APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THE STRAIN-FREE MOUNTING OF OPTICAL COMPONENTS

摘要

A method is disclosed for the strain-free mounting of a component, such as a mirror, in a manner that allows differential thermal expansion or contraction to take place without distortion of the component. The mounting method makes use of a linear bearing that is rigid in all directions except one. Such a linear bearing is used at two or more points of support on the circumference of a mounting circle or circles. Relative motion in the linear bearings occurs along a line which is an extension of a radius of the mounting circle. The linear bearings each contain two sets of opposed rolamite mechanisms moving in parallel directions in the perpendicular arms of a "Y"-shaped frame. One of the two cylinders in each of the four rolamite clusters in annular and accepts a roller-bearing mounted shaft, and the four shafts are then rigidly attached to a second frame that rides within the first frame; the rolamite bearing motion occurring between the "Y"-shaped first frame and the second frame, the component being mounted on either frame.