Abstract: A ring laser angular rate sensor getter mounting clip is configured so that the susceptibility of the mounting clip to radio frequency (RF) energy used to activate the getter is minimized. The clip is configured so that opposing RF current flow is induced which prevents heating of the clip beyond force relieving temperatures for the clip material, whereby the clip maintains its retaining force within a getter well via three contact surfaces to more stably retain the getter in its proper position within the well.

Abstract: A ring laser gyroscope functions both as a standard gyroscope and as an accelerometer. As the ring laser gyroscope experiences acceleration along its input axis, the frame bends and position sensing photodiodes are utilized to detect the optic axis motion and laser beam intensity. By measuring optic axis shifts along the gyro input axis during acceleration, a signal proportional to acceleration is obtained.

Abstract: In a ring laser gyroscope a laser beam is directed to travel in a closed path, however, temperature variations can cause a change in the path length which, if not corrected, can result in drift and scale factor errors. The present invention controls the length of this closed path or cavity by applying a force to the gyro normal to the lasing plane. This is accomplished by inserting a bolt through the longitude axis of the gyro and by utilizing the bolt to apply or to relieve force therefore maintaining the cavity length constant over a given temperature range.

Abstract: A ring laser gyro is configured in accordance with a model whereby a closed line integral is evaluated along the optical path of the gyro so that reducing the integral by configuring the plasma discharge path of the gyro reduces the sensitivity of the gyro to magnetic effects.

Abstract: A ring laser gyro features an arrangement wherein the ionized gas atoms flowing in a sealed envelope in an optical cavity flow transverse to the optical axis of the gyro in the optical gain sections thereof, thereby eliminating gas flow bias errors. An arrangement of the type described has the added advantage of providing a larger gas reservoir in small ring laser gyros which increases the life of the gyro. The transverse discharge arrangement obviates the necessity of equal curents flowing through gas ionizing electrodes and minimizes the tendency for gas flow oscillations at high current values.

Abstract: A cavity length control assembly for a ring laser gyro includes a mirror support to which a piezoelectric plate is mounted. The piezoelectric plate is mounted at a center post of the mirror support with a preload tension. An outer perimeter of the piezoelectric plate is supported against the perimeter of the mirror support, thereby permitting the piezoelectric plate to exert axial force against the perimeter, without being radially restrained at the perimeter.