Use of a Centrifuge for the Precision Measurement of Accelerometer Characteristics

Abstract

The large dynamic range to which accelerometers are subjected in a space-injection application requires that precision high “g” development studies be made. The only practical way of obtaining sustained, measurable accelerations in excess of 1g is by means of a centrifugal accelerator. The purpose of this paper is to describe the techniques which have been developed at Arma Division to process and interpret accelerometer linearity data obtained on our precision centrifuge. To do this it will be necessary to formulate a basic output equation for an inertial quality accelerometer and to point out areas of correction for some size anomalies which can occur. In addition, a centrifuge acceleration formula, corrected for earth’s rate, is developed. Interpreting this formula leads to the possibility of measuring earth’s rate with an accelerometer.