Materials Science Use Cases

n-TOF Autopsy

After the 2018 operation of the n_TOF facility, features consistent with corrosion were observed on the lead target windows. Using remote and robot-assisted tools, the EN-MME-MM team performed visual and metrological inspections with 3D system to map surface changes, followed by microscopy and diffraction analyses on collected samples.
The investigation helped determine the origin of the observed features and will guide improvements in material compatibility and maintenance procedures for irradiated targets.

Precision Metrology for the AMS Detector Upgrade

For the upcoming upgrade of the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) aboard the International Space Station, metrology plays a critical role in ensuring the precise alignment of all detector components. The CERN Metrology Laboratory (EN-MME-MM) developed dedicated procedures to position each electronic sensor with micrometric accuracy and to verify the flatness of every Quarter Layer (QL) during assembly.

A custom optical measurement system, combining a high-precision camera and a chromatic confocal sensor integrated into a CNC machine, was designed in-house to achieve the required accuracy — a unique solution when no existing coordinate measuring system could meet the mission’s stringent specifications.

Rapid 3D Laser Scanning of the DFHX Cryostat

An EN-MME-MM 3D laser scanner was deployed to assess the positioning of current lead connectors in the DFHX cryostat. Using photogrammetry for self-referencing, the system captured the entire assembly with exceptional precision and speed, enabling analysis and validation in record time. The resulting color-mapped 3D model provided an intuitive, immediately interpretable visualization for engineers and project teams, ensuring fast decision-making and efficient coordination.