Gyroscope sensors

What advantages do our gyroscope
sensors offer?

• Highest precision of measuring results
• High reliability
• Resistance against vibration and shock
• Suitable for rough environments
• Wide temperature range
• Small, compact form factor
• Low energy consumption
• Cost efficient

Possible applications for gyroscope
sensors

• Automotive industry (navigation, accident detection, airbags, etc.)
• Aerospace
• Shipbuilding
• Process industry & automation
• Robotics and AGVs
• Military applications

Measurement of angular rate without a fixed point of reference

Gyroscopes are an essential component of stabilization systems for platforms and flight devices such as drones, robots, etc. Our rate of turn sensors (MEMS gyroscopes) are used whenever you want to measure angular rate (°/s) without a fixed point of reference. That sets gyroscopes apart from instruments for tactile rotation measurements, such as tachometers or potentiometers. Thanks to modern silicon MEMS sensor technology, Althen gyroscopes can measure angular rate even in rough surroundings and at high temperatures.

The Althen portfolio includes:

• Standard angular rate sensors: for industrial and OEM applications, cost efficient and compact
• Precision turn rate sensors: for aviation and racing applications, with excellent stability and low noise
• Turn rate sensors without housings: for direct system integration, compact, rugged, and cost effective
• Inertial sensors: Measurement platforms (IMU) with three acceleration sensors and three turn rate sensors for navigation and other demanding applications

How gyroscope sensors work

These sensors (also known as vibrating structure gyroscopes) work according to the Coriolis principle. They detect the rotation rate using the phenomenon known as Coriolis. In our angular rate sensors, we use a vibration or resonance ring that is produced using a DRIE (Deep Reactive Ion Etch) bulk silicon process. The ring is supported in free space by eight pairs of dog-leg symmetrical spokes. The bulk silicon etching process and unique, patented ring design enable geometric properties within tight tolerances - for precise balance and thermal stability.

How do they differ from other MEMS gyroscopes?

Unlike other MEMS gyroscopes, our angular rate sensors do not have narrow gaps that sometimes create interference and static friction problems. This makes them more efficient: their bias voltage and scaling factor are more stable - and that over a temperature range. They are also more resistant to vibrations and shocks. Another advantage of this design is that they are inherently insensitive to a rate error or 'g-sensitivity' caused by acceleration.

How we find the right gyroscope sensor for you

To ensure that the selected gyroscope sensor fulfils the high requirements of a high-performance application, a number of criteria must be considered in advance. These include, among others:

• Accuracy: The accuracy of the gyroscope is critical, especially in high performance applications where precise measurements are required. A small deviation can lead to errors in navigation or control.
• Resolution: The resolution indicates how fine the sensor's measurements are. Demanding applications usually require a higher resolution, which enables more precise measurements.
• Stability: The stability of the gyroscope influences its ability to provide consistent measurements over long periods of time.
• Response speed: The response speed of the gyroscope determines how quickly it detects and responds to changes in rotational motion. In high-performance applications that require fast movements, a high response speed is essential.
• Temperature range: The temperature range in which the gyroscope sensor can operate reliably is important, especially in environments with extreme temperatures or rapid temperature changes, for example in the aerospace industry.
• Robustness and reliability: The sensor must be robust and reliable enough to withstand the requirements of the application, be it in terms of vibrations, shock loads or other environmental influences.
• Interfaces and integration: Compatibility with other systems and the ability to easily integrate into existing devices or platforms can influence the selection of a gyroscope sensor.

Do you need help choosing the right gyroscope sensor? Talk to us!