Low-level radioactive solid waste detection device and management system
By designing a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device and management system, the weight, surface contamination, and dose rate of waste packages are automatically detected. This solves the problems of incomplete data recording and untimely detection in waste management at the front end of the nuclear fuel cycle, realizes real-time traceability and standardized management of waste information, and improves management efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CNNC JIANZHONG NUCLEAR FUEL
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-01
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-10
AI Technical Summary
The data volume of low-level radioactive solid waste in the front-end facilities of the nuclear fuel cycle is large and the work is repetitive, which makes it easy for records to be missing or incomplete. In addition, the lack of timely detection means that the temporary storage of waste does not meet the relevant requirements.
A low-level radioactive solid waste detection device was designed, including a surface contamination αβ detector, a GM tube detector, a weighing platform, and a barcode scanner. It is used to automatically detect the weight, surface contamination level, and surface dose rate of waste packages, and upload the data to the database in real time through the barcode scanner. It is then integrated with a low-level radioactive solid waste management system for full-process management.
It enables real-time traceability and standardized management of waste information, optimizes the radioactive waste management process, improves management efficiency and standardization, and meets temporary storage requirements.
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Figure CN121829641A_ABST
Abstract
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The application belongs to the technical field of radioactive solid waste pre-disposal management, and particularly relates to a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device and a management system. BACKGROUND
[0002] The radioactive solid waste management of a nuclear fuel cycle front-end facility includes five processes of generation, transfer, reception, temporary storage and external disposal. According to the quality control requirements of the nuclear safety guide “Radioactive Waste Pre-Disposal Management of Nuclear Facilities” (HAD401 / 12-2022), all record contents in the waste management process should be complete, including the statistical data of the amount and characteristics of radioactive waste, and the data archives related to radioactive waste should be properly preserved.
[0003] According to the relevant regulations and standards such as “Provisions for Temporary Storage of Low and Medium Level Radioactive Solid Waste” (GB 11928-1989), the alpha, beta and gamma dose rates on the surface of the waste package should be detected to ensure that the loose surface contamination of the waste package is alpha <0.4 Bq / cm2, beta <4 Bq / cm2, and the surface dose rate of the waste package is gamma <2 mSv / h, according to the characteristics of single radionuclide and extremely low or low specific activity of the waste generated by the nuclear fuel cycle front-end facility.
[0004] At present, the radioactive solid waste of the nuclear fuel cycle front-end facility is periodically collected and packaged, and then manually detected before being transported to the designated temporary storage point. The characteristics information and flow information of the waste package are manually recorded during the transportation and handover process. The above process has the following problems: first, the amount of waste information data is large, and the repetitive work is much, which is easy to cause missing or incomplete records; second, manual recording of waste information leads to ineffective statistics and query of the source; third, some waste needs to be sorted twice (classified), and there is no timely detection means for newly generated waste, which leads to that the temporary storage of waste does not meet the relevant requirements. SUMMARY
[0005] Therefore, the application provides a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device and management system, which develops and designs a waste package automatic detection device for detecting the characteristics information such as the weight, surface contamination level and surface dose rate of the waste package, so as to solve the technical problem that some waste needs to be sorted twice (classified), and there is no timely detection means for newly generated waste, which leads to that the temporary storage of waste does not meet the relevant requirements.
[0006] The first aspect of the application provides a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device, which comprises a horizontal bottom plate, a vertical support plate, a surface contamination alpha beta detector, a G-M tube detector, an access hole, a weighing platform, a moving roller, an operation display and a code scanning device. The vertical support plate and the weighing platform are located on the top surface of the horizontal bottom plate. The moving roller is located on the bottom surface of the horizontal bottom plate. The surface contamination alpha beta detector, the G-M tube detector, the access hole, the operation display and the code scanning device are all installed on the vertical support plate.
[0007] The access hole is used to check whether the connection of the internal power supply line, data line and the like of the device is in good condition.
[0008] The operation display is connected with the surface contamination alpha beta detector, the G-M tube detector, the weighing platform and the code scanning device, and is used to display waste detection information and measure and submit detection data operation.
