Analysis of Ring Laser Gyroscope Cavity Thermal Deformations

Ring laser gyroscopes are crucial for high-precision orientation, stabilization, and autonomous inertial navigation systems. However, their operational accuracy is significantly affected by temperature-induced cavity deformations, leading to potential performance degradation and data loss. This study addresses this challenge by developing a robust algorithm in the MATLAB environment designed to simulate the temperature deformations of a ring laser cavity. Leveraging experimental data, the methodology enables the precise modeling of cavity deformation behavior at various stages of the ring laser gyroscope assembly. The developed mathematical model effectively demonstrates how the addition of structural elements influences the cavity's thermal response and overall deformation. This research provides a novel approach to quantitatively estimate the contribution of individual structural components to the total thermal deformation. The findings offer critical insights for optimizing ring laser gyroscope design, thereby enhancing their accuracy, reliability, and resilience in diverse operational conditions. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.