For over 150 years, from the first liquid dampened compass to today's
modern PowerDamp dial designs, Ritchie's Engineering Department
has been critical to the development of the modern marine compass.
Today, sophisticated computers and specialized instrumentation also
allow Ritchie Engineers to develop better and more
efficient ways to build compasses.
 Compass
NiteVu Night Lighting Systems. Most compass models
are available with Ritchie's exclusive NiteVu night lighting. Each
provides the optimum illumination of the dial and lubber lines without
hindering important night vision. All NiteVu lighting systems come
standard for 12-volt operation.
Compass Dome.
The compass dome allows the compass dial to rotate smoothly through
heel, pitch and yaw motions. The dome also provides clear and accurate
magnification of the dial. Ritchie domes are made exclusively for
them using a heavy-duty, optically clear polymer. It is formulated
to prevent sun crazing and will stay stable throughout extreme temperature
ranges.
Compass Bezels &
O-Rings. Sealing the entire compass assembly is
critical to prevent fluid leakage. The Ritchie O-Ring is a custom
blend compound that is non reactive with dampening fluid. Ritchie
Bezels are formed from high strength plastics, aluminum or machined
bronze.
Compass Gimbal Systems.
All Ritchie Compasses are engineered to operate normally without
bottoming out due to pitch and roll. An internal gimbaling system
often provides this important function. Ritchie gimbals cradle the
dial assembly within an axis system bisecting the compass bowl.
These ultra-light weight aluminum gimbals and pans are held in place
with spring loaded brass pins. A brass counter balance keeps the
entire system level.
Compass Corrector
Magnets. All Ritchie compasses that are intended
for use on boats that could have deviation problems, have built-in
compensators. These compensators are non-interactive magnets that
are balanced and optimally spaced for accurate correction. |
