Systems, devices, and methods for beam target exchange and volatile object storage

Abstract

Embodiments are provided related to the replacement of a device (300) or assembly for holding a target in a beam system. With these embodiments, a used target (200) can be quickly and safely replaced with a new target to allow continued operation in a clinical or other environment. Embodiments are also provided of a valve (291, 292) having a relatively low profile that facilitates engagement and disengagement of a beamline segment to access a target device or assembly. All or a portion of the valve can be part of a target assembly. Embodiments are also provided of a storage container for storing volatile objects, such as objects containing compositions that are sensitive to atmospheric air and / or objects that are radioactive. The storage container can include a two-part housing assembly configured to receive a volatile object between the two parts, which are engaged to one another to form a hermetic seal therebetween.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to the following patent applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 048,633, filed July 6, 2020, entitled "Systems, Devices, and Methods for BEAM TARGET EXCHANGE"; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 060,831, filed August 4, 2020, entitled "Systems, Devices, and Methods for BEAM TARGET EXCHANGE"; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 060,831, filed April 9, 2021, entitled "Systems, Devices, and Methods for Radioactive BEAM TARGET Storage and..." U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 173,275 entitled “Exchange (Systems, Apparatus, and Methods for VOLATILE OBJECT STORAGE)”; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 173,285 entitled “Systems, Devices, and Methods for VOLATILE OBJECT STORAGE”, filed April 9, 2021. The contents of all these applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The subject matter described herein generally relates to systems, apparatus, and methods for removing and / or replacing target devices within a beam system, as well as for storing objects sensitive to atmospheric conditions (e.g., objects used during the operation of the beam system). Background Technology

[0004] Systems that generate high-energy particle beams typically include components or devices for receiving the beam. These components can be devices for manipulating or converting the incident beam, workpieces altered by the incident beam, shielding components, etc. Depending on the implementation of the beam system, such as the composition and purpose of the receiving device, the type of beam, and the energy of the beam, these components can become radioactive over time and require special handling and / or storage to minimize human exposure.

[0005] One example of such a beam system is a neutron beam system used in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT). Neutron beam systems for BNCT typically include a target device that, when bombarded by a high-energy proton beam, produces a neutron beam that can treat cancerous tumors. The target device is typically composed of lithium or beryllium. For example, a lithium target can produce a superthermal neutron beam via the nuclear reaction 7Li(p,n)7Be. The target device is typically integrated into a target assembly, which may include auxiliary structures for system support of the target throughout the system, such as cooling conduits, shielding, structures for engaging and disengaging the assembly, etc. The target assembly used to produce neutrons has a limited lifespan and may require replacement several times per year.

[0006] As a byproduct of treatment, the target assembly becomes radioactive; it emits various gamma rays through a variety of nuclear decay processes, with lifetimes of, for example, several months. The expected dose to personnel in close proximity to the target assembly after irradiation may exceed the permissible annual whole-body dose of 20 millisieverts (mSv), making removal, storage, and / or transportation procedures, as well as any unforeseen maintenance issues, challenging.

[0007] Reactor-based BNCT systems use radioactive material handling methods similar to those used in commercial nuclear power plants and the isotope production industry. Examples of these methods include remote handling using mechanical aids or robots, and shielded platforms or elevators for moving materials to and from facilities to glove boxes or shielded containers.

[0008] The tools and storage containers used for handling radioactive materials are constructed with a specific arrangement and structure tailored to the facility and the metrology of the radioactive materials being handled. Combining existing technologies, such as those outlined above for reactor-based facilities, would require significant modifications to accommodate different system designs, such as those configured for accelerator-based BNCTs, and the facilities that house such systems. Target processing systems designed for reactor-based systems are generally not suitable for accelerator-based solutions due to limitations in surface area, volume, mass, or materials.

[0009] Three common techniques for ensuring personnel safety by minimizing exposure when removing and handling irradiated target components are: limiting exposure time, maximizing the distance between the target and personnel, and / or adding substantial gamma shielding between the target and personnel. In many cases, these options are impractical and cost-inefficient. Furthermore, the facility in which BNCT procedures are performed may have further constraints limiting which solutions are practical and cost-effective. Existing solutions for target removal and replacement are often unsatisfactorily applicable under many existing safety and facility constraints.

[0010] Materials such as magnesium, sodium, and lithium (e.g., materials used in target devices for BNCT systems) are known to be reactive under atmospheric conditions. These materials are highly volatile, so even exposure to small amounts of oxygen and / or moisture under atmospheric conditions, such as during the assembly of target components for BNCT systems, can cause these materials to react and form oxides and / or hydroxides. For applications requiring pure elemental materials, this reaction can lead to poor material performance or render the materials unusable.

[0011] To ensure that air-sensitive materials, such as certain highly reactive element materials, maintain high purity levels during storage and transportation, systems and methods are needed to isolate air-sensitive materials and objects from atmospheric conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Exemplary embodiments of the systems, apparatus, and methods are described herein for removing radioactive components from a beam system, introducing replacement components into a beam system, or both. Embodiments may include a movable device for transporting the component and a guide structure for guiding the movement of the movable device. The component can be moved quickly, reliably, and efficiently from a first location (e.g., an operating location within the beam system) to a second location (e.g., a location within a shielded container) to remove the component from the system while minimizing radiation exposure to surrounding personnel.

[0013] Embodiments of the component may include a compact valve to maintain a vacuum environment within the component. This valve may have a compact design, allowing removal of the component through the smallest possible opening in the adjacent radiation shielding. This compact design also allows the storage container for the component to remain relatively small. The valve can be easily detached from the beamline, allowing technicians to quickly replace the component, for example, by placing the used radioactive component inside the shielded container and replacing it with a new one, while minimizing radiation exposure.

[0014] Exemplary embodiments of the component removal system can also be used to introduce replacement components and thus enable and exchange functions. Exemplary embodiments of facilities for housing and exchanging systems are also described herein.

[0015] An exemplary shielded container for storing radioactive components includes an inner container shell. The inner container shell may have multiple inner shell walls that collectively define a first hollow interior for receiving the radioactive components. The shielded container may also include an outer container shell. The outer container shell may have multiple outer shell walls that collectively define a second hollow interior for receiving the inner container shell.

[0016] Exemplary embodiments further provide storage for objects sensitive to atmospheric conditions (e.g., reacting with oxygen, reacting with moisture, etc.). In various embodiments, the storage container for storing volatile substances includes a housing assembly. In various embodiments, the housing assembly includes a first housing face and a second housing face. In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly defines an outer surface and an enclosed internal volume defined within an internal portion of each of the first and second housing faces and configured to receive the volatile substance. In various embodiments, the first housing face is configured to engage the second housing face to form an hermetically tight seal therebetween. In various embodiments, the storage container further includes a coupling means configured to secure the first housing face to the second housing face. In various embodiments, the first housing face includes a vacuum-activated check valve extending therethrough. In various embodiments, the vacuum-activated check valve is configured to open at a pressure lower at the outer surface of the first housing face than at the internal portion of the first housing face.

[0017] Other systems, apparatuses, methods, features, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent to or will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are included within the scope of this description, the subject matter described herein, and protected by the appended claims. Features of exemplary embodiments should in no way be construed as limiting the appended claims, where no explicit statement of those features is made in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The details of the subjects described herein, both in terms of their structure and operation, become apparent from the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same parts. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather emphasize the principles of the illustrated subjects. Furthermore, all illustrations are intended to convey concepts, where relative dimensions, shapes, and other detailed properties may be shown schematically rather than literally or precisely.

[0019] Figure 1A This is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of a neutron beam system.

[0020] Figure 1B This is a schematic diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of a neutron beam system.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a perspective view depicting an exemplary embodiment of the downstream portion of a neutron beam system.

[0022] Figures 3A-3D This is a perspective view depicting an exemplary embodiment of a target exchange system at various stages of use, including the removal of target components from an exemplary neutron beam system.

[0023] Figure 4A This is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the beamline within a boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) facility.

[0024] Figure 4B This is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the harness during disassembly.

[0025] Figures 5A-5E This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the wire and target exchange system during the various disassembly and target exchange stages.

[0026] Figure 5F This is a perspective view of the upstream portion of an exemplary embodiment of a target switching system.

[0027] Figure 5G This is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a target switching system.

[0028] Figure 5H This is a perspective view depicting an exemplary embodiment of a target exchange system during the loading of a replacement target component.

[0029] Figure 6A This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the target component.

[0030] Figure 6B This is an external perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the valve assembly.

[0031] Figure 6C This is an external perspective view with a side section cut out of an exemplary embodiment of the valve assembly.

[0032] Figure 6D This is an external perspective view with a side section cut out of an exemplary embodiment of the valve assembly.

[0033] Figure 7 This is a top plan view of a portion of a BNCT facility that houses an exemplary embodiment of a neutron beam system and a target exchange system.

[0034] Figure 8 This is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the target component.

[0035] Figure 9A This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a shielded container configured for manual operation.

[0036] Figure 9B This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a shielded container configured for automated operation.

[0037] Figure 9C yes Figure 9B An enlarged perspective view of the drive mechanism of the shielded container.

[0038] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a series of container shells of a shielded container.

[0039] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the inner shell that is to be inserted into the outer shell of the shielded container.

[0040] Figure 12 This is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a shielded container for enclosing a target assembly.

[0041] Figure 13 This is an exploded view of the vacuum-actuated storage container of the sealed target device. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Before describing this subject matter in detail, it will be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described, as these are of course subject to variation. It will also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting, as the scope of this disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0043] The term “particle” is used extensively in this document and, unless otherwise limited, may be used to describe electrons, protons (or H+ ions) or neutrons, as well as matter having more than one electron, proton and / or neutron (e.g., other ions, atoms and molecules).

[0044] The term “atmosphere” or “atmospheric air” is used to refer to the components of atmospheric air, including but not limited to oxygen, moisture (e.g., water vapor, humidity, rain, snow, ice, etc.), and / or other components of atmospheric air that react with certain components.

[0045] Exemplary Implementation Environment

[0046] Systems that generate high-energy particle beams typically include components or devices that receive the beam. These components may include devices for manipulating or converting the incident beam, workpieces altered by the incident beam, shielding components, etc.

[0047] An example of such a beam system is a neutron beam system for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT). Neutron beam systems for BNCT typically include a target device that, when bombarded by a high-energy proton beam, produces a neutron beam capable of treating cancerous tumors. An exemplary target device is embodied as a metal (e.g., copper) disk having a lithium or beryllium layer on one side. For example, a lithium target can produce a superthermal neutron beam via the nuclear reaction 7Li(p,n)7Be. The target device is typically integrated (e.g., removably integrated) into a target assembly, which may include auxiliary structures for supporting the use of the target throughout the system, such as cooling conduits, shielding, structures for engaging and disengaging the assembly, etc. Furthermore, the target assembly is configured to maintain ideal environmental conditions within it to prevent undesirable decomposition / reaction of the target device's materials. For example, the target assembly may be sufficiently sealed to maintain a vacuum environment or an inert environment therein. Target assemblies used to generate neutrons have a limited lifespan and may require replacement several times per year. Therefore, it is necessary to replace the target device. When the used target device reaches the end of its service life, the replacement target device must be carefully placed into the target assembly.

[0048] As an example only, the fabrication of a neutron-generating target device for BNCT involves a process of forming a layer of high-purity lithium (e.g., approximately 100 micrometers thick) on the surface of a metal (e.g., copper) substrate. Applying lithium to the metal substrate typically requires specialized coating equipment, and therefore this process is usually carried out in a manufacturing facility not on-site at the location where the BNCT procedure is performed. However, once the lithium layer is applied to the metal substrate, the entire target device must be stored and transported until it is installed in the target assembly of the BNCT system.

[0049] However, lithium can be extremely difficult to handle because it is highly reactive and corrosive when the material is exposed to atmospheric conditions (including oxygen and moisture) at ambient temperatures—for example, in a typical laboratory environment. When exposed to atmospheric air, lithium reacts with oxygen, nitrogen, and moisture to form nitrides and hydroxides—lithium hydroxide (LiOH and LiOH-H2O), lithium nitride (Li3N), and lithium carbonate (Li2CO3, the result of a secondary reaction between LiOH and CO2)—which may delaminate from the metallic substrate as dust. Air and moisture act as catalysts for this series of reactions.

[0050] As discussed herein, storing undamaged and unreacted lithium layers in containers with inert gas or a complete vacuum is an effective method to minimize the possibility of exposure to atmospheric air. After coating lithium (or other highly reactive material) onto a substrate under inert gas or vacuum conditions, the resulting target device is placed and sealed in storage and transport containers as discussed herein, while maintaining these inert gas or vacuum conditions to preserve the activity of lithium (or other reactive materials) during storage, transport, and delivery.

[0051] Exemplary embodiments of systems, apparatuses, and methods are described herein for storing and transporting manufactured target devices (e.g., manufactured disks with layers of highly reactive material) in a vacuum or inert gas environment. These systems, apparatuses, and / or methods can be used in conjunction with target device removal and / or storage systems and methods corresponding to beam systems including particle accelerators. Target devices used in conjunction with particle accelerators are merely one example; however, embodiments as described herein can be configured to provide storage and transport solutions for devices including highly reactive materials for use in other intended applications.

[0052] Some of the exemplary embodiments described herein are examples of systems, apparatuses, and methods for use with beam systems including particle accelerators for target removal or exchange.

[0053] A particle accelerator is a common example, and the embodiments described herein can be used with any type of particle accelerator, or in any particle accelerator application involving the generation of a charged particle beam at a specified energy to be supplied to the particle accelerator. Exemplary beam systems are suitable for providing negative particle beams to a tandem accelerator, but these are merely exemplary types of accelerators. The embodiments described herein are suitable for use in systems that: serve as scientific tools (e.g., for nuclear physics research); for industrial or manufacturing processes (e.g., the manufacture of semiconductor chips); for accelerators used to alter material properties (e.g., surface treatment); for food irradiation; and for pathogen destruction in medical sterilization. These embodiments can also be used in conjunction with imaging applications (e.g., cargo or container inspection). Furthermore, by another non-exhaustive example, these embodiments can be used in conjunction with beam systems for medical applications (e.g., medical diagnostic systems, medical imaging systems, or radiotherapy systems). However, again, the use of the various embodiments associated with the beam system is only one example, and other embodiments may be configured for use in conjunction with other industries, such as the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries and / or other industrial applications that require the storage and / or transportation of materials that are highly reactive under atmospheric conditions.

