Abstract: An open loop fiber optic gyroscope having improved linearity and scale factor accuracy in the rate signal output and improved modulation index control is disclosed. A digital phase tracker is utilized to derive the Sagnac phase shift from signals proportional to cosine and sine values of the Sagnac phase shift. The rate output is independent of the amplitude of the optical power in the gyroscope and is linear for very large input rates. A modulation servo utilizes the second and fourth harmonic signals from the output of the fiber optic gyroscope to control modulation.

Abstract: There is disclosed a fast responding temperature transducer circuit which provides an accurate steady-state output representing temperature in short periods of time. The circuit includes a temperature sensor which is sampled during alternate periods of time so that during one period, the temperature sensor provides a signal representing temperature, and during the alternate periods, the sensor output is shorted to prevent heat dissipation within the temperature sensor. The system may be used to achieve steady-state outputs in environments requiring fast response without a loss of accuracy and operable over wide temperature ranges.

Abstract: A system and technique is disclosed for providing a low-cost, two-axis rate and acceleration transducer assembly which has improved bandwidth for providing outputs of acceleration while reducing ripple. The system includes a sensor structure utilizing piezoelectric generator elements affixed in a rotating configuration and generating a periodic signal having amplitudes representing the rates and accelerations. The structure includes three pairs of sensors, wherein each sensor of each pair of sensors is spaced 180.degree. from the other sensor of that pair about a rotating hub structure. One pair provides two-axis rate signals, while the remaining two pair provide two-axis acceleration signals. In the remaining two pair, each of the sensors of a pair are spaced 180.degree. from one another and 90.degree. from one of the elements of the other pair. A demodulator is coupled to receive the combined output of each acceleration pair to produce low ripple signals without filtering or with reduced filtering.

Abstract: A low-cost, two-axis rate and acceleration sensor utilizing piezoelectric generator elements affixed to a rotating structure and generating a periodic signal having an amplitude representing the rates and accelerations. A demodulator dividing the period of the signal into a plurality of segments and regenerating selected ones of the signal segments in accordance with a predetermined pattern stored in a fixed store, the regenerated signal segments being filtered to produce rate and acceleration analog voltages.

Abstract: A low-cost, two-axis rate and acceleration sensor utilizing piezoelectric generator elements affixed to the rotating housing of an inside-out synchronous motor. Signals generated by the piezoelectric bender elements are amplified, compensated, balanced, and converted to FM signals for transmission off the rotating assembly.

Abstract: A low-cost, two-axis acceleration sensor utilizing piezoelectric generator elements affixed to the rotating housing of an inside-out synchronous motor. Signals generated by the piezoelectric bender elements are amplified, compensated, balanced, and converted to FM signals for transmission off the rotating assembly.

Abstract: A low-cost two-axis rate and acceleration sensor utilizing piezoelectric generator elements affixed to the rotating housing of an inside-out synchronous motor. Signals generated by the piezoelectric bender elements are amplifier, compensated, balanced, and converted to FM signals for transmission off the rotating assembly.

Abstract: A piezoceramic bender element for operation in the AC generator mode below the device resonant frequency and having an electrode configuration which removes from the active electrical circuit the ends of the element where relatively high levels of mechanical stress develop.

Abstract: Sensor structure integrates multiple piezoelectric bender elements into a single piezoelectric unit. A single base member comprising a plurality of plates of piezoelectric material includes three or more electrodes for forming two or more bender elements. Preferred embodiments include one or more of the following: (i) electrodes for forming inactive regions near structure center and/or ends, (ii) aspects of structural symmetry aiding to establish preferred signal phase and amplitude relationships (iii) base member fashioned according to a three layer laminated structure (iv) circular base member (v) uniform plate polarization (vi) two or four substantially matched bender elements.