A preliminary design for the E-ELT enclosure

James Cross; John Lyle; Michael Schneermann

doi:10.1117/12.793003

10 July 2008 A preliminary design for the E-ELT enclosure

James Cross, John Lyle, Michael Schneermann

Proceedings Volume 7012, Ground-based and Airborne Telescopes II; 70123J (2008) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.793003
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2008, Marseille, France

Abstract

This paper describes a preliminary engineering design for the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT) enclosure. The sheer size of the E-ELT enclosure has provoked an engineering led design approach to re-assess and resolve some conventional telescope enclosure design issues. By drawing on other large scale movable structure design experience, the proposed engineering solution fulfils the design requirements both technically and economically. Throughout the study the design approach has attempted to minimise development risks and maximise reliability of the movable systems wherever possible. All the key elements of the enclosure design are discussed. Emphasis is, however, placed on describing the unusual aspects of the design, which include: a unique system of nested panels for opening the viewing slot; and a curved gantry crane giving extensive coverage of the telescope and enclosure. The paper also proposes a possible construction method, and addresses the specific requirements associated with fabricating and maintaining a large movable structure located at high altitude.

Citation Download Citation

James Cross, John Lyle, and Michael Schneermann "A preliminary design for the E-ELT enclosure", Proc. SPIE 7012, Ground-based and Airborne Telescopes II, 70123J (10 July 2008); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.793003

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