eLearning | Computer Based Training | Systems Simulation
Interactive Gyroscope > Precession
Precession is a strange phenomenon which refers to the movement of a gyroscope's axis as the result of torque applied about an axis that is not aligned with its spin axis. (Note that if the torque is applied about an axis that is aligned with the spin axis then no precession will take place).
What makes precession so counter-intuitive is the behaviour of a spinning rotor mass. Because a gyroscope contains a spinning rotor mass, its behavior when torque is applied may be different to that displayed by an identical but stationary mass subjected to the same torque.
Precession is actually caused by the applied force being carried in the direction of the spin (by the spinning rotor mass). This results in the torque apparently acting around an axis perpendicular to the axis around which the torque was applied.
Thankfully, the Interactive Gyroscope provides a simulation of a mounted gyroscope with full control of spin, force and torque. The mounted gyroscope can be set to spin in either a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction and force or torque can be applied to the inner or outer gimbals to enable a clear demonstration of precession.
As our licensing for this product allows installation on an unlimited number of computers within the school, it means precession can first be demonstrated by instructors and then used by students to experiment and reinforce their learning afterwards!
The Interactive Gyroscope inlcudes a fully interactive gyroscope and model of the Earth, enabling the clear demonstration the following gyroscopic principles and properties: