Structural mechanics

We present a few basic ideas of structural mechanics that are particularly relevant to the design of telescopes and to the support of related optics. This talk only touches on a very rich and complex field of work. We introduce the ideas of kinematics and kinematic mounts, then review basic elasticity and buckling. Simple and useful rules of thumb relating to structural performance are introduced. Simple conceptual ideas that are the basis of flexures are introduced along with an introduction to the bending of plates. We finish with a few thoughts on thermal issues, and list some interesting material properties.