Multi-Axis Fiber Optic Gyroscope Planar Array Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber optic gyroscopes lack a small, low-cost, highly integrated form factor, limiting their compactness and multi-axis capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a fiber optic gyroscope using multi-channel fiber optic planar array technology, incorporating a light source, optical circulator, beam splitter, and photodiode array with orthogonal planar fiber loops, and a single optical circulator, enabling a compact four-axis design with redundancy and reduced parts count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional fiber optic gyroscope implementation is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fiber optic gyroscope axes into a single integrated housing with a planar array configuration. Multiple fiber loops are arranged in a compact planar structure that can be integrated with electronic components, achieving both multi-axis measurement capability and reduced device complexity through consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional three-dimensional coil configurations to a planar two-dimensional array arrangement. This dimensional change allows for compact integration while maintaining the essential fiber optic gyroscope functionality, reducing the overall device footprint and enabling smaller form factor.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-axis fiber optic gyroscope is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal integrated housing that accommodates multiple fiber optic gyroscope axes simultaneously. The planar array structure serves as a common platform for multiple measurement channels, allowing the device to perform multi-axis rotation detection while sharing common components such as the housing and optical interfaces.
3Volume of moving object
If highly integrated form factor is achieved, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fiber optic gyroscope into modular components including separate fiber loops, optical interfaces, and electronic circuits that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into the integrated planar array. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of individual components while achieving precise integration at the system level.
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
This approach results in a compact, reliable, and cost-effective multi-axis fiber optic gyroscope with improved integration and reduced size, enhancing its applicability in navigation systems by providing precise rotational rate measurements.
Implementation Method 1
an optical circulator in the path of the beam for providing polarized primary and secondary beams of perpendicular polarization
Implementation Method 2
a beam splitter in the path of one of the polarized beams to produce at least first, second, and third beams
Implementation Method 3
Due to an optical phenomena known as the Sagnac effect, the beam traveling against the rotation experiences a slightly shorter path than the other beam resulting in a relative phase shift
Implementation Method 4
a photodiode array coupled to the optical interface for receiving the optical signal from the first, second, and third return beams
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic gyroscope including an optical circulator in the path of said first and second beams for providing polarized first and second beams of identical polarization. A phase modulator couples the first and second beams to the first and second end respectively of the fiber loop, and couples for receiving the return first and second beams from the second and first ends respectively of the fiber loop. First and second photodiodes are coupled to the optical circulator for receiving the optical signal from the first and second return beams.