An eddy current probe holder

Abstract

This invention discloses an eddy current probe clamping device, including a fixing component, a base, an unlocking mechanism, a protection mechanism, a calibration rod assembly, and a guide compensation mechanism. The calibration rod assembly is disposed on top of the guide compensation mechanism and includes a calibration rod unit and a roller unit. One end of the eddy current probe is fixedly connected to the fixing component. The eddy current probe has a locked state and an unlocked state. When the eddy current probe is in the locked state, the fixing component is fixedly connected to the base, and the other end of the eddy current probe passes through the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit. When the eddy current probe is in the unlocked state, the fixing component separates from the base, and the other end of the eddy current probe comes out from the gap. This eddy current probe clamping device allows for rapid unlocking of the fixing component from the base in emergency situations, facilitating its retrieval; it enables the eddy current probe to perform measurements across the entire thickness range of the fuel assembly; and the protection mechanism responds promptly to protect the fuel assembly when significant friction occurs between the eddy current probe and the fuel assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of nuclear power plant fuel assembly testing technology, specifically relating to an eddy current probe clamping device. Background Technology

[0002] Nuclear fuel assemblies are subjected to complex and variable environments such as high temperature, high pressure, and high radiation over long periods, making their zirconium alloy cladding surface highly susceptible to oxidation and the formation of an oxide film. When the oxide film reaches a certain thickness, the heat exchange capacity of the fuel assembly decreases, the corrosion rate of the fuel rods accelerates, and fuel performance deteriorates, which is a significant factor affecting the safe operation of the reactor. Combining eddy current detection with a high-precision detection device to detect the oxide film thickness of nuclear fuel assemblies is the most direct and effective method.

[0003] The oxide film thickness is generally less than 30 micrometers, which not only requires high detection accuracy from the eddy current probe but also places high demands on its positioning and clamping. However, existing eddy current probe clamping devices, both domestically and internationally, have the following drawbacks and shortcomings:

[0004] (1) In emergency situations, the eddy current probe assembly cannot be recovered or the recovery method is inconvenient;

[0005] (2) It cannot adapt to the needs of the on-site structural environment and the testing area. That is, under the condition of not interfering with the on-site structure and limited displacement stroke, the eddy current probe cannot complete the measurement of the fuel assembly within the full thickness range.

[0006] (3) When the eddy current probe collides or is squeezed with the fuel assembly during the forward and backward movement, the sensing sensitivity is low, the response is not timely, and the safety protection of the fuel assembly is inadequate.

[0007] Therefore, there is an urgent need to design and develop an eddy current probe clamping device. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In view of this, in order to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this invention is to provide an eddy current probe clamping device that can quickly unlock the eddy current probe and fixing components from the base in emergency situations, facilitating their recovery; when the eddy current probe collides or is squeezed with the fuel assembly during its forward and backward movement, it can respond quickly and safely retract the probe; it can also extend the moving distance of the eddy current probe to adapt to the needs of the on-site structural environment and the detection area.

[0009] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0010] An eddy current probe clamping device includes a fixing component, a base, an unlocking mechanism, a protection mechanism, a calibration rod assembly, and a guiding compensation mechanism. The base is fixedly connected to the protection mechanism. The calibration rod assembly includes a calibration rod unit and a roller unit. One end of the eddy current probe is fixedly connected to the fixing component. The eddy current probe has a locked state and an unlocked state. When the eddy current probe is in the locked state, the fixing component is fixedly connected to the base, and the other end of the eddy current probe passes through the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit. When the eddy current probe is in the unlocked state, the fixing component is separated from the base, and the other end of the eddy current probe disengages from the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit. The unlocking mechanism is used to separate the fixing component from the base. The guiding compensation mechanism is used to extend the moving distance of the eddy current probe. The protection mechanism is used to issue a response signal to stop the eddy current probe when the frictional force between the eddy current probe and the fuel assembly is greater than the preload set by the protection mechanism.

[0011] By incorporating an unlocking mechanism, the eddy current probe and its fixing components can be quickly unlocked from the base in emergency situations, facilitating their retrieval. Furthermore, a guiding compensation mechanism along the eddy current probe's travel direction increases its stroke, ensuring that the end of the eddy current probe furthest from the fixing components can completely pass through the thickness of the fuel assembly, enabling the probe to measure the entire thickness range of the fuel assembly. A protective mechanism triggers a sensor when the eddy current probe contacts the fuel assembly during its forward movement, generating friction greater than the preload set by the protective mechanism. This sensor transmits the signal to the control system on the fuel multi-functional inspection device. The control system then stops the drive motor that propels the eddy current probe along its length, further halting its movement along its length to prevent continued friction with the fuel assembly.

[0012] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the fixing assembly includes a fixing bracket, a top cover, and a receiving portion, one end of the eddy current probe is fixedly connected to the fixing bracket, the fixing bracket is fixedly connected to the top cover, the top cover is connected to the top of the receiving portion, the receiving portion has a first receiving cavity inside, and a portion of the unlocking mechanism is located in the first receiving cavity; the base has a second receiving cavity, the receiving portion is located in the second receiving cavity and is detachably connected to the base.

