Micro rate gyroscopes based on surface acoustic waves

Traditional vibrational micro rate gyros are not able to survive high shocks due to elastic suspensions and proof masses used in their design. That is why a solid-state gyro (SSG) should be constructed. This paper provides a short introduction to the theoretical framework of surface acoustic wave (SAW) based SSGs and a brief description, analysis and comparison of existing design concepts. It discusses main advantages, problems, and prospects for further development of SAW-based SSGs.