Superconducting Acceleration Sensor Suitable For Gravitational Wave Radiation Detection

摘要

This invention detects mass and mass motion of external objects by virtue of its action as a gravimeter, gravity gradiometer, and detector of gravitational fields. This invention is for devices which function as accelerometers and gyroscopes for the bodies to which they are attached.

主权项

1. A device for detecting acceleration or changes in acceleration, comprising:
an electrical loop supporting current flow having at least a first segment fabricated from a first superconducting material and a second segment fabricated from a second superconducting material different from the first superconducting material, each superconducting material having a respective critical temperature Tc; means for cooling said electrical loop to a temperature below the critical temperature Tc to support superconductivity in said loop; and a sensor for sensing current flow in said electrical loop in response to acceleration-induced current flow therein.