Gyroscopes
Definition: A gyroscope is a device used to measure or maintain orientation and angular velocity. It consists of a spinning wheel or disc in which the axis of rotation is free to assume any orientation.
Types
- MEMS Gyroscopes: Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems – compact, low-power, used in smartphones and drones.
- Optical Gyroscopes: Includes ring laser and fiber optic gyros – high precision, used in aerospace.
- Mechanical Gyroscopes: Traditional spinning mass – used in navigation systems.
Applications
- IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units)
- Drone stabilization
- Smartphone screen rotation
- Aircraft and missile guidance
- Robotics for balance and navigation
Key Parameters
| Range | ±250, ±500, ±1000, ±2000 °/s |
| Sensitivity | mV/(°/s) or LSB/(°/s) |
| Zero-Rate Output | Output when not rotating |
| Bias Stability | Drift over time |
Note: Always pair with accelerometer in 6-axis IMU for full motion sensing.