Paul J. Wegner
Papers
1
Total Citations
15
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1
About
Dr. Paul J. Wegner is a leading figure in precision engineering for inertial confinement fusion (ICF), with his most impactful work centered on the development of advanced manufacturing techniques for laser-driven fusion ignition targets. His major contribution is the creation of the Precision Robotic Assembly Machine, a groundbreaking system that enables a single operator to assemble the intricate, high-quality targets used at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) in just one day—a process that previously required far more time and personnel. This innovation, detailed in his 2011 paper (15 citations), dramatically improved the repeatability and scalability of target fabrication, directly supporting NIF’s quest for fusion ignition. Dr. Wegner’s work bridges robotics, materials science, and plasma physics, ensuring that the precise specifications of these millimeter-scale targets are met consistently. His achievements underscore the critical role of engineering in enabling high-energy-density science, and his contributions have been instrumental in advancing the practical realization of laser-driven fusion.
Research Focus
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