An automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing and its application.

Abstract

This invention discloses an automatic locking and releasing device and its application for a space laser experimental ultra-stable cavity. The device includes a locking sleeve and locking components. The locking sleeve fixes several locking components, which in turn lock the space laser experimental ultra-stable cavity. Each locking component includes an auxiliary plate, a main fixing pin, a secondary fixing pin, a thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block, a main spring, and a secondary spring. The main fixing pin presses against the main spring and is inserted into the auxiliary plate. The other end of the main fixing pin, passing through the auxiliary plate, is secured by the secondary fixing pin, thus locking the space laser experimental ultra-stable cavity. One end of the secondary fixing pin is elastically pressed against the main fixing pin by the secondary spring, and the other end is fixed and pressed by the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block. This invention provides appropriate buffering and support under different environmental conditions, offering a simple structure, easy-to-use method, and reliable fixing device and method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of ultra-stable cavity fixing technology, specifically relating to an automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing and its application. Background Technology

[0002] Ultrastable lasers possess extremely high spectral purity, excellent spatiotemporal coherence, and short-term frequency stability, making them invaluable for applications in optical clocks, low-noise microwave signal generation, and gravitational wave detection. The ultrastable optical reference cavity, or simply ultrastable cavity, is the core component for obtaining ultra-narrow linewidth lasers. Its main components include a single-crystal silicon cavity, a fixing device, a low-temperature precision temperature control system, and an ultra-high vacuum system. The frequency stability of an ultrastable laser is directly related to the stability of the ultrastable cavity to which the laser is locked. Different applications or experimental environments place different design requirements on the fixing device of the ultrastable cavity. Therefore, the fixing device must not only ensure tight fixation but also meet the experimental conditions. In space applications, specific requirements under microgravity environments must be considered, as well as how to reduce the impact of external environmental factors such as vibration and temperature changes on the performance of the ultrastable cavity. In this case, the fixing device of the ultrastable cavity must not only ensure the stable positioning of the ultrastable cavity but also be able to adapt to and resist various external interferences.

[0003] Existing ultra-stable cavity fixation devices face several challenges when applied to deep space environments, mainly including the following aspects:

[0004] Unable to adapt to environmental changes: Traditional fixed devices usually only consider the ground working environment. Therefore, when faced with significant changes in environmental conditions such as air pressure and temperature, such as during the process of launching from the ground to space, these devices cannot adapt effectively. In particular, such environmental changes will affect the stability and frequency of the ultra-stable cavity, thereby affecting the performance of the entire ultra-stable laser system.

[0005] Lack of dynamic adjustment capability: In the deep space environment, due to the constant changes in the external environment, ultra-stable cavity fixation devices need to have the ability to dynamically adjust to maintain their stability. However, existing fixation devices are often statically designed and cannot be adjusted according to environmental changes, which limits their application effectiveness in dynamic environments.

[0006] Complexity and stability issues: To meet dynamic requirements, some existing fixed installations may employ complex mechanical structures or electrical control methods. These complex structures are not only cumbersome but may also reduce the overall stability of the system. Furthermore, complex mechanical structures may lead to overload risks, further affecting system reliability. Additionally, size and weight limitations: In aerospace applications, there are strict limitations on the size and weight of equipment. Some existing fixed installations may struggle to meet these limitations due to their complexity and design requirements, necessitating consideration of both functionality and portability and integration.

[0007] Therefore, how to solve the problem of the lack of dynamic working capability of existing ultra-stable cavity fixing devices, and provide a solution that takes into account the stability and controllability requirements during ground assembly and testing, as well as the stability and reliability requirements in the space environment, so as to protect the ultra-stable cavity from potential damage during launch and ensure that it can successfully perform its intended mission in space, is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The first objective of this invention is to provide an automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing, addressing the problems in the prior art.

[0009] Therefore, the above-mentioned objectives of the present invention are achieved through the following technical solutions:

[0010] An automatic locking and releasing device for a space laser test ultra-stable cavity is characterized in that it includes a locking sleeve and locking components. The locking sleeve fixes several locking components and locks the space laser test ultra-stable cavity through the several locking components. The locking components include an auxiliary plate, a main fixing pin, a secondary fixing pin, a thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block, a main spring, and a secondary spring.

[0011] The main fixing pin presses against the main spring and is inserted into the auxiliary plate. The other end of the main fixing pin, which passes through the auxiliary plate, is held in place by a secondary fixing pin to lock the ultra-stable cavity for space laser testing. One end of the secondary fixing pin is elastically pressed against the main fixing pin by a secondary spring, and the other end is fixed and pressed by a thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block. The main spring and secondary spring reduce the gradual vibration transmission during locking, and the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block allows for automatic release and locking in space to adapt to temperature changes.

