FG314 Dynamically Tuned Spinning Mass Gyro

BAE Systems
FG314 Gyro
Pt No. 299111-0100
Serial No. 01 SRP 0600
Plymouth
England

A dynamically tuned gyroscope (DTG) is a rotor suspended by a universal joint with flexure pivots. The flexure spring stiffness is independent of spin rate. However, the dynamic inertia (from the gyroscopic reaction effect) from the gimbal provides negative spring stiffness proportional to the square of the spin speed. Therefore, at a particular speed, called the tuning speed, the two moments cancel each other, freeing the rotor from torque, a necessary condition for an ideal gyroscope. This means simply that the gyro is being held by an apparatus with pivots in two axes, which provides for example both pitch and roll information on one instrument.

Bias drift, noise and size have always been critical parameters for gyroscopes required to stabilise
small seekers systems, missiles and air vehicles. Tuned gyroscope technology was applied to produce a miniature Twin Axis Dynamically Tuned Gyroscope, the FG314. The FG314 has a high bandwidth and a fast run-up time in a small package.

In avionics the FG314 is used in high accuracy stabilisation and control systems and where fast slewing and low noise are essential such as Guidance and Control and Flight control systems.
Optional electronics enable the FG314 to be used as a stand-alone rate or a displacement gyroscope.

Made at Plymouth factory.

The given dimensions are for the unit mounted on its display stand, bearing the inscription "FG314 dynamically tuned spinning mass gyroscope"

The unmounted unit is 33 x 30 x 25 mm & weighs 50g.