[0013] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the unlocking mechanism includes a first gear shaft, a first gear and a second gear disposed at the bottom of the first gear shaft, the first gear being located above the second gear, and both the first gear and the second gear being fixedly connected to the first gear shaft; the unlocking mechanism further includes a first rack, a second rack, a second gear shaft, and a third gear and a fourth gear disposed on the second gear shaft, the third gear meshing with the first gear and the second gear, the first rack meshing with the second gear, and the second rack meshing with the fourth gear. In some embodiments of the present invention, the first gear is a bevel gear, and the third gear is also a bevel gear.

[0014] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, a first connecting rod is fixedly provided at one end of the first rack, and a second connecting rod is fixedly provided at one end of the second rack. When the eddy current probe is in the locked state, one end of the first connecting rod and one end of the second connecting rod both penetrate the side wall of the receiving part and are connected to the side wall of the base.

[0015] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, a first rotating member is provided at the top of the first gear shaft, a first protective cylinder is provided outside the first rotating member, and the first rotating member is located above the top cover; a hook is fixedly provided on the top cover.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present invention, the unlocking mechanism needs to be used in conjunction with a long-handled hook. In an emergency, a manual operator inserts a lever into the first rotating component to rotate it, thereby rotating the first gear shaft. The rotation of the first gear shaft causes the first gear and the second gear to rotate. The rotation of the second gear causes the first rack meshing with it to move, which in turn causes the first connecting rod at one end of the first rack to move, ultimately causing the first connecting rod to disengage from the side wall of the base. In addition, the rotation of the first and second gears also causes the third gear meshing with them to rotate, which in turn causes the second gear shaft, which is fixedly connected to the third gear, to rotate. This, in turn, causes the fourth gear at the other end of the second gear shaft to rotate, ultimately causing the second rack meshing with the fourth gear to move, which in turn causes the second connecting rod at one end of the second rack to move, ultimately causing the second connecting rod to also disengage from the side wall of the base. After both the first and second connecting rods have disengaged from the side wall of the base, the long-handled hook is inserted into a lifting hook to lift and retrieve the fixing components and eddy current probe, etc.

[0017] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the unlocking mechanism further includes a lifting assembly, which includes a lead screw, a slider, a bearing, and a limiting bracket. The bearing is disposed at the bottom of the lead screw and located below the slider. The lead screw extends through the thickness direction of the slider and is rotatably connected to the slider. The end of the slider away from the lead screw extends through the thickness direction of the base sidewall and is located below the receiving portion. A second rotating member is disposed at the top of the lead screw, and a second protective cylinder is disposed outside the second rotating member. The lifting assembly facilitates the application of an upward thrust to the fixing assembly in emergency situations, making it easier to lift the fixing assembly and eddy current probe upward using a long hook.

[0018] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the base has a limiting block on the side near the lifting assembly. The limiting block includes a base plate and limiting plates disposed at both ends of the base plate. The distance between the two limiting plates is equal to the width of the slider. The limiting frame is fixedly disposed on the top of the limiting block, and the lifting assembly is used to push the fixing assembly upward to separate it from the base. In some embodiments of the present invention, a receiving space for accommodating the slider is formed between the base plate and the two limiting plates and the outer wall of the receiving part. The width of the slider is equal to the distance between the two limiting plates so that the slider only moves vertically up and down as the lead screw rotates. This upward movement of the slider pushes the receiving part upward, and then pushes the fixing assembly upward, facilitating the lifting of the fixing assembly and the eddy current probe.

[0019] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the protection mechanism includes a sensor, a sensor mounting plate, a sensor trigger plate, fixed blocks fixedly disposed at both ends of the sensor mounting plate, and a movable plate slidably disposed between two of the fixed blocks. The sensor is fixedly connected to the sensor mounting plate, and the movable plate is fixedly connected to the base. The movable plate includes a first part and second parts located at both ends of the first part. A connecting plate is disposed between the two second parts, and a first sliding rod is disposed between the two fixed blocks. The two second parts are slidably connected to the two first sliding rods respectively. In some embodiments of the present invention, when the eddy current probe does not encounter resistance or the resistance encountered is less than the preload force set by the protection mechanism, the end of the movable plate near the guide compensation mechanism is always in contact with a fixed block near the guide compensation mechanism.

[0020] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, a second sliding rod is further provided between the two first sliding rods, and a first elastic element is sleeved on the outer wall of the second sliding rod. The first elastic element is located between one of the fixed blocks and the connecting plate. One end of the first elastic element is fixedly connected to a fixed block away from the guide compensation mechanism, and the other end of the first elastic element is fixedly connected to the connecting plate. The length of the moving plate is less than the distance between the two fixed blocks.

[0021] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, a sensor trigger plate is fixedly disposed on one side of the second part near the trigger end of the sensor, and the inner side of the sensor trigger plate is in contact with the trigger end of the sensor.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present invention, an adjusting screw is provided at the end of the second sliding rod away from the eddy current probe. Rotating the adjusting screw allows setting the preload of the first elastic element on the second sliding rod. During movement, the eddy current probe may encounter resistance. When the resistance exceeds the preload of the first elastic element, the moving plate moves away from a fixed block in the calibration rod assembly. This movement triggers the sensor trigger plate, activating the sensor. The sensor then sends a signal to the control system on the fuel multi-functional inspection device, causing the control system to stop the drive motor that drives the eddy current probe along its length. This stops the eddy current probe from further collision or compression with the fuel assembly, ultimately protecting the fuel assembly from frictional forces exceeding its threshold.