[0009] The code scanning device is connected with the operation display, and is used to scan the waste package two-dimensional code. After scanning, the waste package automatic detection interface is entered. According to the instruction of the user clicking measurement, the data acquisition of the detection platform is automatically triggered. According to the instruction of the user clicking submission, it is uploaded to the database in real time, and is updated to the waste ledger. According to the waste category selected in the waste package information recognized by the waste package two-dimensional code scanning, the warehouse management module is guided to put the waste package.
[0010] The surface contamination alpha beta detector is used to automatically detect the surface contamination alpha and the surface contamination beta of the waste package when the waste package is placed in the detection area, and automatically upload the detection results to the database.
[0011] The G-M tube detector is used to automatically detect the surface dose rate gamma of the waste package when the waste package is placed in the detection area, and automatically upload the detection results to the database.
[0012] The weighing platform is used to weigh the waste package when the waste package is placed in the detection area, and automatically upload the weighing results to the database.
[0013] In one specific embodiment of the application, the surface contamination alpha beta detector and the G-M tube detector are installed on the surface of the vertical support plate facing the weighing platform, and are located below the vertical support plate. The access hole is installed on the surface of the vertical support plate facing the weighing platform, and is located above the vertical support plate. The operation display and the code scanning device are installed on the surface of the vertical support plate away from the weighing platform, and the operation display is located above the code scanning device.
[0014] The second aspect of this application provides a low-level radioactive solid waste management system, which includes a waste collection management module, a waste transfer management module, a waste approval management module, a waste receiving management module, a warehouse management module, and a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device. The waste collection management module generates characteristic information of waste packages based on relevant information entered by the waste-generating unit, and dynamically generates QR codes for the waste packages based on this characteristic information. The waste transfer management module, connected to the waste collection management module, automatically generates the total weight and volume of waste transferred in batches based on waste transfer orders entered by the waste-generating unit, and updates the receiving status in real time. The waste approval management module, connected between the waste transfer management module and the waste receiving management module, receives and approves waste transfer orders, and transfers the waste transfer orders to the waste receiving management module after the approval process is completed. The waste receiving management module, connected to the warehouse management module, selects the corresponding warehouse managed by the warehouse management module for warehousing operation based on the radioactive waste category after the waste corresponding to the waste transfer order has been received. The detection device is used to scan the QR code on waste packages. After scanning, the device enters the automatic detection interface for waste packages. Based on the user's command to measure, the device automatically triggers the data collection of the detection platform and uploads the data to the database in real time based on the user's command to submit the data, updating the waste ledger. Based on the waste category selection in the waste package information identified by scanning the QR code, the device guides the warehouse management module to dispose of the waste package.
[0015] In one specific embodiment of this application, the waste collection management module incorporates built-in automated verification rules. These rules are used to perform real-time verification on data entries with limits, automatically triggering warnings and rejecting the application if the data fails to meet the limit requirements or if data is entered incorrectly due to human error.
[0016] In one specific embodiment of this application, the warehouse management module supports automatic inventory counting and inventory early warning functions.
[0017] In one specific embodiment of this application, the low-level radioactive solid waste management system also includes a data dashboard. The data dashboard is used to display waste production comparisons, cumulative waste generation per unit, and waste production trends.
[0018] In one specific embodiment of this application, the waste package characteristic information includes waste category selection, waste number, weight and volume, package contents, waste package radiation level, packing personnel and packing date.
[0019] The beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows: By developing a radioactive waste management system, the entire process of waste transfer and handover can be managed online. The entered or generated waste package and transfer slip information can be traced in real time as the waste flows and used for statistical analysis, providing basic data for standardized and minimal waste management. An automatic waste package detection device has been developed and designed to detect characteristic information such as waste package weight, surface contamination level, and surface dose rate. The detection data is transmitted to the radioactive waste management system's terminal database and updated to the ledger, enabling dynamic management of the waste ledger. By establishing a radioactive waste management system, the radioactive waste management workflow is optimized, breaking down traditional departmental barriers and establishing a cross-departmental digital collaborative working mechanism, effectively improving the efficiency and standardization of radioactive waste management. The detection device enables real-time detection of radioactive solid waste, meeting the requirements for on-site temporary storage management. Attached Figure Description
[0020] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0021] Figure 2 As shown Figure 1 The diagram shows a structural schematic of a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device from another perspective.
