Instrumentation projects require mechanical systems to support optics. The ever-increasing demands of these projects mean that these mechanical systems are under ever-greater constraints, whether in terms of precision, mass or space budgets. Working with their colleagues at UNIDIA, and within the framework of internal and international collaborations at Observatoire de Paris - PSL, the engineers and technicians at PIMT (Pôle d’Innovation Mécanique et Technique) propose, design, develop, produce, assemble and validate innovative mechanical solutions to meet these constraints.
The PIMT’s strength lies in its ability to bring together all the main trades required to master instrument design and all manufacturing operations (micromechanics, general mechanics), assembly and maintenance, including three-dimensional metrology. The PIMT brings together a dozen engineers and technicians with diverse skills in :
– Mechanical architecture, design ;
– Mechanical and electromechanical engineering
– Dimensioning and optimization of optomechanical systems;
– Finite element analysis (static analysis, modal analysis, frequency response, optimization);
– General mechanical and micromechanical machining;
– Production and assembly of mechanically welded systems;
– Assembly and integration;
– Maintenance of scientific instruments.
They are particularly involved in the design, production and maintenance of observatory instruments at the Paris Observatory - PSL sites.
In recent years, PIMT has contributed to the CABERNET, CENSUS - BIRDY, CTA-SST, MICADO (ELT), MoMet, MOONS, NAROO and SPIAKID projects.
PIMT is also involved in education and training. 3 apprentices (BTS CPRP, engineering school) have been welcomed since 2018. Some of its members are involved in recurring teaching actions.
