Design analysis and test verification of a rigid–flexible, dual-mode coupling support structure for space-based rectangular curved prisms

In view of the functional requirements of high reliability and stability support of optical components of space remote sensors, a rigid–flexible, dual-mode coupling support structure for space-based rectangular curved prisms (SRCPs) was designed. In-depth studies of the support principle and engineering realization of the SRCPs and optimization of the flexible adhesive structure were performed. Static and dynamic simulations were conducted on the mirror subassembly by means of finite element analysis, and test verification was also performed. The tests revealed that the surface shape error of the mirror subassembly after mechanical testing was 0.021 λ , the displacement of the mirror body was 0.008 mm, the inclination angle was ∼ 0.8 ′ ′ , the mass of the mirror subassembly was 4.79 kg, the fundamental frequency was 283 Hz, and the maximum amplification of the total rms acceleration was 4.37. All indexes were superior to those of the design requirements. On this basis, bonding tests and mechanical tests of a rectangular curved prism reflector, a rectangular curved prism, and a rectangular plane reflector employing this proposed support structure were continued. The test results verified the reliability, stability, and universal applicability of the proposed rigid–flexible, dual-mode peripheral bonding support structure.