Micro-Optomechanical Orientation Sensor

To address the U.S. Army's need for an innovative autonomous onboard orientation sensor for smart munitions as an alternative to rate gyros and GPS, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new optical microgyro based on the Micro-OptoMechanical Orientation Sensor (MOMOS) concept, uniquely integrating a holographic Bragg grating with an optomechanical chip, capable of measuring angles less than 0.05 mrad and withstanding g forces above 100,000 g. The novel MOMOS design integrates commercially available micro-optical elements, a diode laser chip, and photodetectors in a rigid waveguide configuration, with a holographic Bragg grating element mounted on a bulk micromachined torsion base. This new micro-optomechanical system (MOMS) design overcomes the limitations of current accelerometers based either on surface micromachined MEMS or on bulk (3D) MEMS, and increases angular sensitivity and accuracy by orders of magnitude. In Phase I, POC successfully demonstrated feasibility by analytical calculation, computer modeling, and experimental fabrication and testing of the key components. In this Phase II project an advanced three-axis MOMOS prototype will be designed, fabricated, and field tested. The prototype will be designed with solid waveguide optics and high strength MOMS elements to withstand high acceleration and harsh environments.