Monte Carlo simulations of neutron scattering instruments by VITESS: Virtual instrumentation tool for ESS

Abstract

Analytical approaches have a limited role to play in complex experimental situations, such as neutron scattering. Even if most individual instrument components can be precisely described by analytical models, the integration of a large number of such components in an instrument makes analytical processes highly inefficient and time consuming. Monte Carlo (MC) simulation offers an efficient solution for achieving this goal, both in terms of computational time and the time invested by researchers, given that powerful program packages, such as VITESS, are available [l]. The VITESS [2] sub-project was implemented at HMI within the framework of the German HGF strategy fund project “Research and Development for the European Spallation Source (ESS),” as part of the ESS-Instrumentation activity. This project aims to improve and extend the efficiency of instruments in all fields of research with neutron beams, especially those on spallation sources. For the design and construction of high performance instruments, an efficient computer program has been developed which allows for simulation of the neutron flight from the targevmoderator to the detector.