PLate OPtimizer

This article is about the CAD program, PLOP. For the computer language conference group, PLoP, see Pattern Languages of Programs.

PLate OPtimizer, or PLOP is a CAD program used by amateur telescope makers to design primary mirror support cells for reflecting telescopes. It was developed by telescope maker David Lewis, first described in 1999,[1] and used to simplify calculations needed in the design of mirror support cells.[2] It was based on Toshimi Taki's 1993 program PLATE,[3] with a simplified user interface, thus giving it wide acceptance among makers of large Dobsonian style amateur telescopes, with good support of mirrors as thin as two inches for a diameter of thirty inches.[4]

  1. ^ Lewis, David (1999). "Cures for Unsupportive Mirror Cells". Sky & Telescope. 97 (June): 132–135. Bibcode:1999S&T....97f.132L.
  2. ^ Holm, Mark. "Mirror Cells for Amateur Telescope Makers". Retrieved May 3, 2009.
  3. ^ http://www.asahi-net.or.jp/~zs3t-tk/cell/cell.htm Taki's brief intro to cell design
  4. ^ Anderson-Lee, Jeff. "Best of 18 and Over - A collection of plop cell designs". Retrieved May 3, 2009.