Sensor mount, radiation measurement system and procedure

Abstract

The invention relates to a sensor holder (100) for a radiation measurement system (200) for measuring (140) in a longitudinally extended internal volume (U), in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit, comprising: - a front receiving area (10) which is designed to receive a sensor (210) and is formed along a thrust direction (V), - a rear mounting area (20) which is arranged in the direction of travel (V) behind the front receiving area (10), wherein the rear mounting area (20) can be mechanically connected to a carrier (220) of a radiation measurement system (200). Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding radiation measurement system (200) and a method.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a sensor holder for a radiation measurement system for measuring in a longitudinally extended internal volume, in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit, a corresponding radiation measurement system and a method.

[0002] Nuclear facilities (e.g., nuclear power plants) and sensors for measuring (radioactive) radiation, as well as corresponding radiation measurement systems with such sensors, are well-known examples. Particularly during the decommissioning of nuclear facilities (but also during operation), it may be necessary to conduct radiation measurements within a (longitudinally extended) internal volume, such as a pipe, wall, or conduit. This allows for the determination of whether and / or how strongly corresponding (building) components emit radiation. From this, conclusions can be drawn regarding the extent to which appropriate decontamination and / or disposal, for example during decommissioning, can be carried out.

[0003] The current state of the art has some drawbacks. For example, existing systems may be susceptible to (excessive) radiation contamination, particularly because they have (too many) connection points and / or contact points with the internal volume (or surfaces) of contaminated components. Contamination can necessitate costly decontamination and / or the disposal of the affected components. Furthermore, the sensor may be (too) obscured, for instance, by a sensor mount and / or components of the radiation measurement system, which can make measurements more difficult, prolong the process, and / or distort them. Finally, expandability, flexibility, ease of use, weight, and / or safety may be (correspondingly) limited.

[0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above, at least partially. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved sensor mount, a radiation measurement system, and / or a method. It may be an object to provide a sensor mount and / or a radiation measurement system that is not (or at least difficult or unlikely to be) contaminated. It may also be an object to improve safety, measurement accuracy, cost, wear, flexibility, expandability, storage (when not in use), ease of use, weight, effort, and / or efficiency (e.g., in the decommissioning of a nuclear facility).

[0005] The foregoing problem is solved by a sensor holder with the features of the independent claim relating to a sensor holder, a radiation measurement system with the features of the independent claim relating to a radiation measurement system, and a method with the features of the independent method claim. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the sensor holder according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the radiation measurement system and / or the method according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention always makes, or can make, reciprocal references.In particular, advantages described within the first, second and / or third aspect also apply to the first, second and / or third aspect.

[0006] The above task is solved according to a first aspect by a sensor holder for a radiation measurement system (according to the second aspect) for measuring in a longitudinally extended internal volume, in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit (e.g. a nuclear facility or a [potentially] radioactively contaminated building), comprising: - a front receiving area which is designed to receive a sensor and is formed along a direction of advance, - a rear mounting area which is arranged behind the front receiving area in the direction of travel, wherein the rear mounting area can be mechanically connected to a carrier of a radiation measurement system.

[0007] The internal volume (not belonging to the sensor holder or the radiation measurement system) can have an elongated, tubular, and / or [hollow] cylindrical geometry. Preferably, the internal volume can be straight and / or linear. The sensor holder and / or the sensor measurement system can be moved (at least partially) along a thrust direction into (or against) and / or within the internal volume. This allows the sensor holder and / or the sensor to assume different measurement positions, e.g., by (further) positioning (see below). The sensor holder and / or the sensor measurement system can preferably be straight, linear, and / or (at least partially) rigid. This enables positioning and / or measurement without (contactless) and / or with minimal contact (and thus with minimal contamination) of the sensor holder and / or sensor measurement system.This can improve safety (preventing further contamination and / or associated hazards). It can also optimize costs, wear and tear, effort, and / or efficiency (e.g., during the decommissioning of a nuclear facility). This approach leverages the fact that (many) elongated internal volumes, such as those in nuclear facilities, are straight and / or linear, particularly in sections directly after an inlet (e.g., a hole in a wall and / or running beneath the floor). Instead of dismantling (demolishing) building components, a sensor mount and / or a sensor measurement system can be used. (Construction) plans can be used to identify straight and / or linear elongated internal volumes and, in particular, to place the sensor mount and / or sensor measurement system at these points. This can improve efficiency, especially compared to existing systems.

[0008] The sensor mount and / or the radiation measurement system and / or the direction of advance can be oriented and / or configured horizontally. Accordingly, the sensor mount and / or the radiation measurement system can be configured for use in horizontally oriented, longitudinally extended interior volumes.

