Apparatus for measuring the rate of rotation and linear acceleration of a moving body in two perpendicular axes

摘要

An apparatus for measuring the rate of rotation and linear acceleration of a moving body in two perpendicular axis (X and Y). The rate of rotation is determined by measuring the force resulting from the Coriolus effect and the linear acceleration is determined by measuring the resulting force in the axis of acceleration. The apparatus includes an integral flexing unit which during rest extends in the Z axis, having a flexure zone with two degrees of flexing freedom. A proof mass is resiliently mounted on the flexing unit remote from the flexure zone with one degree of oscillation in parallel to the Z axis. The proof mass is caused to oscillate at constant amplitude by suitable electric means whereby, upon rotation of the body or linear acceleration thereof, the flexure unit oscillates by periodic bending of the flexure zone and the extent of flexure which is proportionate to the rate of rotation and/or linear acceleration, is determined by suitable electro optical means. The apparatus further includes processor means for calculating the angular velocity components about the axis of rotation and the linear acceleration components along the axis of acceleration from the extent of flexure.