A research team from the Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, has developed a linear state space method to analyze the structural dynamics of large-aperture space telescopes. Their work, published in Sensors, addresses the computational challenges of traditional finite element analysis while maintaining accuracy in frequency response predictions. Space telescopes require precise dynamic modeling to ensure stability during operation, but conventional finite element methods are computationally intensive. The team focused on a 572 mm aperture optical camera, establishing a state space model that captures the system's dynamic behavior. Using a balanced reduction method, they simplified the model by retaining only the most influential modes based on controllability and observability metrics.
The researchers first performed modal analysis to identify natural frequencies and mode shapes. They then applied the balanced reduction technique, which reduced computation time from 20 minutes to just 20 seconds while keeping errors below 5% compared to full-model simulations. Experimental vibration tests confirmed the method's accuracy, with measured natural frequencies aligning closely with predictions (4–6% error).
This approach offers a faster alternative to finite element analysis for opto-mechanical systems, particularly in design optimization and real-time control applications. The team suggests future work could extend the method to nonlinear systems or integrate it with active vibration control strategies.
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