[0009] The front receiving area (relative to the direction of travel) can preferably accommodate a sensor (not belonging to the sensor holder). The front receiving area can have a receptacle which is preferably complementary (with respect to cross-section and / or volume) to the sensor. This allows the sensor to be securely and / or compactly mounted. The sensor holder and / or the sensor measuring system can be inserted (by the drive unit, see below) into the longitudinally extended internal volume, for example, stepwise and / or continuously, preferably along the direction of travel (with the front receiving area located at the foremost end). Furthermore, the sensor holder and / or the sensor measuring system can be withdrawn (pulled out) from the longitudinally extended internal volume (by the drive unit, see below), for example, stepwise and / or continuously, preferably against the direction of travel.The insertion and removal process can be repeated (multiple times), for example, to assume different measurement positions (repeatedly). The direction of advance can preferably be aligned with the longitudinal extent of the sensor mount, sensor measuring system, and / or the longitudinally extended interior volume. The sensor mount and / or the sensor measuring system can be substantially longitudinally extended, straight, and / or linear, particularly tubular. Preferably, the cross-section and / or diameter, especially in the radial direction (perpendicular to the direction of advance), can be substantially constant and / or uniform. This reduces the probability of contact with (potentially) contaminated building components and / or the wall of the interior volume. The sensor mount and / or the sensor measuring system can exhibit high stiffness, a high axial moment of inertia, and / or a high polar moment of inertia.This advantageously prevents the sensor mount and / or the sensor measuring system from deflecting (along the force of gravity and / or perpendicular to a thrust direction) or from exhibiting any or only minimal deflection (due to its own weight). This enables contactless insertion, positioning, measurement, and / or execution, and in particular, eliminates the need for support structures (e.g., for longitudinally extended internal volumes of approximately 5 to 10 m in length) and / or reduces the number of support structures required (e.g., for particularly long longitudinally extended internal volumes, e.g., longer than 20 m).

[0010] The rear mounting area, which is located in / along the direction of advance (immediately) behind the front receiving area, can be mechanically connected to a carrier of a radiation measurement system. The rear mounting area and the front receiving area can be formed as a single unit. This can optimize stability and / or the (axial) area moment of inertia. Alternatively, the rear mounting area and the front receiving area can be reversibly and detachably connected to each other, in particular via a fastener, e.g., a bolted connection. The fastener can be located externally with respect to the radial direction and / or have a large length along the direction of advance compared to a smaller diameter along the radial direction (essentially a large stroke-to-bore ratio). This can improve stability and / or the area moment of inertia.For example, the length (of the connecting element, e.g., a circular thread) can be at least twice the diameter, in particular at least three times, for example at least four times, preferably at least five times, and most preferably at least six times. For example, the front receiving area can have a nut and the rear mounting area an (external) thread. This allows the front receiving area to be replaced, advantageously to mount a different sensor. Furthermore, this also allows the front receiving area and / or the rear mounting area to be replaced, for example, if (unexpectedly) contamination is detected (e.g., during an examination for radioactive contamination after a measurement). The rear mounting area can preferably be designed for reversible mechanical connection to a support (or further supports).A sensor mounting connection can be provided for this purpose (see below). This allows the sensor mounting to be flexibly extendable. Thus, the length of the sensor mounting and / or the sensor measurement system can be (flexibly) extended. This can enable simple storage and / or high flexibility. Preferably, the sensor mounting connection can be located at the rear end of the rear mounting area. The support can preferably be selected depending on the longitudinal internal volume. Accordingly, the radiation measurement system can be (at least partially) modular. For example, the diameter and / or the cross-section (with respect to the radial direction) can be selected depending on the diameter and / or cross-section of the longitudinal internal volume. A larger diameter (e.g., 11 cm) and / or cross-section of the support can be used if a smaller diameter (e.g.,15 cm) and / or the cross-section of the longitudinally extended internal volume is larger. This allows for improved stability and / or a higher area moment of inertia, which in particular enables measurements at greater depths or far from an opening (used for inserting the sensor mount and / or the radiation measurement system). A smaller diameter (e.g., 4 cm) and / or cross-section of the support can be used if the diameter (e.g., 6 cm) and / or the cross-section of the longitudinally extended internal volume is larger. This also allows for measurements in comparatively small internal volumes, e.g., in pipes below the floor. Thus, the radiation measurement system can be flexibly adaptable and / or modular. This prevents contamination and / or enables (non-contact) measurements, especially in comparatively long, longitudinally extended internal volumes.

