To access this work you must either be on the Smith College campus OR have valid Smith login credentials.

On Campus users: To access this work if you are on campus please Select the Download button.

Off Campus users: To access this work from off campus, please select the Off-Campus button and enter your Smith username and password when prompted.

Non-Smith users: You may request this item through Interlibrary Loan at your own library.

Publication Date

2020

First Advisor

William Williams

Document Type

Honors Project

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Physics

Keywords

Neural network, Machine learning, Feedback loop, Laser stabilization, Proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller

Abstract

This thesis project is the first in a total of two thesis projects. The main focus of this project was the design and implementation of a noise eater circuit which utilizes a neural network (NN) for its control element. The NN replaced a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller in a laser-stabilization feedback loop, inspired by Cheon et al. [1]. In this paper, the training and implementation of the neural network is discussed. Initially, a simulated feedback loop was built in MATLAB’s Simulink environment to test the NN’s ability to replace the PID controller. The NN was able to successfully stabilize the simulated laser, though not as well as the PID controller. Then the NN replaced the PID controller in the real set-up. The NN was able to successfully stabilize a laser for a short time (<1 >s) before error build-up caused the stability to fail. The second part of this process, which will form the next thesis, is replacing the neural network with a reinforced neural network, which will be giving the goal of maintaining stable laser power rather than simply mimicking a PID controller. It is believed that a reinforced neural network will not suffer from the same error-build-up problems as a traditional neural network, allowing it to achieve long-term laser stability.

Rights

2020 Caitlyn Marlowe Battle-McDonald. Access limited to the Smith College community and other researchers while on campus. Smith College community members also may access from off-campus using a Smith College log-in. Other off-campus researchers may request a copy through Interlibrary Loan for personal use.

Language

English

Comments

43 pages : illustrations (some color) Includes bibliographical references.

Download

Smith Only:
Off Campus Download

Share

COinS