Northrop Grumman has unveiled the LCR-300 attitude and heading reference system (AHRS) at the HELI-EXPO 2012 which was held from 12 to 14 Feb 2012. The LCR-300 AHRS has been developed by Northrop Grumman LITEF, which is a navigation systems subsidiary of Northrop Grumman.
Northrop Grumman is launching the new LCR-300 Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS) at HELI-EXPO 2012 in Dallas, Texas. The system features a smaller size, lower weight and expands the capabilities of a micro-electromechanical system sensor-based AHRS.
The LCR-300 AHR system uses the micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. The important characteristics of the AHRS includes an inertial measurement unit based on MEMS, light-weight, small size and better operational capability. The system reduces the erroneous results of magnetic compass by allowing direct gyro mode performance. In addition, the system uses information from the global navigation satellite system for the execution of hybrid navigation operations.
The system comprises a read-only memory device that can be programmed for calibration, a mounting tray and a magnetometer, and the AHRS unit weighing 4.2 pounds is capable of receiving the position and velocity information from the satellite GPS.
Eckehardt Keip, Northrop Grumman LITEF’s Managing Director, stated that hybrid navigation improves the utility of the system in tough environments faced by helicopters, by enhancing currently-used technology. A successful demonstration of flight tests using the LCR-300 AHRS was accomplished last year on three average sized twin helicopters.
Northrop Grumman specializes in products for electronics, informatics, technical services and aerospace industries. The company has supplied computers and navigation systems to global customers and government organizations.