Radiation protection container having safety device and method for monitoring radiation protection container

Abstract

The invention relates to a radiation protection container comprising a housing (14) and a loading device (16) for arranging a radioactive radiation source (18), the radiation protection container (10) having a safety device (12), the safety device (12) comprising the following components: a monitoring module (22) for monitoring at least one state of the radiation protection container (10); -a communication device (32). The invention also relates to a method for monitoring a radiation protection container (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a radiation protection container according to claim 1. This invention also relates to a method for monitoring a radiation protection container according to claim 15. Background Technology

[0002] Radiation protection containers for radioactive sources can be used in various industrial environments, such as as radioactive level gauges, and for the safe storage and transport of radioactive sources from one location to another. While radiation sources can be used in a variety of applications, the radioactive materials they contain are hazardous.

[0003] The radiation protection container according to this application is typically used to safely store a radioactive source during the period when it is used for a specific application and during the periods between these periods (including transport). Here, "safe" specifically means that when the radiation source is not in use, leakage from the radioactive source is reduced to a specified level in all spatial directions; and when the radiation source is in use, its radiation is conducted within a strictly defined radiation geometry, and leakage is reduced to a specified level in all other directions that do not conform to this radiation geometry. Therefore, such a radiation protection container typically includes a containment chamber for the normally encapsulated radioactive source and an exit window for the radioactive radiation.

[0004] One operating principle involves moving the radiation source behind a lead plate to shield it from radiation in one state. In another state, the radiation source is rotated above the exit window. The exit window may also have a blend, which closes the exit window when the radioactive radiation source is not in use and opens it when the radioactive radiation source is in use. The radiation geometry of the radioactive radiation can be defined by the geometry of the blend or the exit window.

[0005] Many radiation sources are equipped with an adjustable aperture (shutter) with two positions: open and closed. In the open position, radiation can pass through the aperture; in the closed position, the aperture is inside a radiation protection container and prevents radiation from passing through.

[0006] One application example of this radiation protection container is a radiometric measuring device having at least one radioactive radiation source arranged within the container. This source emits radiation, for example, into the container to detect the filling level, limiting level, density, and / or mass flow rate of the medium within the container. For this purpose, a detector located on the opposite side of the container is used, which directly or indirectly detects the radiation from the radioactive source passing through the container, or detects the products of the interaction between the radiation from the radioactive source and substances present in the container. Such a measuring device is known, for example, in document DE 10 2014 101 373 A1.

[0007] The use of radiation protection containers and the radioactive sources housed within them must be subject to strict regulations. Due to the risk of gamma ray leakage, only authorized and trained personnel may operate equipment equipped with radiation protection containers. In general, every effort should be made to ensure that radiation protection containers are handled correctly and safely.

[0008] Current practices involve providing information about the geographical location of a specific package during transit and including security features such as tamper-evident warnings on the package. However, radiation protection containers lack these features, which has led to some agencies accidentally losing track of them. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The fundamental objective of this invention is to provide a radiation protection container and a method for monitoring the radiation protection container, thereby enabling the safest possible use of the radiation protection container.

[0010] According to the invention, this objective is achieved by the features of the independent claim. Other practical embodiments and advantages are described in conjunction with the dependent claims.

[0011] The radiation protection container according to the invention includes a shell and a loading device for accommodating a radioactive radiation source. The loading device may also be referred to as a radiation source support. The shell of the radiation protection container is configured to attenuate the intensity of radioactive radiation below a specified limit. For this purpose, the shell is made of a material with good shielding properties (e.g., lead or tungsten) that is capable of absorbing a portion of the radioactive radiation or gamma rays.

[0012] Specifically, the loading device is movably arranged within the radiation protection container and can move between an open position that allows radioactive radiation to escape from the container and a closed position that prevents gamma rays from escaping. To enable the radioactive radiation to escape directionally from the originally shielded shell of the radiation protection container for use, an exit window is specifically provided within the shell. This exit window allows gamma rays to pass through with minimal attenuation, and its design ensures that the radioactive radiation exits from the shell in a defined spatial radiation distribution.