[0023] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the guide compensation mechanism includes a slide assembly and movable brackets disposed on both sides of the slide assembly. The slide assembly includes a fixed platform and a slide slidably connected to the top of the fixed platform. The fixed platform includes a third part and two fourth parts fixedly disposed at both ends of the third part. The third part is perpendicular to the fourth part. Each fourth part has an extension fixedly disposed at its top end. The extension has a first groove formed on it. The first groove is formed from the top surface of the extension to the bottom surface. The length of the first groove is equal to the length of the extension, and the height of the first groove is less than the height of the extension.

[0024] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, a sliding groove is provided on the top of the two extensions on the side that are close to each other, and the length direction of the sliding groove is parallel to the length direction of the extension; a second groove is provided on the bottom of both ends of the slide table, the second groove is opened from the bottom surface of the slide table to the top surface, the length of the second groove is equal to the width of the slide table, the height of the second groove is less than the height of the slide table, the second groove is provided corresponding to the first groove, and a side plate is fixedly provided on both sides of each second groove, the side plate extending downward from the bottom surface of the slide table.

[0025] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the distance between the two side plates on both sides of a second groove is equal to the width of the second groove and less than the width of the first groove; a connecting shaft is fixedly provided between the two side plates on both sides of a second groove; a pulley is sleeved on the outer periphery of the connecting shaft; the pulley is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft; a slide rail for the pulley to slide is provided at the bottom of the first groove; two fixed plates are fixedly provided on the bottom surface of the slide table corresponding to the slide groove; the side of the two fixed plates that are far apart from each other is in contact with the side surface of an adjacent side plate; a boss is fixedly provided on the bottom surface of the fixed plate; the slide groove is used for the boss to slide; a virtual plane parallel to the fourth part is provided, and the orthographic projection of the second groove on the virtual plane is located within the range of the orthographic projection of the first groove on the virtual plane. As the eddy current probe moves toward the calibration rod assembly, when the fixed support of the eddy current probe touches the calibration rod assembly, continuing to drive the eddy current probe to move will cause the fixed support to push the calibration rod assembly forward, which in turn drives the slide table to slide forward, allowing the eddy current probe to continue to advance a certain distance. This helps to increase the stroke of the eddy current probe and ensures that the end of the eddy current probe away from the fixed support can completely pass through the thickness direction of the fuel assembly. This allows the eddy current probe to complete the measurement across the entire thickness range of the fuel assembly, ensuring the accuracy of the measurement results.

[0026] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, each of the movable supports includes a first support plate, a second support plate, and a second elastic element. The first support plate is located above the second support plate and is fixedly connected to one end of the slide. The second support plate is fixedly connected to one end of the extension. A support rod is fixedly disposed between the two ends of the second support plate. A stop bar is disposed at the end of the support rod near the fixed assembly. One end of the stop bar is fixedly connected to the end of the first support plate near the fixed assembly, and the other end of the stop bar is slidably connected to the support rod. A second elastic element is sleeved on the outer periphery of the support rod. One end of the second elastic element is fixedly connected to the stop bar, and the other end of the second elastic element is fixedly connected to the end of the second support plate away from the fixed assembly. The movable support is configured such that when the fixed support moves the slide forward, it moves the first support plate to compress the second elastic element. When the eddy current probe retracts to the point where the fixed support separates from the calibration rod assembly, the compressed second elastic element rebounds, thereby resetting the first support plate and the slide.

[0027] According to some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the calibration bar assembly is disposed on the top surface of the slide table. The calibration bar assembly further includes a calibration bar fixing seat and a roller fixing seat. The calibration bar unit is disposed on the calibration bar fixing seat, and the roller unit is disposed on the roller fixing seat. The straight direction of the calibration bar unit is parallel to the straight direction of the roller unit. The calibration bar unit includes a plurality of calibration bars arranged at uniform intervals, and the roller unit includes a plurality of rollers arranged at uniform intervals. A roller bushing is sleeved on the outer periphery of the roller. The calibration bar and the roller are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. The roller bushing sleeved on the outer periphery of the roller of the present invention can rotate around the roller. If the eddy current probe comes into contact with the roller bushing during the movement between the calibration bar unit and the roller unit, rolling friction will occur with it. The frictional force generated by this friction is small and will not greatly hinder the movement of the eddy current probe, thus avoiding any impact on the measurement results.

[0028] Due to the adoption of the above technical solutions, the advantages of this invention compared to the prior art are as follows: The eddy current probe clamping device of this invention, by setting an unlocking mechanism, can achieve rapid unlocking between the eddy current probe and the fixing component and the base in emergency situations, facilitating the recovery of the eddy current probe and the fixing component; furthermore, by setting a guide compensation mechanism in the eddy current probe's travel direction, it is beneficial to increase the stroke of the eddy current probe, ensuring that the eddy current probe can complete the measurement within the full thickness range of the fuel assembly; by setting a protection mechanism, when the eddy current probe rubs against the fuel assembly during movement, generating a frictional force greater than the pre-tightening force set by the protection mechanism, it can trigger the sensor to send a signal. The sensor will transmit this signal to the control system on the fuel multi-functional inspection device. The control system will further control the drive motor that drives the eddy current probe to move along its length direction to stop working, further stopping the eddy current probe from moving to avoid continued friction with the fuel assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the eddy current probe clamping device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the fixing component, base, and unlocking mechanism in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 3 for Figure 2A three-dimensional structural diagram from another perspective after some parts have been hidden;

