Sagnac Interferometer (Fiber Gyro)

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How does one determine which direction a sagnac interferometer is turning in a fiber optic gyro? ("FOG")

I have been reading about them and found some DIY examples where the output is taken using a photo-diode. Now my understanding is that these photo-diodes are simply measuring intensity but isn't the output of the interferometer simply a fringe pattern?

Any additional information, sources, references, imagery, or calculations would be incredibly appreciated.

Thank you!

Reference 1 - Sagnac Interferometer: http://www.conspiracyoflight.com/Sagnac/Sagnac.html
1691526764665.png
Reference 2 - Fringe Pattern Generated (CW + CCW): http://www.conspiracyoflight.com/pd...ed_on_a_Platform_in_Uniform_Motion_(1942).pdf
1691528520317.png
 
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The output is two light beams with a phase difference between them and you want to measure that phase difference. Depending on how you combine the beams you can get different patterns, and which one you prefer depends on what you're doing with it.

If the beams are perfectly collimated and perfectly parallel then the output is just a field whose brightness depends on the phase difference. If you tilt one of the beams very slightly then you add a phase difference that varies across your output field and you get fringes like in the pictures and you will see them move as the interferometer changes rotation rate.

If you are doing a demo for students, or planning on getting a few photos to publish in a journal then the fringes are preferred. They're easier for humans to read and interpret than the "black cat at night/polar bear in a snowstorm" output of the perfectly aligned configuration. On the other hand, a simple dark/light field is perfect for a photodiode to read.

I haven't completely thought this through, but you may also need some additional optics for the perfectly aligned configuration to be practical,since you want zero spun to give you a half wave path difference so that clockwise/anticlockwise corresponds to brighter and darker. Presumably that's paid off by the simpler output interpretation.
 

FAQ: Sagnac Interferometer (Fiber Gyro)

What is a Sagnac Interferometer (Fiber Gyro)?

A Sagnac Interferometer, also known as a fiber optic gyroscope, is a device used to measure rotation. It operates on the principle of the Sagnac effect, where a beam of light is split and sent in two opposite directions around a loop of optical fiber. The rotation of the loop causes a phase shift between the two beams, which can be measured to determine the rate of rotation.

How does a Sagnac Interferometer work?

The Sagnac Interferometer works by splitting a light beam into two beams that travel in opposite directions around a loop of optical fiber. When the loop rotates, the path length for each beam changes slightly due to the Sagnac effect. This results in a phase difference between the two beams when they recombine. The phase difference is proportional to the rotation rate, allowing precise measurement of angular velocity.

What are the applications of Sagnac Interferometers?

Sagnac Interferometers are widely used in navigation systems, particularly in inertial navigation systems for aircraft, spacecraft, and submarines. They are also used in robotics, autonomous vehicles, and for various scientific research applications where precise measurement of rotation is required.

What are the advantages of using a Sagnac Interferometer?

The main advantages of using a Sagnac Interferometer include high sensitivity to rotation, no moving parts (which increases reliability and reduces maintenance), and immunity to electromagnetic interference. These features make them highly suitable for demanding applications in navigation and research.

What factors can affect the accuracy of a Sagnac Interferometer?

The accuracy of a Sagnac Interferometer can be affected by factors such as temperature fluctuations, mechanical vibrations, and imperfections in the optical fiber. To mitigate these effects, high-quality components and careful system design are essential. Additionally, calibration and compensation techniques are often employed to enhance accuracy.

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