Diagnostics Visualization
Diagnostics turn physical signals into measurements; visualization must respect their geometry, timing, and inversion assumptions.
From signal to picture
A fusion device is instrumented with many diagnostics: interferometers, spectrometers, magnetic probes, cameras, and neutron detectors. Each produces a signal whose relationship to a physical quantity involves geometry and a model. Visualizing diagnostics well means honoring that chain rather than plotting the raw signal as if it were the quantity of interest.
Line-integrated and inverted data
Many diagnostics measure a line integral through the plasma. Recovering a local field requires an inversion (for example an Abel or tomographic inversion) that assumes symmetry and smoothness. A good visualization shows both the measured chords and the reconstructed field, and it signals where the inversion is poorly constrained.
- Show sight lines or chords so the viewer knows where data actually comes from.
- Distinguish measured line integrals from reconstructed local values.
- Mark regions with few chords as low-confidence in the reconstruction.
Time and synchronization
Diagnostics run at different rates and latencies. Overlaying them requires a common, explicit time base; misalignment invents spurious correlations. Event markers (a transition, a trip) anchor multi-diagnostic views.
Cameras and false color
Imaging diagnostics need careful color mapping; see False-Color Imaging. Report scale bars and integration times so brightness is interpretable.
Kronos use
Diagnostic layouts for the breeder and burner are being designed against simulated signals; the visualization framework is built to separate measured, inverted, and modeled quantities from the start.