RAMICS laser optical bench weight reduction

Geoffrey Heberle

doi:10.1117/12.617066

19 August 2005 RAMICS laser optical bench weight reduction

Geoffrey Heberle

Proceedings Volume 5868, Optical Materials and Structures Technologies II; 58680Y (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.617066
Event: Optics and Photonics 2005, 2005, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

To increase margins over requirements and improve structural performance, it was desired to reduce the weight of the optical bench in the Laser Transmitter Unit (LTU) of the Rapid Airborne MIne Clearance System (RAMICS) program. First-mode response for both the optical bench and bench/housing combination is of critical importance to the stability and long-term field performance of this system. Several candidate materials were reviewed and analyzed against the previous design in 7075 aluminum. AlBeMet AM162 was chosen for its high Young's modulus, lower density, and a number of other factors as discussed. Finite element modeling is presented which was used in the downselect process. An optical bench weight reduction of 50% was achieved due to material and design changes, as well as an improvement in the first-mode frequency of the laser transmitter based on analysis. Vibration testing results and a comparison of fabrication costs are also presented.

Citation Download Citation

Geoffrey Heberle "RAMICS laser optical bench weight reduction", Proc. SPIE 5868, Optical Materials and Structures Technologies II, 58680Y (19 August 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.617066

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