Engineering topics

Ganguly, Sudeshna [Fermilab]

Publications and source records attributed to Ganguly, Sudeshna [Fermilab].

5 records

DOE OSTI2026

AI-driven Neutrino Beam Diagnostics for Next-Generation Neutrino Experiments

The accelerator-driven beam uncertainty limits oscillation measurements in long-baseline neutrino experiments. Spill-resolved beam diagnostics and real-time inference are necessary to address these neutrino flux systematics. As such, we present a machine-learning-based beam monitoring framework developed and validated using data from the T2K experiment. Our approach uses downstream, spill-by-spill muon monitor observables to predict upstream parameters such as proton beam position and width. We achieve high predictive accuracy on nominal runs, demonstrating robust baseline performance whether the model is trained on stable runs or systematically varied conditions. The framework is designed to be robust against domain shifts, allowing the neural network architectures and inference strategies developed with T2K data to be retrained and validated using LBNF simulations, with the goal of eventual deployment under real LBNF/DUNE operating conditions. This scalable approach to real-time beam inference offers a pathway toward reducing flux systematics for next-generation neutrino experiments such as DUNE.

Aney, Noah [Fermilab; U. Chicago (main)]↗

DOE OSTI2025

Accelerator-Based Neutrino Beams

Over the past six decades, accelerator-based neutrino beams have revolutionized particle physics. Neutrinos created with accelerators have been used to discover the muon neutrino and tau neutrinos was discovered and to confirm the existence of neutrino oscillations. More recently, long-baseline experiments have offered the first experimental hint of CP violation in the neutrino sector. Building and operating such beams is an enormous technical challenge, yet they remain our most versatile tool for studying neutrinos. With new experiments such as DUNE and Hyper-Kamiokande, and ideas such as neutrino factories, the next generation of beams will address open questions about neutrino mass ordering, CP violation, and possible physics beyond the standard model.

Fields, Laura [Notre Dame U.] (ORCID:0000000182813↗

DOE OSTI2025

High-Power Targetry R&D Roadmap for High Energy Physics

Designing a reliable target is already a challenge for MW-class facilities today and has led several major accelerator facilities to operate at lower power due to target concerns. With present plans to increase beam power for next-generation accelerator facilities in the next decade, timely R&D in support of robust high-power targets is critical to secure the full physics benefits of ambitious accelerator power upgrades. The next generation of high-power targets and beam-intercepting devices (beam dumps, absorbers, collimators ) will have more complex geometries, novel materials, and new concepts that allow for use of improved high-heat-flux cooling methods. Advanced numerical simulations need to be developed to support design of reliable high-power beam targets. In parallel, development of radiation-hardened beam instrumentation is needed. Irradiation methods for high-power targets must be further developed, and new irradiation facilities are needed since only a few facilities worldwide offer beams suitable for target testing. A comprehensive R&D program must be implemented to address the many complex challenges faced by multi-MW beam intercepting devices.

Pellemoine, Frederique [Fermilab]↗

DOE OSTI2025

Leveraging FPGA Advantages for Quicker Data Processing for LBNF

The Long Baseline Neutrino Facility (LBNF) will deliver a 2.4 MW muon neutrino beam from Fermilab to the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE), requiring unprecedented precision in beamline alignment to achieve DUNE's neutrino oscillation measurement goals. Vertical misalignments of beamline components as small as 0.5 mm can contribute 6-7\% uncertainty in predicted neutrino flux, necessitating sub-0.1 mm alignment monitoring capabilities. The Horn Location Sensor (HLS) system employs frequency sweep interferometry (FSI) in a distributed hydrostatic leveling network to achieve the required precision under harsh radiation conditions up to 5000 kRad/year. Traditional FSI implementations suffer from laser sweep nonlinearities that degrade resolution and require computationally intensive post-processing corrections using gas reference cells. This work presents a real-time FPGA-based implementation of the HLS data acquisition and processing system using a sweep tracker interferometer for dynamic sweep linearization. The system utilizes a PYNQ-Z2 FPGA with programmable logic implementing parallel 16k-point FFT processing across four channels, synchronized by the sweep tracker signal to eliminate post-processing requirements. Spectral performance testing demonstrates significant improvements in peak sharpness compared to traditional fixed-frequency digitization. The FPGA implementation enables real-time displacement monitoring with processing speeds orders of magnitude faster than software-based approaches, essential for the operational requirements of LBNF's eventual distributed sensor network. This advancement in real-time FSI processing directly supports DUNE's precision neutrino physics program by providing the rapid feedback necessary for maintaining stringent beamline alignment tolerances during high-power beam operations.

Rossel, Jacob↗

DOE OSTI2025

Horn Location Sensors for LBNF

Updates on Prototype of the HLS system for LBNF. This poster is meant for the Engineers' Retreat.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