MAESTRO — A model and expert system tuning resource for operators

Abstract

We have developed MAESTRO, a model and expert system tuning resource for operators. It provides a unified software environment for optimizing the performance of large, complex machines, in particular the Advanced Test Accelerator and Experimental Test Accelerator at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The system incorporates three approaches to tuning: • - a mouse-based manual interface to select and control magnets and to view displays of machine performance; • - an automation based on “cloning the operator” by implementing the strategies and reasoning used by the operator; and • - an automation based on a simulator model which, when accurately matched to the machine, allows downloading of optimal sets of parameters and permits diagnosing errors in the beam line. The latter two approaches are based on the artificial-intelligence technique known as Expert Systems.