[0033] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A three-dimensional structural diagram from another perspective after some parts have been hidden;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the protection mechanism in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the guide compensation mechanism and calibration rod assembly in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the slide table and the fixed table after separation in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] The attached figures are labeled as follows: Fixing component-1, Fixing bracket-11, Top cover-12, Receiving part-13, First receiving cavity-131, Base-2, Base plate-21, Limiting plate-22, Unlocking mechanism-3, First gear shaft-31a, Second gear shaft-31b, First gear-32a, Second gear-32b, Third gear-32c, Fourth gear-32d, First rack-33a, Second rack-33b, First connecting rod-34a, Second connecting rod-34b, First protective cylinder-35, Hook-36, Lifting component-37, Lead screw-371, Slider-372, Bearing-373, Limiting bracket-374, Second protective cylinder-375, Protection mechanism-4, Sensor-41, Sensor mounting plate-42, Sensor trigger plate-43, Fixing block-44, First part-45 1. Second part - 452, Connecting plate - 453, First sliding rod - 46a, Second sliding rod - 46b, First elastic element - 47, Adjusting screw - 48, Guide compensation mechanism - 5, Slide assembly - 51, Third part - 511, Fourth part - 512, Extension - 513, First groove - 5131, Slide groove - 5132, Slide rail - 5133, Slide table - 514, Second groove - 5141, Side plate - 515, Pulley - 516, Fixing plate - 517, Boss - 518, Moving bracket - 52, First support plate - 521, Second support plate - 522, Second elastic element - 523, Support rod - 524, Stop bar - 525, Calibration rod assembly - 6, Calibration rod fixing seat - 61, Roller fixing seat - 62, Calibration rod - 63, Roller - 64, Roller bushing - 65, Eddy current probe - 7. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions of the present invention, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0039] Reference Figures 1 to 7 The eddy current probe clamping device of this embodiment includes a fixing component 1, a base 2, an unlocking mechanism 3, a protection mechanism 4, a guiding compensation mechanism 5, and a calibration rod assembly 6. This eddy current probe clamping device is part of a multi-functional fuel inspection device. It cooperates with the moving mechanism on the multi-functional fuel inspection device to move the eddy current probe 7 to the detection position of the fuel assembly.

[0040] Further, see Figures 1 to 3 The fixing assembly 1 includes a fixing bracket 11, a top cover 12, and a receiving part 13. One end of the eddy current probe 7 is fixedly connected to the fixing bracket 11, and the fixing bracket 11 is fixedly connected to the top cover 12. Both the fixing bracket 11 and the eddy current probe 7 are located above the top cover 12. A hook 36 is fixedly installed on the top cover 12, and the bottom surface of the top cover 12 is connected to the top of the receiving part 13. The receiving part 13 has a first receiving cavity 131 inside, and part of the unlocking mechanism 3 is located in the first receiving cavity 131. The base 2 has a second receiving cavity, and the receiving part 13 is located in the second receiving cavity and is detachably connected to the base 2.

[0041] Further, see Figure 3 and Figure 4The unlocking mechanism 3 includes a first gear shaft 31a, a second gear shaft 31b, a first rack 33a, a second rack 33b, a first gear 32a and a second gear 32b disposed at the bottom of the first gear shaft 31a, and a third gear 32c and a fourth gear 32d disposed at both ends of the second gear shaft 31b. The first gear shaft 31a is perpendicular to the second gear shaft 31b, the first rack 33a is parallel to the second rack 33b, the first gear 32a is located above the second gear 32b, and both the first gear 32a and the second gear 32b are fixedly connected to the first gear shaft 31a. Both the first gear 32a and the second gear 32b mesh with the third gear 32c, the first rack 33a meshes with the second gear 32b, and the second rack 33b meshes with the fourth gear 32d. In this embodiment, the first gear 32a and the third gear 32c are bevel gears, and the second gear 32b and the fourth gear 32d are spur gears. Furthermore, a first connecting rod 34a is fixedly provided at one end of the first rack 33a, and a second connecting rod 34b is fixedly provided at one end of the second rack 33b. The first connecting rod 34a is parallel to the second connecting rod 34b, the first connecting rod 34a is located at the left end of the first rack 33a, and the second connecting rod 34b is located at the right end of the second rack 33b. The eddy current probe 7 has a locked state and an unlocked state. When the eddy current probe 7 is in the locked state, one end of the first connecting rod 34a and one end of the second connecting rod 34b both penetrate the side wall of the receiving part 13 and are slidably connected to the side wall of the base 2. When the eddy current probe 7 is in the unlocked state, both the first connecting rod 34a and the second connecting rod 34b are disengaged from the side wall of the base 2.

