Adjustable Optical Element Support Structure for Stress Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical element supporting structures are inflexible and costly, unable to accommodate optical elements with different configurations, and are prone to deformation under stress, which complicates the measurement and maintenance of weight-reducing optical elements.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable optical element supporting structure comprising multiple structure groups with sliding rails and node assemblies that allow for radial and tangent adjustments, along with elastic supporting pads, enabling the support of optical elements with varying diameters and structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed supporting structures are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different optical element configurations is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting structure is divided into multiple independent structure groups (first structure group, second structure group, third structure group, fourth structure group), each capable of independent adjustment. This segmentation allows the structure to adapt to different optical element configurations while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure incorporates adjustable components including sliding rails, node assembles, and spherical washer joints that enable dynamic repositioning of supporting points. These dynamic elements allow the structure to accommodate various optical element diameters and configurations, transforming a static structure into an adaptable system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If active control elements are added to improve adjustability, then adaptability increases, but operation difficulty and maintenance complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The structure employs passive mechanical adjustment mechanisms where operators can directly position node assembles along sliding rails and secure them with fasteners. The spherical washer joints provide self-aligning capabilities, and the elastic supporting pads automatically adapt to contact surfaces, eliminating the need for complex active control systems while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure uses simple, replaceable components such as elastic supporting pads and standard fasteners that can be easily replaced if worn or damaged. This approach reduces maintenance costs and complexity compared to expensive active control elements, aligning with the principle of using simpler, more maintainable components.
3Reliability
If conventional fixed supporting structures are used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but optical measurement stability deteriorates due to stress transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The structure implements localized stress distribution through multiple supporting points and elastic supporting pads at contact locations. Each structure group provides localized support that adapts to the optical element's surface, preventing stress concentration and deformation while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable supporting points can be positioned to optimize stress distribution across the optical element. The elastic supporting pads provide compliance that absorbs stress variations, enhancing measurement stability without requiring complex active control systems that would increase manufacturing cost.
4Weight of moving object
If weight-reducing optical elements are used, then weight is reduced, but sensitivity to stress transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The structure uses elastic supporting pads at each contact point with the optical element. These pads provide localized compliance that absorbs stress, protecting weight-reducing optical elements from damage while maintaining precise support. The multiple distributed supporting points further reduce stress concentration on the lightweight element.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable node assembles and elastic supporting pads create a compliant support system that adapts to the lightweight optical element's characteristics. This dynamic support mechanism reduces stress transmission sensitivity, allowing weight-reducing optical elements to be supported reliably without compromising their structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an adjustable optical element supporting structure comprising a first structure group, a second structure group, a third structure group and a fourth structure group. The second structure group is disposed on the first structure group, the third structure group is disposed on the second structure group, and the fourth structure group is disposed on the third structure group. Each of the first structure group, the second structure group and the third structure group includes a supporting beam and a node assemble, and the position of the node assemble can be adjusted along a radial or a tangential direction. The fourth structure group is a supporting member having three branches, and a supporting pad made by an elastic material is disposed on the supporting member for supporting an optical element. Accordingly, the present invention can evenly support the optical element having different sizes and structures.