[0011] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous that the front receiving area is configured to receive a sensor in a mounting configuration, wherein the sensor can be arranged to float freely at least partially in the mounting configuration, wherein in particular the sensor can be arranged to be exposed at least in a section of the sensor located forward in the direction of propulsion and / or is not enclosed by the front receiving area.

[0012] A sensor can be configured to detect radioactive radiation, in particular alpha, beta, and / or gamma radiation. This allows for the detection of contamination of building components and / or the longitudinal interior volume. The sensor can be reversibly and detachably mounted on and / or within the front receiving area. The sensor can be inserted into the front receiving area. The front receiving area can have a receptacle that can hold the sensor securely and / or positively. The receptacle can have a (round or rectangular, in particular square) cross-section and / or diameter (along the radial direction or in a plane perpendicular to the direction of advance) that is complementary to a cross-section and / or diameter of the sensor. The receptacle can radially enclose the sensor, preferably (only) partially.Alternatively or additionally, the mounting can be designed to have a preferred orientation, for example, due to its cross-section, which determines the sensor's orientation. Advantageously, this allows the sensor to always be mounted in the same or correct orientation. This enables high robustness, repeatability, and / or efficiency, especially if the sensor itself (during measurement) has a preferred orientation and / or asymmetry. The mounting can have at least one (radial) notch, for example, along its circumference. The mounting can include a contact unit through which the sensor (in a mounting configuration) is connected to a data connection. This contact unit can have a reversibly detachable connector, such as, in the simplest case, a USB socket, LAN socket, or a suitable interface.The mount can be provided with an (internal) thread that engages with a complementary (external) thread in a sensor. This allows the sensor to be reversibly and detachably attached. This can enable a particularly robust and / or torsionally rigid mounting. Alternatively, the mount can have a plug connection, which advantageously allows for (even faster) (dis)assembly of the sensor. Preferably, in the mounting configuration (in which the sensor and / or a carrier are mounted on the sensor holder), the sensor is at least partially, preferably in a front section of the sensor, free-floating and / or exposed and / or not covered and / or surrounded by the sensor holder, in particular the front mounting area, preferably the entire mount. This allows for measurement free from interference caused by the sensor holder.This eliminates the need for (complex) calculations to account for (potential) variations at the sensor mount. This can reduce efficiency and / or costs. It can also prevent or reduce contamination of the sensor mount and / or the sensor measurement system; for example, further (deeper) insertion can be prevented if the sensor (located at the very front in the direction of advance) detects a comparatively high level of contamination.

[0013] Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the front receiving area is designed to be free-floating, wherein in particular the front receiving area has no support means and / or is not surrounded by the sensor holder, in particular components of the sensor holder, in a radial direction perpendicular to the direction of propulsion.

[0014] Accordingly, the front receiving area, preferably in addition to the sensor (mounted therein), can be designed to be free-floating and / or exposed, particularly in a mounting configuration. Accordingly, the front area can be protected from (excessive) contamination (e.g., by contact with an inward-facing wall of the longitudinally extended inner volume). Accordingly, it can be provided that the sensor holder and / or the radiation measurement system do not have a support. It can (at least) be provided that the front receiving area of ​​the sensor holder does not have a support. Accordingly, it can be provided that the sensor holder and / or the radiation measurement system, in particular the front receiving area (also during positioning), preferably in a mounting configuration, can be arranged in the longitudinally extended inner volume without contact and / or contamination.This can improve safety, costs, efficiency, effort and / or wear.

[0015] Within the scope of the invention, it may be provided that the sensor holder, in particular the front receiving area, preferably the receiving area, has a, preferably round, cross-section (perpendicular to the direction of travel), which is in particular complementary to the (cross-section of the) sensor(s) and / or fully encloses the sensor in the mounting configuration (radially and / or circumferentially).

[0016] Preferably, a section of the sensor located at the front (in the direction of travel) can be designed to be free-floating.

[0017] It is also conceivable that the sensor holder, in particular the front receiving area and / or rear mounting area, is designed (at least partially) as a hollow body, in particular cylindrical and / or hollow cylindrical.

[0018] The front receiving area and / or rear mounting area can have a round cross-section (perpendicular to the direction of travel). This allows for simple manufacturing and / or minimizes the likelihood of contact with the (usually round) longitudinally extended internal volumes. The front receiving area and / or rear mounting area can be designed as hollow bodies. This can minimize weight and provide (comparatively) good stiffness and / or a low area moment of inertia. The front receiving area and / or rear mounting area can be made of a metal, such as aluminum and / or steel. Aluminum can minimize weight, while steel can offer particularly high robustness. A plastic can also be used, which can advantageously be lightweight and / or printable.Alternatively or additionally, the front mounting area and / or rear mounting area, in particular the mount, the support (or supports), and / or the sensor mounting connection, etc., can be 3D printed. This advantageously allows for rapid manufacturing and / or rebuild (even on-site), for example, in the event of contamination. This can optimize efficiency and / or costs. Instead of or in addition to decontamination, further measurements can be taken as quickly as possible. A cylindrical and / or hollow cylindrical shape can be easily (3D) printed and / or reduce weight.