[0054] For the sake of context, one application of the embodiments discussed herein is the storage and transport of target devices used in radiotherapy systems such as BNCT systems. For ease of description, many of the embodiments described herein will be carried out in the context of neutron beam systems for BNCT, although these embodiments are not limited to neutron beam or BNCT applications.

[0055] Example BNCT application

[0056] Please see the attached image for details. Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a beam system 10 for use with embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1A In this system, beam system 10 includes a source 12, a low-energy beamline (LEBL) 14, an accelerator 16 coupled to the LEBL 14, and a high-energy beamline (HEBL) 16 extending from the accelerator 16 to a target 100. The LEBL 14 is configured to transmit a beam from the source 12 to the input of the accelerator 16, which is further configured to generate a beam by accelerating the beam transmitted by the LEBL 14. The HEBL 18 transmits the beam from the output of the accelerator 16 to the target 100. The target 100 may be a structure configured to produce a desired result in response to a stimulus applied by the incident beam, or may have properties that can be altered. The target 100 may be a component of system 10 or may be a workpiece at least partially regulated or manufactured by system 10.

[0057] Figure 1B This is a schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a neutron beam system 10 for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT). Here, source 12 is an ion source and accelerator 16 is a tandem accelerator. The neutron beam system 10 includes a pre-accelerator system 20 serving as a charged particle beam injector, a high-voltage (HV) tandem accelerator 16 coupled to the pre-accelerator system 20, and an HEBL 18 extending from the tandem accelerator 16 to a neutron target assembly 200 housing a target 100 (not shown). In this embodiment, the target 100 is configured to produce neutrons in response to a bombardment of protons with sufficient energy and may be referred to as a neutron-producing target. The neutron beam system 10 and the pre-accelerator system 20 may also be used in other applications, such as those other examples described herein, and are not limited to BNCT.

[0058] The pre-accelerator system 20 is configured to transmit an ion beam from the ion source 12 to the input (e.g., the input aperture) of the tandem accelerator 16, thus also acting as the LEBL 14. The tandem accelerator 16, powered by a high voltage and coupled to a power supply 42, produces a proton beam with energy typically equal to twice the voltage applied to the accelerating electrodes located within the accelerator 16. The proton beam energy level is achieved by accelerating a negative hydrogen ion beam from the input of the accelerator 16 to the innermost high-potential electrode, stripping two electrons from each ion, and then accelerating the resulting protons downstream using the same applied voltage.

[0059] HEBL 18 delivers a proton beam from the output of accelerator 16 to a target within neutron target assembly 200, which is positioned at the end of a branch 70 of a beamline extending into a patient treatment chamber. System 10 can be configured to guide the proton beam to any number of targets and associated treatment areas within one or more targets. In this embodiment, HEBL 18 includes three branches 70, 80, and 90 that extend into three different patient treatment chambers, each terminating in the target assembly 200 and a downstream beam shaping device (not shown). HEBL 18 may include a pump chamber 51, quadrupole magnets 52 and 72 to prevent beam defocusing, dipole or bending magnets 56 and 58 to guide the beam into the treatment chamber, a beam corrector 53, diagnostic devices 54 and 76 such as current monitors, a fast beam position monitor section 55, and a scanning magnet 74.

[0060] The design of HEBL 18 depends on the construction of the processing facility (e.g., a single-layer construction, a two-layer construction, etc.). A bending magnet 56 can be used to deliver the beam to the target assembly (e.g., positioned near the treatment chamber) 200. A quadrupole magnet 72 can be included to subsequently focus the beam at the target to a specific size. The beam is then passed through one or more scanning magnets 74, which causes the beam to move laterally across the target surface in a desired pattern (e.g., spirals, bends, staircases in rows and columns, combinations thereof, etc.). This lateral movement of the beam helps achieve a smooth and uniform temporal distribution of the proton beam on the lithium target, thereby preventing overheating and ensuring that neutron production within the lithium layer is as uniform as possible.

[0061] After entering the scanning magnet 74, the beam can be transmitted to a current monitor 76 for measuring the beam current. A gate valve 77 can be used to physically separate the target assembly 200 from the HEBL volume. The primary function of the gate valve is to separate the vacuum volume of the beamline from the target when loading the target and / or replacing a used target with a new one. In this embodiment, the beam cannot be bent 90 degrees by the magnet 56, but is instead directed directly towards... Figure 1BThe beam travels to the right and then enters a quadrupole magnet 52 located in the horizontal beam. The beam can then be bent to the desired angle by another bending magnet 58, depending on the building and room construction. Alternatively, the bending magnet 58 can be replaced with a Y-shaped magnet to split the beam in two directions for two different treatment rooms located on the same floor.

[0062] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a downstream portion of the beam system 10 configured for use in a BNCT procedure. Here, a portion of the HEBL 18 is shown as a device 250 with an adjustable length. The adjustable length device 250 can be configured to change or adjust its length along the beam axis to allow removal or addition of components from or to the beamline. In this embodiment, the adjustable length device 250 is configured to expand and contract along the beam axis and is structurally configured as a bellows.

[0063] HEBL 18 includes a removable tubing section (e.g., spool) 260, which is removable for maintenance or other purposes. Tubing section 260 is connected to target assembly 200, which carries neutron-generating target device 196 at or near its downstream end 202 (e.g., forming the downstream end of the assembly). Target assembly 200 is at least partially housed within beam shaping assembly (or device) (BSA) 270. BSA 270 can be configured to tune the neutron energy in the target-generated neutron beam to a clinically optimal level, shape the neutron beam to focus it from BSA output 271 onto the patient (e.g., using shielding and reflectors), and otherwise customize or configure the neutron beam for optimal use in BNCT procedures. One or more retractable radiation shields 280 may be positioned between target assembly 200 and HEBL 18. Here, two shields 280 (one shown) may slide together using roller tracks or other mechanisms. Two shields 280 may be brought together to form an aperture 281 (e.g., in a closed shape, such as circular, elliptical, square, etc.) that surrounds the conduit segment 260 and allows the conduit segment 260 to pass through the shields 280. Retraction of the shields 280 may allow the conduit segment 260 to be removed, which in turn may allow the target assembly 200 to be removed from the BSA 270 (e.g., by retraction along the upstream direction 282) for maintenance or replacement with a new target assembly, as described below.

[0064] A valve 291 is located at or near the upstream end 201 of the target assembly 200. Valve 291 can be placed in the open position to allow a charged particle beam to pass through during operation of system 10, wherein the interior of HEBL 18 is in a vacuum (near vacuum) state. To maintain the vacuum state and prevent the release of radioactive material, valve 291 is closed during disassembly of HEBL 18 for maintenance or target replacement. Another valve 292 is located upstream of pipeline section 260, which also remains open during operation and then closes to maintain the vacuum state within HEBL 18 and allow removal of pipeline section 260. In this example, valves 291 and 292 are configured as gate valves with a sealing wall that rises to open the valve and lowers to close it; however, other valve configurations can be used, including the compact valve configuration described elsewhere herein.

[0065] The removal and replacement of target assembly 200 can be performed via any of a variety of methods and corresponding mechanisms. For example, a target exchange system may include a series of rails or other guiding structures and containers to facilitate the positioning of the target assembly within HEBL 18 and the removal of the target assembly from HEBL 18, thereby minimizing the potential radiation exposure risk to technicians when disconnecting target assembly 200 from HEBL 18 and guiding the radioactive target assembly 200 into a shielded container for storage while simultaneously dispersing radiation emissions from target assembly 200. The target exchange system may be specifically configured to place target assembly 200 within a shielded container, the orientation of which facilitates access to the downstream end 202 of target assembly 200, thereby enabling access to the enclosed target device 196 therein (to facilitate its replacement). Access to target assembly 200 within the shielded container may be restricted as the radioactivity level of target assembly 200 decreases, thus allowing the shielded container to be easily sealed to prevent radiation leakage as the radioactivity level of target assembly 200 decreases.

[0066] However, in other embodiments, the target assembly 200 may simply be retained in a shielded container (and kept sealed within the shielded container) until the radioactivity level is reduced to a level that is safe for a technician to handle. The target assembly 200 may then be manually removed from the shielded container and moved to an inert or vacuum environment (where atmospheric air content is negligible), such as a closed and sealed glove box, where the target assembly 200 may be disassembled to remove and replace the included target device 196.

[0067] Figures 3A-3D This is a perspective view depicting an exemplary embodiment of a target exchange system 300 for use with a neutron beam system 10 and facilitating placement within a shielded container 390. The system 300 may include one or more guiding structures to guide the target assembly 200 from its operating position within the BSA 270 to an extraction position within the shielded container 390. Figure 3DAlternatively, a new target assembly 200 may be removed from the carrier container and introduced into the BSA 270 in the opposite manner. Thus, system 300 allows for the removal of a used (radioactive) target assembly 200 (or other system components), the insertion or introduction of a new target assembly 200, or both (target assembly exchange).

[0068] The removal guide structure may be configured as one or more tracks, channels, pathways, supports, rails, conduits, or other structures that can be fixed in place and mate with the target assembly 200 (or other radiation receiving device or component), or a mechanism (e.g., bracket, carrier, conveyor, or trolley) coupled to the target assembly 200 to guide the target assembly from or near the BSA 270 to the shielded container 390. In some embodiments, movement of the target assembly 200 is limited to components permitted by the guide structure.

[0069] In this embodiment, the target exchange system 300 includes two tracks adapted to receive wheels of a carriage configured to hold and / or carry the component 200. For example, the tracks may include recessed spaces that accommodate the wheels and allow them to move along the tracks in the track direction. The target component 200 can move or slide along the tracks from one location to another. This movement can be manually actuated (e.g., pushed and / or pulled by a technician) or automatically actuated, for example, by a motorized carriage, electromagnetic force, pneumatic device, one or more robotic arms, etc.

[0070] Here, the bracket (concealed within the track) is directly mounted to the target assembly 200. An adjustable-length device 250 extends and retracts to induce or allow movement of the target assembly 200. As the device 250 extends, the target assembly 200 can be inserted into the BSA 270. Figure 2 This device can be installed permanently or semi-permanently, making it relatively more difficult to remove and / or replace compared to the target assembly 200. As the device 250 retracts, the target assembly 200 can be moved from within the BSA 270 to the shielded container 390. In some embodiments, it may be necessary to remove the piping section 260, although this may not be required depending on the configuration of the system 300.

[0071] The track may include multiple segments or sections 302, 304, 306, and 308. Track segment 302 is adjacent to BSA 270. The downstream end or terminus of segment 302 may extend into BSA 270 as shown, or may stop just outside BSA 270. The orientation of track segments 302-308 relative to each other can be varied in any desired manner to facilitate the movement of target assembly 200 between BSA 270 and container 390. Track segments 302-308 may be supported by a bracket or leg assembly 310. Track segments 302-308 may be configured as rigid supports that bear the weight of target assembly 200 and the bracket and thus can be positioned without the need for additional supports. Track segments 302-308 and system 300 as a whole may be composed of a material that does not readily become radioactive in the presence of radiation generated by system 10 (e.g., a nuclear-friendly material), thus minimizing the introduction of additional radiation.

[0072] Figures 3A-3D An exemplary embodiment is depicted that can be used in conjunction with a shielded container 390 as discussed herein, but other configurations are permitted. Figures 3A-3D In this embodiment, track segment 302 extends along the bundle axis or upstream-downstream axis (e.g., an axis that allows movement in the upstream or downstream direction). In this embodiment, segment 302 extends horizontally or substantially horizontally, but deviations from the horizontal direction are permitted. Track segment 302 extends through aperture 281 of shield 280. Track segment 302 transitions to a curved (e.g., having a radius of curvature) or bent track segment 304, and track segment 304 transitions to a relatively straight upper track segment 306. Upper track segment 306 transitions to a lower track segment 308, which is also straight and leads to space 312 in which shield container 390 can be placed. Upper segment 306 and lower segment 308 are oriented along an axis transverse to (e.g., at an angle to) the axis of segment 302. The axes of segments 306 and 308 may be along the direction of gravity (up and down), as shown here, or may be oriented laterally (e.g., from one side to the other), or any combination thereof. In this embodiment, segments 306 and 308 extend vertically or substantially vertically, but deviations from the vertical direction are permitted. The change in the axis between segment 302 and segments 306 and 308 will determine the amount of curvature present in segment 304.

[0073] Figure 3A The target assembly 200, partially removed from BSA 270, is depicted. The target assembly 200 has already moved along track segment 302 in the upstream direction 282. Figure 3BIn the middle, target assembly 200 has moved from segment 302 into segment 304, and the orientation of target assembly 200 changes to follow the orientation of the track segment, for example, from an upstream-downstream orientation to an increasingly lateral orientation. A bracket (obstructed by the track) is located between the midpoint of target assembly 200 and the downstream end 202. Therefore, as target assembly 200 moves along track segment 304, the upstream end 201 pivots to engage with the shielded container 390 (…). Figure 3D The target assembly 200 is placed in a very close position within space 312. This allows the portion of the target assembly 200 carrying the target 196 to be placed first in the shielded container 390, thereby minimizing the amount of time that the most radioactive portion of the target assembly 200 is exposed to the environment and any personnel within range.

[0074] The continuous movement of target assembly 200 from section 304 to upper section 306 completes the change of orientation of target assembly 200 from vertical orientation. The target assembly moves downwards along direction 290 from upper track section 306 to lower track section 308, moving the target assembly to the appropriate position within space 312, such as... Figure 3C As shown. This location is in Figure 3D As shown again, except for the presence of a shielded container 390. The target assembly 200 can be directly loaded into the container 390 and attached to a bracket, and then the container 390 can be closed and sealed to minimize the amount of time the assembly 200 is exposed to the surrounding environment. Therefore, the lower track section 308 may have an open end at the bottom that allows the bracket to slide directly out of the track 308 and into the container 390. In other embodiments, latches, removable or releasable guards or stops or other mechanisms may be present to prevent the target assembly 200 from prematurely derailing.

[0075] Figure 4A Another exemplary embodiment of the HEBL 18 portion of system 10 within a BNCT treatment facility is depicted. This embodiment employs a compact valve assembly 600 at the upstream end 201 of the target assembly 200. The compact valve assembly 600 allows for faster removal of the tubing segment 260 from the target assembly 200 and also enables technicians to rely more heavily on the shielding 280 during replacement. (Refer to...) Figures 6A-6D Valve assembly 600 is described in more detail.

