Quantitative method for precise, quick, and reliable alignment of collection object fields in the JT-60U Thomson scattering diagnostic

The design concept and operation performance of a novel alignment system for accurate electron density profile measurement is presented, which has been developed on the basis of the original method for adjusting quantitatively and actively an object field of collection fiber optics to a laser-beam axis. The quantitative expression needed for an appropriate alignment was able to be formulated using the beam width measured in situ by this alignment system and the four laser scattering intensity signals from special alignment fiber bundles. The effectiveness of this alignment system for precise and reliable measurement of electron density has been successfully demonstrated in the JT-60U Thomson scattering diagnostic through direct monitoring and quick restoration of alignment. The important and distinctive feature of this alignment system is to attain compatibility between a stable and accurate maintenance of alignment and an improvement of the signal-to-noise ratio of Thomson scattering to plasma light acco...