Chip Scale Inertial Compass (CSIC)

The Army seeks non-magnetic sensor technologies for determining absolute elevation and heading for tactical engagement training applications. A viable solution is by using precision 6-axis inertial sensors to determine true north by gyro-compassing. To meet the Army?s requirements for low system size, weight, power, and cost, Irvine Sensors proposes development of a chip scale inertial measurement unit (IMU) consisting of three gyroscopes and three accelerometers. Studies conducted by Irvine Sensors have shown that the performances of the gyroscopes are the critical components in the IMU and the lack of three-axis precision gyros represents a technology gap in the MEMS inertial sensor technology. To meet high performance requirements, Irvine Sensors will base the CSIC design on the frequency modulated (FM) micro gyro technology that is currently being developed for sensing in the X- and Y- directions. The focus of this proposed development is to develop a complimentary FM Z-axis gyroscope, with the final aim of a precision MEMS three-axis gyroscope for gyro-compassing applications.