Target seeking free gyro

Abstract

A free gyro for use with a missile's seeker which allows the seeker to tr the target. The free gyro includes a support structure having a pair of roll axis forks which support a pitch gimbal and allow for rotational movement of the pitch gimbal about a pitch axis. Attached to the pitch gimbal is an outer gimbal support structure which includes a U shaped support member having a pair of support posts which support an outer gimbal ring and allow for rotational movement of the outer gimbal ring about the pitch axis. The outer gimbal ring supports and provides for rotational movement of an inner gimbal ring about an inner gimbal axis which is perpendicular to the pitch axis. The inner gimbal ring supports the free gyro assembly and allows the free gyro assembly to spin about a roll axis to stabilize the free gyro assembly. The free gyro assembly includes the optical system for the missile's seeker or tracking device and the support structure for the optical system. The free gyro has a gimbal drive and control system comprising gyro motor drive coils, precession coils, cage coils and permanent magnets which are integral to the pitch gimbal, the outer gimbal and the inner gimbal and are used to control and position the gimbals of the free gyro as the missile's seeker tracks and then locks onto the target.