Experimental design and engineering
Experimental Design
The mechanical design team lays out the experiment in the target chambers for the CLF high power lasers. Each experiment requires specific diagnostics and detectors, and the designers work with the link scientists and user scientists to find the optimal setup. Where necessary, the design team will develop components for each experiment such as magnets, diagnostics and detector holders.
The mechanical design team use 3D CAD (Solid Edge) to model and draw all aspects of the experiment. This provides a useful tool for review and approval of layouts as well as providing a lasting record of each experiment.
The electrical design team make sure that all electrical and control systems are ready to meet the requirement of the experiment, including:
- fully automated vacuum systems that allow user scientists to evacuate the target chamber
- automatic gas delivery which allows user scientists to use a variety of gases at pressures from 2 bar to 150 bar
- optic alignment control system that allows the link scientists to align the laser beam to target with micron accuracy
- high voltage applications
The electrical design team use programmable logic controllers (PLC), AutoCAD electrical, and programmable motion controllers for stepper and DC motors to enable the system to be designed and operated.
Engineering
The CLF Engineering team provides comprehensive support to the CLF user community, from design and manufacturing to safety systems and diagnostic development, to help maximise output from experimental time.
Preparation and support
The process starts with the CLF experimental design team, who layout the experiment and design any bespoke engineering components necessary to facilitate the experiment. Then, the mechanical workshop, electrical workshop and target area technicians manufacture, assemble and install all aspects of the experiment in advance of user time. During the experiment, the whole team are on hand to deal with experimental changes and unexpected developments.
Safety
The CLF engineering team are responsible for ensuring the safe operation of systems required for all laser areas, target areas and R&D labs. CLF interlock systems ensure the safety of staff and visitors by controlling access to areas and the operation of lasers and shutters. The engineering team install and maintain all the services required including the vacuum systems, gas delivery, cooling water, gas detection, power supplies, drive system, control system and communication. The engineering team operates across all of the CLF’s facilities and ensures that common standards, for example in safety systems, are applied everywhere, and maintains the complex components such as the amplifiers.
Development
The engineering team support and develop the mechanical and electrical systems for laser areas, target areas and R&D labs to improve the capability and efficiency of the whole facility. These development projects range from developing new diagnostics to setting up new development labs. The mechanical and electrical engineering teams collaborate and endeavour to produce the best engineering solution to the scientific research challenges presented.
