Mechanical design and testing of the cryogenic pick-off arms for theVLT KMOS

摘要

This paper describes the mechanical design of the KMOS pick-off arms and the way in which the design is driven by combinations of requirements. The use of a recirculating linear bearing in a cryogenic environment is novel and the qualification of this component is described. Novel use is made of a single leadscrew with two leads to move optical components at different speeds to maintain the optical path length. Cryogenic flexure, repeatability and torque tests are described.