junks.]
[Illustration: Figure 6. Control Panel.
Figure 7. Motor Generator.
Figure 8. Master Compass.