Compact Variable-Gap Undulator with Hydraulic-Assist Driver: undulator harmonic energy scan test

TL;DR

This paper presents a hydraulic-assisted variable-gap undulator that achieves precise, smooth gap control with high stability, suitable for advanced synchrotron radiation applications.

Contribution

It introduces a hydraulic-assist driver enabling continuous, accurate undulator gap adjustments with improved stability and simplicity over traditional mechanical systems.

Findings

Hydraulic-assist driver provides smooth continuous gap changes.

Energy variation kept within 1 eV/sec, meeting application requirements.

Speed and RMS energy errors are at or below 1.8e-4.

Abstract

In the compact variable-gap undulator with Hydraulic-Assist Driver, miniature hydraulic cylinders compensate for ~90% of magnetic forces and mechanical actuators are used to accurately control the undulator gap. This method of hydraulic assist enables design simplicity and compactness of the undulator. Proof-of-concept experiments and test results of the undulator prototype in step-by-step motion mode indicated excellent accuracy and stability properties of the driver. In this note we present test results of hydraulic-assist driver in continuous motion mode. Results indicate that hydraulic-assist driver can provide smooth continuous undulator gap change, keeping the undulator harmonic energy variation within the required 1eV/sec, and speed and RMS normalized energy errors at 1.8e-4 level (or less). That satisfies any application planned at CHESS.