[0013] In addition to the emission window, an aperture may be provided for closing the emission window and / or defining the spatial radiation distribution of radioactive radiation. Similar to the housing, the aperture is made of a material that shields against radioactive radiation and can be used to open and close the emission window, such that when closed, radioactive radiation cannot pass through the emission window or is attenuated accordingly. When open, radioactive radiation can pass through the emission window unimpeded or with minimal attenuation. Furthermore, the spatial radiation distribution of radioactive radiation can be adjusted by the shape of the aperture.

[0014] According to the present invention, a radiation protection container includes a safety device, wherein the safety device has a monitoring module for monitoring at least one state of the radiation protection container. As described below, the state of the radiation protection container specifically refers to the position of the radiation protection container and / or the position of the loading device, thereby indirectly reflecting the position of the radiation source.

[0015] Safety devices may in particular include electronic equipment, and the safety electronic equipment is specifically configured to remotely monitor the status of radiation protection containers and / or their components.

[0016] In addition, the safety device also includes a communication device. This communication device is used to transmit the values ​​detected by the monitoring module to a higher-level unit. Specifically, it transmits information to a higher-level unit such as the cloud or a control room.

[0017] Transmission can be wired, for example via HART protocol, 4-20mA standard, PA / FF, or APL. Alternatively, communication devices can be used for wireless information transmission. Wireless transmission can particularly utilize narrowband radio technologies (LoRa, Sigfox, NB-IoT), connected via GSM mobile networks, and / or via Bluetooth. The communication device or corresponding electronic components may include GPS communication circuitry, cellular communication circuitry, Wi-Fi communication circuitry, Bluetooth communication circuitry, or optical communication circuitry, or combinations thereof, to transmit the status of the radiation protection container to a remote system.

[0018] Specifically, the communication device can also transmit information to detectors of radioactive radiation. Detectors corresponding to radiation protection containers are typically located near the containers, thus enabling energy savings through short-range signal transmission. The detectors are equipped with communication devices that can relay signals wirelessly or via wired connections to more distant upstream units.

[0019] As described below, safety-related parameters of the radiation protection container can be detected by a monitoring device, and these parameters are then transmitted directly via a communication device. Therefore, the radiation protection container can be monitored during its use, and its specific characteristics during operation (i.e., especially when using a radiation source) can be tracked.

[0020] The radiation protection container described herein is an improvement upon earlier radiation protection containers, offering the following functions: tracking and monitoring the actual location of the radiation protection container, determining whether a radioactive source is currently located within the container, and / or remotely monitoring, controlling, and warning of the status of the radiation source and loading device. As described below, the radiation protection container can also monitor and control various components installed on it, such as whether the aperture on the container is in the open or closed position, whether radiation is emanating from the container, and whether maintenance is required for a particular component (including the aperture). Furthermore, the device can be locked to prevent the aperture from being moved or the radiation source from being removed from the container.

[0021] In particular, safety or communication devices, and electronic equipment configured for this purpose, can remotely transmit signals to other devices not directly mounted on the radiation protection container. Alternatively or supplementarily, signals from devices not directly mounted on the radiation protection container can also be remotely received.

[0022] The safety device specifically includes a communication device for wireless communication and an energy storage device. Specifically, the energy storage device supplies power to at least one monitoring module and / or the communication device. The energy storage device can be a battery or a accumulator. For example, the accumulator can be connected to a solar module or energy harvesting module that generates and powers the radiation protection container during use. Overall, this safety device is a self-contained safety device that operates without an external wired power supply or wired communication device. Therefore, radiation protection containers with such safety devices can be used very flexibly, and the safety device can be used to improve safety in all locations far from external power sources, such as improving safety during transport or disposal.

[0023] In a practical embodiment of the radiation protection container according to the invention, the monitoring module has a component for identifying the location of the radiation protection container. This location identification component can be specifically configured as a satellite-based positioning device. With this design of the positioning device, absolute geographic location can typically be determined and used globally. GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO can be cited as examples of possible positioning devices. Alternatively or supplementarily, the positioning device can be configured to evaluate location data provided by a wireless network. For example, such data could be availability and location information of a wireless local area network signal existing in a unique combination of location-related factors.