[0042] Specifically, a first rotating component is provided at the top of the first gear shaft 31a, and a first protective cylinder 35 is provided outside the first rotating component. Both the first rotating component and the first protective cylinder 35 are located above the top cover 12. The first rotating component is used to cooperate with an operating lever. By manually inserting the operating lever into the first rotating component and rotating the operating lever, the first rotating component is rotated, thereby driving the first gear shaft 31a to rotate. The rotation of the first gear shaft 31a drives the first gear 32a and the second gear 32b to rotate. The rotation of the second gear 32b will drive the first rack 33a, which meshes with it, to move, thereby driving the first connecting rod 34a at one end of the first rack 33a to move, ultimately causing the first connecting rod 34a to disengage from the side wall of the base 2. Furthermore, the rotation of the first gear 32a and the second gear 32b will also drive the rotation of the third gear 32c meshing with them, which in turn will drive the rotation of the second gear shaft 31b fixedly connected to the third gear 32c, and then drive the rotation of the fourth gear 32d at the other end of the second gear shaft 31b. Finally, the second rack 33b meshing with the fourth gear 32d will move, and then drive the second connecting rod 34b at one end of the second rack 33b to move, so that the second connecting rod 34b will also disengage from the side wall of the base 2. After the first connecting rod 34a and the second connecting rod 34b are disengaged from the side wall of the base 2, a long hook is inserted into the hook 36 to lift and retrieve the fixing component 1 and the eddy current probe 7. In this embodiment, the first rotating component is preferably a rotating hexagonal head.

[0043] See Figures 1 to 3 The unlocking mechanism 3 also includes a lifting assembly 37, which includes a lead screw 371, a slider 372, a bearing 373, and a limiting frame 374. The top of the lead screw 371 passes through the top of the limiting frame 374 and is rotatably connected to it. The bottom of the lead screw 371 is provided with the bearing 373, which is located below the slider 372. The lead screw 371 passes through the thickness direction of the slider 372 and is rotatably connected to it. The top of the lead screw 371 is provided with a second rotating member, and a second protective cylinder 375 is provided outside the second rotating member. Both the second rotating member and the second protective cylinder 375 are located above the top of the limiting frame 374. The end of the slider 372 away from the lead screw 371 passes through the thickness direction of the side wall of the base 2 and is located below the receiving portion 13.

[0044] Specifically, the base 2 has a limiting block in the middle of the side near the lifting assembly 37. The limiting block includes a base plate 21 and limiting plates 22 disposed at both ends of the base plate 21. The limiting frame 374 is fixedly disposed on the top of the limiting block. The base plate 21 and the two limiting plates 22 form an accommodating space for the slider 372 between the base plate 21 and the outer wall of the accommodating part 13. The width of the slider 372 is equal to the distance between the two limiting plates 22, so that the slider 372 can only move vertically up and down as the lead screw 371 rotates. In an emergency, after the first connecting rod 34a and the second connecting rod 34b have been separated from the side wall of the base 2 through the cooperation of the operating lever and the first rotating component, when it is necessary to lift the fixing component 1 and the eddy current probe 7, the operating lever can be manually inserted into the second rotating component by hand. Rotating the operating lever will cause the second rotating component to rotate, which in turn will cause the lead screw 371 to rotate. This will allow the slider 372 on the lead screw 371 to move upward along the length of the lead screw 371 to push the receiving part 13 upward, and then push the fixing component 1 upward to help it separate from the base 2. The lifting component 37 is designed to provide an upward thrust to the fixing component 1 in an emergency, making it easier to lift the fixing component 1 and the eddy current probe 7 using a long hook. In this embodiment, the second rotating component is preferably a rotating hexagonal head.

[0045] See Figure 1 and Figure 5 In this embodiment, the protection mechanism 4 is located below the base 2. The protection mechanism 4 includes a sensor 41, a sensor mounting plate 42, a sensor trigger plate 43, fixed blocks 44 fixedly disposed at both ends of the sensor mounting plate 42, and a movable plate slidably disposed between the two fixed blocks 44. The length of the movable plate is less than the distance between the two fixed blocks 44. The bottom surface of the base 2 is fixedly connected to the top surface of the movable plate, and the sensor 41 is fixedly connected to the sensor mounting plate 42. In this embodiment, two sensors 41 are arranged side by side. Two first sliding rods 46a are arranged parallel to each other between the two fixed blocks 44, and a second sliding rod 46b is also arranged between the two first sliding rods 46a. The second sliding rod 46b is parallel to the first sliding rods 46a.

[0046] The movable plate includes a first part 451 and second parts 452 located at both ends of the first part 451. A connecting plate 453 is provided between the two second parts 452. A sensor trigger plate 43 is fixedly provided on the side of one of the second parts 452 near the trigger end of the sensor 41, and the inner side of the sensor trigger plate 43 is in contact with the trigger end of the sensor 41. The two second parts 452 are slidably connected to two first sliding rods 46a respectively. A first elastic element 47 is sleeved on the outer wall of the second sliding rod 46b. The first elastic element 47 is located between a fixed block 44 away from the eddy current probe 7 and the connecting plate 453. One end of the first elastic element 47 is fixedly connected to the fixed block 44, and the other end of the first elastic element 47 is fixedly connected to the connecting plate 453. In this embodiment, the first elastic element 47 is preferably a spring. Furthermore, an adjusting screw 48 is provided at the end of the second sliding rod 46b away from the eddy current probe 7. The preload of the first elastic element 47 on the second sliding rod 46b can be set by rotating the adjusting screw 48. In this embodiment, when the eddy current probe 7 does not encounter resistance or the resistance encountered is less than the preload of the first elastic element 47, the end of the moving plate near the guide compensation mechanism 5 is always in contact with a fixed block 44 near the guide compensation mechanism 5. When the eddy current probe 7 collides or is squeezed against the fuel assembly during forward or backward movement, the end of the eddy current probe 7 will be subject to resistance. When the resistance value is greater than the preload of the first elastic element 47, the moving plate will move away from the fixed block 44 of the calibration rod assembly 6. The movement of the moving plate will drive the sensor trigger plate 43 to move, thereby triggering the sensor 41. The sensor 41 will further send a signal to the control system on the fuel multi-functional inspection device, causing the control system to further control the drive motor that drives the eddy current probe 7 to move along the length direction of the eddy current probe 7 to stop working, thereby stopping the eddy current probe 7 from continuing to move forward or backward to avoid continuing to rub against the fuel assembly, ultimately protecting the fuel assembly from friction exceeding the threshold.