[0022] Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of a low-level radioactive solid waste management system provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0023] Figure 4 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of a waste collection new form interface provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0024] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of a waste transfer form interface provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0025] Figure 6 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of a waste detection interface provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0026] In the diagram, 1 is the surface contamination αβ detector; 2 is the GM tube detector; 3 is the inspection port; 4 is the weighing platform; 5 is the moving roller; 6 is the operation display; and 7 is the barcode scanning device. Detailed Implementation
[0027] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0028] To address the lack of detection methods for new waste generated during secondary (sorting) of waste, at least one embodiment of this application provides a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device suitable for detecting low-level radioactive solid waste generated from nuclear fuel cycle front-end facilities. (Reference) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The low-level radioactive solid waste detection device includes a horizontal base plate, a vertical support plate, a surface contamination αβ detector 1, a GM tube detector 2, an access port 3, a weighing platform 4, moving rollers 5, an operation display 6, and a barcode scanning device 7. The vertical support plate and weighing platform 4 are both located on the top surface of the horizontal base plate. The moving rollers 5 are located on the bottom surface of the horizontal base plate. The surface contamination αβ detector 1, GM tube detector 2, access port 3, operation display 6, and barcode scanning device 7 are all mounted on the vertical support plate.
[0029] Inspection port 3 is used to check whether the internal power cords, data cables, and other connections of the device are intact.
[0030] The operation display 6 is connected to the surface contamination αβ detector 1, GM tube detector 2, weighing platform 4 and barcode scanning device 7, and is used to display waste detection information and perform measurement and submission of detection data operations.
[0031] The barcode scanning device 7 is connected to the operation display 6 and is used to scan the QR code of the waste package. After scanning, it automatically triggers the data collection of the detection platform according to the user's command to measure, and uploads the data to the database in real time according to the user's command to submit, and updates the waste ledger. It also guides the warehouse management module to put the waste package into place based on the waste category selection in the waste package information identified by scanning the waste package QR code.
[0032] The surface contamination αβ detector 1 is used to automatically detect surface contamination α and surface contamination β of waste packages when they are placed in the detection area, and automatically uploads the detection results to the database.
[0033] The GM tube detector 2 is used to automatically detect the surface dose rate γ of the waste package when it is placed in the detection area, and automatically uploads the detection results to the database.
[0034] Weighing platform 4 is used to weigh waste bags when they are placed in the detection area and automatically upload the weighing results to the database.
[0035] It should be noted that the surface contamination αβ detector 1 can also be called an αβ surface contamination meter. The weighing platform 4 can also be called an electronic scale. The barcode scanning device 7 can also be called a barcode scanner. The inspection port 3 is not connected to other components.
[0036] The gamma dose rate meter uses a GM tube detector, which features good energy response, high sensitivity, and stable detection, making it suitable for low-intensity radiation detection.
[0037] This application embodiment designs and manufactures an integrated machine for automatic weighing and detection of waste packages. The detection device uses a barcode scanner to scan the QR code on the waste package. Scanning automatically triggers data acquisition from the detection platform, which uploads the data in real time to the database and updates the waste ledger. The waste package is placed in the detection area, and using a surface contamination αβ detector 1, a GM tube detector 2, and a weighing platform 4, the weight and surface radiation level data of the waste package can be automatically detected and uploaded to the database. The detection device provided in this application embodiment integrates automatic detection of αβ surface contamination, γ dose rate, and weight, as well as synchronous data uploading. Operators can use this device to perform timely detection of radioactive solid waste, meeting the requirements for temporary on-site storage.