[0024] Alternatively, the component used for location identification could be a contact switch that recognizes the radiation protection container is no longer in its intended position when, for example, it is removed from the container. Once the contact switch recognizes that the radiation protection container has been removed, it generates corresponding information.

[0025] Subsequently, the location information can be sent to higher-level units via communication devices. Specifically, the location of the radiation protection container will be continuously transmitted. As described below in conjunction with the method, a notification will be generated and sent to the relevant personnel, particularly when it is determined that the radiation protection container is outside a predefined area (keyword: geofence). The GPS module is powered specifically through an energy storage device.

[0026] Specifically, the safety device can interact with remote / upper-level units to establish a geofence around the radiation protection container and identify situations where the user leaves the geofence.

[0027] Security can be improved by detecting the location of radiation protection containers, as this can be quickly identified when a container leaves its intended location (e.g., when it is stolen). Furthermore, continuous location identification generally facilitates the tracking of radiation protection containers. Their path can be traced throughout the entire supply process, from filling to delivery, and even from return transport to final disposal.

[0028] Furthermore, the monitoring module may also include a component for detecting the position of the loading device. Specifically, this component can determine whether the loading device is in an open position where radiation is emitted from the loading device, or in a closed position where radiation is not emitted. In particular, it can also identify whether the loading device has been inserted into the radiation protection container or has been removed.

[0029] The position of the loading device can be detected specifically by a contact switch, which is activated when the loading device is inserted into the radiation protection container. Similarly, the contact switch can also be used to identify the position (open / closed) of the loading device relative to the housing. The loading device is specifically used to turn radiation sources on and off; therefore, it can also be referred to as an operating element.

[0030] The location of the loading device allows for the determination of whether the radiation protection container might contain a radiation source, and if so, whether the loading device is in the open or closed position, and consequently, whether radioactive radiation is being emitted from the radiation protection container. This determination is crucial, for example, in situations where personnel need to be allowed access to the equipment while ensuring that no radioactive radiation can be emitted.

[0031] In another embodiment, the monitoring module specifically includes a motion detection device to detect the movement of the loading device.

[0032] Specifically, the loading device has an aperture for controlling the emission of radioactive radiation from the radioactive radiation source, and the monitoring module has a sensor for monitoring the state of the aperture. This sensor is specifically configured to identify whether the aperture is in the open or closed position.

[0033] In another practical embodiment, the safety device has an actuator for changing the position of the aperture. This actuator is particularly capable of remote control.

[0034] In particular, the safety device has an electrically operable locking device that prevents the aperture from rotating from the closed position to the open position. The safety device operates the locking device electrically according to preset conditions.

[0035] The safety device features a luminous indicator. Specifically, the luminous indicator is constructed and controlled to display the state of the aperture.

[0036] In particular, the safety device includes an luminous indicator that visually assists in determining the location of the loading device.

[0037] Alternatively or supplementarily, the safety device may have a sensor for detecting radioactive radiation. Specifically, this sensor can directly determine whether a radioactive radiation source is located within the radiation protection container. In particular, the sensor may be arranged such that it can measure the presence of radiation at any location on the loading device, and / or positioned in the area of ​​the exit window to detect whether the loading device is in the open position.

[0038] Safety can be enhanced if the monitoring module includes a temperature sensor. Compared to iron or steel, shell materials used to shield against radioactive radiation typically have relatively low melting points. Lead, for example, is an excellent material for shielding, with a melting point of 327.5°C. Therefore, at temperatures between 100°C and 200°C, lead's shape stability significantly decreases, and it completely deforms and melts at its melting point. However, if the shell material deforms and / or melts, for example, in the event of a fire or in an environment with elevated ambient temperatures, the shell will no longer be able to safely and controllably shield against radioactive radiation, and the radiation protection container will no longer be able to operate safely. Therefore, early identification of excessively high temperatures is crucial for ensuring safety.

