Estimation of Contact Stresses in Prisms

doi:10.1117/3.2265076.ch5

Book: Design and Mounting of Prisms and Small Mirrors in Optical Instruments

Author(s): Paul R. Yoder Jr.

Published: 1998

https://doi.org/10.1117/3.2265076.ch5

Author Affiliations +

Abstract

In this chapter, we outline ways to use the previously discussed estimates of forces needed to hold a prism under acceleration, i.e., shock and vibration, to calculate the deflections needed in constraining members such as leaf springs. We then see how to estimate the contact stress within the regions of the prisms compressed by these forces using various shapes of contacting mechanical members. The bending stresses in the spring blades also are considered. Next, we consider the use of resilient pads as springs in prism constraints. Finally, tensile stress in a single-sided bonded joint is discussed. We show why glass can fracture at low temperatures in such a design.