Controls and Machine Protection Systems

TL;DR

This paper discusses strategies for managing complexity and risks in machine protection systems for accelerators, emphasizing safety standards, fail-safe design, and verification, illustrated by a case at SLAC LCLS.

Contribution

It presents a comprehensive approach to designing and implementing machine protection systems with a focus on functional safety and standards compliance.

Findings

Effective risk management strategies for accelerator protection.

Implementation of a safety-compliant protection system at SLAC LCLS.

Emphasis on fail-safe design and verification processes.

Abstract

Machine protection, as part of accelerator control systems, can be managed with a 'functional safety' approach, which takes into account product life cycle, processes, quality, industrial standards and cybersafety. This paper will discuss strategies to manage such complexity and the related risks, with particular attention to fail-safe design and safety integrity levels, software and hardware standards, testing, and verification philosophy. It will also discuss an implementation of a machine protection system at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory's Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS).