Nonlinear structures subject to periodic and random vibration with applications to optical systems

Abstract

The methods for analysis of a three degree-of-freedom nonlinear optical support system, subject to periodic and random vibration, are presented. The analysis models were taken from those generated for the dynamic problems related to the NASA Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF). The models treat the one meter, 116 kilogram (258 pound) primary mirror of the SIRTF as a rigid mass, with elastic elements representing the mirror support structure. Both linear and nonlinear elastic supports are evaluated for the SIRTF. Advanced Continuous Simulation Language (ACSL), a commercially available software package for numerical solution of nonlinear, time-dependent differential equations, was used for all models. The methods presented for handling the nonlinear differential equations can be readily adapted for handling other similar dynamics problems.