Objects relating to the development of the experimental and prototype oscillogyro, selected and made by D W Alford of the Ferranti Aircraft Equipment Department, Ferranti International plc, Bracknell, 1963-1969.

An oscillogyro is a mechanical instrument that uses electronics to detect rotation in aircraft. The gyroscopic sensitive element, known as the beam, is enclosed in a vacuum tank which rotates with the beam. The oscillogyro was invented at RAE Farnborough by J Philpott and J Mitchell, following their analysis of the dynamic behaviour of gyro gunsights during the Second World War. Philpott and Mitchell’s experiments carried out at the RAE failed to detect a usable signal, and although they were awarded a patent for their invention, further development of the oscillogyro was shelved.

In 1962, Ferranti’s Aircraft Equipment Department in Bracknell initiated a research project to develop a working oscillogyro. The private venture funded project was conducted by former RAE scientist J W Barnes, joined by Derek W Alford, both employees of Ferranti. They based their research oscillogyro on Philpott and Mitchell’s oscillogyro patent. This Research Oscillogyro formed the basis for further development into an Experimental Oscillogyro and later a Prototype Oscillogyro. Development of the prototype moved to Ferranti Defence Systems Ltd, Edinburgh, in 1971 and the first production models were marketed for sale in 1976.