Speaker
Description
Abstract
This poster describes progress in the implementation of distributed control systems and metrological validation for parts of neutron beam instruments at the Argentine Neutron Beam Laboratory (LAHN). Within the framework of the ANDES (Advanced Neutron Diffractometer for Engineering & Science) project, a control scheme based on the Tango Controls paradigm was developed, using the Modbus protocol for communication with monochromator mock-ups and sensor transducers. Since the experimental environments require radiation resistance, specific software was implemented for reading rotation resolvers via AMCI NXAE2 transducers, enabling the conversion of digital counts to decimal angles with high fidelity.
Additionally, the results of performance tests of the sample positioning table for the ASTOR (Advanced System for Tomography and Radiography) system are presented. Using a high-resolution laser tracker (0.5 µm) and an analog micrometer, the accuracy, resolution, and repeatability of the degrees of freedom of a Huber brand table were evaluated. The tests included analysis of low-frequency noise in the sampling signal and characterization of backlash on the translational and rotational axes.
The results show that the integrated control system is capable of effectively managing complex remote commands (such as goto and home). Regarding mechanical performance, it was determined that for displacements up to 10 µm without a change of direction, the positioning error remains below 1 µm. Finally, the study allowed for the verification, with acceptable accuracy, of the goniometers' center of rotation, which is fundamental for instrument alignment in tomography and diffractometry tests.
Key Words
control systems, instrumentation, metrology