Performance characteristics and methods of testing of force-feedback accelerometers

Abstract

Summary. The more important parameters of force-feedback accelerometers are defined, sources of error are discussed and an outline is given of methods by which the accelerometers may be evaluated and calibrated. The emphasis is on treating the accelerometer as a self-contained component rather than as part of a navigation or other system. It is hoped that sufficient information on static and dynamic performance is included to be of value to a wide range of potential users as well as those concerned with the instruments in a more specialised capacity. This Report is an updated and expanded version of R.A.E. Technical Note IAP 1076 published in 1960. The new material mainly concerns the viscous damped (oil-filled) type of accelerometer and a more extended treatment of the dynamic response of both air-filled and oil-filled instruments.