Affordable gyroscopes for next generation robotic systems

Citation

(2000), "Affordable gyroscopes for next generation robotic systems", Industrial Robot, Vol. 27 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.2000.04927fad.001

Affordable gyroscopes for next generation robotic systems

Affordable gyroscopes for next generation robotic systems

Keywords Gyroscopes, Robotics

A silicon micromachined gyroscope, distributed by Willow Technologies and manufactured by Silicon Sensing Systems (a joint venture between BAE Systems and Sumitomo Precision Products), will revolutionize the next generation of robots and autonomous robotic vehicles.

By taking advantage of the latest micro-machining technology, the designers came up with the silicon rate gyroscope (SiVSG). The sensor is less than a centimetre across, and combined with control electronics, the CRS range of gyroscopes will meet the performance criteria demanded in consumer and industrial robotic systems. It is also a lot cheaper than conventional mechanical gyroscopes (see Plate 1).

Plate 1 The CRS02 sensor

Gyroscopes are part of highly accurate guidance/stabilization systems and are used in a wide range of applications. All vibrating gyroscopes rely on the phenomenon of the Coriolis acceleration. This acceleration is experienced by a particle undergoing linear motion in a frame of reference, which is rotating about an axis perpendicular to that of the linear motion. The resulting acceleration, which is directly proportional to the rate of turn, occurs in the third axis which is perpendicular to the plane containing the other two axes (Figure 1). Thus, in a rate sensor, vibratory motion is coupled from a primary vibrating mode into a second mode, when the sensor experiences angular rate.

Figure 1

Because silicon does not "stretch" like metal, the new gyroscope is extremely rugged. The CRS range of gyroscopes is also smaller, lighter, uses less power, and is easier to manufacture in high volumes than conventional gyroscopes.

Setting the standard

Silicon Sensing Systems reckon that the CRS range of gyroscopes has set the standard for all gyroscope designs in the future. The likely effect is that many systems designers who had previously rejected gyroscopes on cost grounds will now make use of them.

Their application is not restricted to industrial robotic platforms, either. They may be used in robotic TV camera stabilization units, especially in areas where vibration or unpredictable motion presently causes problems. They could become an indispensable part of stabilised mobile antennas that track communication satellites.

It may even be possible in the future to help people with impaired balance – by putting a future design variant of the micromachined gyroscope inside an ear.

For more information, please contact Martin Pearce, Willow Technologies Ltd, Shawlands Court, Newchapel Road, Lingfield, Surrey, RH7 6BL, UK. Tel: +44 (0) 1342 835234; Fax: +44 (0) 1342 834306. E-mail: Martin@willow.co.uk