Integrated Baffle Shutter Mechanism for Obscuration Space Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing design of obscured telescopes, which incorporate baffles in the obscuration space and shutter mechanisms at the focal plane, often compromise mirror structural members and interfaces, leading to inefficient use of space and increased complexity, cost, and schedule in optical system development.
Innovation Solution
An optical system that integrates a baffle and shutter device, where the shutter mechanism is located in front of the intermediate field baffle and partially within the secondary mirror obscuration, allowing for efficient use of space and minimizing the impact on the structural design by utilizing a preexisting void in the primary mirror.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the shutter mechanism is located at the focal plane, then the shutter can effectively block light, but it compromises mirror structural members and interfaces, leading to increased complexity and special packaging requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism is relocated from the traditional focal plane location to the obscuration space dimension, specifically in front of the intermediate field baffle. This spatial relocation allows the shutter to block light effectively while avoiding interference with mirror structural members and interfaces at the focal plane, thereby reducing structural design complexity and eliminating special packaging requirements
2Object-affected harmful factors
If baffles are located in the obscuration space, then stray light is controlled, but the obscuration space serves only this function and other components cannot be integrated
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism and intermediate field baffle are merged into a single integrated assembly located in the obscuration space. The shutter is positioned in front of the baffle, allowing both components to coexist in the same space. This integration enables the obscuration space to serve dual functions: controlling stray light through the baffle and blocking light through the shutter, thereby increasing space utilization flexibility and eliminating the limitation of single-function usage
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration allows for compact and minimally intrusive placement of the shutter mechanism, reducing development costs and schedules by efficiently utilizing available space and avoiding the need for special packaging, while effectively controlling stray light.
Implementation Method 1
baffling to control stray light
Implementation Method 2
shutter mechanism for self-protection or built-in testing
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system is disclosed that can include a focal plane. The optical system can also include a primary mirror located in front of the focal plane and having a hole operable to allow light to pass through the primary mirror. The optical system can further include a secondary mirror located in front of the primary mirror and operable to direct light through the hole to the focal plane. The optical system can still further include an intermediate field baffle located at least partially in front of the focal plane. In addition, the optical system can include a shutter mechanism located in front of the baffle. An integrated baffle and shutter device is also disclosed that can include a shutter mechanism having a paddle and an actuator operable to selectively move the paddle between an open position that allows light past the shutter mechanism and a closed position that blocks light. The integrated baffle and shutter device can also include a primary mirror baffle coupled to the shutter mechanism on a front side of the shutter mechanism. The primary mirror baffle can form a housing about the paddle.