A unidimensional convergence test for matrix iterative processes applied to strapdown navigation

The investigation of the convergence properties of matrix iterative processes usually involves test matrices of high order. This fact may prohibit an analytic approach to the problem. In this paper a method is presented which converts the multidimensional test procedure into a scalar one. The method is presented in conjunction with the problem of matrix orthogonalization which exists in Strapdown Inertial Navigation. Three examples are presented in which the convergence of matrix orthogonalization techniques is investigated. The examples demonstrate the use of the unidimensional convergence test in determining the order of the processes and in finding sufficient conditions for convergence. Numerical results are presented.