Optomechanical Systems Engineering

A required course in the Optical Instrument Design Certificate Program. An elective course in the Optical Engineering Certificate Program.

Utilize the basic concepts and terminology of optical engineering required for the development of optomechanical components. Read conventional and ISO-10110 drawings used for the fabrication of lenses. Develop an alignment plan with an emphasis on critical tolerances, alignment mechanisms, and "go-no go" decisions for adjusting tilt, decenter, despace, and defocus. Quantify the ability of a structural design to maintain alignment using efficient architectures and lightweight materials. Utilize the results of STOP (structural-thermal-optical) analysis for the structural deflection and distortion of optical components under static loads. Estimate the effects of vibration environments on the alignment of optomechanical systems; select COTS components for vibration isolation. Predict the effects of conductive, convective, and radiative thermal environments on the performance of optical systems; select materials and off-the-shelf hardware to manage the effects of heat loads and temperature changes. Compare kinematic and semi-kinematic mounts and the limitations of COTS hardware.

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