In-situ diagnostics handled by the AIA multipurpose carrier

With possible ITER applications, a 8 m long multipurpose carrier has been developed by CEA institutes to operate in the plasma vessel without breaking its conditioning. In 2008, a world premiere operation was conducted in the vessel of Tore Supra under Ultra High Vacuum and high temperature conditions (10^-5 Pa, 120°C). Close camera inspections of the inner wall were performed without any pollution of the tore; after the intervention and the robot return into its storage cask, plasma campaign could restart quickly. With the opportunity to carry various diagnostics and tools, this new type of remote handling device could offer important functionalities for future fusion facility maintenance needs, operation and safety issues.