[0076] Figure 5A-5G These are various views depicting another exemplary embodiment of the target exchange system 300. Figure 5A This is a partial cross-sectional and perspective view of the target assembly 200 within the BSA 270 before removal by means of the target exchange system 300. For clarity, various other aspects of system 10 and HEBL 18 are omitted. Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A magnified view of a portion of the system shows aspects of component 200 and system 300 in more detail.

[0077] In this embodiment, system 300 includes a support 500 having a downstream portion 521 located between BSA 270 and radiation shield 280 and an upstream portion 522 located upstream of shield 280. The support 500 may have one or more guide structures to guide the target assembly 200 to a position above and into container 390. Here, the support 500 has guide structures on opposite sides of the assembly 200, each guide structure including guide sections 502, 504. Sections 502, 504 include struts of the support 500 connected (respectively) to tracks 503, 505 for connection with the bracket 602 of the assembly 200. Figure 6A The guide structure mates with the bracket 602. Although described as a track in this embodiment, the portion of the guide structure that mates with the bracket 602 can be configured as a channel, passage, support, rail, conduit, or other structure. The track 503 extends between the two support portions through the aperture 281 of the shield 280. Instead of continuously moving the assembly 200 along the guide structure to reorient the assembly 200 for insertion into the container 390, this embodiment incorporates a reorientation capability that allows the orientation of the target assembly 200 to be changed without moving along the track of the guide structure. Reorientation of the assembly 200 can occur in various ways, and in this example, it is achieved by changing the orientation of the segment 504 through pivoting or rotational movements.

[0078] When disassembly of HEBL 18 begins, valves 600 and 292 are switched from the open position to the closed position. The adjustable-length device 250 can then be disconnected from and shortened from pipeline section 260 to allow removal of at least a portion of pipeline section 260. Figure 5C The image depicts HEBL 18 after device 250 has been retracted and a portion of pipeline section 260 has been disconnected and removed. Assembly 200 can now travel freely along track section 502 in the upstream direction 282 through orifice 281 to a position accessible to the remainder of pipeline section 260 on the upstream side of orifice 281. Coolant lines 284 (shown in partial cross-section) can be removed from target assembly 200. The remaining pipeline sections 260 are coupled to the upstream housing 612 of valve 600, and these can be detached from the downstream housing 611 of valve 600 and removed. Reference Figures 6A-6D Valve 600 is described in more detail. Figure 4B HEBL18 is depicted after the housings 611 and 612 of valve 600 are separated.

[0079] Component 200 can then be further moved from track 503 of guide segment 504 to track 505 in the upstream direction 282, wherein component 200 can be moved to Figure 5D The fully retracted position is shown. The interface between track 503 and track 505 is indicated by 506. Figure 5E The component 200 in the fully retracted position is depicted in more detail. A stop member may be present on track section 504 to stop the movement of component 200 in the fully retracted position. Component 200 may be locked in this fully retracted position in track 505 to prevent movement during reorientation.

[0080] Component 200 can then be reoriented for insertion into container 390. (See reference) Figure 5F and Figure 5G Describe the redirection of component 200. Figure 5F This is a perspective view of the upstream section 502 of the support member 500. Figure 5F This is a perspective view of the upstream portion 502 of the support member 500. Figure 5G It is a side view depicting the system 300 after component 200 has been reoriented.

[0081] Each guide section 504 (including a horizontal support and a track 505) is pivotally or rotatably connected to the vertical support of the support 500 via a hinge 508. The guide section 504 can be locked in a horizontal position by a locking mechanism 510. Figures 5A-5E In this embodiment, each locking mechanism 510 is configured as an actuable release pin. In other embodiments, a single locking mechanism 510 may be used to lock two guide segments 504 in place, requiring only one disengagement action to release both segments 504. Each guide segment 504 is connected to a biasing member 512, which is biased against repositioning. Disengagement of the locking mechanism 510 allows the guide segment 504 to pivot freely. This pivoting motion is damped by the biasing member 512, which in this embodiment is configured as a gas bias damping spring to facilitate reorientation control. Other structures may be used as the biasing member 512, such as a coil spring or a torsion spring.

[0082] exist Figure 5GThe depicted reorientation position places the downstream end 202 of component 200 closest to container 390. If component 200 is locked in the appropriate position in track 505, it can be unlocked and descended into container 390, with the downstream end 201 entering first, thereby quickly placing the most radioactive portion of component 200 into the deepest position within the shielded container 390. The descent of component 200 can be assisted by a manual or automatic descent mechanism 580, which in this embodiment is configured as an electric winch. The cable and pulley mechanism (not shown) of winch 580 can be coupled to the upstream end 201 of component 200 and used to lower component 200 into container 390. Alternatively, component 200 can be manually lowered into container 390. In some embodiments, a detachable rigid stop is present on guide member 504 to prevent component 200 from falling into container 390 during descent. Once positioned in container 390, component 200 can be disconnected from any descent mechanism and container 390 can be sealed to prevent further exposure to nearby personnel.

[0083] Figure 5H This is a perspective view depicting the loading of a new target assembly 200 into the target exchange system 300. As the guide sections 504 separate from the rails 503 in their pivoted positions, the new target assembly 200 can be positioned as shown, either manually or by means of a winch or other lifting and / or loading mechanism. The bracket 602 can be aligned with the interface 506 and inserted into the rails 503 in the upstream direction 283. The guide sections 504 can then be pivoted back into place and locked in place by the locking mechanism 510. The exchange process can then be repeated in reverse to insert the new target assembly 200 into the BSA 270 and reassemble the HEBL 18.

[0084] Figure 6A This is a perspective view depicting an exemplary embodiment of the target assembly 200. Here, assembly 200 includes a hollow body 204. A target device 196 (not shown) is located within the downstream end 201, receiving and discharging coolant via a line 285. A bracket 602 is coupled to the body 204 at the upstream end 201. The bracket 602 can be configured in any manner that allows assembly 202 to mate with a guide structure. In this embodiment, the bracket 602 includes a frame 603 having wheels 604 rotatably coupled thereto. The wheels 604 are sized to rotate within tracks 503 and 505. A downstream housing 611 of a valve 600 is also present at the downstream end 202. The valve 600 includes a pivot seal 614 coupled to a hinge 616. The seal 614 is shown here in a closed position. An actuator 618 can be used to move the seal 614 from the closed position to an open position.

[0085] Now for reference Figures 6B-6DThis exemplary embodiment of a valve 600 having two housings 611 and 612 is described. Figure 6B It is an external perspective view. Figure 6C It is an external perspective view with a side section cut. Figure 6D This is an external perspective view of valve 600 with a top section cut off. In this embodiment, actuator 618 is shown as a manual actuator (e.g., a rotatable crank), but in other embodiments it may be an automatic (e.g., electric) actuator. Rotation of actuator 618 causes seal 614 to move in direction 615 ( Figure 6C The valve 600 can be moved from the closed position to the open position. The use of a seal 614 that pivots or rotates between the closed and open positions allows the overall size of the valve 600 to be minimized, thereby allowing it to move through the orifice 281 of the radiation shield 280 without opening the shield 280.

[0086] Housings 611 and 612 have complementary edge profiles and are joined together at interface 620 with an airtight seal. Housings 611 and 612 are locked together by one or more releasable locking mechanisms 622, which in this embodiment are configured as pull clamps. Similar locking mechanisms 622 may be located on opposite sides of valve 600. Locking mechanisms 622 are preferably quick-release mechanisms to allow rapid disassembly of pipeline section 260 in the presence of potential radioactivity. An example of a quick-release locking mechanism is one that requires no more than one, two, or three independent actions to unlock the discrete mechanism 622 manually—for example, a mechanism that can be released by pulling, pushing, and / or turning, rather than a mechanism that is not easily released like a nut and bolt. Automatic locking mechanisms may involve more complex sequences of unlocking movements because, given the automated nature, release can be completed quickly or without human presence. Other types of locking mechanisms may also be used. After valve 600 is closed, the actuation of the release locking mechanism 622 allows housing 612 to separate from housing 611, as described in the text. Figure 4B and 5C As described in -5E.

[0087] Housing 611 has an interface 624 for forming an impermeable seal with target assembly body 204. Similarly, housing 612 has an interface 626 for forming an impermeable seal with pipeline section 260. The impermeable seal may be formed using an O-ring (not shown) or other similar resilient sealing member. Valve 600 also includes an inlet port 628, for example, for pressurizing and depressurizing the valve's internal space.

[0088] Although valve 600 is described herein as having two housings or sections 611 and 612, the valve mechanism itself is contained within housing 611, so the mechanism may be referred to as a valve, and housings 611 and 612 are referred to as sections of a harness.

[0089] As described above, target assembly 200 is expected to become radioactive after use; it emits gamma rays through nuclear decay processes with different half-life characteristics. As the radioactivity of the depleted target assembly 200 decays, each irradiated target assembly 200 can be stored in a shielded container 390 until the observed radioactivity level reaches a manageable or acceptable level (e.g., no greater than 1.25 microsieverts per hour (μSv / hr)). Once the radioactivity level reaches an acceptable level, target assembly 200 can be disassembled, used target device 196 removed, and a replacement target device 196 reassembled into target assembly 200. This disassembly and reassembly of the target assembly can be performed in a vacuum or inert gas environment to minimize the possibility of adverse reactions with lithium or other highly reactive components in the atmosphere.

[0090] Figure 7 This is a top view of a portion of a BNCT facility 700, which houses an exemplary embodiment of the neutron beam system 10 and the target exchange system 300. Facility 700 includes a first room 702, which houses various aspects of the neutron beam system 10, such as source 12, LEBL 14, and accelerator 16 (not shown). A first wall 703 separates room 702 from a second room 704, which houses the HEBL 18 and components of the target exchange system 300. In the configuration shown here, a radiation shielding door 280 forms an aperture 281 around the beamline 50 in its closed position. The radiation shielding door 280 can retract into a door storage space 288 within facility wall 715 in the direction of arrow 286, for example, along a roller track (not shown). When closed, door 280 divides room 704 into a downstream space 711 and an upstream space 712, where the upstream space 712 is exposed to a higher level of radiation due to the presence of the target assembly 200. The segmentation of the target exchange system 300 allows the downstream portion 521 to exist within space 711, while the upstream portion 522 is isolated in space 712 by door 280, allowing personnel in space 712 to complete most of the target exchange process, thereby protecting them from higher radiation exposure.

[0091] The target assembly 200 is partially located within space 711 and inserted into cavity 275 within beam shaping assembly 270. Facility wall 705 separates room 704 from patient treatment room 706, which includes BSA output 271 pointing to patient support device 701, in this example, in the form of a bed or table.

[0092] Therefore, embodiments of the target exchange system 300 allow target assemblies to be moved directly from an operating position within the BSA 270, for example, in a smooth sequence of motion, to a position within the shielded container 390. New target assemblies can be introduced into the track segment 308, and this sequence of motion can be reversed to install a new target assembly 200 into the BSA 270. The compact arrangement of system 300 allows for storage with minimal disruption or disassembly of system 10, thus minimizing system downtime. For example, target assembly 200 can be removed and new assembly 200 installed without removing or adjusting any portion of the beam optics (e.g., steering magnets) on HEBL 16. This further minimizes the need to recalibrate beam system 10 after installing a new target assembly 200.

[0093] Exemplary shielded container

[0094] To simultaneously meet safety and facility requirements that minimize personnel exposure risk, while maintaining a sufficiently available storage container configuration for ease of use, various embodiments provide a multi-shell shielded container 390, which allows the outer shell to house the target assembly 200 (one example of which is...) within the innermost shell. Figure 8 The radioactivity level (shown in the diagram) is reduced and the container is removed and reused. In some embodiments, one or more shells have variable wall thicknesses to provide adequate shielding to the target assembly 200, which has a unique distribution of radioactivity intensity, spatial distribution, and time dependence of gamma emission, while minimizing the volume of the storage container to meet the distribution space requirements within the facility.

[0095] The walls of each of the one or more housings are configured to prevent gamma radiation emissions from the target assembly from escaping from the storage container configuration. Therefore, the walls of each of the one or more housings contain at least one gamma-shielding material, such as bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper. Each wall of the one or more housings can be constructed of at least substantially a single material (e.g., solid lead). In other embodiments, each wall can be a multilayered structure, such as having layers of aluminum, copper, and lead (e.g., a single layer of each of multiple materials or multiple layers of each of multiple materials).

[0096] Generally speaking, the tools used to handle radioactive materials are highly dependent on the facilities and the metrology of the radioactive materials being handled. Furthermore, the time dependence and variable intensity of the radiation field have a significant impact on the amount of shielding required over time.

[0097] Figure 9A An exemplary shielded container 390 according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 9AThe shielded container 390 shown includes multiple container shells 392a-392c to address the reduction of radioactivity over time (and therefore the reduction of the shielding required for the radioactive target assembly 200 over time). Each container shell is embodied as multiple lead shell walls to enclose the discarded target assembly 200 and any included container shells. In some exemplary embodiments, the shielded container 390 may include three container shells 392a-392c, including an outermost shell 392a for short-term storage, an intermediate shell 392b for medium-term storage, and an innermost shell 392c for permanent storage and / or transport of the discarded target assembly 200. The outer container shell 392a may include multiple outer container shell walls (e.g., and have corresponding doors), the intermediate container shell 392b may include multiple intermediate container shell walls, and the inner container shell 392c may include multiple inner container shell walls. The multiple container shells 392a-392c may be configured to nest with each other (e.g., Figure 9A The outermost shell 392a is shown. Figure 11 The diagram illustrates a double-shell configuration, showing the innermost shell 392c inserted into the outer shell 392a. Thus, when the shells 392a-392c are nested together, the combined wall thickness of all the shells provides additional shielding protection. Therefore, as the radioactivity decays over time, the outermost shell 392a can be removed, reducing the additional thickness of the lead shielding while maintaining sufficient shielding to prevent radioactive leakage from container 390.

