Modeling Interferometric Optical Gyroscopes: An Experimentally Validated Approach

Interferometric optical gyroscopes (IOGs) are critical for precise angular velocity measurements in aerospace and defense applications. Despite extensive advancements, accurately modeling IOGs remains a challenge due to complex noise sources and environmental disturbances. However, most existing models lack experimental validation, limiting their practical utility. Here, we show a numerical model validated using a fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG) integrating a 500-m-long polarization-maintaining coil. The model includes a comprehensive noise analysis, incorporating thermal noise, shot noise, and the Kerr effect. For square-wave and sine-wave modulation, we achieve an average discrepancy of less than 6% between numerical and experimental results. Our findings demonstrate that the gyro’s static response is well predicted by the model across varying angular velocities. This work provides a fundamental framework for the design and optimization of IOGs, while also facilitating the development of complex models capable of accurately predicting the operation of advanced IOG-based navigation systems.