TUAP001: The Overview of the National Ignition Facility Distributed Computer Control System
Title: TUAP001: The Overview of the National Ignition Facility Distributed Computer Control System
Research Question: How can a large-scale, distributed computer control system be designed and implemented to effectively manage the complex operations of a major scientific facility like the National Ignition Facility (NIF)?
Methodology: The researchers developed an object-oriented software framework using CORBA distribution. This allowed for interoperability among different computers and operating systems, enabling the construction of all the applications from a common set of objects. The system was designed with a client-server model and event-driven communications, ensuring that real-time control needs were met. The system was also designed to be easily extendible and maintainable throughout the project life cycle.
Results: The ICCS architecture successfully managed the complex operations of the NIF. The system integrated over 60,000 atypical control points, providing graphical operator controls, maintaining records of system performance, automating predetermined control sequences, coordinating shot setup, countdown, and shot data archiving, and incorporating safety and equipment protection interlocks. The system also delivered video streams from 500 sensor cameras to operator workstations, ensuring real-time monitoring of the facility's operations.
Implications: The successful implementation of the ICCS demonstrated the feasibility of designing and implementing a large-scale, distributed computer control system for complex scientific facilities. The system's design, which emphasized ease of extension and maintainability, will be valuable for future facilities requiring similar control systems. Additionally, the use of object-oriented software frameworks and CORBA distribution allowed for greater flexibility and interoperability, making the system more adaptable to changing needs and technologies.
Link to Article: https://arxiv.org/abs/0111045v1 Authors: arXiv ID: 0111045v1