The monochromator achieves one-dimensional focusing by tilting crystal rows or columns via a motorized cam shaft, ensuring milliradian precision. SwissNeutronics’ modular design supports high accuracy, beam compatibility, and customizable crystal holders. Integrated motion control and goniometer compatibility enhance alignment flexibility for diverse experimental setups.

One-dimensional focusing of the monochromator is achieved by precisely tilting either the vertical rows or horizontal columns of the crystal holder. This is implemented using a single motorized actuator coupled to a high-precision cam shaft, which synchronously adjusts the tilt of all rows or columns. The cam profile is engineered to deliver fine angular resolution—typically in the milliradian range—ensuring accurate alignment of the crystal array to achieve the desired focusing geometry. SwissNeutronics provides a standardized design platform that incorporates this mechanism while offering high flexibility for customization, enabling adaptation to a wide variety of experimental setups and focusing requirements.

The system boasts high angular precision, with absolute accuracy better than 0.01° RMS and repeatability within ±0.005°. Its beam-compatible mechanical design ensures that the frame does not interfere with the neutron beam path. Advanced crystal holder options include miss-cut silicon holders for high transparency—ideal for intermediate guide positions—and sintered B₄C holders to minimize background scattering. The integrated motion control system features a stepper motor, encoder or resolver, and home/limit switches for reliable and precise positioning. Additionally, the mechanism is compatible with goniometer stages for enhanced angular control, and offers customizable mounting options with optional add-ons such as shielding elements and integrated guide fields.

Technical highlights

  • High Angular Precision
    – Absolute accuracy: < 0.01° (RMS)
    – Repeatability: < ±0.005°
  • Beam-Compatible Mechanical Design
    – Frame engineered to avoid interference with the neutron beam path
  • Advanced Crystal Holder Options
    – Misscut silicon crystal holders for high transparency, ideal for intermediate positions in neutron guides
    – Sintered B₄C crystal holders for minimal background scattering
  • Focusing Mechanism
    Single motorized actuator with precision cam shaft for synchronized tilting of all rows/columns
  • Integrated Motion Control
    Fully equipped with stepper motor, encoder or resolver, and home/limit switches for reliable and precise positioning
  • Goniometer Integration
    Compatible with goniometer stages for enhanced angular control and alignment
  • Customizable Mounting & Features
    – Flexible mounting options for various experimental setups
    – Optional add-ons: shielding elements, integrated guide fields, and more
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