Initial testing of a compact crystal positioning system for the TOPAZ single-crystal diffractometer at the spallation neutron source

A precise, versatile, and automated method of orienting a sub-millimeter crystal in a focused neutron beam is required for efficient operation of the TOPAZ Single Crystal Diffractometer at the Spallation Neutron Source at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. To fulfill this need, a Compact Crystal Positioning System (CCPS) has been developed in collaboration with Square One Systems Design in Jackson, Wyoming. The system incorporates a tripod design with six vacuum-compatible piezoelectric linear motors capable of < 1μm resolution. National Instruments LabVIEW provides a means of system automation while at the same time accommodating the modular nature of the SNS sample environment control software for straightforward system integration. Results from an ambient test at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory will be presented.