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A vacuum-compatible cylindrical inertial rotation sensor with picoradian sensitivity
M P Ross1, J van Dongen2,3, Y Huang1
1Center for Experimental Nuclear Physics and Astrophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|September 22, 2023
Summary
We developed a novel inertial rotation sensor using a proof-mass and interferometers. This sensor achieves a low noise level, making it suitable for precise rotation measurements in vacuum environments.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Instrumentation
- Mechanical Engineering
Background:
- Inertial sensors are crucial for navigation and scientific measurements.
- Developing high-sensitivity rotation sensors with vacuum compatibility is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a new design for an inertial rotation sensor.
- To demonstrate its performance characteristics, including noise level and material compatibility.
Main Methods:
- A 30-cm cylindrical proof-mass suspended by thin Beryllium Copper (BeCu) flexures.
- Homodyne interferometers used to measure the angular displacement of the proof-mass.
- Utilizing vacuum-compatible materials throughout the sensor construction.
Main Results:
- Achieved a noise level of approximately 5 microradians per root Hertz (prad/√Hz).
- The sensor is constructed entirely from vacuum-compatible materials.
- Remote adjustment of the center of mass is possible.
Conclusions:
- The described inertial rotation sensor offers high sensitivity and is suitable for vacuum applications.
- The design allows for remote tuning of the center of mass, enhancing its versatility.
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