Methods of Using a Vibratory System to Measure Small Rates of Turn

Abstract

The equations of motion for a vibratory two-degrees-of-freedom spring mass system subjected to rotation about an axis perpendicular to its plane of vibration are considered, taking into account the various couplings that may be present. The rate of turn can be measured by three alternative methods, two of which involve an exciting force in the sensing direction in addition to the one vibrating the system. The shape of the phase angle against angular velocity curve is shown to be independent of damping, enabling the transient performance to be improved without affecting the sensitivity of the device.

Experimental work shows good agreement with the developed theory.