GG1308 ring laser gyro inertial measurement systems: Honeywell's low-cost solution for tactical applications

Abstract

The GG1308 ring laser gyro (RLG) inertial measurement systems represent the smallest-volume, lightest-weight, and lowest-cost RLG systems. These systems are designed to provide the functions required for inertial guidance, aided or midcourse navigation, and vehicle stabilization and control to a wide variety of tactical missiles, standoff weapons, unmanned aerial vehicles, torpedoes, and manned rotorcraft. GG1308 inertial systems achieve their low cost as a result of several significant development thrusts. Low-cost inertial sensors must be utilized. The GG1308 RLG is a true design-to-cost device with producibility and the cost of parts, materials, assembly labor, and manufacturing automation being the dominant design drivers. Additionally, these GG1308 inertial systems use a commonality design approach. This philosophy has made it possible to develop several generic hardware elements which need only be repackaged to provide an inertial system in the form factor required for specific programs. It also provides the system with an adaptability and intelligence to improve its performance throughout its useful life by making software improvements which do not affect the hardware design or production process. >