A piezoelectric gyroscope measures rotation using the principle of the Coriolis effect. The Coriolis effect is a phenomenon that occurs when a rotating object's motion is observed from a non-inertial reference frame. In the context of a piezoelectric gyroscope, this effect is utilized to detect angular rotation.
Here's a simplified explanation of how a piezoelectric gyroscope works:
Mechanical Oscillation: The gyroscope consists of a vibrating element, often a thin piezoelectric material or a vibrating structure, that oscillates at a certain frequency.
Initial Vibrations: When the gyroscope is at rest, the vibrating element oscillates in a specific plane. This plane is typically perpendicular to the axis around which rotation will be measured.
Rotation: When the entire gyroscope (including the vibrating element) rotates about its sensitive axis, the Coriolis effect comes into play. The Coriolis effect causes the vibrating element to experience a force perpendicular to both its velocity and the rotation axis.
Force Deflection: This force causes the oscillating element to deflect slightly from its original plane of oscillation. The amount of deflection is directly proportional to the angular rate of rotation and the velocity of the vibrating element.
Sensing Deflection: The deflection of the vibrating element is sensed by the piezoelectric material embedded within it. Piezoelectric materials generate an electric charge when subjected to mechanical stress. This generated charge is then measured.
Output Signal: The generated electric charge is converted into an electrical signal. This signal is processed by the gyroscope's electronics to determine the angular rate of rotation. The magnitude and direction of the generated signal correspond to the rotation rate and direction.
Calculation: By analyzing the output signal, the gyroscope's electronics calculate the angular rate of rotation around the sensitive axis. The Coriolis effect produces a signal that can be correlated with the angular velocity of rotation, allowing the gyroscope to provide information about the rotational motion.
Piezoelectric gyroscopes are often used in various applications, including navigation systems, robotics, drones, and more. They are known for their compact size, reliability, and ability to measure rotational motion accurately. However, they might be sensitive to temperature changes and certain mechanical factors, which need to be compensated for in high-precision applications.