An Integrated Support and Alignment System for Large ILC Lattice Elements

The manipulators used to support and position lattice elements are critical components of all particle accelerators. The increased use of large superconducting magnets and accelerator modules places even greater demands on these manipulators. However, the performance of these support systems has not kept pace with the advances made in other areas of accelerator technology. This results in accelerators that are difficult to align and may not be capable of achieving target luminosities. An innovative new type of positioning mechanism tailored to the requirements of the International Linear Collider is proposed. The Tri-Sphere System provides secure support for large lattice elements and precision adjustment in six degrees of freedom. Integrated target sockets allow the support system to be rapidly pre-aligned. The system’s kinematic design passively guides lattice elements into their correct location during installation. A complimentary Portable Actuation Unit provides the advantages of automated adjustment and allows these adjustments to be completely decoupled from surveying