[0019] It is also conceivable that the sensor holder, in particular the front receiving area and / or rear mounting area and / or the (further) support and / or connecting part, has recesses at least in sections, which are arranged in particular over an (outwardly facing) surface of the front receiving area and / or rear mounting area.

[0020] The front receiving area and / or rear mounting area and / or the (further) support and / or connecting part can have one or more recesses and preferably be designed (at least partially) as hollow bodies. This can reduce weight and / or costs. Contamination can also be minimized. Manufacturing, especially by 3D printing, can also be accelerated. The recess(s) can preferably have a longitudinally extended shape (along the direction of advance). This allows for a comparatively significant weight saving, especially without significantly affecting stiffness and / or the area moment of inertia. Preferably, the recesses can be distributed (essentially) uniformly over the surface. The recess(s) can be elongated, and in particular, their longitudinal axis can be oriented along the direction of advance.The recess can have a rectangular base, particularly with rounded and / or chamfered corners. This can optimize stability and / or the area moment of inertia. The recess(s) can facilitate simplified assembly (access) and / or maintenance (suspension option) and / or decontamination (e.g., penetration into hollow bodies for cleaning, especially with liquids such as acid).

[0021] Within the scope of the invention, it is optionally possible that the sensor holder, in particular (only or exclusively) the rear mounting area, has at least one support means which is configured to mount and / or guide the sensor holder, in particular at a distance relative to an inwardly facing surface of an inner volume surrounding the sensor holder, movably along and / or against the direction of propulsion.

[0022] At least two, three, or a plurality of support means can be provided. Preferably, the support means is provided (at least and / or only) at the lower (or downward-facing) end of the sensor holder and / or the (further) connecting part. This allows for guided insertion and / or removal and / or enables it with minimal contact. It is possible to provide support means only at the lower end. This reduces overall contamination. The thrust device can be designed (solely) to prevent the sensor holder and / or the sensor measuring system from tipping over (and thus from contacting the internal volume). The support means (or means) can (each) have a support arm designed to provide a distance between the sensor holder and / or the sensor measuring system.The support arm can be arranged essentially perpendicular to the direction of travel on the sensor mount and / or the (further) connecting part. The support arm can have a (rotatable) axis on which the support element can be attached (reversibly detachable, e.g., via a screw connection). For example, the support element can be designed as a wheel or tire. This allows for low friction. Alternatively or additionally, the support element can be designed as a sliding unit, which can minimize snagging and / or jamming. Preferably, the support element and / or the support arm can be made of a metal, such as lightweight aluminum. Preferably, the support element and / or the support arm can be 3D printable and / or 3D printed. This allows for rapid and / or on-site remanufacturing.Alternatively or additionally, the support element and / or the support arm can be designed for single use and / or as a disposable product. Since preferably (only) the support element and / or the support arm may be exposed to contamination, the overall efficiency and / or environmental friendliness can (nevertheless) be optimized. The support element and / or the support arm can preferably be reversibly detachable, in particular on the sensor mount and / or the (further) connecting part, for example via a screw connection and / or clips. It can be provided that the support element, especially in the case of a round design as a wheel or tire, is easily decontaminated.

[0023] For example, the material can be ground down on the outside to facilitate (simple and / or efficient) decontamination. The support element, particularly in the case of a round design as a wheel or tire, can have a diameter between 1 mm and 50 mm, specifically between 5 mm and 30 mm, specifically between 7 mm and 20 mm, specifically between 9 mm and 16 mm, specifically between 10 mm and 15 mm, and specifically between 12 mm and 14 mm. This allows for optimized positioning, insertion, and / or removal, especially since interruptions (e.g., milling grooves) and / or grooves (e.g., due to construction) on an inward-facing and / or parallel surface of the longitudinally extended internal volume, along which the support elements slide, can be compensated for and / or bridged.Preferably, (multiple) support elements and / or support arms can be evenly distributed, particularly along the circumference. For example, a ring of three support elements and / or support arms (mounted equidistantly along the circumference) can be provided at the rear mounting area.