[0039] Alternatively or supplementally, the monitoring module may also include a humidity sensor, or more generally, a sensor for identifying corrosive molecules in the atmosphere. Humidity detection is crucial because moisture can corrode various components of radiation protection containers (especially apertures or loading tubes), causing them to no longer open properly, and more importantly, to fail to close or move properly, potentially leading to the leakage of radioactive materials.

[0040] In addition, the monitoring module may have a vibration sensor. Since vibrations generated by the equipment, or vibrations in the form of earthquakes, shocks, or collisions, can cause components to loosen, it may be necessary to inspect the radiation protection container.

[0041] The monitoring module may also have components for detecting the open or closed status of the radiation protection container cover.

[0042] In another practical embodiment of the radiation protection container, a safety device is connected to the body of the container. Specifically, the safety device is bolted to the body. Preferably, the safety device is located in the body area where the loading pipe extends from the body. At this location, multiple safety-related parameters can be detected, such as the position of the radiation protection container itself, the position of the loading device, and the temperature.

[0043] Safety devices can be added to existing radiation protection containers (modification modules).

[0044] Specifically, the loading device extends into the body of the radiation protection container in a tubular form. Furthermore, a safety device can be at least partially mechanically mounted at the end of the loading device extending into the body, and is only accessible when the loading device is removed from the body. This allows for the detection of the loading device's removal by the safety device or monitoring module before it can be accessed, manipulated, or removed. Alternatively, at least a portion of the safety device can also be arranged within a cover. Even when the cover is open (pushed to the side or flipped), the safety device remains connected to the body and can detect any change in the loading device's position.

[0045] Specifically, the safety device includes components for checking its own installation status. On one hand, the system check can be triggered by a button or software, and the results can then be transmitted wirelessly, for example, and / or output as visual and / or audible signals to the safety device.

[0046] In particular, any accidental or unauthorized removal of the safety device will be detected immediately and transmitted to the higher-level unit.

[0047] The electronic components of the safety device are arranged so that they can only be accessed after the safety device has been removed from the container, making it difficult to shut them off beforehand.

[0048] In another practical embodiment, the safety device (particularly electronic components) is arranged in an explosion-proof housing.

[0049] In the embodiments described herein, the radiation protection container includes a housing with built-in electronic components and multiple sensors, and an explosion-proof container for housing these electronic components. The explosion-proof container contains electronic components for monitoring component status, receiving data from sensors, controlling actuators, and sending and receiving data between the radiation protection container and remote devices.

[0050] The present invention also relates to a method for monitoring radiation protection containers, and more particularly to a method for monitoring the aforementioned radiation protection containers. This method uses a safety device with a monitoring module to detect the state of the radiation protection container and wirelessly transmits the detection value corresponding to the detected state to a higher-level unit. Specifically, the energy required for this is provided by an energy storage device, and the operation of the safety device is self-sufficient.

[0051] As stated above, the condition of radiation protection containers can be monitored even in locations without wired power grids or communication networks, or where there is only an unreliable power supply. This feature is particularly useful during the transportation of radiation protection containers.

[0052] Specifically, the location of the radiation protection container and / or the loading device is detected as a status indicator. Temperature, moisture intrusion, and / or vibration can also be detected and transmitted. In particular, the individual detection values ​​are continuously monitored. The transmission of these values ​​can be continuous or it can be performed only when a change in value is detected. For this purpose, the safety device may also include an evaluation unit.

[0053] In one practical embodiment of this method, the values ​​detected by the safety device are associated with specific events, and a notification is output based on the associated event. In other words, the detected values ​​are categorized according to their relevance to safety, and the form of notification is determined accordingly. Specifically, the type of value involved (e.g., the location or temperature of a radiation protection container) and whether the value is within a predetermined numerical range are detected. Specifically, the notification may take the form of: simply displaying a status change on a screen, sending a notification to the relevant responsible person, and / or outputting an alarm (e.g., in the form of an audible and / or visual signal).

[0054] Regarding the location of radiation protection containers, the specific implementation method is as follows: when it is detected that a radiation protection container has left the defined permitted area, it is associated with the event of "radiation protection container is in an unauthorized location" or "radiation protection container is located outside the monitoring area", and then a notification is sent to the person in charge of radiation protection. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Other practical embodiments and their advantages will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0056] Figure 1 A radiation protection container with safety devices according to a first embodiment is shown in a schematic cross-sectional view.

