Acoustic and magnetic surface wave ring interferometers for rotation rate sensing

Abstract

The similarities and differences between acoustic and magnetic surface waves as compared with light waves are discussed. This comparison suggests several possible advantages of surface wave ring interferometers over optical ring interferometers for rotation sensing. The primary advantags are increased sensitivity, ease of construction, and size reduction. Proposed designs for such sensors are given. In the Appendixes the optical ring interferometer and ring laser are reviewed.