Composite materials applied to the E-ELT structure

Eugenio Pajuelo; José Ramón Gómez; Bernardo Ronquillo; Enzo Brunetto; Fran Koch

doi:10.1117/12.788382

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23 July 2008 Composite materials applied to the E-ELT structure

Eugenio Pajuelo, José Ramón Gómez, Bernardo Ronquillo, Enzo Brunetto, Fran Koch

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Proceedings Volume 7018, Advanced Optical and Mechanical Technologies in Telescopes and Instrumentation; 70183G (2008) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.788382
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2008, Marseille, France

Abstract

The upper part of the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT) altitude structure is one of the most critical areas of the telescope's structure. This part hosts sensitive optical elements of the telescope. Its structural performance has a major impact on the whole system. The most critical requirements are low optical path obscuration, high static and dynamic performance (high specific modulus), high mechanical safety (high specific strength), low wind cross section and low weight. Composite materials are ideally suited to meet these requirements. This study is carried out in order to quantify the relative advantage of composite material over mild steel, in terms of performance and costs. The mechanical behavior of the steel structure can be easily improved with a structure manufactured with composite materials. This structure is significantly lighter than the steel one and reduces relative displacements between primary and secondary mirror. Consequently, optical performance is improved, assembly process is simplified and transport cost is reduced.

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Eugenio Pajuelo, José Ramón Gómez, Bernardo Ronquillo, Enzo Brunetto, and Fran Koch "Composite materials applied to the E-ELT structure", Proc. SPIE 7018, Advanced Optical and Mechanical Technologies in Telescopes and Instrumentation, 70183G (23 July 2008); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.788382

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