[0012] While adopting the above technical solutions, the present invention may also adopt or combine the following technical solutions:

[0013] As a preferred technical solution of the present invention: the main fixing pin passes through the main spring and is inserted into the round hole of the auxiliary plate and presses the main spring, wherein the main spring is a tension spring.

[0014] As a preferred technical solution of the present invention: the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block is placed on the top of the secondary fixing pin, the bottom of the secondary fixing pin is inserted into the square hole of the main fixing pin through the secondary spring and the secondary spring is pressed, and the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block is inserted into the square hole of the auxiliary plate.

[0015] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary plate of the locking assembly is detachably fixed to the locking sleeve by fastening bolts.

[0016] As a preferred technical solution of the present invention: the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block is made of carrageenan, polyvinyl alcohol or polyethylene glycol.

[0017] The second objective of this invention is to provide an application of an automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing, addressing the problems in the prior art.

[0018] Therefore, the above-mentioned objectives of the present invention are achieved through the following technical solutions:

[0019] The application of the automatic locking and releasing device for a space laser test ultra-stable cavity is characterized by: being applied to a space laser test ultra-stable cavity. After the space laser test ultra-stable cavity enters space, the ambient temperature drops, causing the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block to change from a solid state to a liquid state. The secondary spring is no longer compressed, and the secondary fixing pin disengages from the circular hole of the main fixing pin. Subsequently, the main spring is no longer compressed, and the bottom of the main fixing pin is automatically released.

[0020] Compared with existing technologies, the present invention provides an automatic locking and releasing device for a space laser experimental ultra-stable cavity and its application. When applied to a space laser experimental ultra-stable cavity, the main fixing pin is mounted on an auxiliary plate via a main spring. The main spring acts as a buffer and stabilizer, ensuring that the main fixing pin has sufficient movement space within the circular hole when subjected to external force. This absorbs external vibrations or impacts, reducing damage to the space laser experimental ultra-stable cavity from external vibrations and internal stress loss caused by environmental changes. The bottom of the secondary fixing pin is inserted into the main fixing pin via a secondary spring, providing additional stability in another direction. It provides buffering capacity to meet the needs of a relatively stable and controllable environment during assembly, testing, and space travel. Simultaneously, a thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block, in conjunction with the secondary fixing pin and the primary fixing pin, secures and locks the ultra-stable cavity for space laser testing. When the ultra-stable cavity is in space, the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block changes from solid to liquid state with temperature changes, influencing the compression state of the primary and secondary springs, thereby controlling the positions of the secondary and primary fixing pins, triggering a series of chain reactions, and ultimately achieving the automatic release of the ultra-stable cavity for space laser testing. This ensures the precise deployment and stable operation of the ultra-stable cavity in space.

[0021] This invention discloses an automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity used in space laser experiments and its application. By utilizing the buffering and stabilizing effects of the main and auxiliary springs and the temperature-sensing characteristics of the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block, it achieves automatic locking and releasing of the ultra-stable cavity used in laser experiments in space environments. This effectively reduces the impact of external vibrations, protects equipment safety, and improves experimental stability and controllability. It can provide appropriate buffering and support under different environmental conditions and offers a device and method that is simple in structure, easy to use, and reliable in fixing. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of an automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing according to the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the radial auxiliary device of an automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing according to the present invention;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the locking sleeve of an automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing according to the present invention;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the position of the polytetrafluoroethylene coating in an automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing according to the present invention.

[0026] In the attached diagram, the components are: auxiliary plate 1, locking sleeve 2, main fixing pin 3, secondary fixing pin 4, thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5, main spring 6, secondary spring 7, and fastening bolt 8. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The present invention will be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0028] An automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser experiments includes an auxiliary plate 1, a locking sleeve 2, a main fixing pin 3, a secondary fixing pin 4, a thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5, a main spring 6, a secondary spring 7, and a fastening bolt 8. The main fixing pin 3 is inserted into the round hole of the auxiliary plate 1 and pressed by the main spring 6. The top of the secondary fixing pin 4 is inserted into the square hole of the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5, which is then inserted into the square hole of the auxiliary plate 1. The secondary fixing pin 4 is pressed against the main fixing pin 3 by the secondary spring 7. The auxiliary plate 1 is fixed to the locking sleeve 2 using the fastening bolt 8. The height of the fixing block is adjusted by adjusting the height position of the square hole in the auxiliary plate.

[0029] The aforementioned automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing utilizes the characteristic of a thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5 that is solid at high temperatures and liquid at low temperatures to enable the fixing device system to automatically release according to environmental changes.

[0030] The aforementioned automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in a space laser experiment has a polytetrafluoroethylene coating on the cylindrical surface of the auxiliary fixing pin 4 and the groove of the auxiliary plate 1.

