Research on SAW Sensor Bias Stability
Abstract
The results of measurements of absolute and differential bias stability in surface acoustic wave (SAW) accelerometers is reported. The objective is to develop SAW accelerometers with improved bias stability characteristics for moderately accurate inertial navigation. A method of determining preaging and long term stability in large numbers of dual-resonator structures using only a single frequency standard as reference is discussed. The results of stability measurements were combined with a study of the surface chemistry of electroded SAW crystals. Chemisorption and electrode oxidation were found to increase instability in these crystals. Careful control of the composition of electrode materials was found necessary in order to obtain low aging SAW resonators. Preliminary studies of bias stability with respect to inertial navigation using SAW accelerometers indicates cumulative displacement errors less than 20 meters/hour can be achieved over time periods up to one hour. Applications for SAW accelerometers as tactical inertial sensors are discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA109738
Entities
People
- A. P. Andrews
- E. J. Staples