[0098] refer to Figure 9A Within the exemplary outer container shell 392a shown in the figure (in Figure 9A In the closed configuration and in Figure 11 (Seen in an open configuration) is a system with one or more nested smaller container shells. Each smaller container shell, combined with one or more container shells located within it, corresponds to the amount of shielding required for a specific duration. This is in... Figure 10 The diagram is conceptually illustrated, wherein an exemplary shielding container includes multiple (e.g., three) container shells 392a, 392b and 392c. Figure 11Additionally, a perspective view is shown of the innermost container shell 392c inserted into the outer container shell 392a of the double-shell configuration (note that, for the purposes of discussion, the innermost container shell 392c is illustrated as positioned within the outer container shell 392a and is also illustrated as located within the outer container shell 392a). When the target assembly 200 has been removed from the accelerator, it can be placed in the innermost container shell 392c, which resides within the intermediate storage container shell 392b and the outermost short-term storage container shell 392a, to provide maximum shielding thickness due to the use of all three container shells (e.g., thus providing a three-layer container shell thickness), while the target assembly 200 is at its most radioactive point in time.

[0099] As the target assembly 200 undergoes radioactivity decay, the dose rate decreases, thus allowing the target assembly 200 to be moved to a less shielded configuration (e.g., in...). Figure 10 In the illustrated intermediate storage configuration, target component 200 is retained in the innermost shell 392c, and the innermost shell is retained in the intermediate shell 392b, but the outermost shell 392a is removed, thereby making the outermost storage shell 392a usable for another target component 200. Subsequently, when the target component 200 has sufficiently decayed, the innermost container shell 392c (e.g., in some embodiments, it may be specifically configured for transport) is removed from the intermediate storage container shell 392b, thereby making the intermediate storage container shell 392b usable for storing another target component 200.

[0100] In summary, target assembly 200 is stored within the inner container shell 392c, intermediate container shell 392b, and outer container shell 392c for a first period immediately after being placed within container 390, during which time the radioactivity of the target assembly is at its highest level. Then, the outer container shell 392a can be removed, and target assembly 200 can be stored within the inner container shell 392c and intermediate container shell 392b for a second period immediately after the first period, during which time the radioactivity of the target assembly is at a moderate level. Then, the intermediate container shell 392b can be removed, and target assembly 200 can be stored within the inner container shell 392c for a third period immediately after the second period, during which time the radioactivity of the target assembly is at a low level. Therefore, during the second and third periods, the outer container shell 392a can be reused to store different target assemblies. Similarly, during the third period, the intermediate container shell 392b can be reused to store different target assemblies.

[0101] Furthermore, each storage container shell can be designed according to the radiation intensity and spatial distribution of the target assembly 200, such as in... Figures 9A-9BThis is reflected in [the text]. Therefore, the wall thickness of each storage container shell can vary to address more or less highly radioactive areas of the target assembly 200. An example of a storage container shell with varying wall thickness is [the text is incomplete]. Figure 12 It is shown in the middle.

[0102] In an exemplary embodiment, the shielded container 390 may include a plurality of lead walls and door assemblies, the door assembly including a door 394 (e.g., a shielded lead-based door) to selectively access the interior of the shielded container 390 when the target assembly 200 is placed in the shielded container 390 and / or when one or more inner container shells 392b-392c are removed. Figure 9A In the exemplary embodiment shown, the exemplary outermost shell 392a includes a plurality of lead shell walls that collectively define a cladding having an open end 393. The outermost shell 392a further includes a door assembly comprising elements located at the open end 393 and configurable in a closed configuration (e.g., as shown). Figure 9A (As shown) A door 394 that moves between an open configuration that allows access to the interior of the container housing 392a. In various embodiments, the door assembly includes a mechanical linkage 395 (e.g., a two-bar, three-bar, four-bar, five-bar, etc.) configured to move the door 394 relative to the housing 392 to ensure that the door 394 remains properly aligned with the opening end 393, even without careful user attention. In various embodiments, the door 394 may maintain an orientation at least substantially parallel to the opening 393 during movement between the open and closed configurations and between the closed and open configurations. Therefore, the door 394 can be moved quickly and easily by a user, robot, or any other suitable mechanical force source between the closed and open configurations (and vice versa).

[0103] In an exemplary embodiment, the mechanical linkage 395 includes a plurality of (e.g., two) levers fixed (e.g., pivotally fixed) to the door 394 at corresponding ends of the levers. Opposite ends of the levers may be fixed at pivot points fixed relative to the enclosure 392. The levers may additionally be pivotally fixed relative to each other (e.g., via one or more transverse member levers) and may be pivotally fixed relative to the handle member 396. The handle member extends across the width of the enclosure 392 to be easily engaged by a force source (e.g., a user's foot, a user's hand, a robot, a solenoid, etc.) in a first position (e.g., corresponding to the closed position of the door 394 and as shown in the example). Figure 9A (as shown) and the second position (for example, corresponding to the open position of door 394, such as) Figure 11The mechanical linkage can be configured to convert rotational movement of the handle 396 about a pivot point between a first position and a second position into at least generally linear movement of the door 394. In other embodiments, the mechanical linkage can be configured to convert rotational movement of the corresponding pivot point of the handle between the first and second positions into rotational movement of the door 394 relative to the enclosure 392, while maintaining parallelism between the door 394 and the open end 393 of the enclosure to facilitate movement of the door 394 between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

[0104] In some embodiments, the container shell 392a may additionally define one or more stop bars 397, which, together with the edge surrounding the open end 393, serve to support the door 394 and the mechanical linkage 395 in a closed configuration. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the container shell 392a may define one or more locking mechanisms 398 movable between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration for one or more of the open and / or closed configurations of the container shell 392a. Thus, for example, after the target assembly 200 is placed into the container 390, the container can be closed and placed in a locked configuration to prevent accidental opening of the container as the radioactivity of the target assembly continues to decay.

[0105] In some embodiments, the mechanical linkage 395 and / or door 394 may be operatively connected to the mechanical linkage and / or the door of a smaller container shell located within container shell 392a. This operative connection between nested container shells allows multiple nested container shells to be opened or closed by a single actuation (e.g., of handle 396), enabling the target assembly 200 to be placed within the innermost container shell among the nested container shells without requiring individual actuation of the door of each nested container shell. In other embodiments, one container (e.g., the outermost or innermost container shell) may be independently openable, and the remaining containers may be mechanically linked to allow the remaining containers to be opened or closed by a single actuation. Furthermore, the operative connection between nested container shells may be selectively engaged and / or disengaged via corresponding mechanisms accessible through the outermost container shell 392a. The optional engagement and / or disengagement between the door assemblies of the nested container shells 392a-392c can be used to disconnect the operational connection between the door assemblies of the nested container shells, for example, when the nested container shells 392b-392c are removed from the outermost container shell 392a without exposing the contained radioactive target assembly 200.

[0106] It should be understood that in some embodiments, each container shell 392a-392c can operate independently between a corresponding open and closed configuration. Container shells 392a-392c nested within other container shells 392a-392c can operate between corresponding open and closed configurations when placed within a receiving container shell 392a-392c (e.g., and the receiving container shell is in an open configuration). In other embodiments, container shells 392a-392c can operate between an open configuration and a closed configuration when removed from any receiving container shell 392a-392c.

[0107] Figures 9B-9C It shows a similar Figure 9A A shielded container 390 with a configuration (excluding mechanical linkages configured for actuation by an external drive mechanism). For example... Figure 9C As shown in the close-up view, the outer container shell 392a includes an actuation key 401 configured to insert into a drive mechanism (e.g., a rotary motor, or a separate linkage for converting rotational motion provided by a user at a safe distance from the target assembly 200 into rotational motion at the shielded container 390). It should be understood that the drive mechanism is configured to insert into the concave-shaped actuation key 401. The actuation key 401 is mechanically connected to a mechanical linkage 395 via a transmission relationship, such that rotation of the actuation key 401 causes movement of the mechanical linkage 395 to open or close the door assembly of the shielded container 390. In this configuration, during the insertion of the radioactive target assembly 200 into the shielded container 390, the user does not need to interact closely with the shielded container 390, but can rely on a mechanized system to close and / or open the door assembly of the shielded container 390 while maintaining a safe distance from the radioactive target assembly 200.

[0108] Figure 11 An example is shown in a double-shell embodiment for inserting the innermost container shell 392c into the outer container shell 392a. It should be understood that a similar process can be used for inserting the intermediate container shell 392b in a three-shell configuration (e.g., and for inserting the innermost container shell 392c into the intermediate container shell 392b in a three-shell configuration). Figure 11As shown, the innermost container shell 392c defines an outer surface configured to slide into the interior of the outer container shell 392a. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface of the innermost container shell 392c is generally smooth to facilitate easy sliding into the outer container shell 392a. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the outer surface of the innermost container shell 392c may define one or more alignment features, such as guides, tracks, and / or other alignment features that match and engage with corresponding alignment features on the inner surface of the outer container shell 392a, to facilitate alignment and sliding of the innermost container shell 392c into the interior of the outer container shell 392a. Furthermore, although not shown, either the outer surface of the innermost container shell 392c or the inner surface of the outer container shell 392a may include one or more bearings (e.g., ball bearings, sliding surfaces, etc.) to reduce friction between the outer container shell 392a and the innermost container shell 392c.

[0109] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown, the innermost container shell 392c defines an opening at one end, which is configured to receive the target assembly 200 therein. As shown, the opening of the innermost container shell 392c can be configured such that portions of the target assembly 200 predicted to have lower radioactivity levels are located outside the innermost container shell 392c, and shielding of these portions is specifically provided by the outer container shell 392a (and / or the intermediate container shell 392b in a three-shell configuration). As described herein, the innermost container shell 392c is defined by a shielding wall such as a lead-based wall, but other shielding materials and / or layered structures may also be used as described herein. Figure 11 Furthermore, as reflected in the text, the innermost container shell 392c can define the handle 399 to facilitate the insertion and removal of the innermost container shell 392c into and from the outer container shell 392a (or the intermediate container shell 392b). The handle 399 can also be used, for example, to ensure the correct positioning of the innermost container shell 392c within the outer container shell 392a by stopping the movement of the innermost container shell 392c when the handle 399 contacts the surface inside the outer container shell 392a. It should be understood that although the intermediate container shell 392b is not in... Figure 11 The diagram shows (for a three-shell configuration), but the middle container shell may have a similar configuration to the innermost container shell 392c, but with internal dimensions suitable for accommodating the innermost container shell 392a.

[0110] refer to Figure 12Each container shell 392a-392c may have a wall with a thickness distribution specifically configured to provide adequate shielding for the target assembly 200, and more specifically, to provide adequate shielding for the radioactivity of individual portions of the target assembly 200. Therefore, when the target assembly 200 is positioned within the container shell, the thickness distribution of any of the container shells 392a-392c defines a wall thickness that varies based on proximity to the target 100 of the target assembly 200. Specifically, portions of the container shell 392 (whether the outer container shell 392a, the intermediate container shell 392b, or the inner container shell 392c) have thicker container shell walls closer to the target 100 than portions further away from the target 100. Thus, as Figure 12 As shown, the shell wall may have a variable thickness, for example, between a first shell wall thickness portion 1201 (e.g., a region with a thin wall thickness to shield the target assembly from a relatively low level of radioactivity) and a second shell wall thickness portion 1202 (e.g., a region with a thick wall thickness to shield the target assembly from a relatively high level of radioactivity). The thickness of the shell wall (specifically, the thickness of each portion of the shell wall, such as the thickness of the first shell wall thickness portion 1201 and the second shell wall thickness portion 1202) is tailored to the position of the radioactive target 100 within the target assembly 200, such that when the target assembly is housed within the container shell 392, the portion of the shell wall closer to the radioactive target 100 is thicker than the portion of the shell wall further away from the radioactive target 100, to provide additional shielding against radiation from the radioactive target 100. Figure 12 In the example shown, the first shell wall thickness portion 1201 is thinner than the second shell wall thickness portion 1202 because the second shell wall thickness portion 1202 is close to the intended location of the radioactive target 100 when the target assembly 100 is housed within the container shell 392. In one example, the thickness of the second shell wall thickness portion 1202 is at least twice that of the first shell wall thickness portion 1201.

[0111] Figure 12 The container shell 392 shown is shaped to contain Figure 12 The target component 200 shown, and Figure 12 The container shell 392 has wall thickness portions to address the expected radiation levels from the various parts of the target assembly 200 (e.g., as described above, when the target assembly 200 is positioned within the container shell 392, the first shell wall thickness portion 1202 is thicker than the second shell wall thickness portion 1201 due to the expected location of the radioactive target 100). However, the container shell 392 may have other shapes and wall thickness configurations to accommodate other target assembly configurations, such as those adapted to… Figure 6A The target assembly 200 shown includes a compact valve assembly 600.

[0112] It should be understood that, Figure 12The thickness shown is 100° for example only, and any of a variety of thickness distributions may be provided, with different thickness values ​​and different levels of thickness variation between the thinnest and thickest portions of the container shell wall 391. Furthermore, it should be understood that each of the multiple nested container shells can be characterized by differences in thickness distribution. For example, as the radioactivity level of the target device decays, the difference in radioactivity between the lowest and highest portions of the target device will decrease (e.g., because radioactivity decay typically occurs according to an exponential decay curve). Therefore, the innermost container shell 392c, used alone when the target device 200 has sufficiently decayed to minimize safety concerns, can be characterized by a wall thickness distribution with the lowest level of difference between the thickest and thinnest portions of the wall 391.

[0113] In contrast, the outermost shielding container shell 392a, used to help contain the radioactivity of the target assembly when it is at its highest, is characterized by the maximum thickness difference between the thickest and thinnest portions of the container wall 391 of the shell 392a (thus addressing significantly higher radioactivity levels in certain portions of the target assembly 200). By extension, the intermediate storage container shell 392b can be characterized by a moderate wall thickness difference between the thinnest and thickest portions of the container wall 391, reflecting the moderate radioactivity levels of the target assembly 200 during the second time period.

[0114] The shielded container 390, as discussed herein, offers the advantage of exchanging and storing the target assembly 200 while minimizing personnel exposure to any radioactive isotopes emitted from the target assembly 200 when used with the target assembly exchange configuration discussed herein. Furthermore, by providing multiple nested container shells 392a-392c, one or more container shells 392a-392c can be reused without exposing the contained radioactive target assembly 200 to the surrounding environment, thereby simultaneously providing safety for personnel handling or otherwise using the target assembly 200 contained within the shielded container 390 and minimizing the amount of shielding material required to adequately shield multiple target assemblies 200 (e.g., sequentially replaced target assemblies 200). Additionally, the mechanical linkage 395 and handle configuration 396, as discussed herein, enable mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and / or manual operation of the door assembly, allowing operation of the door assembly at a safe distance from the shielded container 390.

