Identification of Resonant Frequencies in LIGO-like Suspension with Finite-Element Modeling

TL;DR

This paper uses finite-element modeling to identify and analyze unexplained resonant frequencies in LIGO-like suspensions, aiding in the design improvements of gravitational wave detectors.

Contribution

It introduces a finite element modeling approach to identify unknown resonant lines in suspension systems, enhancing understanding and potential mitigation strategies.

Findings

Identified specific resonant lines in suspension systems.

Suggested design modifications to reduce or eliminate problematic resonances.

Demonstrated the effectiveness of finite element modeling for suspension analysis.

Abstract

Following the upgrades to Advanced LIGO (aLIGO), measurements were made of the detector suspensions' frequency response characteristics. While most resonant frequencies could be identified with simple mechanical models, such as the fiber vibration modes, some were unexplained. Using a finite element model of the quadruple pendulum suspension, we search for and identify lines from unknown sources. The present work focuses on two resonant lines observed in the Upper Intermediate Mass as examples of this technique. Our simulations suggest a common source for these lines, which could be accounted for in a redesign. By modeling these response frequencies, we can examine the motion of individual components, and suggest methods to reduce their amplitude, alter their frequency, or eliminate them in future gravitational wave detector designs.