Chip-Scale Gyrometric Apparatus Using Sagnac Interferometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current navigation systems lack a compact, low-power, and cost-effective gyrometric solution for verifying external measurements, particularly in size, weight, and power-constrained environments, unlike existing solutions for absolute and relative positioning.
Innovation Solution
A chip-scale gyrometric apparatus utilizing a dielectric substrate with integrated circuitry, split RF signals traveling through clockwise and counterclockwise coils, and interferometric techniques to measure phase shifts and determine rotation, enabling precise rotation detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional gyrometric apparatus are used, then rotation measurement accuracy is maintained, but device size and weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical gyroscopes with an optical interference-based system. A beam of light is split into two paths traveling in opposite directions around a closed loop, and rotation is detected through phase shifts in the interference pattern, eliminating mechanical moving parts while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameters by using optical frequencies (high frequency electromagnetic waves) instead of mechanical rotation. The phase shift parameter is used to detect rotation, allowing for compact design while preserving measurement precision through the relationship between path length difference and rotational velocity.
2Measurement precision
If traditional gyrometric apparatus are used, then rotation measurement accuracy is maintained, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source, beam splitter, mirrors, and detector into an integrated optical path where all components work together in a single closed-loop interferometric system. This consolidation reduces the number of separate subsystems and simplifies the overall device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The interferometric optical path serves multiple functions: it acts as the measurement sensor for rotation, the signal processor for phase detection, and the indicator for rotational velocity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
3Volume of moving object
If chip-scale integration is implemented, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar optical paths to a three-dimensional closed-loop configuration where the light beam travels through space in a rectangular or polygonal path. This spatial arrangement allows for better tolerance to manufacturing variations compared to planar interferometers, as the path length differences are determined by the enclosed area rather than precise linear dimensions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and efficient rotation measurement within a small form factor, suitable for integration into navigation systems like GPS and IMU, enhancing their accuracy and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A chip-scale gyrometric apparatus utilizes a dielectric substrate with integrated circuitry, split RF signals traveling through clockwise and counterclockwise coils, and interferometric techniques to measure phase shifts and determine rotation
Implementation Method 2
split RF signals traveling through clockwise and counterclockwise coils, and interferometric techniques to measure phase shifts
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A chip-scale gyrometric apparatus is disclosed. In embodiments, the chip-scale gyrometric apparatus includes a dielectric substrate (102) and an antenna element (302) attached thereto for receiving an inbound signal having an initial phase. The apparatus includes a splitter (304) for splitting the inbound signal into two equivalent signals, and two coils (106, 108) connected to the splitter. The first coil carries one of the split signals in a clockwise (CW) path relative to a rotational axis, while the second coil carries the other split signal in a counterclockwise (CCW) path relative to the same axis. An integrated circuit (IC) (104) on the substrate and connected to the first and second coils measures a phase shift between the first and second signals (e.g., deviation from the initial phase) based on their respective CW and CCW paths and determines, based on the measured phase shift, a degree of rotation relative to the common rotational axis.