Orbitec Fiber Optic Rotation Mini-Sensor (FORMS)

Orbital Technologies Corporation (ORBITEC) proposes a miniature optical sensor that will be able to accurately measure angle of rotation. The Fiber Optic Rotation Mini-Sensor (FORMS) will also implement fiber optics in such a manner that the sensor will be EMI immune, and smaller than other currently available rotation sensors. The combination of accuracy, stability, reliability, and durability, along with previously stated advantages, of the proposed sensor will demonstrate its superiority over any other currently available rotation sensor. The anticipated accuracy will rival that of commonly used optical encoders. The technology proposed will allow for implementation of this sensor into any system that currently uses a rotation sensor or has a rotation joint, with little or no impact to joint size. Currently perceived applications include: aircraft control surface positions, aircraft door and panel positions, aircraft and launch vehicle thrust control devices, spacecraft antenna and instrument pointing, rotation control knobs, and many commercial applications in areas of biomedicine and consumer products. Anticipated Benefits: The Fiber Optic Rotation Mini-Sensor (FORMS) will provide a small, light-weight, accurate, EMI-immune, miniature rotation sensor for aircraft control surfaces, thrust vector monitors, control and instrumental knobs, other aircraft/spacecraft applications, and many commercial non-aircraft applications. FORMS could replace any currently used rotation sensor and provide new rotation sensing opportunities that were previously not possible due to size, weight, and environmental restrictions.