Development of an Optical Rate Sensor.
Abstract
This report documents the results of a feasibility investigation program of optical rate sensing by a unique technique of differential phase shift measurement between counter-traveling light beams forming a closed path. The program involved the design, build, and test of a discrete component research test model of the sensor, and an investigation of the applicability of integrated optics technology to such a sensor. Such a sensor possesses many of the attributes of the ring laser gyro without the problem of frequency lock-in which is characteristic of that device. It also offers the potential advantage of size reduction without performance degradation through the use of multiple turns of fiber optics for an effective area increase and replacement of the gas laser with a solid state source. The purpose of the program was to evaluate a complete sensor using the research test model and to determine how well integrated optics can be applied to the optical rate sensor. The results indicate that fiber optics and the solid state laser can be used to overcome problems encountered in the discrete component model and to achieve performance in the one-half to ten degree per hour bias stability range in a sensor configured for a maximum rate of 400 degrees/second. An optical rate sensor using only integrated optics components, although promising, requires further research developments in the field of integrated optics. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA014505
Entities
People
- James L. Skripka
- Ronald J. Fredricks