[0115] The shielding container 390, comprising multiple shielding container shells 392a-392c, is movable, has a minimal and compact cross-section, and can be provided in a configuration specific to the target assembly 200 (or other radioactive device) for storage during radioactive decay. The shielding container 390 (and the individual shielding container shells 392a-392c) can be further customized to the overall shape of the target assembly 200, the unique radiation distribution of the target assembly 200, the unique decay time characteristics of the target assembly 200, and / or other facility-specific characteristics.

[0116] Although the provided examples include three shielding container shells 392a-392c, it should be understood that the shielding container 390 may include any number of shielding container shells, such as two shielding container shells, five shielding container shells, etc. In some embodiments, a single shielding container shell may be used to store certain target components 200.

[0117] Exemplary vacuum-activated storage container

[0118] To minimize the risk of the replacement target device 196 (or other volatile matter) being subjected to potentially damaging reactions in the atmospheric environment, the target device 196 is manufactured, stored, transported, and installed into the target assembly 200 (whose separable view is shown in the figure). Figure 8 (As shown in the diagram) and maintained in a vacuum and / or inert environment during use. As discussed herein, target assembly 200 is itself configured to maintain a vacuum environment around target device 196, even when target assembly 200 is not installed within a particle accelerator. However, replacement target device 196 must be transported from the manufacturing site to the installation site, where target device 196 is exposed to the surrounding environment when target assembly 200 is opened and target device 196 is inserted into target assembly 200. To maintain a vacuum or inert environment around target device 196 during storage and transport, a vacuum-started storage container is provided that securely stores target device 196 therein while maintaining a vacuum or inert environment therein.

[0119] Figure 13 This is an exploded view of a vacuum-activated storage container 1000 according to one embodiment. As shown, the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 contains volatile substances embodied in the target device 196. It should be understood that, according to some embodiments, other volatile substances (e.g., a disk of solid volatile materials, a slurry of volatile materials, etc.) may be stored within the vacuum-activated storage container 1000.

[0120] like Figure 13As shown and as described above, the target device 196 is embodied as a disk (e.g., at least generally circular) having a first surface 197 separated by a peripheral edge 198 and an opposing second surface (not shown). The disk may contain a metallic material, such as copper, but other metallic materials may be used in various target device 196 configurations. Furthermore, the target device 196 may additionally include a volatile composition (e.g., lithium, magnesium, sodium, etc.) coated onto the first surface 197 of the disk. The coating may extend to the edge of the first surface of the disk, or the edges of the coating may be spaced apart within the edge of the disk such that a ring of exposed metallic material surrounds the coating on the first surface 197 (in some embodiments, when the target device 196 is positioned within a vacuum-activated storage container 1000, the retaining member discussed herein may engage the exposed metal so as not to interfere with the coating).

[0121] Figure 13 The vacuum-activated storage container 10003 shown includes a housing assembly and a coupling device 1050 (in Figure 13 (The illustrated embodiment is represented as a ring clamp). The housing assembly includes a first housing surface 1010 and a second housing surface 1020. In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 have at least substantially the same configuration; however, it should be understood that in some embodiments, various features of the first housing surface 1010 may differ from those of the second housing surface 1020. In some embodiments, the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 may comprise aluminum; however, in other embodiments, other rigid materials (e.g., stainless steel, rigid polymers, etc.) that are not subject to permeation by gases passing through them may be used. The construction materials, thicknesses, and overall dimensions of the first housing surface 1010 and / or the second housing surface 1020 may be selected to impede deformation of the first housing surface 1010 and / or the second housing surface 1020 (e.g., mechanical deformation, such as bending or twisting; thermal deformation, such as bending, twisting, expansion, or contraction; etc.), because deformation of the first housing surface 1010 and / or the second housing surface 1020 may include forming an airtight seal between the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020. Furthermore, the manufacturing of the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 may be performed to ensure highly accurate surface positioning and finishing to mitigate defects within the first housing surface 1010 or the second housing surface 1020 that may include an airtight seal. For example, each first housing surface 1010 may be machined (e.g., milled) to tight dimensional tolerances and have a high-precision surface finish to maximize the effectiveness of the airtight seal formed between the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020. However, it should be understood that any of a variety of manufacturing techniques may be utilized, such as stamping, molding, casting, etc.

[0122] exist Figure 13In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 has at least a generally circular shape. However, it should be understood that other shapes may be used, wherein the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 have matching shapes, such that the sealing surfaces of each of the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 (e.g., the inner surfaces of flanges, as discussed herein) can engage relative to each other to form an airtight seal therebetween.

[0123] As shown, the first housing surface 1010 defines an outer surface 1011 (located outside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 when in a closed configuration) and an opposing inner portion. This inner portion is defined by an inner surface 1012 that is peripherally interlocked with the inner portion. When aligned with the inner portion of the second housing surface 1020, this inner portion forms a closed internal volume of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 within which volatile substances (e.g., target device 196) can be positioned. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the inner surface 1012 defines an interlocking channel (not shown) surrounding the inner surface 1012 with its periphery adjacent to it. Figure 13 As shown, the retaining member 1030 is disposed in the insertion channel to extend beyond the inner surface 1012. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member 1030 comprises an elastic material with a coefficient of friction higher than that of the inner surface 1012. As an example, the retaining member 1030 may comprise a rubber material, an elastic polymer material, etc. The retaining member 1030 comprises a material that does not react with the material of the first housing surface 1010, the metallic material of the disc of the target device 196, or the coating composition of the target device 196. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member 1030 is embodied as an O-ring disposed in the insertion channel. The retaining member 1030 is configured to contact and thereby frictionally engage the first surface 197 of the target device 196 when the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is in a closed configuration to provide a supporting retaining force to the target device 196, thereby mitigating potential damage to the target device 196 that may result from the target device 196 impacting the surface of the enclosed internal volume during transport of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000.

[0124] like Figure 13As shown, the first housing surface 1010 further defines a flange 1014 extending around the periphery of the first housing surface 1010. The flange 1014 defines an outer surface 1015 extending around an outer surface 1011 of the first housing surface 1010 and an opposing inner surface (not shown) extending around an inner portion of the first housing surface 1010. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface 1015 is offset relative to the outer surface 1011 of the first housing surface 1010. The offset between the outer surface 1015 of the flange 1014 and the outer surface 1011 of the first housing surface 1010 can be sized based on the corresponding dimensions of the coupling device 1050, such that the outer surface 1011 of the first housing surface 1010 is at least substantially flush with the edge of the coupling device 1050 when the coupling device 1050 is secured thereto. Furthermore, the outer surface 1015 of the flange 1014 is chamfered, extending from a thick portion immediately adjacent to the outer surface 1011 of the first housing surface 1010 to a thin portion defining the entire peripheral edge of the first housing surface 1010. The inner surface of flange 1014 is a smooth, at least generally flat surface, configured to engage the inner surface 1026 of flange 1024 of second housing surface 1020 to form an hermetically tight seal therebetween. In some embodiments, one or both of the inner surface of flange 1014 or the inner surface 1026 of flange 1026 may have a sealing coating (e.g., pressure-activated adhesive, elastic material, etc.) to facilitate the formation of an hermetically tight seal between the inner surface of flange 1014 and the inner surface 1026 of flange 1024.

[0125] By providing a chamfer on the outer surface 1015 of the flange 1014, and placing a connecting device 1050 (e.g., an annular clamp) around the periphery of the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 such that the connecting device 1050 engages the outer surface 1015 of the flange 1014, and tightening the connecting device 1050 (e.g., by reducing the diameter of the annular clamp) generates a force vector that presses the inner surfaces of the flanges 1014, 1024 of the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 against each other, thereby facilitating the formation of an airtight seal therebetween.

[0126] like Figure 13 As shown, the first housing surface 1010 includes a vacuum-activated check valve 1060 located at a bore 1017 extending from the outer surface 1011 through the first housing surface 1010 to the inner surface 1012. The vacuum-activated check valve 1060 includes a piston 1061 axially movable within the bore 1017. Although in Figure 13While not visible in the bore 1017, the bore 1017 defines a piston seat on which the surface of the piston 1061 rests in a sealed configuration to form an hermetically tight seal. Additionally, the piston seat may include a sealing member 1065 (e.g., an O-ring) against which the surface of the piston 1061 abuts in the sealed configuration. The piston seat may be a chamfered portion to engage the outer surface of the piston 1061, which has a corresponding chamfer. Alternatively, the piston seat may be a stepped surface within the bore 1017 against which the outer surface of the piston 1061 abuts in the sealed configuration. It should be understood that other piston seat configurations may be used according to various embodiments.

[0127] The vacuum-activated check valve further includes a spring 1062 that biases the piston into a sealed configuration against a piston seat. In some embodiments, the spring 1062 may have a compressive force that can be overcome by an ambient pressure difference of at least 1 mbar between the pressure at the outer end of the orifice 1017 (outer surface 1011) and the pressure at the inner end of the orifice 1017 (inner surface 1012), causing the piston 1061 to move into an open configuration, wherein the pressure at the inner end of the orifice 1017 is at least 1 mbar higher than the pressure at the outer end of the orifice 1017. This spring constant ensures that the vacuum pressure is maintained within the closed internal volume of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000, while allowing the internal space of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 to be equal to the ambient pressure outside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 when the pressure outside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is lower than the pressure within the closed internal space of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000. Figure 13 As shown, the components of the vacuum-activated check valve 1060, including a piston 1061 and a spring 1062, are held in the bore 1017 by a cap 1063, which is fixed to the first housing surface 1010 by a fastener 1064 (e.g., a screw).

[0128] As described above, the second housing surface 1020 may have the same configuration as the first housing surface 1010.

[0129] Therefore, the second housing surface 1020 defines an outer surface 1021 (located outside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 when in a closed configuration) and an opposing inner portion. The inner portion is defined by an inner surface 1022 that is peripherally interlocked with the inner portion. When aligned with the inner portion of the first housing surface 1010, the inner portion forms a closed internal volume of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 within which volatile substances (e.g., target device 196) can be positioned. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the inner surface 1022 defines an interlocking channel 1023 surrounding the inner surface 1022 with its periphery adjacent to the inner surface 1022. Figure 13As shown, the retaining member 1040 is disposed in the insertion channel 1023 to extend beyond the inner surface 1022. The retaining member 1040 in the illustrated embodiment comprises an elastic material with a coefficient of friction higher than that of the inner surface 1022. The retaining member 1040 may be the same as the retaining member 1030 discussed above. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member 1040 is an O-ring disposed in the insertion channel. The retaining member 1040 is configured to contact and thereby frictionally engage a second surface of the target device 196 when the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is in a closed configuration, to provide a supporting retaining force to the target device 196, thereby mitigating potential damage to the target device 196 that may result from the target device 196 impacting the surface of the enclosed internal volume during transport of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000.

[0130] like Figure 13 As shown, the second housing surface 1020 further defines a flange 1024 extending around the periphery of the second housing surface 1020. The flange 1024 defines an outer surface (not shown) extending around an outer surface 1021 of the second housing surface 1020 and an opposing inner surface 1026 extending around an inner portion of the second housing surface 1020. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface is offset relative to the outer surface 1021 of the second housing surface 1020. The offset between the outer surface of the flange 1024 and the outer surface 1021 of the second housing surface 1020 can be determined based on the corresponding dimensions of the coupling device 1050, such that the outer surface 1020 of the second housing surface 1020 is at least substantially flush with the edge of the coupling device 1050 when the coupling device 1050 is secured thereto. Furthermore, the outer surface of the flange 1024 is chamfered, extending from a thick portion immediately adjacent to the outer surface 1021 of the second housing surface 1020 to a thin portion defining the entire peripheral edge of the second housing surface 1020. The inner surface 1026 of the flange 1024 is a smooth, at least generally flat surface, configured to engage the inner surface of the flange 1014 of the first housing surface 1010 to form an airtight seal therebetween.

[0131] By providing a chamfer on the outer surface of the flange 1024, placing a connecting device 1050 (e.g., an annular clamp) around the periphery of the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 such that the connecting device 1050 engages the outer surface of the flange 1024, and tightening the connecting device 1050 (e.g., by reducing the diameter of the annular clamp) generates a force vector that presses the inner surfaces 1020 of the flanges 1014, 1024 of the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 against each other, thereby facilitating the formation of an airtight seal therebetween.

[0132] like Figure 13As shown, the second housing surface 1020 includes a vacuum-activated check valve 1070 located at a bore 1027 extending from the outer surface 1021 through the second housing surface 1020 to the inner surface 1022. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the second housing surface 1020 does not have the check valve 1070. The illustrated vacuum-activated check valve 1070 includes a piston 1071 that is axially movable within the bore 1027. Although in Figure 13 While not visible in the bore 1027, the bore 1027 defines a piston seat upon which the surface of the piston 1071 rests in a sealing configuration to form an hermetically tight seal. Additionally, the piston seat may include a sealing member 1075 (e.g., an O-ring) against which the surface of the piston 1071 abuts when in the sealing configuration. The piston seat may be a chamfered portion to engage the outer surface of the piston 1071, which has a corresponding chamfer. Alternatively, the piston seat may be a stepped surface within the bore 1027 against which the outer surface of the piston 1071 abuts when in the sealing configuration. It should be understood that other piston seat configurations may be used according to various embodiments.

[0133] The vacuum-activated check valve further includes a spring 1072 that biases the piston into a sealed configuration against a piston seat. In some embodiments, the spring 1062 may have a compressive force that can be overcome by an ambient pressure difference of at least 1 mbar between the pressure at the outer end of the orifice 1027 (outer surface 1021) and the pressure at the inner end of the orifice 1027 (inner surface 1022), causing the piston 1061 to move into an open configuration, wherein the pressure at the inner end of the orifice 1027 is at least 1 mbar higher than the pressure at the outer end of the orifice 1027. This spring constant ensures that the vacuum pressure is maintained within the closed internal volume of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000, while allowing the internal space of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 to be equal to the ambient pressure outside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 when the pressure outside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is lower than the pressure within the closed internal space of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000. Figure 13 As shown, the components of the vacuum-activated check valve 1070, including a piston 1071 and a spring 1072, are held within a bore 1027 by a cap 1073, which is fixed to the first housing surface 1020 via a fastener 1074 (e.g., a screw).

