A ring laser gyro with fast fight and slow light based on stimulated Brillouin scattering in fiber

摘要

Fast-light phenomena can enhance the sensitivity of an optical gyroscope of a given size by several orders ofmagnitude, and could be applied to other optical sensors as well. MagiQ Technologies has been developing acompact fiber-based fast light Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) using Stimulated Brillouin Scattering in opticalfibers. We will report on our findings, including repeatable fast-light effects in the lab, numerical analysis ofnoise and stability given realistic optical specs, and methods for optimizing effciency, size, and reliability withcurrent technologies. The technology could benefit inertial navigation units, gyrocompasses, and stabilizationplatforms, and could allow high grade IMUs in spacecraft, unmanned aerial vehicles or sensors, where the currentsize and weight of precision gyros are prohibitive. By using commercially mature technologies, we believe thatour design is appropriate for development without further advances in materials or components.