Synchronized Multi-Axis Gyroscope With Ringlike Synchronization Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-axis gyroscopes face challenges in achieving robustness and accuracy due to external vibrations and the complexity of proof mass arrangements, which can lead to undesired oscillations and interference between oscillation frequencies, making it difficult to design a simple yet effective multiaxis gyroscope with one oscillation frequency for all proof masses.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a ringlike synchronization element that connects proof mass pairs with a central symmetry point, allowing flexible anti-phase oscillation modes while resisting cophasal oscillation modes, and utilizes torsion bars and suspension arrangements to maintain desired oscillation frequencies and prevent undesired oscillations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple proof masses are used for multi-axis measurement, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and susceptibility to external vibrations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple proof masses (first and second proof mass pairs) into a single integrated structure with common suspension elements. The proof masses are mechanically coupled through shared suspenders and a connection structure, allowing them to oscillate in a coordinated manner. This merging approach enables multi-axis measurement capability while reducing overall device complexity compared to using separate, independent proof mass systems for each axis.
Solution Approach 2:
The proof mass structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: the first proof mass pair measures rotation about one axis while the second proof mass pair measures rotation about another axis. The common suspension system serves both measurement functions, and the structure can detect angular velocity components along multiple axes using the same physical elements, thereby achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Measurement precision
If proof masses are suspended flexibly for desired oscillation modes, then oscillation amplitude is improved, but susceptibility to undesired oscillation modes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system exhibits different mechanical properties for different oscillation modes: it is designed to be flexible in the directions corresponding to desired oscillation modes (allowing large amplitude motion) while being stiff in directions corresponding to undesired oscillation modes (suppressing unwanted motion). This local differentiation of mechanical properties enables the system to simultaneously achieve large oscillation amplitudes for measurement while resisting external vibrations that would cause erroneous signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspender structure is designed with asymmetric stiffness characteristics, being softer in specific directions that permit the desired oscillation modes while being harder in other directions that would permit undesired modes. This asymmetric design creates a directional dependence of the suspension flexibility, allowing the proof masses to oscillate freely in measurement-relevant directions while being constrained in directions where external vibrations would interfere.
3Reliability
If proof masses oscillate in anti-phase, then robustness to external vibrations is improved, but synchronization complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a common suspension system that mechanically couples the proof masses in such a way that anti-phase oscillation is naturally encouraged. The shared suspenders and connection structure create a mechanical configuration where motion of one proof mass in one direction is directly coupled to opposite motion of another proof mass, thereby achieving synchronization through mechanical coupling rather than complex active control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension structure is designed to automatically synchronize the proof masses into anti-phase oscillation through its inherent mechanical properties. The geometry and stiffness distribution of the suspenders create a self-synchronizing effect where the system naturally evolves into the anti-phase mode without requiring external synchronization mechanisms or complex control algorithms, thereby achieving robustness while minimizing added complexity.
4Device complexity
If a single oscillation frequency is used for all proof masses, then device simplicity is improved, but interference between measurement modes may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function across multiple proof mass pairs that all oscillate at the same frequency, but each pair is oriented and suspended to measure different rotational axes. By dividing the measurement task into separate spatially-distinct proof mass pairs, the system can use a single oscillation frequency without mode interference, as each segmented element measures a different physical quantity (rotation about different axes) despite sharing the same oscillation frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves frequency interference by moving the differentiation from the frequency domain to the spatial domain. All proof masses oscillate at the same frequency, but they are arranged in different spatial orientations and suspended to respond to different rotational axes. This dimensional separation allows simultaneous measurement of multiple axes using a single frequency, avoiding the interference that would occur if multiple frequencies were used.
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 simpler, more robust multiaxis gyroscope with improved accuracy and resistance to external vibrations, ensuring reliable operation by synchronizing proof mass pairs and maintaining desired oscillation modes, thereby enhancing the robustness and precision of angular velocity measurements.
Implementation Method 1
The gyroscope also comprises first and second x-axis torsion bars which extend along the x-axis from the first ringlike body to the first and second proof masses which form the first proof mass pair, and first and second y-axis torsion bars which extend along the y1-axis from the first ringlike body to the third and fourth proof masses which form the second proof mass pair
Implementation Method 2
The suspenders are configured to flexibly allow oscillating primary motion and secondary motion at a desired resonant frequency
Implementation Method 3
Microelectromechanical gyroscopes use the Coriolis effect to measure angular velocity. In oscillating MEMS gyroscopes, an object is driven into oscillating movement by an actuating drive force
Implementation Method 4
If the gyroscope undergoes angular rotation, the Coriolis force generates a secondary oscillation mode in the oscillating object
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 1e~1f
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a microelectromechanical gyroscope which comprises first and second proof masses which form a first proof mass pair and third and fourth proof masses which form a second proof mass pair. The oscillation of the first and second proof mass pairs is synchronized by a synchronization element which comprises a ringlike body and torsion bars which extend along the x-axis from the ringlike body to the first, second, third and fourth proof masses.