Cryogenic support system.

摘要

A support system is disclosed for restraining large masses (1) at very low or cryogenic temperatures. The support system employs a tie bar (68) that is pivotally connected at opposite ends to an anchoring support member (62c) and a sliding support member (62d). The tie bar (68) extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cold mass assembly (12), and comprises a rod (102) that lengthens when cooled and a pair of end attachments that contract when cooled. The rod and end attachments are sized so that when the tie bar is cooled to cryogenic temperature, the net change in tie bar length is approximately zero. Longitudinal force directed against the cold mass assembly is distributed by the tie bar between the anchoring support member (62c) and the sliding support member (62d).