[0038] In at least one embodiment of this application, the surface contamination αβ detector 1 and the GM tube detector 2 are installed on the surface of the vertical support plate facing the weighing platform and located below the vertical support plate. The access port 3 is installed on the surface of the vertical support plate facing the weighing platform and located above the vertical support plate. The operation display 6 and the barcode scanner 7 are installed on the surface of the vertical support plate away from the weighing platform, with the operation display 6 located above the barcode scanner 7.
[0039] To address the problems of large volumes of waste information data, difficulty in recording detailed information, and inability to quickly statistically analyze and trace the source, at least one embodiment of this application provides a low-level radioactive solid waste management system. This system is applicable to the full-process management of low-level radioactive solid waste generated by front-end facilities of the nuclear fuel cycle. (Reference) Figure 3 This low-level radioactive solid waste management system can be simply referred to as the radioactive waste management system.
[0040] The low-level radioactive solid waste management system includes a waste collection management module, a waste transfer management module, a waste approval management module, a waste receiving management module, a warehouse management module, and a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device. The waste collection management module generates characteristic information for waste packages based on information entered by the waste-generating unit and dynamically generates QR codes for the waste packages based on this characteristic information. The waste transfer management module, connected to the waste collection management module, automatically generates the total weight and volume of waste transferred in batches based on waste transfer orders uploaded by the waste-generating unit and updates the receiving status in real time. The waste approval management module, connected between the waste transfer management module and the waste receiving management module, receives and approves waste transfer orders, and transfers the orders to the waste receiving management module after the approval process is completed. The waste receiving management module, connected to the warehouse management module, selects the corresponding warehouse managed by the warehouse management module for storage operation based on the radioactive waste category after the waste corresponding to the waste transfer order has been received. The detection device is used to scan the QR code on the waste package. After scanning, it automatically triggers the data collection of the detection platform, uploads it to the database in real time, and updates the waste ledger. Based on the waste category selection in the waste package information identified by scanning the QR code, it guides the warehouse management module to dispose of the waste package.
[0041] Specifically, waste-generating units add waste packages in the waste collection management module, input and generate characteristic information for the waste packages, and dynamically generate QR codes based on the characteristic information to bind unique identifiers, enabling real-time data collection and tracking of waste. In the waste transfer management module, waste-generating units add waste transfer orders, select the transferor and reason (production / project), upload waste package inspection reports, and add a list of waste packages to be transferred. The waste transfer order automatically generates the total weight and volume of the batch of transferred waste and updates the receiving status in real time. The waste transfer order follows a hierarchical verification mechanism through a pre-set approval workflow. During the approval process, managers can view relevant documents for the waste packages to verify whether they meet the requirements for transfer and temporary storage. Once the approval process is complete, the waste transfer order is transferred to the waste receiving unit, where operators verify the integrity and weight of the waste packages on-site, selecting whether to approve, partially approve, or reject the application. The warehouse management module allows adding or deleting warehouses, setting warehouse capacity, and managing the entry and exit of waste packages.
[0042] It should be noted that waste packages can be queried at each stage of the waste transfer process using fields such as waste number, transfer order number, waste category, generating unit, and status. Waste package characteristics include waste category selection, waste number, weight and volume, contents details, radiation level, packing personnel, and packing date. The waste number is automatically generated based on the generating unit number, month and year of generation, and serial number. The waste package's characteristics are stored in a QR code, including the waste number, waste category, and surface contamination level. The QR code can be affixed to the surface of the waste package, and handheld devices (or handheld terminals) can quickly view the waste information by scanning the QR code. The waste transfer order includes a list of waste packages to be transferred, waste package inspection reports, the person in charge of the transfer, and the reason for the transfer.
