POTTED FIBER OPTIC GYRO SENSOR COIL FOR STRINGENT VIBRATION AND THERMAL ENVIRONMENTS

摘要

A sensor coil for a fiber optic gyroscope is potted in polymer-based material selected for avoiding such temperature-related anomalies as bias spikes and bias crossings. The potting material is based upon a silicone composition characterized by a glass transition temperature that lies below and outside the operational range required for commercial or military operation. Predetermined fillers may be added to the silicone for bolstering stiffness (Young's modulus) within the polymer's rubbery region to reduce the gyro's bias sensitivity to vibration. Excellent bias thermal and vibration performance has been achieved with coils potted in silicone adhesive with a carbon-black filler.