Structural analysis of a flexure tilt table by using finite element method

At the research institute DESY the synchrotron radiation source PETRA III is operated at Hamburg site. The facility is the most powerful lightsource of its kind and enables scientists to use X-ray beams with hitherto unattained brilliance. In a so-called double-crystal monochromator certain wavelengths can be selected from the light. In these systems tilt tables with flexure hinges are used. So far, a certain susceptibility of the assembly to vibration can be seen, which decreases the beam quality. The goal of this thesis is to determine the causes of the problem and to discuss the findings concerning the known behavior. First of all the functioning of the tilt table will be explained. Afterwards the theory of flexure hinges and the boundary conditions of a finite element analysis will be treated. Using a simulation program, several assembly models will be investigated and parameter studies are carried out. Beginning with the base object of investigation - the tilt table - the model of the whole assembly is systematically developed. Natural frequencies, the stress at the spring hinges and the displacement of the crystal surface can be determined. The results of the research show that the vibration behavior of the assembly is very complex and cannot be comprehensively described within the analyses carried out. The cause of the problems has not been identified yet and therefore further studies would be necessary. (orig.)