Various types of optical gyroscopes have been proposed and researched to the present in the world. This paper provides an overview of the types of optical gyroscopes, and also introduces technical principles, characteristics, advantages and disadvantages for each type. Moreover, the critical problems in a design have been discussed.

Fiber optic gyroscopes must be a promising technology that can replace conventional mechanical ones based on the principle of inertia of spinning masses. The advantages of fiber optic gyroscopes over mechanical ones include low cost, light weight, compact size and fast turn-on time. We will apply them to fiber optic gyrocompass for ships. Fiber optic gyrocompass for ships requires the north-seeking accuracy of 15˚/hr, earth rotation rate, or better. This article introduces the fiber optic gyroscope as rotation sensor in the fiber optic gyrocompass system for ships that is planed to develop in our laboratory.