[0057] Figure 2 A schematic diagram is shown. Figure 1 Safety devices in the system.

[0058] Figure 3 A flowchart of the method is shown.

[0059] Figure 4 A perspective view shows a radiation protection container according to a second embodiment.

[0060] Figure 5 It shows that according to Figure 4 Safety devices. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view schematically shows the radiation protection container 10 according to the first embodiment, wherein the safety device 12 is shown in shaded lines for easy distinction.

[0062] The radiation protection container 10 includes a housing 14. In this embodiment, the housing 14 is made of steel or stainless steel and filled with lead. A loading device 16 is inserted into the housing 14, wherein the loading device 16 includes a radioactive radiation source 18. The housing 14 includes an emission window 20 for the radioactive radiation. The loading device 16 is movably housed within the body 14, and depending on the position of the loading device 16, the radioactive radiation source can be positioned such that the radioactive radiation exits from the emission window 20 (e.g., ...). Figure 1 As shown, open the position), or completely shield radiation source 18.

[0063] In this embodiment, the radiation protection container 10 also includes a safety device 12. The safety device 12 is arranged on the housing 14 such that it surrounds the area where the loading device 16 extends from the housing 14 and can be operated via a lever 19. To protect the safety device 12 and the loading device 16, the radiation protection container 10 in this embodiment also has a cover plate 21.

[0064] Figure 2 Safety device 12 is schematically shown. Safety device 12 includes a monitoring module 22 for detecting the status of radiation protection container 10. In this embodiment, monitoring module 22 has three components 24, 26, and 28 for monitoring status. It should be noted that monitoring module 22 may also have more or fewer components. Here, monitoring module 22 has component 24 for detecting the position of radiation protection container 10, component 26 for detecting the position of loading device 16, and temperature sensor 28. Furthermore, for example, a humidity sensor, vibration sensor, tilt sensor, and / or a sensor for detecting the installation status of safety device 12 itself may also be provided.

[0065] The safety device 12 also includes an energy storage device 30, a communication device 32, and an evaluation unit 34.

[0066] In this embodiment, the energy storage device 30 is connected to the monitoring module 22 and supplies power to the various components 24, 26, 28 or sensors. The energy storage device 30 is also connected to and supplies power to the communication device 32 and the evaluation unit 34.

[0067] The evaluation unit 34 is connected to the monitoring module 22 and the communication device 32 for data transmission. The evaluation unit 34 is used to receive and process the values ​​detected by the monitoring module 22.

[0068] The communication device 32 wirelessly transmits the values ​​determined by the monitoring module 22 and the values ​​processed by the evaluation unit 34 to the upper-level unit.

[0069] Figure 3 A flowchart of a method for monitoring a radiation protection container 10 is shown. In step S1, the state of the radiation protection container 10 is determined, wherein the state is, for example, the position of the radiation protection container 10 or the position of the loading device 16.

[0070] In step S2, the detected status or detected value is wirelessly transmitted to the upper-level unit via communication device 32. This transmission can be performed at set time intervals and / or when the value changes.

[0071] In step S3, the transmitted value is evaluated and associated or categorized to a specific event. In step S4, it is queried whether the security-related value exceeds the defined range. If it does not exceed the range (No, n), the value is output in step S5.

[0072] If it is determined in step S4 that the value is out of range (yes, y), and the value exceeds the defined limit, then a notification is output in step S6, for example, in the form of notifying the person in charge or issuing an alarm.

[0073] Figure 4 A perspective view of a radiation protection container 100 according to a second embodiment is shown. The radiation protection container 100 includes a cylindrical support wall 102 and an outer base plate 104. The cylindrical support wall 102, the outer base plate 104, and the inner base plate together constitute the shell of the radiation protection container 100. In some embodiments, one or more support plates 106 may be mounted on the cylindrical support wall 102 to provide additional support. In some embodiments, one or more handles 108 may be mounted alongside the cylindrical support wall 102. The cylindrical support wall 102, the outer base plate 104, the one or more support plates 106, and / or the one or more handles 108 may be made of steel or other materials with higher melting points.

