Space Optical Mirror Positioning with Deformable Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional positioning devices for space optical instruments, such as those using opto-mechanical mounts with adjustable-length legs, are cumbersome and require iterative processes involving shims for adjustments, leading to lengthy setups and reproducibility issues.
Innovation Solution
A positioning device with elastically deformable bodies and actuating elements that allow precise positioning without shims, utilizing actuation mechanisms like micrometer screws and piezoelectric actuators to deform bodies and adjust positions, enabling six-degree-of-freedom hexapod arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional opto-mechanical mounts with adjustable-length legs are used, then positioning capability is achieved, but positioning process becomes lengthy and tedious requiring iterative shim adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical shim adjustment system with a piezoelectric actuation system. The piezoelectric elements convert electrical signals directly into precise mechanical displacements, eliminating the need for manual shim insertion and iteration. This substitution transforms a manual, iterative mechanical process into an automated, direct electronic control system, dramatically reducing setup time and simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system performs self-adjustment through the control mechanism that automatically calculates and applies the necessary displacements to the piezoelectric actuators. The system uses measurement data from the measurement system to autonomously determine required position corrections and executes them without manual intervention, making the positioning process self-service rather than requiring continuous operator involvement.
2Manufacturing precision
If iterative shim adjustment process is used, then positioning can be achieved, but reproducibility of settings is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The replacement of manual shim adjustment with piezoelectric actuation eliminates variability introduced by human operators. Piezoelectric elements provide consistent, repeatable displacements for identical electrical inputs, ensuring that the same positioning commands produce the same results across multiple adjustments and operators, thereby significantly improving reproducibility while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a closed-loop feedback mechanism where the measurement system continuously monitors equipment position and feeds this information back to the control mechanism. The control mechanism compares measured positions with target positions and automatically adjusts piezoelectric actuators to achieve precise positioning. This feedback loop ensures both high precision and reproducibility by constantly correcting deviations and verifying achieved positions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple shims are added and removed for adjustment, then positioning flexibility is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the numerous shim components from the positioning system, retaining only the essential piezoelectric actuators and their control electronics. By removing the complex assembly of multiple shims that need to be manually selected, inserted, and adjusted, the system achieves comparable or superior positioning flexibility through a simpler, more integrated actuation mechanism controlled electronically.
Solution Approach 2:
The piezoelectric actuation system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides precise positioning, maintains structural support, enables repeatable adjustments, and integrates with the measurement and control systems. This multi-functional integration replaces the specialized shim components that each served specific adjustment needs, achieving greater versatility through a unified system rather than multiple separate adjustment elements.
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
Facilitates simplified and reproducible positioning with high precision, reducing setup time and ensuring accurate placement of equipment in three-dimensional space.
Implementation Method 1
the control mechanism includes a piezoelectric actuator
Implementation Method 2
The control mechanism comprises a micrometer screw
Implementation Method 3
each of said actuating elements comprises an elastically deformable body
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for positioning an item of equipment of the space optical instrument mirror type using actuating members (3) which are provided with an elastically deformable body. The body of the actuating members (3) can be deformed using a micrometer screw.