Robust and maintainable operation using behavior tree semantics
Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: The ITER machine's inherent complexity and the diverse operational phases, such as commissioning and engineering operations, present significant challenges in balancing operability, integration, and automation. The open-source software framework oac-tree* was designed to create, maintain, and execute operational procedures in a robust and repeatable manner. Its semantics are based on a behavior tree model, which inherently supports reactive behavior, making it well-suited for goal-oriented tasks. To accommodate diverse use cases — from small-scale tests to fully integrated operations — the framework's architecture was built with composability and extensibility in mind. System-specific interfaces and user interactions are fully decoupled from the core library, ensuring flexibility and adaptability. The oac-tree library is deployed in production at ITER, offering a command-line interface for executing procedures as system daemons or for interactive use. Its maintainability is ensured by a minimal, low-complexity codebase with well-encapsulated third-party dependencies. The oac-tree ecosystem also includes a Qt-based graphical user interface and a server enabling multiple clients to interact with running procedures. A plugin mechanism supports framework extensions, with existing plugins available for EPICS-based control systems, mathematical expression evaluation, common control system logic, and ITER-specific network protocols.
Source: JACOW
Authors: Van Herck,Walter, Pospelov,Gennady, Lange,Ralph, Gunion,Robert
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7109113186
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: