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gimbal
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gimbal

instrument
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Quick Summary

A gimbal is a device that allows an object to remain level or incline freely in any direction, even when its support is tipped. This is often achieved through a system of rings, known as gimbal rings, that pivot at different points.1

Gimbals are commonly used in conjunction with gyroscopes, which are devices that use a spinning wheel or beam of light to maintain a stable orientation. In inertial guidance systems, gimbals are crucial for establishing a stable frame of reference for vehicles like missiles, submarines, and airplanes. They allow instruments such as compasses and accelerometers to remain level with the horizon, unaffected by the vehicle's movement, such as the pitch and roll of a ship at sea. This ensures accurate navigation and control without external communication. The term "gimbal" itself has origins in the word for a twin ring, reflecting its mechanical structure.2341

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  2. inertial guidance system
  3. gyroscope
  4. gimbal

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