Modeling of multistage pendulums: Triple pendulum suspension for GEO 600

Abstract

Extensive dynamic six degree-of-freedom modeling of a multiple pendulum suspension has been developed for application to the design and analysis of the planned suspensions for the main mirrors in GEO 600, the German/United Kingdom gravitational wave detector. Two models were developed independently, and results from both were compared with the experiment to verify their applicability. The models have been applied to investigate the optimization of parameters for achieving the desired modal behavior. In addition, the levels of cross coupling between degrees of freedom due to mechanical misalignments have been investigated and shown to be within acceptable limits.