Multilayer Waveguide Optical Gyroscope
ID: A244-047Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Multilayer Waveguide Optical Gyroscope

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2651325

Additional Information

https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/SBIR-STTR/Opportunities/
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a high-end tactical miniature optical waveguide gyroscope for future U.S. Army missions. The current inertial navigation systems used by the Army are large and expensive, and smaller alternatives such as Micro-Electro-Mechanical (MEMS)-based sensors do not meet the Army's requirements for cost, accuracy, stability, and survivability. The goal is to develop a low-cost and lightweight 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) with high-tactical performance. The desired performance includes a gyro bias stability of 0.2 degrees/hour, scale factor error less than 50 ppm, and angular random walk less than 0.05 degree/root-hour. The gyroscope should also have a high bandwidth, high dynamic range, and low sensitivity to extreme shock and vibration environments. The solicitation focuses on the feasibility of new optical waveguide gyroscope technologies, such as the integrated Silicon waveguide Optical Gyroscope (iSOG). The Phase I of the project involves proving the feasibility of a multi-level waveguide optical sensor coil, while Phase II focuses on designing and delivering a prototype waveguide optical gyroscope. The final phase aims to develop an Inertial Sensor Assembly (ISA) consisting of three gyros and three accelerometers. The technology has potential applications in commercial IMUs and military autonomous modular payloads. The project is open for proposals until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link.

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