Micro-ElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) for Improving the Performance of Small Robotic Systems

In Phase I, KVH Industries designed and prototyped a micro-machined all-fiber optic phase modulator and subsequently measured the modulator performance in a Sagnac interferometer gyroscope to prove feasibility of the approach. The micro-machined D fiber phase modulator is an enabling device to allow a robust and low cost effective rotation sensor for a diverse range of rotation rate sensor applications. In Phase II, KVH Industries proposes to carry out design and manufacturing process studies to optimize the performance of the micro-machined all-fiber phase modulator, and to integrate the new phase modulator into a fiber optic gyro (FOG). The end result of this investigation and subsequent implementations should be a rotation rate sensor design suitable for small robotic platforms, including Army unmanned ground vehicles, with a bias stability goal of less than 0.1º to 1º per hour and a cost goal of $1,000 or less per gyro axis.