[0134] Although the second housing surface 1020 illustrated is depicted as including a vacuum-activated check valve 1070, it should be understood that in some embodiments, only the first housing surface 1010 includes a vacuum-activated check valve 1060, while the second housing surface 1020 does not define any orifices extending therethrough, such that the vacuum-activated check valve 1060 of the first housing surface 1010 is configured to maintain vacuum pressure within the closed internal volume of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000.

[0135] In addition, Figure 13 In the illustrated embodiment, when the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is in the open configuration, the first housing surface 1010 is disconnected from the second housing surface 1020. However, in other embodiments, when in the open configuration, the first housing surface 1010 may be movably connected to the second housing surface 1020, for example, via a hinge, a floating hinge, a flexible line extending between components, etc.

[0136] Figure 13 The illustrated embodiment also includes a coupling device 1050 configured to fix the first housing surface 1010 relative to the second housing surface 1020 when the pressure within the closed internal portion is at least substantially equal to the pressure surrounding the vacuum-activated storage container 1000. When a vacuum pressure is created within the closed internal portion of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 and the pressure within the closed internal portion is lower than the ambient pressure surrounding the vacuum-activated storage container 1000, the ambient pressure surrounding the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 generates a holding force to maintain the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020 in a closed and sealed configuration. However, when the pressure within the closed internal volume is at least substantially equal to the ambient pressure surrounding the vacuum-activated storage container 1000, for example immediately after placing a volatile substance within the vacuum-activated storage container 1000, the coupling device 1050 provides a holding force to maintain the desired positioning of the first housing surface 1010 relative to the second housing surface 1020, such that the inner surfaces of the flanges 1014 and 1024 form an airtight seal therebetween. Once the external pressure of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 begins to rise (e.g., when the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is removed from a vacuum environment during transport), the atmospheric pressure surrounding the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 provides additional holding force to maintain the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 in a sealed configuration. As discussed in more detail herein, this additional holding force prevents or hinders the opening of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 when it is in an atmospheric environment where exposure to volatile substances would lead to an undesirable reaction with atmospheric components.

[0137] As shown in the figure, the connecting device 1050 may be a ring clamp that can be placed around the periphery of the housing assembly. The connecting device 1050 may contain the same material as the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020, or the connecting device 1050 may contain a different material than the first housing surface 1010 and the second housing surface 1020. As an example, the connecting device 1050 may contain steel.

[0138] The annular clamp of the illustrated embodiment includes a fastening mechanism 1051, which can be fastened to reduce the diameter of the annular clamp, thereby securing the coupling device 1050 to the flanges 1014 and 1024. As described above, tightening the annular clamp generates compressive pressure, at least in part due to the chamfered outer surfaces of the flanges 1014 and 1024, resulting in a seal between the inner surfaces of the flanges 1014 and 1024 relative to each other.

[0139] Exemplary usage of vacuum-activated storage containers

[0140] As a method of using the vacuum-activated storage container 1000, when the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is in an open configuration with the first housing surface 1010 separated from the second housing surface 1020, a volatile substance can be placed inside it. In use, the volatile substance is placed inside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000, while the volatile substance and the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 are positioned in a vacuum environment, such as in a glove box operating under vacuum pressure.

[0141] Specifically, the volatile substance is placed within the interior portion of either the first housing surface 1010 or the second housing surface 1020. The surface of the volatile substance contacts the retaining members 1030 and 1040. The other of the first housing surface or the second housing surface 1020 is configured to surround the housing assembly such that the inner surfaces of each of the flanges 1014 and 1024 contact each other. Another retaining member 1030 or 1040 contacts the other side of the volatile substance, positioning the volatile substance between the retaining members 1030 and 1040.

[0142] The coupling device 1050 is then positioned around the periphery of the housing component and tightened to generate a force vector on flanges 1014 and 1024 that compresses the inner surfaces of flanges 1014 and 1024 relative to each other to create an airtight seal therebetween. By tightening the coupling device 1050, retaining members 1030 and 1040 are additionally pressed against the respective surfaces of the volatile device to create a frictional engagement with the volatile device, thereby preventing movement of the volatile device inside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000. Tightening the coupling device 1050 thus places the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 in a closed and sealed configuration.

[0143] The sealed vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is then removed from the vacuum environment, subjecting it to a pressure difference where the external pressure of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is higher than the vacuum pressure within its enclosed internal volume. This pressure difference generates an additional holding force, thereby sealing the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 in a sealed configuration.

[0144] If the sealed vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is subsequently subjected to an ambient vacuum environment such that the pressure outside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is lower than the pressure inside the closed internal volume of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 (e.g., at least 1 mbar lower), then the vacuum-activated check valve 1060 (and the vacuum-activated check valve 1070, if present) opens to make the pressure inside the closed internal volume equal to the pressure outside the vacuum-activated storage container 1000.

[0145] To open the sealed vacuum-activated storage container 1000, for example when removing the sealed target device 196 for installation within the target assembly 200, the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is placed in a vacuum environment such that the external pressure of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 is at least approximately equal to the pressure within the sealed internal volume of the vacuum-activated storage container 1000. The coupling device 1050 is then released and removed from the housing assembly. The first housing surface 1010 is removed from the second housing surface 1020, thereby configuring the vacuum-activated storage container 1000 in an open configuration, exposing the sealed volatile device, which can then be freely removed, for example, for installation into the target assembly 200.

[0146] The following review and / or supplementation of the embodiments described to date illustrates various aspects of this subject matter, with emphasis on the interrelationships and interchangeability of the following embodiments. In other words, the emphasis is on the fact that each feature of the embodiments can be combined with each other unless expressly stated otherwise or logically implausible.

[0147] The embodiments discussed herein provide a system for removing a radioactive component from a beam system. The beam system includes: a movable device configured to carry the radioactive component, and a guide structure configured to receive the movable device and guide the radioactive component from a first position to a second position. In an exemplary embodiment, the movable device is configured as a bracket. The bracket may be configured to secure the radioactive component, and the bracket may include one or more wheels (e.g., to facilitate movement along a guide rail). In some exemplary embodiments, the guide structure is embodied as a guide rail. The guide rail may include a recessed space configured to retain and allow rotation of the wheels of the movable device.

[0148] In some embodiments, the guide structure is configured such that movement of the movable device along the guide structure alters the position and orientation of the radioactive component. The first position may be an operational position within the beam system, and the second position may be a position within the shielded container.

[0149] In many embodiments, a neutron beam system is provided, comprising: a target exchange system including a movable device and a guide structure, wherein the movable device is configured to carry a radioactive target assembly along the guide structure, and wherein the guide structure is configured to guide the movable device from a beam-shaping assembly to a shielded container. In some of these embodiments, the movable device is a bracket including one or more wheels, and the guide structure is a track configured to receive the one or more wheels.

[0150] In some of these embodiments, the guiding structure includes a first straight section, a second straight section, and a third curved section positioned between the first and second straight sections. The first straight section may terminate at a bundle shaping assembly and may be oriented along the bundle axis of the bundle system. The second straight section may terminate at a space configured to accommodate a shielding container. The second straight section may be oriented along an axis transverse to the bundle axis of the bundle system.

[0151] In many embodiments, a method for removing a radioactive component from a beam system is provided, the method comprising: moving the radioactive component from an operating position in the beam system along a guide structure to a position within a shielded container.

[0152] In some of these embodiments, the guiding structure guides the movement of the radioactive component. In some embodiments, moving the radioactive component includes moving it upstream from the operating position. Moving the radioactive component may further include moving it through an aperture in the radiation shield. Moving the radioactive component may include moving it along a curved section of the guiding structure, causing the radioactive component to change position and orientation. Moving the radioactive component may further include moving it from the curved section to an upper straight section of the guiding structure, and then changing the direction of movement to move it a second time along the upper straight section. Moving the radioactive component may further include moving it from the upper straight section to a lower straight section and into the shielded container.

[0153] In some of these embodiments, the movable structure is a bracket including wheels, and the guide structure is a track configured to receive the wheels and allow the wheels to rotate.

[0154] In some of these embodiments, the radioactive component is a target assembly configured to produce neutrons when bombarded by a proton beam. The beam system in some embodiments is configured for use in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT).

[0155] In many embodiments, a removal system for a radioactive component of a beam system is provided, the removal system comprising: a radioactive component having a first side having relatively higher radioactivity than a second side; and a guiding structure configured to guide the radioactive component into a shielded container such that the first side enters the shielded container before the second side.

[0156] In some embodiments, the radioactive component may be coupled to a movable device configured to move along the guide structure. The movable device may be fixed to the radioactive component. The movable device may be configured as a bracket including at least one wheel. The guide structure may be configured as a track. The track may include recessed spaces configured to retain and allow rotation of at least one wheel of the bracket.

[0157] In some embodiments, the guiding structure is configured such that movement of the radioactive component along the guiding structure alters the position and orientation of the radioactive component. The guiding structure may include a first straight track segment, a second straight track segment, and a curved track segment, wherein the curved track segment connects the first and second straight track segments. The first straight track segment may be oriented along the beam axis of the beam system, and the second straight track segment may be oriented transversely to the beam axis. The second straight track segment may be oriented over the space used to house the shielding container.

[0158] In some embodiments, the guiding structure may include a first guiding segment and a second guiding segment, wherein the second guiding segment is configured to pivot relative to the first guiding segment. The system may include a releasable locking mechanism configured to lock the second guiding segment in a position aligned with the first guiding segment. The system may include a biasing member configured to assist pivoting movement of the second guiding segment. The biasing member may be a damping spring. The system may include an automatic lowering mechanism configured to assist the radioactive component in lowering along the second guiding segment in a pivoted state.

[0159] In some embodiments, the guiding structure is configured to move the radioactive component from an operating position within the beam system to a position within the shielded container.

[0160] In many embodiments, a target exchange system is provided, comprising: a guide structure configured to cooperate with a target assembly having a first facet and a second facet including a radioactive target, wherein the guide structure is configured to guide the target assembly into a shielded container such that the first facet of the target assembly enters the shielded container before the second facet.

[0161] In some embodiments, the target assembly may be coupled to a movable device configured to move along the guide structure. The movable device may be a bracket including one or more wheels, and the guide structure may be a track configured to receive the one or more wheels.

[0162] In some embodiments, the guiding structure may include a first straight segment, a second straight segment, and a third curved segment located between the first and second straight segments. The first straight segment may terminate at a bundle shaping assembly and be oriented along the bundle axis of the bundle system. The second straight segment may terminate at a space configured to accommodate a shielding container. The second straight segment may be oriented along an axis transverse to the bundle axis of the bundle system.

[0163] In some embodiments, the guiding structure may include a first guiding segment and a second guiding segment, wherein the second guiding segment is configured to pivot relative to the first guiding segment. The system may further include a releasable locking mechanism configured to lock the second guiding segment in a position aligned with the first guiding segment. The system may further include a biasing member configured to assist pivoting movement of the second guiding segment. The biasing member may be a damping spring. The system may include an automatic lowering mechanism configured to assist the radioactive component in lowering along the second guiding segment in a pivoted state.

[0164] In some embodiments, the guiding structure is configured to move the radioactive component from an operating position within the beam system to a position within the shielded container.

[0165] In some embodiments, the system further includes a harness and the target assembly. The system may include a valve coupled between the harness and the target assembly. The valve may include a first housing releasably coupled to a second housing, wherein the first housing is secured to the target assembly and the second housing is secured to the harness. The valve may include a rotatable or pivotable sealing member coupled to the first housing and configured to seal the internal space of the target assembly.

[0166] In many embodiments, a method is provided for removing a radioactive component from a beam system, wherein the radioactive component has a first face that is more radioactive than a second face, the method comprising: moving the radioactive component from an operating position in the beam system to a position within a shielded container such that the first face enters the shielded container before the second face, wherein at least a portion of the movement is performed along a guide structure.

[0167] In some embodiments, the guiding structure guides the movement of the radioactive component.

[0168] In some embodiments, moving the radioactive component includes moving the radioactive component from an operating position in an upstream direction along the guide structure.

[0169] In some embodiments, moving the radioactive component further includes moving the radioactive component through an aperture in a radiation shield.

[0170] In some embodiments, moving the radioactive component further includes moving the radioactive component along a curved section of the guide structure, such that the radioactive component changes position and orientation. Moving the radioactive component may further include moving the radioactive component from the curved section to an upper straight section of the guide structure, and then changing the direction of movement to move the radioactive component a second time along the upper straight section. Moving the radioactive component may further include moving the radioactive component from the upper straight section to a lower straight section and into the shielded container.

[0171] In some embodiments, moving the radioactive component further includes: moving the radioactive component along a first guide segment to a second guide segment, and pivoting the second guide segment such that the radioactive component also pivots. The method may further include unlocking the second guide segment before pivoting it. The second guide segment and the radioactive component may pivot with the aid of a biasing member. The biasing member may be a damping spring.

[0172] In some embodiments, the method may further include moving the pivoted radioactive component along the pivoted second guide section and into the shielded container.

[0173] In some embodiments, the method may further include using an automatic lowering mechanism to move the pivoted radioactive component along the pivoted second guide section and at least partially into the shielded container.

[0174] In some embodiments, the method may further include inserting a replacement component into the first guide segment.

[0175] In some embodiments, the movable structure is a bracket including wheels, and the guide structure is a track configured to receive and allow the wheels to rotate.

[0176] In some of these embodiments, the radioactive component is a target assembly configured to produce neutrons when bombarded by a proton beam.

[0177] In some of these embodiments, the beam system is configured for use in BNCT.

[0178] In many embodiments, a method is provided for removing a radioactive target assembly from a neutron beam system, the method comprising: moving the target assembly along a guide structure; pivoting a portion of the guide structure and the target assembly; and moving the pivoted target assembly into a shielded container.

[0179] In some embodiments, the method further includes: separating the target assembly from a portion of the wire; and removing the portion of the wire. Separating the target assembly from the portion of the wire may include releasing a locking mechanism on a valve assembly. The method may further include closing the valve assembly before separating the target assembly from the portion of the wire. The valve assembly may be closed by rotating or pivoting a sealing member.

