Speaker
Description
In 2021 a preliminary design was proposed as the foundational metrology network for the forthcoming Scorpius linear particle accelerator. Located at the Nevada National Security Site’s (NNSS) Primary Underground Laboratory for Subcritical Experimentation (PULSE), the Scorpius metrology network spans a total area of approximately 838m2 and is 140m at its maximum length. Due to some unique environmental constraints, the original design of the network was limited to two primary planes offset by 0.61m. To ensure compliance with project requirements, the design of the network was completed using an iterative process in which a Unified Spatial Metrology Network (USMN) was modeled in SpatialAnalyzer®. These simulations varied several monument network design parameters including monument spacing, grid geometry, and laser tracker placement. Together these simulations formed a parameter study and allowed for a basic optimization of the monument network. The chosen figure of merit (FOM), root mean square (RMS) of point error, was minimized across several dozen permutations and provided an associated overall point error of twenty-five (25) microns. The simulated FOM was then combined with several other design inputs to calculate the estimated total error for final placement of the Scorpius beamline. In April of 2026 metrologists completed network measurements and analysis of the as-built Scorpius metrology network. Based on data collected and lessons learned from other parts of the Scorpius project in the preceding years, additional monument nests were added to the original planned network design. Original estimates assumed the as-built configuration would provide a FOM with a magnitude double that which was predicted in the simulation. The final as-built USMN analysis provided a FOM of eighteen (18) microns, much smaller than expected given the as-built real-world conditions.
Key Words: Unified Spatial Metrology Network, USMN, Metrology, SpatialAnalyzer®, Root Mean Squared, RMS, Nevada National Security Site, NNSS, Primary Underground Laboratory for Subcritical Experimentation, PULSE, Scorpius, Figure of Merit, FOM
1Los Alamos National Laboratory, P.O. Box 1663, Los Alamos, NM 87545
2Nevada National Security Site, P.O. Box 98521, Las Vegas, NV 8919"