[0043] In this embodiment, the waste receiving unit scans the QR code on the waste package using a handheld terminal to release the waste package or creates a waste release list using an all-in-one machine, which is synchronized to the electronic ledger in real time, making it convenient and fast. The characteristic information of the waste package (also known as a radioactive solid waste label) records key information such as the waste generating unit, the surface radiation level of the waste package, weight, and the operator. The generated QR code serves as a link for tracking the entire process, and the waste information can be quickly viewed by scanning it with a handheld terminal. Compared with existing methods and measures for manually recording and statistically managing radioactive solid waste, the low-level radioactive solid waste management system of this embodiment can upload radioactive solid waste data to the database in real time through data entry by the waste generating unit and data collection by the detection device. This eliminates discrepancies caused by errors and omissions in manual recording, meets the requirements for establishing standardized ledgers, and realizes automatic detection and full life cycle management of radioactive solid waste, achieving a closed-loop process for radioactive solid waste management and ensuring the timeliness, accuracy, and traceability of radioactive solid waste data.
[0044] In at least one embodiment of this application, the waste collection management module incorporates built-in automated verification rules. These rules are used to perform real-time verification on data entries with limits, automatically triggering warnings and rejecting the application if the data fails to meet the limits or if data was entered incorrectly due to human error.
[0045] In at least one embodiment of this application, the warehouse management module supports automatic inventory counting and inventory early warning functions.
[0046] In at least one embodiment of this application, the low-level radioactive solid waste management system also includes a data dashboard. The data dashboard displays waste production comparisons, cumulative waste generation per unit, and waste production trends. Thus, the entire lifecycle of the waste package can be displayed through the data dashboard, enabling visualized waste management and decision-making support.
[0047] The following describes the workflow of a low-level radioactive solid waste management system according to a specific embodiment of this application.
[0048] Example 1: Branch plant X generates 2 bags of combustible waste, which needs to be transferred to a temporary waste storage point.
[0049] The branch plant sequentially entered the information of the two bags of waste into the new waste form through the waste collection management module (reference). Figure 4 ).
[0050] The branch plant creates a waste transfer order through the waste transfer module. The transfer order number is automatically generated, and information such as radioactivity category, reason for transfer, and combustible / non-combustible waste is selected for reference. Figure 5 Add the waste to be transferred in this batch to the list and upload the waste package inspection report in the attachment.
[0051] Once the professional management department / waste receiving unit receives the waste transfer approval message, it can view the details of the waste package in the transfer order and select its approval opinion.
[0052] The branch plant can check the review progress and, once the transfer application is approved, contact the waste receiving unit to determine the specific transfer time.
[0053] The branch plant will transfer the two waste bags listed on the transfer order to the receiving point of the waste receiving unit. The operator will verify on-site whether the information of the waste bags matches the details of the transfer order, and select "pass," "partially pass," or "reject" based on the match. If partial pass is selected, the waste bags to be received can be checked. Waste bags that are not checked will be displayed as "rejected" on the transfer order and will not be included in the total volume and weight of this transfer.
[0054] The branch plant can check the receiving status through the waste transfer management module to confirm the waste receipt. If the receiving status shows "received or partially received", the transfer of this batch of waste is completed.
[0055] Example 2: The filter paper generated after dismantling the contamination filter is temporarily stored as non-flammable waste.
[0056] Operators can select and issue the contaminated filters to be processed through the warehouse management module.
[0057] After the filter paper is collected, the operator adds the waste through the waste collection management module, selects combustible / flammable waste category, and fills in "filter paper" in the contents of the bag. Enter "0" in the radiation level information field of the waste bag to complete the addition of the waste bag, and the waste bag status will be "to be improved".
[0058] Print out the generated QR code and affix it to the surface of the waste bin.
[0059] The waste bin is moved to the corresponding area of the detection device. The operator uses a barcode scanner to scan the QR code to access the measurement interface, measure the data, and submit the results. (Waste detection interface reference) Figure 6 . It should be noted that the combination of the technical features in the embodiments of this application is not limited to the combination methods described in the embodiments of this application or the combination methods described in specific embodiments. All technical features described in this application can be freely combined or combined in any way, unless they contradict each other.
[0060] As indicated in this application and claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the words "a," "an," and / or "the" do not specifically refer to the singular and may also include the plural. Generally speaking, the term "comprising" only indicates that it includes the explicitly identified steps and elements, which do not constitute an exclusive list, and the method or apparatus may also include other steps or elements.