[0047] Further, see Figure 6 and Figure 7The guiding compensation mechanism 5 includes a slide assembly 51 and movable brackets 52 disposed on both sides of the slide assembly 51. The slide assembly 51 includes a fixed platform and a slide 514 slidably connected to the top of the fixed platform. Specifically, the fixed platform includes a third part 511 and two fourth parts 512 fixedly disposed at both ends of the third part 511, with the third part 511 perpendicular to the fourth part 512. Each fourth part 512 has an extension 513 fixedly disposed at its top. The extension 513 has a first groove 5131 formed from its top to its bottom surface. A slide rail 5133 is disposed at the bottom of the first groove 5131. The length of the slide rail 5133 is equal to the length of the first groove 5131, and the length of the first groove 5131 is equal to the length of the extension 513. The height of the first groove 5131 is less than the height of the extension 513. Furthermore, a groove 5132 is formed on the top of the side of the two extensions 513 that are close to each other. The length direction of the groove 5132 is parallel to the length direction of the extension 513.

[0048] The bottom of both ends of the slide table 514 has a second groove 5141 extending from its bottom surface to its top surface. The length of the second groove 5141 is equal to the width of the slide table 514, and the height of the second groove 5141 is less than the height of the slide table 514. The second groove 5141 is set corresponding to the first groove 5131. A side plate 515 is fixedly provided on both sides of each second groove 5141, and the side plate 515 extends downward from the bottom surface of the slide table 514. The distance between the two side plates 515 on both sides of the same second groove 5141 is equal to the width of the second groove 5141 and less than the width of the first groove 5131. If a virtual plane parallel to the fourth part 512 is defined, the orthographic projection of the second groove 5141 on the virtual plane is located within the range of the orthographic projection of the first groove 5131 on the virtual plane. Furthermore, a connecting shaft is fixedly installed between the two side plates 515 on both sides of a second groove 5141. A pulley 516 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the connecting shaft. The pulley 516 is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft and can slide along the slide rail 5133. Two fixing plates 517 are also fixedly installed on the bottom surface of the slide table 514 corresponding to the slide groove 5132. The sides of the two fixing plates 517 that are far apart from each other are respectively attached to the side of an adjacent side plate 515. A boss 518 is fixedly installed on the bottom surface of the fixing plate 517, and the boss 518 can slide along the corresponding slide groove 5132.

[0049] Movable supports 52 are provided on both sides of the slide table 514. Each movable support 52 includes a first support plate 521, a second support plate 522, and a second elastic element 523. The first support plate 521 is located above the second support plate 522 and is fixedly connected to one end of the slide table 514. The second support plate 522 is fixedly connected to one end of the extension 513. A support rod 524 is fixedly provided between the two ends of the second support plate 522. A stop strip 525 is provided at the end of the support rod 524 near the fixing component 1. One end of the stop strip 525 is fixedly connected to the end of the first support plate 521 near the fixing component 1, and the other end of the stop strip 525 is slidably connected to the support rod 524. A second elastic element 523 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the support rod 524. One end of the second elastic element 523 is fixedly connected to the stop strip 525, and the other end is fixedly connected to the end of the second support plate 522 away from the fixing component 1. In this embodiment, the second elastic element 523 is preferably a spring.

[0050] Further, see Figure 1 and Figure 6 The calibration rod assembly 6 is disposed on the top surface of the slide table 514. The calibration rod assembly 6 includes a calibration rod holder 61, a roller holder 62, calibration rod units fixedly disposed on the calibration rod holder 61, and roller units fixedly disposed on the roller holder 62. The line direction of the calibration rod units is parallel to the line direction of the roller units, and there is a gap between the calibration rod units and the roller units for the eddy current probe 7 to pass through. The calibration rod units include multiple calibration rods 63 arranged at uniform intervals, and the roller units include multiple rollers 64 arranged at uniform intervals, with each calibration rod 63 and roller 64 corresponding to one another.

[0051] When the eddy current probe 7 is in the locked state, the end of the eddy current probe 7 away from the fixed bracket 11 passes through the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit to limit the eddy current probe 7; when the eddy current probe 7 is in the unlocked state, the other end of the eddy current probe 7 comes out from the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit. That is, except in the unlocked state, the end of the eddy current probe 7 away from the fixed bracket 11 always passes through the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit. Before the eddy current probe 7 starts to check the fuel assembly, the induction coil on the eddy current probe 7 is located between the end of the eddy current probe 7 that is fixedly connected to the fixed bracket 11 and a calibration rod 63 and / or roller 64 near the fixed bracket 11. This ensures that when the eddy current probe 7 starts to move for inspection, the induction coil on the eddy current probe 7 can move smoothly from between the calibration rod 63 and roller 64 near the fixed bracket 11 to between the calibration rod 63 and roller 64 away from the fixed bracket 11. This allows the induction coil on the eddy current probe 7 to sequentially sense the first calibration rod 63 (the calibration rod 63 near the fixed bracket 11), the second calibration rod 63, and so on until the last calibration rod (the calibration rod 63 away from the fixed bracket 11).

