Abstract: A ring laser gyroscope is described that includes at least one laser gyroscope block and a dither motor, where the gyroscope blocks are configured to engage the dither motor. The dither motor has an outer ring, a hub section, at least one radially extending reed extending between the outer ring and the hub section, and at least one piezoelectric transducer attached the reed. The piezoelectric transducer includes a common piezo-ceramic having a contiguous void line that allows for a separate electrical connection to be made to electrode surfaces on each side of the void line.

Abstract: A piezoelectric transducer is described that is configured for use within a path length control apparatus of an optical device. The transducer comprises at least one void formed within a central region of the piezoelectric transducer, the one void or alternatively, the multiple voids, utilized at least in part to limit a curvature induced into a mirror during operation of the piezoelectric transducer.

Abstract: An oxygen diffusion barrier is used to maintain a purity level of lasing gas in a ring laser gyroscope or other gas discharge device. The oxygen diffusion barrier reduces a release of contaminate gases into a cavity of the ring laser gyroscope and/or absorbs the contaminate gases in the cavity. The oxygen diffusion barrier may be formed on walls of the cavity before or after assembly of the ring laser gyroscope. Alternatively, a material may be applied to inside walls of a cathode mounted on a block of the ring laser gyroscope to maintain the purity level of the lasing gas. As a result of maintaining the purity level of the lasing gas, the ring laser gyroscope operates more efficiently.