High Accuracy Multi-layer Interferometric Solid-state Optical Gyro (MiSOG)

We propose a radical new approach for the design and fabrication of a Multi-layer Interferometric Solid-state Optical Gyroscope (MiSOG) that will meet the requirements for future Army applications.  The MiSOG is the breakthrough optical gyroscope technology that enables the development of a new generation of small tactical and navigation grade IMUs that will solve the Army’s need for a small, high accuracy and ruggedized system that operates in a GPS denied environment. The MiSOG is based on photonic Planar Light Circuit (PLC) technology that will be used to fabricate a silicon photonics optical wave-guide chip. The MiSOG includes all the sensor’s optical elements in one small optical chip and enables the development of a rugged miniature high-tactical grade IMU with a volume less than 7 cubic inches  with higher reliability, high level of robustness and lower cost.  The Multi-layer approach enables technology growth towards navigation grade  and higher performance applications. The MiSOG will have more than an order-of-magnitude improvement in bias stability over temperature when compared to the best performing commercially available MEMs and FOGs in the same volume and is also inherently radiation hardened, vibration and shock hardened and is best suited technology for future Army missions.