NSCL Directory Profile
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msuSelected Publications:
P. Chu et al., ÂGeneric Model Host System DesignÂ, 2010 International Particle Accelerator Conference (2010).
P. Chu et al., ÂService Oriented Architecture for High Level ApplicationsÂ, 2010 International Particle Accelerator Conference (2010).
P. Chu et al., ÂXAL-based Applications and Online Model for LCLSÂ, 2009 Particle Accelerator Conference.
P. Chu et al., ÂHigh-level Application Framework for LCLSÂ, 2007 International Conference on Accelerator and Large Experimental Control Systems (2007).
P. Chu et al., ÂDrifting Beam Application for SNS Superconducting Cavity SettingÂ, 2006 Linear Accelerator Conference (2006).
C. M. Chu et al., ÂEffects of overlapping parametric resonances on the particle diffusion process', Phy. Rev. E 60, 1 (1999).
C. M. Chu et al., ÂUnexpectedly Wide rf-Induced-Synchrotron Sideband Depolarizing Resonances', Phys. Rev. E 58, 4973 (1998).
My recent research has been covering accelerator physics software. Before joining NSCL, I was involved in the commissioning of two recent large accelerator projects in the U.S., the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and the Spallation Neutron Source at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. In order to deliver the right beam for cutting edge experiments, one of the many technical challenges is to control the particle beams all the time to satisfy many physics parameters along the beam lines. The complexity of any modern accelerator makes manual beam tuning virtually impossible. Computer software is then heavily used for beam tuning and operation automation. This software effort includes data handling, interaction with the control systems and physics model for the beam. Quick online physics modeling calculation provides a powerful tool for such beam tuning. Additionally, in order to achieve high availability for an accelerator as a user facility, high performance and reliability for software is crucial. P. Chu et al., ÂGeneric Model Host System DesignÂ, 2010 International Particle Accelerator Conference (2010).
P. Chu et al., ÂService Oriented Architecture for High Level ApplicationsÂ, 2010 International Particle Accelerator Conference (2010).
P. Chu et al., ÂXAL-based Applications and Online Model for LCLSÂ, 2009 Particle Accelerator Conference.
P. Chu et al., ÂHigh-level Application Framework for LCLSÂ, 2007 International Conference on Accelerator and Large Experimental Control Systems (2007).
P. Chu et al., ÂDrifting Beam Application for SNS Superconducting Cavity SettingÂ, 2006 Linear Accelerator Conference (2006).
C. M. Chu et al., ÂEffects of overlapping parametric resonances on the particle diffusion process', Phy. Rev. E 60, 1 (1999).
C. M. Chu et al., ÂUnexpectedly Wide rf-Induced-Synchrotron Sideband Depolarizing Resonances', Phys. Rev. E 58, 4973 (1998).
For FRIB, the beam tuning is even more difficult than any of the existing similar accelerators because multi-charge-state beams will travel concurrently in narrow beam pipes and delivered to a tiny spot on a target. An online model is a quick but not in detail method to simulate particle beam. A modified online model is under development to take into account of FRIB specific hardware. The figure shown here is an example of online model calculation for beta function along the LCLS beam line.
For beam tuning, online model serves as a computer library. There are many applications based on the online model such as beam trajectory correction, emittance matching and fast feedback. In addition to these physics related applications, there are many other general purpose tools such as data archiving and electronic logbook to facilitate the operation.
In order to operate the FRIB at its design goal, a complete software solution is essential. There will be numerous applications developed. A well-designed architecture to host these applications is a must. An integrated software infrastructure with solid physics support is our research interest. To improve software performance and reliability, industrial standard approach would be the most effective way. Service-oriented architecture (SOA) is introduced. It is to separate heavy computation from graphical user interface (GUI) so the computation part can take advantage of fast computing provided on servers. Overall the research is a combination of beam physics and computer engineering.
Example of online model for LCLS linac
Operation of NSCL as a national user facility is supported by the Experimental Nuclear Physics Program of the U.S. National Science Foundation.