A low-frequency vibration isolation table using multiple crossed-wire suspensions

A practical low-frequency one-dimensional vibration isolation system has been developed exploiting a previously developed crossed wire suspension technique. A table is supported by two such suspensions so as to be stiff in 5 degrees of freedom but with a very long period in one horizontal direction. The rotation of the suspended mass in the original system is eliminated and the transfer function at high frequencies is greatly improved. Periods of 10 s were achieved in experimental tests. giving isolation of 40 dB at 1 Hz and up to 60 dB at 10 Hz. The system is suitable for one-dimensional optics experiments or as a base for further stages of vibration isolation. (C) 1996 American Institute of physics.