Gyroscope

Gyroscope is a device used for measuring or maintaining orientation and angular velocity. It is a spinning wheel or disc in which the axis of rotation is free to assume any orientation by itself. When rotating, the orientation of this axis is unaffected by tilting or rotation of the mounting, according to the conservation of angular momentum. Gyroscopes are used in compasses and automatic pilots on ships and aircraft, in the steering mechanisms of torpedoes, and in the inertial guidance systems installed in space-launch vehicles, ballistic missiles, and orbiting satellites.

History

The gyroscope was invented in 1852 by French experimental physicist Leon Foucault as part of a two-pronged investigation of the rotation of the earth (see Foucault pendulum). The word "gyroscope" was coined by French engineer Pierre-Simon Laplace.

Principle of operation

The key principle of a gyroscope is conservation of angular momentum. This principle states that if no external torque acts on an object, no change of orientation can occur. The object will maintain its orientation in space, even as the Earth rotates beneath it.

Applications

Gyroscopes have many practical applications. They are used in compasses and automatic pilots on ships and aircraft, in the steering mechanisms of torpedoes, and in the inertial guidance systems installed in space-launch vehicles, ballistic missiles, and orbiting satellites. In addition, gyroscopes have a variety of uses in consumer electronics such as smartphones, tablets, and video game controllers to detect the orientation of the device.

See also

• Accelerometer
• Inertial navigation system
• Inertial measurement unit
• Ring laser gyroscope

References

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