[0052] In addition, each roller 64 is fitted with a roller bushing 65 around its outer periphery. The roller bushing 65 can rotate around the roller 64. If the eddy current probe 7 comes into contact with the roller bushing 65 during movement, rolling friction will occur. The frictional force generated by this friction is small and will not significantly hinder the movement of the eddy current probe 7, thus avoiding any impact on the measurement results. Furthermore, the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit is adjustable. By sliding the roller fixing seat 62 on the calibration rod fixing seat 61, the position of the roller fixing seat 62 on the calibration rod fixing seat 61 can be adjusted according to the thickness of the specific eddy current probe 7. After the position is confirmed, the roller fixing seat 62 can be fixed to the calibration rod fixing seat 61 with screws. In this way, the position of the roller fixing seat 62 can be adjusted appropriately each time a different eddy current probe 7 is used for inspection, thereby adjusting the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit.

[0053] In actual testing, the fuel assembly is located in front of the detection end of the eddy current probe 7 and is fixed in position. When inspecting, the eddy current probe 7 needs to pass through the entire thickness direction of the fuel assembly until the end of the eddy current probe 7 away from the fixed component 1 is exposed in order to detect the oxide film thickness of the fuel assembly. For some field structural environments and testing areas, during the process of the eddy current probe 7 moving to approach the fuel assembly, the fixed support 11 may have already contacted the left side of the calibration rod assembly 6, while the end of the eddy current probe 7 away from the fixed support (the detection end of the eddy current probe 7) has not yet completely passed through the fuel assembly. This will result in incomplete detection data from the eddy current probe 7. Therefore, the guide compensation mechanism 5 is designed so that, during the movement of the eddy current probe 7 to approach the fuel assembly, when the fixed bracket 11 of the eddy current probe 7 touches the calibration rod assembly 6, continuing to drive the eddy current probe 7 forward will cause the fixed bracket 11 to push the calibration rod assembly 6 forward, thereby driving the slide table 514 to slide forward. This allows the eddy current probe 7 to continue moving forward a certain distance, which helps to increase the stroke of the eddy current probe 7 and ensures that the detection end of the eddy current probe 7 can completely pass through the fuel assembly, thus completing the measurement within the full thickness range of the fuel assembly and ensuring the accuracy of the detection results. Furthermore, the movable bracket 52 on the guide compensation mechanism 5 ensures that when the eddy current probe 7 pushes the slide table 514 forward, it will cause the first support plate 521 to move, compressing the second elastic element 523. When the eddy current probe 7 retracts to the fixed bracket 11 and separates from the calibration rod assembly 6, the compressed second elastic element 523 will rebound, thereby causing the first support plate 521 and the slide table 514 to reset, ensuring that the guide compensation mechanism 5 can function normally during the next inspection.

[0054] The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of the present invention, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of the present invention and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent changes or modifications made in accordance with the spirit and essence of the present invention should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An eddy current probe clamping device, characterized in that, The device includes a fixing component, a base, an unlocking mechanism, a protection mechanism, a calibration rod assembly, and a guiding compensation mechanism. The base is fixedly connected to the protection mechanism. The calibration rod assembly is located on top of the guiding compensation mechanism and includes a calibration rod unit and a roller unit. One end of the eddy current probe is fixedly connected to the fixing component. The eddy current probe has a locked state and an unlocked state. When the eddy current probe is in the locked state, the fixing component is fixedly connected to the base, and the other end of the eddy current probe passes through the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit. When the eddy current probe is in the unlocked state, the fixing component is separated from the base, and the other end of the eddy current probe comes out from the gap between the calibration rod unit and the roller unit. The unlocking mechanism is used to separate the fixing component from the base. The guiding compensation mechanism is used to extend the movement distance of the eddy current probe. The protection mechanism is used to issue a response signal to stop the eddy current probe when the frictional force between the eddy current probe and the fuel assembly is greater than the preload set by the protection mechanism. The fixing assembly includes a fixing bracket, a top cover, and a receiving part. One end of the eddy current probe is fixedly connected to the fixing bracket, the fixing bracket is fixedly connected to the top cover, the top cover is connected to the top of the receiving part, the receiving part has a first receiving cavity inside, and part of the unlocking mechanism is located in the first receiving cavity; the base has a second receiving cavity, the receiving part is located in the second receiving cavity and is detachably connected to the base; The unlocking mechanism includes a first gear shaft, a first gear and a second gear disposed at the bottom of the first gear shaft, with the first gear located above the second gear. Both the first gear and the second gear are fixedly connected to the first gear shaft. The unlocking mechanism also includes a first rack, a second rack, a second gear shaft, and a third gear and a fourth gear disposed on the second gear shaft. The third gear meshes with the first gear and the second gear, the first rack meshes with the second gear, and the second rack meshes with the fourth gear. A first connecting rod is fixedly disposed at one end of the first rack, and a second connecting rod is fixedly disposed at one end of the second rack. When the eddy current probe is in a locked state, one end of the first connecting rod and one end of the second connecting rod both penetrate the side wall of the receiving part and connect to the side wall of the base. A first rotating component is disposed at the top of the first gear shaft, and a first protective cylinder is disposed outside the first rotating component. The first rotating component is located above the top cover. A hook is fixedly disposed on the top cover.

2. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The unlocking mechanism further includes a lifting assembly, which includes a lead screw, a slider, a bearing, and a limiting frame. The bearing is located at the bottom of the lead screw and below the slider. The lead screw passes through the thickness direction of the slider and is rotatably connected to the slider. The end of the slider away from the lead screw passes through the thickness direction of the base sidewall and is located below the receiving portion. A second rotating member is provided at the top of the lead screw, and a second protective cylinder is provided outside the second rotating member.

3. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The base has a limiting block on the side near the lifting assembly. The limiting block includes a base plate and limiting plates disposed at both ends of the base plate. The distance between the two limiting plates is equal to the width of the slider. The limiting frame is fixedly disposed on the top of the limiting block. The lifting assembly is used to push the fixed assembly upward to separate it from the base.

4. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The protection mechanism includes a sensor, a sensor mounting plate, a sensor trigger plate, fixed blocks fixedly disposed at both ends of the sensor mounting plate, and a movable plate slidably disposed between the two fixed blocks. The sensor is fixedly connected to the sensor mounting plate, and the movable plate is fixedly connected to the base. The movable plate includes a first part and a second part located at both ends of the first part. A connecting plate is disposed between the two second parts, and a first sliding rod is disposed between the two fixed blocks. The two second parts are slidably connected to the two first sliding rods respectively.

5. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 4, characterized in that: A second sliding rod is also provided between the two first sliding rods. A first elastic element is sleeved on the outer wall of the second sliding rod. The first elastic element is located between one of the fixed blocks and the connecting plate. One end of the first elastic element is fixedly connected to a fixed block away from the guide compensation mechanism, and the other end of the first elastic element is fixedly connected to the connecting plate. The length of the moving plate is less than the distance between the two fixed blocks.

6. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 4, characterized in that: A sensor trigger plate is fixedly disposed on one side of the second part near the trigger end of the sensor, and the inner side of the sensor trigger plate is in contact with the trigger end of the sensor.

7. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The guiding compensation mechanism includes a slide assembly and movable brackets disposed on both sides of the slide assembly. The slide assembly includes a fixed platform and a slide slidably connected to the top of the fixed platform. The fixed platform includes a third part and two fourth parts fixedly disposed at both ends of the third part. The third part is perpendicular to the fourth part. Each fourth part has an extension fixedly disposed at its top end. The extension has a first groove formed on it. The first groove is formed from the top surface of the extension to the bottom surface. The length of the first groove is equal to the length of the extension, and the height of the first groove is less than the height of the extension.

8. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 7, characterized in that: Each of the two extensions has a groove on the top of its adjacent side, the length of which is parallel to the length of the extension; each of the two ends of the slide has a second groove at its bottom, the second groove extending from the bottom to the top of the slide, the length of which is equal to the width of the slide, the height of which is less than the height of the slide, the second groove corresponding to the first groove, and a side plate fixedly provided on both sides of each second groove, the side plate extending downward from the bottom of the slide.

9. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The distance between the two side plates on both sides of the second groove is equal to the width of the second groove and less than the width of the first groove. A connecting shaft is fixedly provided between the two side plates on both sides of the second groove. A pulley is sleeved on the outer periphery of the connecting shaft. The pulley is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft. A slide rail for the pulley to slide is provided at the bottom of the first groove. Two fixed plates are fixedly provided on the bottom surface of the slide table corresponding to the slide groove. The side of the two fixed plates that are far apart from each other is in contact with the side of an adjacent side plate. A boss is fixedly provided on the bottom surface of the fixed plate. The slide groove is used for the boss to slide. A virtual plane parallel to the fourth part is provided. The orthographic projection of the second groove on the virtual plane is located within the range of the orthographic projection of the first groove on the virtual plane.

10. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 8, characterized in that: Each of the movable supports includes a first support plate, a second support plate, and a second elastic element. The first support plate is located above the second support plate and is fixedly connected to one end of the slide table. The second support plate is fixedly connected to one end of the extension. A support rod is fixedly disposed between the two ends of the second support plate. A stop bar is disposed at the end of the support rod near the fixed assembly. One end of the stop bar is fixedly connected to the end of the first support plate near the fixed assembly, and the other end of the stop bar is slidably connected to the support rod. A second elastic element is sleeved on the outer periphery of the support rod. One end of the second elastic element is fixedly connected to the stop bar, and the other end of the second elastic element is fixedly connected to the end of the second support plate away from the fixed assembly.

11. The eddy current probe clamping device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The calibration bar assembly is disposed on the top surface of the slide table. The calibration bar assembly also includes a calibration bar fixing seat and a roller fixing seat. The calibration bar unit is disposed on the calibration bar fixing seat, and the roller unit is disposed on the roller fixing seat. The straight line direction of the calibration bar unit is parallel to the straight line direction of the roller unit. The calibration bar unit includes a plurality of calibration bars arranged at uniform intervals, and the roller unit includes a plurality of rollers arranged at uniform intervals. The outer periphery of the roller is fitted with a roller bushing. The calibration bar and the roller are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence.

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