Nested Fiber Optic Gyroscope for Multi-Function Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic gyroscopes lack flexibility in serving multiple functions and cannot efficiently accommodate various instruments, as they are often limited to a single coil size, leading to inefficiencies and increased size when trying to perform different tasks, such as flight stability and gyrocompassing, and do not allow for a minimized, volume-saving packaging.
Innovation Solution
A nested interferometric fiber optic gyroscope system comprising differently sized first, second, and third fiber optic coils, where the third coil is nested within and transversely to the second, and the second within the first, allowing for orthogonal or concentric arrangements, and enabling the inclusion of instruments like accelerometers, all packaged in a compact, spherical cover for versatile function and reduced volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single coil size is used in the gyroscope system, then the device structure is simple, but the system cannot serve multiple functions efficiently and must be oversized to accommodate different operational requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested coil configuration where a first coil, second coil, and third coil are arranged concentrically with each smaller coil nested within the larger ones. This nesting arrangement enables multiple coil sizes to coexist in a compact space, allowing the gyroscope to serve multiple functions (gyrocompassing, flight stability, etc.) without requiring separate devices, thus resolving the contradiction between functional versatility and structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the gyroscope system with multiple coils of different sizes that can be selectively activated based on the required function. The system can operate as a gyrocompass using the appropriate coil size, perform flight stability functions with different coils, or combine functions simultaneously. This multi-functionality approach allows a single device to replace multiple specialized devices, achieving versatility without proportional increases in overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large coil size is used to accommodate different functions, then the system can serve multiple functions, but the device size increases and becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
By nesting the first, second, and third coils concentrically within each other, the patent achieves a compact arrangement where the total volume required is determined by the outermost coil rather than the sum of individual coil volumes. This nesting geometry allows multiple functional coils to share the same spatial envelope, enabling functional versatility without proportionally increasing device volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar or linear arrangement of coils to a three-dimensional nested configuration. By utilizing the radial dimension and arranging coils at different radii from a common center, the system packs multiple coils into a compact spherical or cylindrical volume, significantly reducing the overall device size compared to linear arrangements while maintaining all functional capabilities
3Ease of manufacture
If instruments are placed between nested coils of the same size, then the structure is simplified, but the coils cannot be efficiently nested and volume optimization is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements concentric nesting of coils with progressively smaller diameters, allowing the first, second, and third coils to be arranged in nested fashion without requiring intermediate spacing for instruments. The natural size progression enables direct nesting while maintaining appropriate spacing between adjacent coils, optimizing volume efficiency while preserving manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent assigns different functional roles to different regions of the nested coil structure. The outer coils may be optimized for certain functions while inner coils serve other functions, with each coil's size and position locally optimized for its specific purpose. This local optimization allows the overall structure to achieve volume efficiency while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized coil components
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
The solution provides a small, lightweight, accurate, and flexible fiber optic gyroscope system capable of serving multiple functions while accommodating various instruments, achieving a compact, volume-efficient design suitable for navigation in moving apparatus like aircraft and spacecraft.
Implementation Method 1
interferometric fiber optic gyroscope system
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple nested interferometric fiber optic gyroscope system having varying functions may include a first fiber optic coil, a second fiber optic coil which is smaller than the first fiber optical coil and nested within and transversely to the first fiber optic coil, and a third fiber optic coil which is smaller than the second fiber optical coil and nested within and transversely to the second fiber optic coil.