[0180] In some of these embodiments, the portion is a cross-sectional portion, and moving the target assembly along the guide structure includes moving the target assembly from near the beam-shaping device along a first portion of the guide structure through an aperture in a retractable radiation shield to a second portion of the guide structure. The target assembly can move from the first portion of the guide structure to the second portion without the radiation shield retracting. The target assembly may include a valve that moves through an aperture in the retractable radiation shield.

[0181] In some of these embodiments, the method further includes moving the pivoted target assembly into a shielded container with the aid of an automatic lowering mechanism.

[0182] In some of these embodiments, the method further includes sealing the shielded container in which the target assembly is housed.

[0183] In some of these embodiments, the target assembly has a radioactive target located at the downstream end of the target assembly, and wherein the downstream end of the target assembly moves into the shielded container before the upstream end of the target assembly.

[0184] In many embodiments, an apparatus is provided comprising: a neutron beam system including a target assembly; a beam shaping device configured to receive the target assembly; a retractable radiation shield having an aperture through which the target assembly can pass; and a target exchange system configured to facilitate the removal of the target assembly without retracting the radiation shield.

[0185] In some embodiments, the neutron beam system further includes: an ion source; a first beamline coupled to the ion source; an accelerator coupled to the first beamline; and a second beamline coupled between the accelerator and the target assembly. The second beamline may include a removable segment coupled to the target assembly. The neutron beam system may further include a valve assembly having a first housing releasably coupled to a second housing, wherein the first housing is secured to the target assembly and the second housing is secured to the removable segment. The valve assembly may include a rotatable or pivotable seal. The valve assembly may include a releasable locking mechanism for releasably coupling the first housing to the second housing. The valve assembly may be sized to pass through an aperture in the radiation shield.

[0186] In some embodiments, the retractable radiation shield includes a first shielding door and a second shielding door, wherein the aperture is formed by the interface between the first shielding door and the second shielding door.

[0187] In some of these embodiments, the target switching system is configured according to any of the embodiments described herein.

[0188] In some of these embodiments, the target switching system has a support structure having a first portion located between the beam shaping assembly and a first surface of the radiation shield, and a second portion located on a second surface of the radiation shield.

[0189] In many embodiments, a valve assembly is provided comprising: a sealing member; a first housing coupled to the sealing member; a second housing configured to be coupled to the first housing; and a releasable locking mechanism configured to releasably lock the first housing to the second housing, wherein the sealing member is configured to pivot or rotate from an open position to a closed position, and wherein the valve assembly is configured to allow a beam of charged particles to pass through the sealing member when the sealing member is in the open position. In some of these embodiments, the valve assembly further includes an actuator for manually actuating the sealing member. The actuator may be a rotatable lever or crank. In some of these embodiments, the valve assembly further includes an actuator for automatically actuating the sealing member.

[0190] In some of these embodiments, the first housing includes an interface for an airtight seal with the target assembly of the neutron beam system, and the second housing also includes an interface for an airtight seal with the beamline of the neutron beam system.

[0191] In some of these embodiments, the valve assembly further includes a port for pressurizing or depressurizing the internal space of the valve assembly.

[0192] In various embodiments, a shielded container for storing radioactive components includes an inner container shell having a plurality of inner shell walls that collectively define a first hollow internal space for receiving the radioactive components, and an outer container shell having a plurality of outer shell walls that collectively define a second hollow internal space for receiving the inner container shell.

[0193] In some of these embodiments, each of the plurality of inner shell walls comprises at least one gamma-shielding material, and each of the plurality of outer shell walls comprises at least one gamma-shielding material. In some of these embodiments, the at least one gamma-shielding material includes one or more of bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper.

[0194] In some of these embodiments, the inner container shell further defines an open end, and the inner container shell further includes a door assembly that is configured between an open configuration providing access to a first hollow internal space of the inner container shell and a closed configuration preventing access to the first hollow internal space of the inner container shell.

[0195] In some of these embodiments, the outer container shell further defines an open end, and the outer container shell further includes a door assembly configured between an open configuration providing access to a second hollow internal space of the outer container shell and a closed configuration preventing access to the second hollow internal space of the outer container shell. In some of these embodiments, the door assembly of the outer container shell includes a mechanical linkage operable to move the door between the open and closed configurations. In some of these embodiments, the door assembly comprises at least one gamma-shielding material. In some of these embodiments, the at least one gamma-shielding material comprises one or more of bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper.

[0196] In some of these embodiments, the mechanical linkage includes a handle. In some of these embodiments, the mechanical linkage defines at least two pivot points. In some of these embodiments, the mechanical linkage is a five-bar linkage. In some of these embodiments, the door assembly includes a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the door assembly in a closed configuration.

[0197] In some of these embodiments, the shielded container further includes an intermediate shell having a plurality of intermediate shell walls that collectively define a third hollow internal space for receiving the inner container shell. In some of these embodiments, the outer container shell is configured to receive the intermediate shell within a second hollow internal space of the outer container shell.

[0198] In some of these embodiments, the inner shell wall defines a variable thickness profile that defines a first portion of the inner shell wall having a first thickness and a second portion of the inner shell wall having a second thickness. In some of these embodiments, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

[0199] In some of these embodiments, the housing wall defines a variable thickness profile that defines a first portion of the housing wall having a first thickness and a second portion of the housing wall having a second thickness. In some of these embodiments, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

[0200] In some of these embodiments, the plurality of intermediate shell walls define a variable thickness profile that defines a first portion of the intermediate shell wall having a first thickness and a second portion of the intermediate shell wall having a second thickness. In some of these embodiments, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

[0201] In various embodiments, a method of storing a radioactive component includes placing the radioactive component into an inner container shell having a plurality of inner shell walls that collectively define a first internal space for receiving the radioactive component. In some of these embodiments, the inner container shell is positioned within an outer container shell having a plurality of outer shell walls that collectively define a second internal space for receiving the inner container shell. In some of these embodiments, the method further includes closing the inner container shell and the outer container shell.

[0202] In some embodiments of these examples, the method further includes opening the outer container shell after the radioactive component has decayed for a period of time. In some embodiments of these examples, the method further includes removing the inner container shell from the outer container shell. In some embodiments of these examples, each of the outer container shell and the inner container shell contains at least one gamma-shielding material.

[0203] In some of these embodiments, the at least one gamma shielding material includes one or more of bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper.

[0204] In some of these embodiments, closing the inner and outer container shells includes moving the handle of the outer container shell from a first position to a second position. In some of these embodiments, the handle of the outer container shell is part of a mechanical linkage. In some of these embodiments, moving the handle from the first position to the second position causes the door of the outer container shell to move from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0205] In some of these embodiments, closing the inner and outer container shells includes a rotary drive key. In some of these embodiments, the drive key is connected in a transmission relationship to the door of the outer container shell such that rotation of the drive key moves the door of the outer container shell from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

[0206] In some of these embodiments, the inner container shell is positioned within an intermediate container shell and the intermediate container shell is positioned within an outer container shell, and further includes closing the intermediate container shell.

[0207] In some embodiments of these examples, the method further includes opening the outer container shell after a certain period of decay of the radioactive component. In some embodiments of these examples, the method further includes removing the intermediate container shell from the outer container.

[0208] In some embodiments of these examples, the method further includes opening the intermediate container shell after a second time period following the decay of the radioactive component and the continuation of the first time phase. In some embodiments of these examples, the method further includes removing the inner container shell from the intermediate container shell. In some embodiments of these examples, each of the outer container shell, the intermediate container shell, and the inner container shell contains at least one gamma shielding material. In some embodiments of these examples, the at least one gamma shielding material includes one or more of bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper.

[0209] In some of these embodiments, placing the radioactive component into the inner container shell includes guiding the radioactive component into the inner container shell along a guide structure.

[0210] In various embodiments, a removal system for a radioactive component of a beam system includes a radioactive component and a shielding container. The shielding container includes an inner container shell having multiple inner shell walls that collectively define a first hollow internal space for receiving the radioactive component, and an outer container shell having multiple outer shell walls that collectively define a second hollow internal space for receiving the inner container shell. In some of these embodiments, the removal system further includes a guiding structure configured to guide the radioactive component into the first hollow internal space of the inner container shell of the shielding container.

[0211] In some of these embodiments, the radioactive component is coupled to a movable device configured to move along the guide structure.

[0212] In some of these embodiments, the guiding structure is configured as a track.

[0213] In some of these embodiments, the guiding structure is configured such that movement of the radioactive component along the guiding structure changes the position and orientation of the radioactive component.

[0214] In some of these embodiments, the guide structure includes a first straight track segment, a second straight track segment, and a curved track segment. In some of these embodiments, the first straight track segment is oriented along the beam axis of the beam system, the second straight track segment is oriented above the shielded container and transverse to the beam axis, and the curved track segment connects the first straight track segment and the second straight track segment.

[0215] In some of these embodiments, the guiding structure is configured to move the radioactive component from an operating position within the beam system to a position within a first hollow internal space of the inner container shell of the shielded container.

[0216] In some of these embodiments, the shielded container further includes an intermediate shell having a plurality of intermediate shell walls that collectively define a third hollow internal space for receiving the inner container shell. In some of these embodiments, the outer container shell is configured to receive the intermediate shell within a second hollow internal space of the outer container shell.

[0217] In some of these embodiments, the inner shell wall defines a variable thickness profile that defines a first portion of the inner shell wall having a first thickness and a second portion of the inner shell wall having a second thickness. In some of these embodiments, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

[0218] In some of these embodiments, the housing wall defines a variable thickness profile that defines a first portion of the housing wall having a first thickness and a second portion of the housing wall having a second thickness. In some of these embodiments, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

[0219] In some of these embodiments, the intermediate shell wall defines a variable thickness profile that defines a first portion of the intermediate shell wall having a first thickness and a second portion of the intermediate shell wall having a second thickness. In some of these embodiments, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

[0220] In some of these embodiments, each of the outer container shell and the inner container shell contains at least one gamma-shielding material.

[0221] In some of these embodiments, at least one gamma shielding material includes one or more of bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper.

[0222] In various embodiments, a target exchange system includes a shielded container comprising an inner container shell having multiple inner shell walls that collectively define a first hollow internal space for receiving the radioactive component, and an outer container shell having multiple outer shell walls that collectively define a second hollow internal space for receiving the inner container shell. In some of these embodiments, the shielded container further includes a guiding structure configured to cooperate with the target assembly. In some of these embodiments, the guiding structure is configured to guide the target assembly into the first hollow internal space of the inner container of the shielded container.

[0223] In some of these embodiments, the guide structure includes a first straight section, a second straight section, and a third curved section located between the first and second sections.

[0224] In some of these embodiments, the first straight section is oriented along the beam axis of the beam system, the second straight section is oriented above the shielded container and transverse to the beam axis, and the curved track section connects the first straight section and the second straight section.

[0225] In some of these embodiments, the guiding structure is configured to move the radioactive component from an operating position within the beam system to a position within a first hollow internal space of the inner container shell of the shielded container.

[0226] In some of these embodiments, the shielded container further includes an intermediate shell having a plurality of intermediate shell walls that collectively define a third hollow internal space for receiving the inner container shell. In some of these embodiments, the outer container shell is configured to receive the intermediate shell within a second hollow internal space of the outer container shell.

[0227] In some of these embodiments, the inner shell wall defines a variable thickness profile that defines a first portion of the inner shell wall having a first thickness and a second portion of the inner shell wall having a second thickness. In some of these embodiments, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

[0228] In some of these embodiments, the housing wall defines a variable thickness profile that defines a first portion of the housing wall having a first thickness and a second portion of the housing wall having a second thickness. In some of these embodiments, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

[0229] In some of these embodiments, the intermediate shell wall defines a variable thickness profile that defines a first portion of the intermediate shell wall having a first thickness and a second portion of the intermediate shell wall having a second thickness. In some of these embodiments, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

[0230] In some of these embodiments, each of the outer container shell and the inner container shell contains at least one gamma-shielding material.

[0231] In some of these embodiments, the at least one gamma shielding material includes one or more of bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper.

[0232] In various embodiments, a storage container for storing volatile substances includes a housing assembly comprising a first housing face and a second housing face. In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly defines an outer surface and an enclosed internal volume defined within an internal portion of each of the first and second housing faces and configured to receive the volatile substance. In some of these embodiments, the first housing face is configured to engage the second housing face to form an hermetically tight seal therebetween. In some of these embodiments, the enclosed internal space is at a first atmospheric pressure lower than a second atmospheric pressure outside the enclosed internal volume. In some embodiments, the first atmospheric pressure is a vacuum pressure and the second atmospheric pressure is the ambient pressure outside the enclosed internal volume. In some of these embodiments, the storage container further includes a coupling device configured to secure the first housing face to the second housing face. In some of these embodiments, the first housing face includes a check valve extending therethrough. In some of these embodiments, the check valve is configured to open using a pressure lower at the outer surface of the first housing face than at the internal portion of the first housing face. In some embodiments, the check valve is a vacuum-activated check valve.

[0233] In some of these embodiments, the first housing face defines a first flange extending around the periphery of the first housing face, and the second housing face defines a second flange extending around the periphery of the second housing face. In some of these embodiments, the first flange is configured to engage the second flange to form a gas seal between the first housing face and the second housing face.

[0234] In some of these embodiments, the second housing face includes a second check valve extending therethrough. In some of these embodiments, the second check valve is configured to open using lower pressure at the outer surface of the second housing face.

[0235] In some of these embodiments, the first housing surface further includes a retaining member fixed to an inner surface within an inner portion of the first housing surface. In some of these embodiments, the retaining member is configured to frictionally engage the surface of the volatile material.

[0236] In some of these embodiments, the second housing surface further includes a second retaining member fixed to an inner surface within an inner portion of the second housing surface. In some of these embodiments, the second retaining member is configured to frictionally engage the second surface of the volatile material.

[0237] In some of these embodiments, the retaining member is an O-ring disposed within a channel defined in the inner surface of the first housing surface.

[0238] In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly has at least a generally circular periphery, and the coupling means is an annular clamp configured to extend around the at least generally circular periphery of the housing assembly.

[0239] In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly comprises aluminum.

[0240] In some of these embodiments, the check valve is configured to open when the pressure at the outer surface of the first housing face is at least 1 mbar lower than the pressure within the enclosed internal volume.

[0241] In some of these embodiments, the first housing surface is the same as the second housing surface.

[0242] In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly may be configured between a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein in the closed configuration, the first housing facet engages with the second housing facet to form a gas seal therebetween, and in the open configuration, the first housing facet separates from the second housing facet to allow access to the enclosed internal volume from the outside of the storage container.

