Comparison of Results of Calibrating the Magnitude of the Sensitivity of Accelerometers by Laser Interferometry and Reciprocity

Published

January 1, 1999

Author(s)

Beverly F. Payne, David J. Evans

Abstract

Minimizing the uncertainty in the calibration of accelerometers by the reciprocity method requires minimizing the cross-axis component of the induced motion, and the distortion of its waveform. Minimizing the uncertainty in the calibration of accelerometers by the laser interferometric fringe-counting method requires minimizing the mechanical coupling between the moving element of the shaker and the optical components of the interferometer. The design of the new shaker provides for minimal distortion and cross-axis motion in combination with a very large mechanical impedance between the moving element of the shaker and the optical components of the interferometer. The shaker is equipped with dual coils and two retractable magnets to provide for reciprocity measurements without having to attach a secondary source of vibration located external to the moving element. This paper presents a comparison of calibration results obtained using the two methods and describes the shaker and calibration systems.

Citation

Metrologia

Volume

36

Issue

(4)

Pub Type

Journals

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Keywords

accelorometers, calibration, exciters, fringe counting, laser interferometer, reciprocity shakers, uncertainty

Citation

Payne, B. and Evans, D. (1999), Comparison of Results of Calibrating the Magnitude of the Sensitivity of Accelerometers by Laser Interferometry and Reciprocity, Metrologia, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=823263 (Accessed October 8, 2025)