Finite state machine controls for a source of optical squeezed vacuum

TL;DR

This paper introduces a finite-state machine-based software system for managing an optical bench used in generating squeezed light, enhancing automation, stability, and integration within the Virgo gravitational-wave detector infrastructure.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel software implementation using finite-state machines for automated control of an optical bench in gravitational-wave research, improving stability and scalability.

Findings

High duty-cycle operation achieved

Enhanced software stability and ease of use

Seamless integration with Virgo control systems

Abstract

In this paper we present a software, developed in the distributed control system environment of the Virgo gravitational-wave detector, for the management of a highly automated optical bench. The bench is extensively used for the research and development of squeezed states of light generation in order to mitigate the quantum noise in the next generations of interferometric gravitational-wave detectors. The software is developed using Finite-State Machines, recently implemented as a new feature of damping-adv Software Development Kit. It has been studied for its ease of use and stability of operation and thus offers a high duty-cycle of operation. Much attention has been drawn to ensure the software scalability and integration with the existing Data AcQuisition and control infrastructure of the Virgo detector.