SBIR-STTR Award

Feasibility study for application of micro mechanical gyro and accelerometer technology or other solid state inertial sensors for inertially guided conventional munitions. Inertial measurement units (imu's) are conceptually defined for use on the munition and on the weapon delivery platform. Estimates of impact accuracy made. Imu requirements are defined. Innovative dual imu approach applied to tank or howitzer. Elements of algorithm defined for computation of weapon delivery motion and allow rapid firing. Assessment made of newest generation solid state inertial sensor technologies.

The Phase II effort is intended to establish, by experimental testing, high g wide dynamic range accelerometers to allow navigating in the barrel capability pure inertial guidance. Also experimentally tested will be a new Initial Velocity Determination Subsystem that offers the option to use currently being developed solid state gyros and accelerometers. Feasibility for pure inertial self contained guidance was established in the Phase I program which highlighted the need to verify these sensor capabilities preliminary to a future demonstration program. Anticipated Benefits/Potential Commercial Applications - The ultra low cost and small size inertial sensors will allow introduction of inertial techniques to commercial vehicle navigation and control, automation and industrial controls; and new instrumentation and measurement applications. The market potential for gyro and accelerometer-on-the-chip inertial technology and other new solid state inertial technologies approach 25% of FY90 military inertial equipment market. Exploration of this technology could revitalize U.S. competitive posture.