[0031] The application of the aforementioned automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing includes the following steps:

[0032] After passing the main fixing pin 3 through the main spring 6, insert it into the round hole of the auxiliary plate 1 and press the main spring 6 tightly;

[0033] Insert the top of the secondary fixing pin 4 into the square hole on the bottom surface of the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5;

[0034] After the bottom of the secondary fixing pin 4 passes through the secondary spring 7, it is inserted into the square hole of the main fixing pin 3 and the secondary spring 7 is pressed. During the process of pressing the secondary spring 7, the position is adjusted so that the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5 is inserted into the square hole of the auxiliary plate 1.

[0035] Repeat the above steps to assemble a total of 6 of the above structures;

[0036] Place the locking sleeve 2 on a flat surface, and then place the ultra-stable cavity in the center of the locking sleeve 2;

[0037] Secure the six assembled structures to the locking sleeve 2 in pairs, diagonally, using fastening bolts 8.

[0038] After installation, the bottom of the six main fixing pins 3 presses against the ultra-stable cavity, and the ultra-stable cavity is locked and fixed on the ground by the action of the spring;

[0039] After the ultra-stable cavity enters space, the ambient temperature drops, causing the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5 to change from a solid state to a liquid state. The secondary spring 7 is no longer compressed, and the secondary fixing pin 4 disengages from the circular hole of the main fixing pin 3. Subsequently, the main spring 6 is no longer compressed, and the bottom of the main fixing pin 3 separates from the ultra-stable cavity, thus achieving release.

[0040] Using this invention, it is possible to lock the ultra-stable cavity in a ground environment and automatically release it in a space environment, meeting the dynamic requirements of ultra-stable cavity constraint in deep-space ultra-stable laser experiments. Moreover, the fixing device has a simple yet highly reliable structure, and can be adapted to ultra-stable cavities of different sizes with only minor dimensional modifications. The device's parts are simple, easy to process, and inexpensive to manufacture. The thermally reversible hydrogel used is stable in physical and chemical properties except for its temperature sensitivity, having minimal impact on system stability. It is also reusable and an environmentally friendly material that does not cause pollution. Due to the polytetrafluoroethylene coating at friction-prone areas, it exhibits high wear resistance and a long service life.

[0041] This invention discloses an automatic locking and releasing device for ultra-stable cavities used in space laser experiments. This device is suitable for securing ultra-stable cavities operating in a space environment. The securing mechanism has dynamic requirements based on changing environmental conditions: it requires tight clamping when ready for launch on the ground (at room temperature) and release after launch into space (at low temperatures). The main fixing pin is inserted into the circular hole of the auxiliary plate via the main spring, and the main spring is pressed down. A thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block is placed on top of the secondary fixing pin. The bottom of the secondary fixing pin is then inserted into the square hole of the main fixing pin via the secondary spring, and the secondary spring is pressed down. The thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block is then inserted into the square hole of the auxiliary plate. Finally, the above structure is fixed to the locking sleeve using fastening bolts.

[0042] Specifically:

[0043] The main fixing pin is inserted into the round hole of the auxiliary plate through the main spring. The main spring plays a role in buffering and stabilizing, ensuring that the main fixing pin has a certain amount of room to move within the round hole when subjected to external force, thereby absorbing external vibration or impact.

[0044] Tighten the main spring: After inserting the main retaining pin, the main spring needs to be tightened. This step is to ensure that the main retaining pin can be stably fixed in the round hole of the auxiliary plate, preventing the retaining pin from loosening due to spring relaxation.

[0045] Place the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block: Place the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block on top of the secondary fixing pin. Thermally reversible hydrogels have the property of softening under specific temperature conditions and regaining their hardness upon cooling, which allows them to provide appropriate cushioning and support under different environmental conditions.

[0046] Prepare the secondary retaining pin and secondary spring: Next, insert the bottom of the secondary retaining pin into the square hole of the primary retaining pin through the secondary spring. The secondary spring functions similarly to the primary spring, designed to provide additional stability and cushioning.

[0047] Compress the secondary spring: Compress the secondary spring to ensure a secure connection between the secondary fixing pin and the main fixing pin, while maintaining sufficient elasticity to cope with changes in the external environment.

[0048] Inserting the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block: Insert the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block into the square hole of the auxiliary plate. This step ensures a tight contact between the fixing block and the auxiliary plate, utilizing the properties of the thermally reversible hydrogel to adapt to temperature changes and reduce the impact of vibration on the ultra-stable cavity.

[0049] Secure the entire structure: Finally, use fastening bolts to secure the above structure to the locking sleeve. This step ensures the stability and durability of the entire fixing device, preventing any component from loosening or falling off during launch or operation.