[0243] In some of these embodiments, the first housing surface is movably fixed to the second housing surface in the open configuration.

[0244] In various embodiments, a packaged volatile object includes a housing assembly comprising a first housing face and a second housing face. In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly defines an outer surface and an enclosed internal volume defined within an internal portion of each of the first and second housing faces. In some of these embodiments, the first housing face is configured to engage the second housing face to form an airtight seal therebetween. In some of these embodiments, the packaged volatile object further includes volatile material positioned within the enclosed internal volume. In some of these embodiments, the enclosed internal volume is under vacuum pressure. In some of these embodiments, the first housing face includes a check valve extending therethrough. In some of these embodiments, the check valve is configured to open using lower pressure at the outer surface of the first housing face.

[0245] In some of these embodiments, the volatile material of the package further includes a coupling device configured to secure the first housing surface to the second housing surface.

[0246] In some of these embodiments, the first housing face defines a first flange extending around the periphery of the first housing face, and the second housing face defines a second flange extending around the periphery of the second housing face. In some of these embodiments, the first flange is configured to engage the second flange to form a gas seal between the first housing face and the second housing face.

[0247] In some of these embodiments, the second housing face includes a second check valve extending therethrough. In some of these embodiments, the second check valve is configured to open using lower pressure at the outer surface of the second housing face.

[0248] In some of these embodiments, the first housing surface further includes a retaining member fixed to an inner surface within an inner portion of the first housing surface. In some of these embodiments, the retaining member is configured to frictionally engage the surface of the volatile material.

[0249] In some of these embodiments, the second housing surface further includes a second retaining member fixed to an inner surface within an inner portion of the second housing surface. In some of these embodiments, the second retaining member is configured to frictionally engage the second surface of the volatile material.

[0250] In some of these embodiments, the retaining member is an O-ring disposed within a channel defined in the inner surface of the first housing surface.

[0251] In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly has at least a generally circular periphery, and the coupling means is an annular clamp configured to extend around the at least generally circular periphery of the housing assembly.

[0252] In some of these embodiments, the volatile substance has at least a generally circular periphery.

[0253] In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly comprises aluminum.

[0254] In some of these embodiments, the check valve is configured to open when the pressure at the outer surface of the first housing face is at least 1 mbar lower than the pressure within the enclosed internal volume.

[0255] In some of these embodiments, the first housing surface is the same as the second housing surface.

[0256] In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly may be configured between a closed configuration and an open configuration, in which the first housing facet engages with the second housing facet to form a gas seal therebetween, and in the open configuration, the first housing facet is separated from the second housing facet to allow access to the volatile substance from the outside of the housing assembly.

[0257] In some of these embodiments, the search for volatile substances includes a metal disk and a volatile composition coated on a first surface of the metal disk. In some of these embodiments, the metal disk comprises copper.

[0258] In some of these embodiments, the volatile composition comprises one of the following: lithium, sodium, or magnesium.

[0259] In some of these embodiments, the volatile material is configured to produce a neutron beam when struck by a high-energy proton beam.

[0260] In various embodiments, a method of storing a volatile substance includes placing the volatile substance in an internal portion of one of a first housing surface or a second housing surface, while the volatile substance, the first housing surface, and the second housing surface are in an environment having a first pressure. In some of these embodiments, the first housing surface includes a check valve extending therethrough. In some of these embodiments, the check valve is configured to open using a pressure lower at the outer surface of the first housing surface than at the internal portion of the first housing surface. In some of these embodiments, the method further includes forming a closed housing assembly around the volatile substance by engaging the first housing surface with the second housing surface, thereby forming a closed internal volume within a closed housing assembly to receive the volatile substance. In some of these embodiments, the method further includes securing a coupling device to the closed housing assembly to secure the first housing surface and the second housing surface. In some of these embodiments, the method further includes subjecting the closed housing assembly to a second pressure greater than the first pressure to form a gas seal between the first housing surface and the second housing surface.

[0261] In some embodiments of these embodiments, the method further includes subjecting the closed housing assembly to a third pressure, after subjecting it to the second pressure, the third pressure being at least 1 mbar lower than the first pressure within the closed internal volume, to open the check valve so that the first pressure within the closed internal volume is equal to the third pressure via a separate check valve. In some embodiments, the check valve is a vacuum-activated check valve and the first pressure is a vacuum pressure.

[0262] In some of these embodiments, the second housing face includes a second check valve extending therethrough. In some of these embodiments, the second check valve is configured to open at a lower pressure at the outer surface of the second housing face. In some of these embodiments, subjecting the closed housing assembly to a vacuum pressure—where the vacuum pressure is at least 1 mbar lower than the pressure within the closed internal volume—further opens the second check valve so that the pressure within the closed internal volume is equal to the vacuum pressure via the check valve and the second check valve.

[0263] In some of these embodiments, one of the first housing surface or the second housing surface further includes a retaining member fixed to an inner surface within an inner portion of the first housing surface or the second housing surface. In some of these embodiments, forming the closed housing assembly includes frictionally engaging the retaining member with the surface of the volatile material.

[0264] In some of these embodiments, both the first housing surface and the second housing surface additionally include retaining members fixed to inner surfaces within the inner portions of the first housing surface and the second housing surface. In some of these embodiments, forming the closed housing assembly includes frictionally engaging the retaining member of the first housing surface with a first surface of the volatile object and frictionally engaging the retaining member of the second housing surface with a second surface of the volatile object.

[0265] In some of these embodiments, the first housing face defines a first flange extending around the periphery of the first housing face, and the second housing face defines a second flange extending around the periphery of the second housing face. In some of these embodiments, forming a closed housing assembly includes engaging the first flange and the second flange to form a gas seal between the first housing face and the second housing face.

[0266] In various embodiments, a package includes a housing assembly comprising a first housing face and a second housing face. In some of these embodiments, the housing assembly defines an outer surface and an enclosed internal volume defined within an interior portion of each of the first and second housing faces. In some of these embodiments, the first housing face is configured to engage the second housing face to form an airtight seal therebetween. In some of these embodiments, the enclosed internal volume is at a first atmospheric pressure lower than a second atmospheric pressure outside the enclosed internal volume.

[0267] In some of these embodiments, the first housing face includes a check valve extending therethrough. In some of these embodiments, the check valve is configured to open at a lower pressure at the outer surface of the first housing face. In some of these embodiments, the first atmospheric pressure is a vacuum pressure, and the second atmospheric pressure is the ambient pressure outside the enclosed internal volume.

[0268] In some of these embodiments, the packaging includes a coupling device configured to secure the first housing surface to the second housing surface. In some embodiments, the first housing surface defines a first flange extending around a periphery of the first housing surface, and the second housing surface defines a second flange extending around a periphery of the second housing surface. In some of these embodiments, the first flange is configured to engage the second flange to form a gas seal between the first housing surface and the second housing surface.

[0269] In some of these embodiments, the second housing face includes a second check valve extending therethrough. In some of these embodiments, the second check valve is configured to open using lower pressure at the outer surface of the second housing face.

[0270] In some of these embodiments, the first housing surface includes a retaining member fixed to an inner surface within an inner portion of the first housing surface. In some of these embodiments, the retaining member is configured to frictionally engage a surface of the volatile material. In some of these embodiments, the second housing surface includes a second retaining member fixed to an inner surface within an inner portion of the second housing surface. In some of these embodiments, the second retaining member is configured to frictionally engage a second surface of the volatile material. In some embodiments, the retaining member is an O-ring disposed within a channel defined within an inner surface of the first housing surface.

[0271] It should be noted that all features, elements, components, functions, and steps described with respect to any embodiments provided herein are intended to be freely combined and substituted with features, elements, components, functions, and steps from any other embodiment. If a feature, element, component, function, or step is described with respect to only one embodiment, it should be understood that such feature, element, component, function, or step may be used with every other embodiment described herein, unless expressly stated otherwise. Therefore, this paragraph serves at all times as the basis for reference and written support of the introduction of the claims, which combine features, elements, components, functions, and steps from different embodiments, or substitute features, elements, components, functions, and steps from one embodiment for features, elements, components, functions, and steps from another embodiment, even if such combinations or substitutions are not expressly stated in particular cases. It is expressly acknowledged that a detailed description of every possible combination and substitution would be overly cumbersome, especially considering that the permissibility of each such combination and substitution will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0272] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0273] While the embodiments are readily available with various modifications and alternatives, specific examples have been shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that these embodiments are not limited to the specific forms disclosed, but rather, they will cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit of this disclosure. Furthermore, any feature, function, step, or element of the embodiments may be recited in or added to the claims, as well as to the claims or such negative limitations that define the scope of the invention by features, functions, steps, or elements not within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A shielded container for storing radioactive components, the shielded container comprising: An internal container shell having multiple inner shell walls and a first door assembly, the first door assembly being configurable between the following configurations: An open configuration is provided for accessing the first hollow internal space of the internal container shell used to house the radioactive components. A closed configuration that prevents entry into the first hollow internal space of the inner container shell, wherein the plurality of inner shell walls contain at least one gamma-shielding material; An outer container shell having multiple outer walls and a second door assembly, the multiple outer walls comprising at least one gamma-shielding material, the outer walls and the second door assembly together defining a second hollow internal space for receiving the inner container shell. The outer surface of the inner container shell is configured to slide into the interior of the outer container shell; and... When the second door component is in the open configuration, the first door component can operate between the open and closed configurations.

2. The shielded container according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one gamma shielding material includes one or more of bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper.

3. The shielded container according to claim 1, wherein, The outer container shell further defines the opening end and the outer container shell, and the second door assembly can be configured between the following configurations: An open configuration is provided to access the second hollow internal space of the outer container shell; and A closed configuration that prevents entry into the second hollow internal space of the outer container shell.

4. The shielded container according to claim 3, wherein, The second door assembly of the outer container shell includes a mechanical linkage operable to move the door of the outer container shell between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

5. The shielded container according to claim 4, wherein, The second gate assembly includes at least one gamma-shielding material.

6. The shielded container according to claim 5, wherein, The at least one gamma-blocking material includes one or more of bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper.

7. The shielded container according to claim 4, wherein, The mechanical linkage device includes a handle.

8. The shielded container according to claim 4, wherein, The mechanical linkage device defines at least two pivot points.

9. The shielded container according to claim 4, wherein, The mechanical linkage device is a five-bar linkage device.

10. The shielded container according to claim 4, wherein, The second door assembly includes a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the second door assembly in the closed configuration.

11. The shielded container according to claim 1, wherein, The outer container shell further includes a second outer container shell having a plurality of additional shell walls that collectively define a third hollow internal space to house the intermediate shell within the third hollow internal space of the second outer container shell.

12. A shielded container for storing radioactive components, the shielded container comprising: An internal container shell having multiple inner shell walls and a first door assembly, the inner shell walls and the first door assembly together defining a first hollow internal space for receiving the radioactive component. An outer container shell having multiple outer walls and a second door assembly, the outer walls and the second door assembly together defining a second hollow internal space for receiving the inner container shell. Wherein, the plurality of inner shell walls define a variable thickness profile, the variable thickness profile defining a first portion of the plurality of inner shell walls having a first thickness and a second portion of the plurality of inner shell walls having a second thickness, wherein the first thickness is greater than the second thickness; or, the plurality of outer shell walls define a variable thickness profile, the variable thickness profile defining a first portion of the plurality of outer shell walls having a first thickness and a second portion of the plurality of outer shell walls having a second thickness, wherein the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

13. The shielded container according to claim 12, wherein, The plurality of inner shell walls define the variable thickness profile, and the variable thickness profile is defined by the inner shell wall thickness, which varies based on proximity to the target of the radioactive component.

14. The shielded container according to claim 12, wherein, The plurality of outer shell walls define the variable thickness profile, and the variable thickness profile is defined by the outer shell wall thickness, which varies based on proximity to the target of the radioactive component.

15. A method for storing radioactive components, the method comprising: The radioactive component is placed inside an internal container shell having multiple inner shell walls and a first door assembly, the first door assembly being in an open configuration providing access to a first internal space for receiving the radioactive component. The first door assembly is moved to a closed configuration that prevents entry into the first interior space, wherein the plurality of inner shell walls contain at least one gamma-shielding material; The outer surface of the inner container shell slides into the interior of the outer container shell to nest the inner container shell within the outer container shell, wherein multiple outer shell walls comprise at least one gamma-shielding material, and wherein the outer container shell includes a second door assembly that, together with the multiple outer shell walls, defines a second internal space for receiving the inner container shell, wherein when the second door assembly is in an open configuration, the first door assembly is operable to move a door of the inner container shell between an open configuration and a closed configuration; and Close the outer container shell.

16. The method of storing radioactive components according to claim 15, further comprising: The outer container shell is opened after the radioactive component has decayed for a period of time. and Remove the inner container shell from the outer container shell.

17. The method for storing radioactive components according to claim 15, wherein, The at least one gamma shielding material includes one or more of bismuth, iron, nickel, lead, depleted uranium, aluminum, or copper.

18. The method for storing radioactive components according to claim 15, wherein, Closing the inner and outer container shells includes moving the handle of the outer container shell from a first position to a second position, wherein the handle of the outer container shell is part of a mechanical linkage, and wherein moving the handle from the first to the second position causes the door of the outer container shell to move from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

19. The method for storing radioactive components according to claim 15, wherein, Closing the inner and outer container shells includes a rotary drive key, wherein the drive key is connected in a transmission relationship to the door of the outer container shell such that rotation of the drive key moves the door of the outer container shell from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

20. The method for storing radioactive components according to claim 15, wherein, The inner container shell is positioned within the intermediate container shell, and the intermediate container shell is positioned within the outer container shell, and further includes closing the intermediate container shell.

21. The method of storing radioactive components according to claim 20, further comprising: The outer container shell is opened after the radioactive component has decayed for a certain period of time. and Remove the intermediate container shell from the outer container shell.

22. The method for storing radioactive components according to claim 21, further comprising: The intermediate container shell is opened after a second time period, which occurs successively after the decay of the radioactive component and the first time period. and Remove the inner container shell from the intermediate container shell.

23. The method for storing radioactive components according to claim 15, wherein, Placing the radioactive component into the inner container shell includes guiding the radioactive component into the inner container shell along a guiding structure.

Images