Optical testing technique for the evaluation of mechanical mount thermal stability

Jon K. Tapply

doi:10.1117/12.363818

28 September 1999 Optical testing technique for the evaluation of mechanical mount thermal stability

Jon K. Tapply

Proceedings Volume 3786, Optomechanical Engineering and Vibration Control; (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.363818
Event: SPIE's International Symposium on Optical Science, Engineering, and Instrumentation, 1999, Denver, CO, United States

Abstract

Precise optical stability requirements for a military laser required the establishment of detailed error and tolerance budgets of the mechanical system. In order to verify these budgets and also to fully understand the true dynamic stability of the mechanical mounts, extensive thermal testing was performed. This paper present a test technique established to provide a consistent testing process from which results could be used with confidence. Utilizing a readily available optical measurement device and impose test fixtures, this technique provides the designer with a powerful evaluation tool to verify design performance. Various types of result can be obtained using this technique, such as: optical element distortion at temperature, unrecoverable static shifting to the mount, dynamic movement effects and repeatability. These results can be further extrapolated into qualitative assessments of the thermal stability of specific mount design technique. When compiled into a design database, this will provide invaluable information for future design choices.

Citation Download Citation

Jon K. Tapply "Optical testing technique for the evaluation of mechanical mount thermal stability", Proc. SPIE 3786, Optomechanical Engineering and Vibration Control, (28 September 1999); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.363818

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