[0050] Example 1

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity of the space laser experiment includes an auxiliary plate 1, a locking sleeve 2, a main fixing pin 3, a secondary fixing pin 4, a thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5, a main spring 6, a secondary spring 7, and a fastening bolt 8. The main fixing pin 3 is inserted into the round hole of the auxiliary plate 1 and pressed by the main spring 6. The top of the secondary fixing pin 4 is inserted into the square hole of the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5, and the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5 is inserted into the square hole of the auxiliary plate 1. The secondary fixing pin 4 is pressed by the secondary spring 7 against the main fixing pin 3. The auxiliary plate 1 is fixed to the locking sleeve 2 by the fastening bolt 8.

[0052] The automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity of this space laser experiment uses the characteristic of thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5, which is solid at high temperatures and liquid at low temperatures, to enable the fixing device system to automatically release according to environmental changes.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, the core component of the automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity in the space laser experiment is this radial auxiliary device. When fixing the ultra-stable cavity, six of these devices are usually arranged in a circumferential array to clamp the ultra-stable cavity.

[0054] like Figure 3 As shown, the radial auxiliary device is fixed to the locking sleeve and connected by bolts.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, the automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity of the space laser experiment is characterized in that the cylindrical surface of the auxiliary fixing pin 4 and the groove of the auxiliary plate 1 are coated with polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0056] The application of this automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity in space laser experiments includes the following steps:

[0057] 1) Pass the main fixing pin 3 through the main spring 6 and insert it into the round hole of the auxiliary plate 1 to press the main spring 6.

[0058] 2) Insert the top of the secondary fixing pin 4 into the square hole on the bottom surface of the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5;

[0059] 3) After passing the bottom of the secondary fixing pin 4 through the secondary spring 7, insert it into the square hole of the main fixing pin 3 and press the secondary spring 7. During the pressing of the secondary spring 7, adjust the position so that the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5 is inserted into the square hole of the auxiliary plate 1.

[0060] 4) Repeat the above steps to assemble a total of 6 of the above structures;

[0061] 5) Place the locking sleeve 2 on a flat surface, and then place the ultra-stable cavity in the center of the locking sleeve 2;

[0062] 6) Secure the six assembled structures in pairs, diagonally, to the locking sleeve 2 using fastening bolts 8;

[0063] 7) After installation, the bottom of the 6 main fixing pins 3 are pressed against the ultra-stable cavity, and the ultra-stable cavity is locked and fixed on the ground by the action of the spring;

[0064] 8) After the ultra-stable cavity enters space, the ambient temperature drops, causing the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block 5 to change from solid to liquid. The secondary spring 7 is no longer compressed, the secondary fixing pin 4 disengages from the round hole of the main fixing pin 3, and then the main spring 6 is no longer compressed. The bottom of the main fixing pin 3 separates from the ultra-stable cavity, thus achieving release.

[0065] The above specific embodiments are used to explain and illustrate the present invention, and are only preferred embodiments of the present invention, not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made to the present invention within the spirit and scope of the claims shall fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automatic locking and releasing device for an ultra-stable cavity used in space laser experiments, characterized in that: It includes a locking sleeve and locking components. The locking sleeve fixes several locking components and locks the space laser test ultra-stable cavity through several locking components. The locking components include an auxiliary plate, a main fixing pin, a secondary fixing pin, a thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block, a main spring, and a secondary spring. The main fixing pin presses against the main spring and is inserted into the auxiliary plate. The other end of the main fixing pin, which passes through the auxiliary plate, is held in place by a secondary fixing pin to lock the ultra-stable cavity for space laser testing. The thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block is inserted into the square hole of the auxiliary plate. One end of the secondary fixing pin is elastically pressed against the main fixing pin by a secondary spring, and the other end is fixed and pressed by the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block. The main spring and secondary spring reduce the vibration transmission of the locking assembly. The thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block changes from solid to liquid when the temperature decreases, and automatically releases and locks in space to adapt to temperature changes.

2. The automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The main fixing pin passes through the main spring, inserts into the round hole of the auxiliary plate, and presses the main spring, which is a tension spring.

3. The automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity in space laser experiments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: A thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block is placed on top of a secondary fixing pin, and the bottom of the secondary fixing pin is inserted into the square hole of the main fixing pin through a secondary spring and presses the secondary spring.

4. The automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity in space laser experiments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The auxiliary plate of the locking assembly is detachably fixed to the locking sleeve by fastening bolts.

5. The automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity in space laser testing as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The thermally reversible hydrogel fixation block can be made of carrageenan, polyvinyl alcohol, or polyethylene glycol.

6. The application of the automatic locking and releasing device for the ultra-stable cavity in space laser experiments as described in any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that: It is used in ultra-stable cavities for space laser testing. After the ultra-stable cavity enters space, the ambient temperature drops, causing the thermally reversible hydrogel fixing block to change from solid to liquid. The secondary spring is no longer compressed, and the secondary fixing pin disengages from the circular hole of the main fixing pin. Subsequently, the main spring is no longer compressed, and the bottom of the main fixing pin separates from the ultra-stable cavity, achieving automatic release.

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