This paper describes the opto-mechanical analyses performed, from concept through to detailed level, on a high stability multi-channel tracked vehicle mounted sight programme. Stability requirements necessary for successful performance of this system were demanding, and had to be achieved whilst in a vehicle environment of 'operate-on-the-move' variable random vibration, shock, and severe operating temperature extremes. The key to success lay in the comprehensive simulations and analyses employed in association with rapid data processing programs. Techniques used included finite element analysis, thermal network analysis, classical hand calculations and programming of parametric geometrical data in the computer aided design model. The techniques employed were integrated into the design process to achieve bidirectional flow of information between optical design, mechanical design, mechanical analysis departments and the customer.

Date Published: 10 September 2009
PDF: 12 pages
Proc. SPIE 7424, Advances in Optomechanics, 74240K (10 September 2009); doi: 10.1117/12.825219

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 7424:
Advances in Optomechanics
Alson E. Hatheway, Editor(s)