This paper presents recent studies on the mechanical support system of Laser MegaJoule large dimension optical components. The dimensions of these optical components and their orientation resulted in considerable distortions due to gravity. An original and very simple method based on an isostatic mounting together with industrial springs located on the edges of the component is presented. Springs are used to compensate for gravity distortion. This system provides improved support performance at very low cost (for example, PV less than 0.5μm for a 610mm * 430mm * 80mm silicate optic at 45° from the vertical). The support systems are optimized with IDEAS finite element analysis software and validated with experimental measurements.

Date Published: 17 September 2007
PDF: 10 pages
Proc. SPIE 6665, New Developments in Optomechanics, 66650Z (17 September 2007); doi: 10.1117/12.731587

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 6665:
New Developments in Optomechanics
Alson E. Hatheway, Editor(s)