Invention:
Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed an all-fiber, synchronously pumped, bidirectional optical parametric oscillator (OPO) for precision sensing applications. The all-fiber design removes the need for free-space alignment and adjustment. The design overcomes the limitations of existing laser gyros by increasing the sensing area for better measurement sensitivity, minimizing the lock-in effect, and reducing the cost, complexity, and size. The system and techniques are applicable to a variety of different fiber optic ring laser sensors.
Background:
He-Ne ring lasers are currently being used as active laser gyroscopes in highly demanding applications such as aircraft and satellite navigation. Current designs are expensive, heavy, bulky, sensitive to electromagnetic interference, and have lifetime limitations. Furthermore, these gyroscopes suffer from the lock-in effect, which results in low sensitivity at low rotation rates.
Advantages:
- Reduced lock-in effect caused by small changes in input
- Higher sensitivity
- No need for free-space adjustment
- Automatic delay compensation
Applications:
- Inertial navigation for satellites, aircraft, and ships
- Weapons guidance
- Geodesic monitoring
Status: issued U.S. patent #10,741,989
