Beam Misalignment Detection Using Non-Invasive Injector Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for generating and transporting epithermal neutron beams in accelerator systems lack effective and efficient systems to monitor and safely discontinue misaligned beams, which can cause irreversible damage to beamline components and patient safety due to high beam energy and direct interaction.
Innovation Solution
Implementing non-invasive beam diagnostics and a control system to detect beam misalignment through current and voltage measurements, using redundant measurements from magnetic elements, beam position monitors, and scraper members to ensure timely adjustment or discontinuation of misaligned beams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If beam diagnostics are implemented to monitor beam position, then beam misalignment detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces beam position monitors (BPMs) as intermediary devices that indirectly measure beam position by detecting the position of beam-induced signals on detector electrodes, rather than directly measuring the beam itself. This intermediary approach enables precise beam position measurement while keeping the diagnostic system non-invasive and relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical beam interaction diagnostics with electromagnetic field-based detection. By using electromagnetic signals induced by the beam on detector electrodes, the system achieves beam position measurement without mechanical contact or direct beam interference, simplifying the diagnostic apparatus.
2Reliability
If continuous beam monitoring is implemented, then beam safety and reliability are improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous beam monitoring through continuously operating beam position monitors that track beam position throughout the transport line. This continuous detection ensures reliable safety monitoring while using energy only when needed for detection, rather than requiring active intervention or correction systems that would consume more energy.
3Measurement precision
If beam position measurement devices are placed in the beamline, then beam misalignment detection is improved, but beam perturbation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses beam position monitors that detect beam position through electromagnetic induction rather than direct beam interaction. The BPMs measure the position of beam-induced signals on detector electrodes, serving as an intermediary detection method that provides precise beam position information without the measuring device physically interfering with or perturbing the beam trajectory.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical beam interaction measurement methods with electromagnetic field-based detection. By detecting electromagnetic signals induced by the beam on stationary detector electrodes, the system achieves accurate beam position measurement without mechanical contact or physical disturbance to the beam.
4Reliability
If fast beam discontinuation capability is implemented, then beam safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where beam position monitors continuously detect beam position and provide real-time signals to control systems. When misalignment is detected, the feedback mechanism automatically triggers beam discontinuation or correction, achieving fast beam safety response through a relatively simple closed-loop control architecture rather than complex active intervention systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures safe and reliable beam transport by minimizing beam perturbation and disturbance, enabling rapid detection and correction of misalignment, thus preventing damage to beamline components and ensuring patient safety.
Implementation Method 1
obtaining a current measurement from a magnetic element of the beam injector
Implementation Method 2
obtaining a voltage measurement of a biased component of the beam injector
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
Embodiments of systems, devices, and methods relating to a beam system. An example method of detecting beam misalignment a beam system includes detecting beam misalignment in an injector system of the beam system. The example method further includes detecting beam misalignment in an accelerator system of the beam system.