Importance

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Abstract

An optic mount and mounting technique according to the invention isolates the material properties of the optical element from the material properties of the structural element. According to one aspect, kinematically positioned, opposing flexures attach to the structural and/or optical elements in a way that isolates one side of the mount from the other side. As the temperature changes, the flexures attached to the structural and optical elements can move radially like hinges as the materials expand and contract. According to additional aspects, thin stabilizers can be included such as ribs that connect the end of each flexure to the ring perimeter. The geometry of the rib can allow for radial compliance of the flexure while keeping the flexure stiff in the axial direction. This increases the resonant frequency of the optical assembly, which is important for dynamic systems. The ribs also reduce positional sag due to gravity, which is important for optical systems that have dynamic pointing requirements.

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First Claim