Abstract: A piezoelectric actuator for use in controlling the path length, for example, in a ring laser gyro is made of two piezoelectric discs attached to a metallic structure for exerting a push-pull force thereon to move the metallic structure in an oil can fashion. The piezoelectric actuator is attached to a dual diaphragm mirror assembly in such a way as to impart a strictly linear motion to the mirror assembly without any deliterious rotational effects. The actuator can easily be optimized for varying diaphragm stiffness by adjusting the thickness of the metallic structure to which the piezoelectric discs are attached. The mirror assembly and actuator are designed to minimize the influence of temperature changes on the position of the path length mirror.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for retaining an electrically fired getter inside a ring laser gyroscope. A groove is formed in a plate, which is hermetically sealed to a hole in the ring laser gyroscope block. The cylindrically shaped getter is placed longitudinally in the groove such that the getter contacts the groove along only two lines. A mousetrap shaped spring preloads the getter against the groove so as to prevent acceleration forces and vibrations from causing pieces of the getter, heater coil or wire to break loose.

Abstract: Two of the three reflecting mirrors in a ring laser gyroscope are provided with transducers permitting the mirrors to control the ring laser gyroscope laser path. The third mirror is partially reflecting to permit some cavity radiation to exit. The radiation includes winking signal components which are related to laser beam lock-in. By controlling the phase difference between the signal components, minimum lock-in may be achieved.

Abstract: This solderless electrical connector for an electrical cable consists of a helical spring and loop joined together to form a ring. The helical spring provides a snug fit on a matching cylindrical post while offering strain relief protection for the electrical cable, which is routed through the helix of the spring.

Abstract: A torsional hinge is axially mounted within a central bore of a ring laser gyroscope body. The hinge comprises a plurality of angularly spaced wing sections having generally radially extending slits therein for permitting torsional motion of the gyroscope about the hinge. A plurality of spaced arcuate segments bridge a gap between the wing sections and the confronting surface of the bore and are cemented to the surface for securement of the hinge. By properly dimensioning and positioning the subtending contact areas of the hinge within the bore, the effects of thermal expansion of the hinge are minimized thereby inhibiting distortion of the gyroscope body as well as path length changes with temperature.

Abstract: A method for providing at room temperature a hermetic bonded seal between the surfaces of glass, ceramics, metals or any combination of these. The method comprises the steps of polishing the surfaces to be bonded and then plasma cleaning the surfaces. Next, a chemically cleaned bonding material such as indium is applied to the surfaces and a force is applied to the surfaces to be sealed at room temperature for a limited period of time to affect the bonded seal.

Abstract: A method of forming a hard vacuum seal for use in a gas laser but not limited thereto. The method comprising the steps of polishing the surfaces to be joined together and then cleaning the surfaces with a plasma cleaner. Next, a force is applied to hold the surfaces in contact and then molten indium is applied onto the adjoining surface and allowed to cool in order to set the seal. In the method of forming the gas laser seal for fine alignment of the mirror surfaces, the seal is reheated, the mirrors realigned by sliding across the laser cavity while the laser is operative and the laser output is measured for maximum laser output. Then the seal is allowed to reset.