Discussion of the beam geometry in a ring laser gyro in relation to its performance

Two analytical methods for calculating the beam path in an optical resonator with three mirrors are presented. The formulas make it possible to estimate the effect of the resonator's misalignment parameters on the beam geometry and to calculate the effects of resonator tolerances as well as mirror displacements on gyro performance. The design features of a piezoelectric parallel-movable mirror and the calculations of the piezoelectric drive and the mechanical parallel-movement guides are discussed. A ring laser gyro design is described. Diagrams of resonator mirrors and a single-bore laser gyro are included.