Optomechanical Systems Engineering

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.