New technologies for the actuation and control of large aperture lightweight optical quality mirrors

Sarma N. Gullapalli, Robert Flood, Eui Hyeok Yang, Shyh Shiuh Lih

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

There is a need for ever-larger apertures for use in space based optical imaging systems. The design of such mirrors involves a balance between (a) using lighter face sheet and lighter support structure, which reduces weight but increases the mirror surface deformations due to disturbances, and (b) using more dynamic actuated correction of the increased deformations, which increases weight due to the added actuators. Recent developments such as the ultra lightweight nanolaminate-based optical quality mirror face sheets (-0.2 kg/m? areal density) developed at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories [2] are dramatically changing this balance in favor of more actuation and control. To realize the full potential of these new ultra lightweight optical quality face sheets, new ultra lightweight large stroke precision actuators need to be developed. This paper presents a set of candidate components: MEMS based large stroke (>l00 microns) ultra lightweight (-0.01 gm) discrete inch worm actuator technology, and a distributed actuator technology, in the context of a novel lightweight active flexure-hinged substrate concept that uses the nanolaminate face sheet [I].

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2003 IEEE Aerospace Conference, Proceedings
Pages1717-1728
Number of pages12
DOIs
StatePublished - 2003
Event2003 IEEE Aerospace Conference - Big Sky, MT, United States
Duration: 8 Mar 200315 Mar 2003

Publication series

NameIEEE Aerospace Conference Proceedings
Volume4
ISSN (Print)1095-323X

Conference

Conference2003 IEEE Aerospace Conference
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityBig Sky, MT
Period8/03/0315/03/03

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