The Azimuth Setting Tool (AST) provides a means to measure relative azimuth of components located in two different locations in an aircraft. The AST function allows a technician to measure the azimuth of an existing feature, take that measurement to another location and align an object to the original azimuth reading within 0.5 degrees.

Context

The AST is based a single-axis fiber optic gyro (FOG) used to sense relative azimuth between two objects or other features. Measuring relative azimuth (or yaw) between components in an aircraft can be problematic when line-of-sight is not possible, precluding the use of traditional transits or laser tracker alignment tools. Magnetic compasses are not practical because the magnetic effects of various components in the aircraft will introduce errors that vary from one location in the aircraft to another. The FOG eliminates these problems.

The AST is used by production technicians or line mechanics in the field. The technician/mechanic will be using the AST to make critical alignments of component installations during modification of existing aircraft. Working conditions in the field may restrict the availability or practicality of tools that are normally available in a production environment. The AST is simple to use and does not rely on interpretation of the output by the end user.