[0061] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications or equivalent substitutions made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.
Claims
1. A low-level radioactive solid waste detection device, characterized in that, Includes a horizontal base plate, vertical support plate, surface contamination αβ detector, GM tube detector, inspection port, weighing platform, moving rollers, operation display, and barcode scanning device. The vertical support plate and weighing platform are located on the top surface of the horizontal base plate, while the moving rollers are located on the bottom surface of the horizontal base plate. The surface contamination αβ detector, GM tube detector, inspection port, operation display, and barcode scanning device are all mounted on the vertical support plate. Inspection port, used to check whether the internal power cords, data cables, and other connections of the device are intact; The operation display is connected to the surface contamination αβ detector, GM tube detector, weighing platform and barcode scanning device to display waste detection information and perform measurement and data submission operations. The barcode scanning device, connected to the operation display, is used to scan the QR code on waste bags. After scanning, it enters the waste bag automatic detection interface. Based on the user's command to measure, it automatically triggers the detection platform to collect data and uploads it to the database in real time based on the user's command to submit, updating the waste ledger. Based on the waste category selection in the waste bag information identified by scanning the waste bag QR code, it guides the warehouse management module to dispose of the waste bag. The surface contamination αβ detector is used to automatically detect surface contamination α and surface contamination β of waste packages when they are placed in the detection area, and automatically uploads the detection results to the database. The GM tube detector is used to automatically detect the surface dose rate γ of waste packages when they are placed in the detection area, and the detection results are automatically uploaded to the database. The weighing platform is used to weigh waste bags when they are placed in the detection area and automatically upload the weighing results to the database.
2. The low-level radioactive solid waste detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface contamination αβ detector and GM tube detector are installed on the surface of the vertical support plate facing the weighing platform and located below the vertical support plate; the access port is installed on the surface of the vertical support plate facing the weighing platform and located above the vertical support plate; the operation display and barcode scanner are installed on the surface of the vertical support plate away from the weighing platform and the operation display is located above the barcode scanner.
3. A low-level radioactive solid waste management system, characterized in that, It includes a waste collection management module, a waste transfer management module, a waste approval management module, a waste receiving management module, a warehouse management module, and a low-level radioactive solid waste detection device as described in claim 1 or 2. The system comprises several modules: a waste collection management module, a waste transfer management module, and a waste receiving management module. The waste collection management module generates characteristic information of waste packages based on information entered by the waste-generating unit and dynamically generates QR codes for the waste packages. The waste transfer management module, connected to the waste collection management module, automatically generates the total weight and volume of waste transferred in batches based on transfer orders entered by the waste-generating unit and updates the receiving status in real time. The waste approval management module, connected to the waste transfer management module and the waste receiving management module, receives and approves waste transfer orders, transferring them to the waste receiving management module after the approval process is complete. The waste receiving management module, connected to the warehouse management module, selects the corresponding warehouse managed by the warehouse management module for warehousing operations based on the radioactive waste category after the waste corresponding to the transfer order has been received. A detection device scans the QR codes on waste packages, leading to an automatic detection interface. Based on user-initiated measurement commands, the device automatically triggers data collection from the detection platform and uploads data to the database in real time, updating the waste ledger. It also guides the warehouse management module to dispose of waste packages based on the waste category selection from the QR code scanned.
4. A low-level radioactive solid waste management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The waste collection and management module has built-in automated verification rules. These rules are used to perform real-time verification on data entries with limits. If the data does not meet the limit requirements or is entered incorrectly due to human error, the system will automatically trigger an alert and reject the application.
5. A low-level radioactive solid waste management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The warehouse management module supports automatic inventory counting and inventory alerts.
6. A low-level radioactive solid waste management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a data dashboard, which is used to display waste production comparisons, cumulative waste production for each unit, and waste production trends.
7. A low-level radioactive solid waste management system according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that, The waste package information includes waste category selection, waste number, weight and volume, contents of the package, radiation level of the waste package, packing personnel and packing date.