Intelligent diagnostic surveillance of nuclear fusion

This report is part of Today in the Lab – Tomorrow in Energy?

Today in the Lab – Tomorrow in Energy? shines a spotlight on research projects under development in the Technology Collaboration Programmes (TCPs). Learn more about the initiative, read the launch commentary, or explore the TCPs.

Developing a high-speed digital camera for diagnostic applications inside the plasma vessel of a nuclear fusion device under operating conditions

What is the aim of this project?

This project aims to develop a high-speed digital camera for diagnostic applications inside the plasma vessel of a nuclear fusion device (known as a tokomak) under operating conditions. The Event Detection Intelligent Camera (EDICAM) is being designed for use in an advanced superconducting tokamak device in Japan, the JT-60SAwhich is due to begin operation in 2020.

How could this technology be explained to a high-school student?

The EDICAM is a fast camera able to record several movie streams simultaneously and detect changes to the plasma – the superheated matter in a nuclear fusion device – while the camera is running. Using an advanced microchip, the EDICAM system can process data in real time and can detect user-defined events. EDICAM can also be programmed to trigger actions such as changing the camera frame rate, turning data storage on and off, or signaling to external devices.

What is the value of this project for society?

  • contributes to the safety and reliability of the tokamak fusion device
  • provides spectacular images and movies of real plasma phenomena for education and public relations
  • contributes to the development of intelligent imaging systems that could be used in other applications in industry.

At what stage of development is this project?

Development of the EDICAM system for the JU-60SA began in 2017. The camera was delivered to Japan in July 2019 and is ready for operation. First operation of EDICAM with the JT-60SA is foreseen in 2020.

What government policies could bring this from the lab to the market?

  • support for technology transfer from the research environment to industrial applications.

Event Detection Intelligent Camera (EDICAM). Source: Centre for Energy Research (Hungary)

Partners and funders

Partners

  • EUROfusion (EU)
  • Wigner Research Centre for Physics (Hungary)
  • Centre for Energy Research (Hungary)
  • Fusion for Energy (EU)
  • National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Japan

Funders

The above partners are funding this project.

About the the Technology Collaboration Programme on Tokamaks (CTP TCP)

Established in 1986, the CTP TCP supports the development of fusion energy by contributing to the physics base of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). The TCP provides a forum for the ITER members to co-ordinate tokamak research through scientific and technological exchanges for the purpose of advancing the tokamak concept and supporting ITER physics and technology needs. 

Contact: Duarte.Borba@euro-fusion.org