[0074] The primary purpose of the radiation protection container 100 is to contain a radioactive source. In some cases, the radiation protection container 100 can also be used to measure the fill level of the product within the container. For example, the radiation protection container 100 can be mounted on a container or tank such that its outer base plate 104 is mounted or secured to the container or tank. The radioactive source (e.g., a radioactive isotope) can be placed in a kapsel for the radioactive source, and this kapsel can be mounted or placed in the channel 110.

[0075] To measure the fill level of the product in the container, the rotating mechanism 112 can be rotated clockwise from a closed position to an open position. In this manner, the encapsulation containing the radioactive radiation source is aligned with the radiation aperture or diaphragm, allowing radiation to pass through the aperture and through the container. A radiation detector (e.g., a scintillation crystal) is located on the other side of the container. The radiation detector generates photons when exposed to radiation. Each radiation detector can be connected to a separate optical sensor (e.g., a photomultiplier tube (PMT)), which detects the photons emitted by the radiation detector. The optical sensor can then generate a signal indicating the amount of radiation incident on the radiation detector. These signals vary depending on the amount of product in the container and can therefore be amplified and processed to determine the amount of product in the container.

[0076] The radiation protection container 100 contains multiple sensors for monitoring its status. Figure 4 A light sensor 116 (e.g., a photodiode) is shown, which can be used to optically control a radiation source and / or query its status. The radiation protection container 100 includes multiple sensors 118 that can measure external environmental conditions, including gamma rays (radioactive radiation), temperature, and the presence of corrosive molecules in the atmosphere.

[0077] In some embodiments, the radiation protection container 100 further includes a remotely operable actuator 120 for changing the position of a lockable aperture from a closed position to an open position and vice versa. Figure 4 Sensor 122 is shown, which uses one or more magnets and reed sensors to identify whether the locking mechanism is in the open or closed position.

[0078] The radiation protection container 100 is also equipped with an LED ring light 124. This ring light serves as an indicator of whether the radiation protection container 100 is operating safely by indicating whether the aperture of the radiation protection container 100 is in the closed or open position and / or whether gamma rays are not detected. Furthermore, by emitting signals to cause the LED ring light 124 to produce, for example, a distinctive flashing sequence and / or color, it can also be used to distinguish different radiation protection containers.

[0079] like Figure 4As shown, the radiation protection container 100 also includes a housing 200 with electronic components. These electronic components enable the device to communicate with the outside and to remotely monitor and control the radiation protection container 100, the radioactive source, and the components and sensors mounted on the radiation protection container. In some embodiments, the communication standard may be wireless, such as via satellite networks, Bluetooth networks, Wi-Fi networks, or mobile networks, or a combination of multiple wireless networks to ensure maximum global coverage. Figure 5 Module 202 is shown, which communicates with external devices using a wireless communication network or a combination of multiple networks.

[0080] The housing 200 may house a power source 204 (e.g., a battery) and other electronic components. In some embodiments, the housing 200, like the radiation source support 100, is an explosion-proof housing that meets hazardous area requirements. In some embodiments, the housing 200 may include an interface for an external power source (e.g., a solar panel). In some embodiments, the external power source may be mounted on the housing 200, directly mounted on the radiation protection container 100, or integrated therein.

[0081] The radiation protection container 100 also includes electronic equipment for monitoring various sensors installed on the radiation protection container 100, and / or communication circuitry for sending signals to remote monitoring equipment or remote monitoring systems to report status, indicate changes in sensor status, or indicate the need for maintenance of components of the radiation protection container 100. Figure 5 The thermal sensor module 206, the corrosive environment sensor module 208, the LED control device 210, and the control device 212 for operating the aperture are shown.

[0082] The electronic device may also include a positioning system that tracks the location of the radiation protection container via GPS, mobile networks, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any combination thereof. Figure 5 A GPS module 214 for this purpose is shown. The radiation protection container 100 and / or remote monitoring equipment or system may also include procedures for creating predefined geofenced areas. If the radiation protection container 100 leaves the predefined area, a warning signal can be sent via hardware mounted on the radiation protection container 100, or a locking mechanism can be activated. The container may also include a motion detection device 216 for detecting when the equipment has been moved or may have been tampered with, and such as an accelerometer or gyroscope.

[0083] Figure 5 Processor 218 is also shown, which is connected to all modules and serves as a central processing unit between the communication system and other electronic devices, such as sensors, controllers and modules described herein.

[0084] Figure 5 The image also shows a locking device 220 that locks the aperture when activated, preventing it from rotating. Figure 4 A locking device 220 in an active state is shown. In some embodiments, the locking device may have a controller or electromagnetic coil separate from the locking mechanism. In other embodiments, the locking device and the controller may be a single unit. If the locking device is connected to a processor 218, it can be controlled from a remote device. In some embodiments, the locking device may be a programmable function of a control device 212 for operating the aperture, which locks the aperture and prevents its rotation.

[0085] List of reference numerals 10 Radiation protection containers 12 Safety devices 14. Shell 16 Loading device 18 Radioactive radiation sources 19. Joystick 20 Shooting Window 21 Cover plate 22 Monitoring Module 24 Components used for inspecting the location of radiation protection containers 26 Components used for checking the position of the loading device 28 Temperature Sensor 30 Energy Storage 32 Communication devices 34 Evaluation Units 100 Radiation Protection Container 102 Cylindrical support wall 104 Outer bottom plate 106 Support Plate 108 handles Channel 110 112 Rotating Mechanism 116 Light Sensor 118 Sensors 120 Actuator 122 Sensors 124 LED Ring Light 200 housing Module 202 204 power supply 206 Thermal Sensor Module 208 Corrosive Environment Sensor Module 210 LED Control Equipment 212 Control device for operating the aperture 214 GPS module 216 Motion Detection Device 218 processor 220 Locking device

Claims

1. A radiation protection container, comprising a shell (14) and a loading device (16) for arranging a radioactive radiation source (18), characterized in that: The radiation protection containers (10, 100) have a safety device (12), wherein the safety device (12) includes the following components: - A monitoring module (22) for monitoring at least one state of the radiation protection container (10); and - Communication devices (32).

2. The radiation protection container according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The security device includes the communication device (32) for wireless transmission of information and the energy storage device (30).

3. The radiation protection container according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The monitoring module (22) has a component (24) for identifying the location of the radiation protection container (10).

4. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The monitoring module (22) has a component (26) for detecting the position of the loading device (16).

5. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The monitoring module has a motion detection device (216) to detect the motion of the loading device.

6. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The loading device has an aperture for controlling the emission of radioactive radiation from the radioactive radiation source, and the monitoring module has a sensor (212) for monitoring the state of the aperture.

7. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The safety device has an actuator (120) to change the position of the aperture.

8. The radiation protection container according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The safety device has an electrically operable locking device (220) to prevent the aperture from rotating from the closed position to the open position, wherein the safety device electrically operates the locking device (220) according to preset conditions.

9. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The safety device has a luminous indicator (210).

10. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The monitoring module (22) has a sensor for detecting radioactive radiation.

11. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The monitoring module (22) has a temperature sensor (28) and / or a humidity sensor and / or a sensor (208) for identifying corrosive molecules and / or a vibration sensor.

12. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The safety device (12) is connected to the housing (14) of the radiation protection container (10) and / or to the loading device.

13. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The safety device (12) has a component for checking the installation status of the safety device (12) itself.

14. The radiation protection container according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The safety device is housed in an explosion-proof enclosure (200).

15. A method for monitoring radiation protection containers (10), characterized in that, The radiation protection container (10) is detected by a safety device (12) with a monitoring module (22), and the detection data corresponding to the detected state is wirelessly transmitted to the upper unit.

16. The method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The position of the radiation protection container (10) and / or the loading device (16) as a state are detected.

17. The method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The detected data is associated with specific events, and a notification is output based on the associated events.

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