[0024] Furthermore, it may be provided within the scope of the invention that the sensor holder, in particular the front receiving area, has a coupling means (e.g. external thread) which can be connected to a counter-coupling means (or an internal thread) of a support unit, wherein the support unit has at least one support means (e.g. analogous to the support means and / or support means arm) which is configured to mount and / or guide the sensor holder, in particular spaced apart from an inwardly facing surface of an inner volume surrounding the sensor holder, movably along or against the direction of advance.

[0025] Accordingly, the support unit can be reversibly detachable, flexible, and / or mountable as needed, serving as (additional) protection for the sensor. This allows the sensor and / or sensor holder to be protected, particularly mechanically and / or from contamination, for example, when the shape or layout of the internal volume is unknown. The support unit can be located at the front end of the sensor holder and / or form its frontmost part, especially in a mounting configuration. Therefore, the support unit can be (at least partially) identical and / or analogous to the support element, particularly with a corresponding support arm. The support unit can thus be designed to guide the sensor holder within the longitudinally extended internal volume.

[0026] The above problem is solved according to a second aspect by a radiation measurement system according to the invention for an internal volume, in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit, comprising: - a sensor designed to measure radiation, - a sensor holder according to the first aspect, in which the sensor can be arranged.

[0027] Accordingly, the radiation measurement system can be configured to measure radioactive radiation. The sensor can be arranged in the sensor holder, particularly in a mounting configuration. The sensor measurement system can therefore be inserted into the internal volume, e.g., a pipe in a building, particularly with the sensor and / or the sensor holder leading the way. The radiation measurement system can preferably be (at least partially) modular in design, wherein the sensor holder, the support, the connecting part, the further support(s), and / or the further connecting parts are preferably interchangeable and / or modular and / or reversibly detachable. Preferably, the radiation measurement system can be provided without a support means. This is particularly advantageous for shorter internal volumes (e.g.,The radiation measurement system may be advantageously and / or provided for in the case of pipes, for example, with a length of less than 15 m, in particular less than 10 m, advantageously less than 8 m, preferably less than 6 m, and in particular less than 4 m. The radiation measurement system may have a corresponding (total) length. The radiation measurement system may be designed to be expandable, in particular by adding (one or more) connecting part(s) and / or (further) support part(s), especially on the rear side (against the direction of advance) (modularly), in order to advantageously increase the total length of the radiation measurement system (and thus its range).

[0028] This results in the same advantages with regard to a radiation measurement system according to the second aspect as have already been described with regard to a sensor holder according to the first aspect.

[0029] With regard to the present invention, it is conceivable that the radiation measurement system has one or more (further) carriers which can be reversibly and detachably arranged on a sensor mounting connection of the sensor holder, in particular at an end of the sensor holder facing away from the direction of travel, preferably at the rear end of the rear mounting area.

[0030] Accordingly, the support, in particular a (further) support section, can be arranged (connectable or connected, attachable or fastened) on the sensor mount (reversibly detachable). A (further) support section can, for example, have a length between 10 and 400 cm, in particular between 20 and 200 cm, in particular between 40 and 150 cm, in particular between 60 and 120 cm, in particular between 80 and 100 cm. This allows for good storage (when not in use), easy transport, and / or high efficiency (in the case of incremental and / or modular extension). The (further) supports and / or connecting parts can be identical and / or interchangeable. This can increase costs and / or efficiency. In the simplest case, the (further) support section can be (essentially) cylindrical, in particular hollow cylindrical.

[0031] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the carrier has a carrier part which can be reversibly and detachably connected to the sensor mounting connection, whereby the carrier part is designed to be rigid.

[0032] Accordingly, the support, the (additional) support section, the sensor mount, and / or the sensor measuring system can be designed in a lance-like and / or lance-like configuration, particularly in a crane-like manner or like a crane boom. This allows the support to be extended modularly and / or incrementally by mounting (additional) support sections and / or connecting parts, particularly alternately. This allows the length to increase incrementally. This can be done before insertion, especially if the required length is already known. It can also be provided that this is carried out during insertion, particularly if the insertion is interrupted. Therefore, the drive unit (in addition to providing drive) can also be configured to enable (modular) extension of the support, for example, through appropriate access points and / or by being designed as a linear motor.The (additional) support part and / or connecting part can be designed symmetrically (especially with respect to the direction of advance), and in particular cylindrically and / or hollow cylindrically. The (additional) support part and / or connecting part can have one or more recesses, which are designed analogously to those above (see sensor mount). The sensor mount connection can preferably be configured for (reversibly detachable) connection with an (additional) support part. The sensor mount connection can have an internal or external thread, which can engage with an external or internal thread of the (additional) support part. The sensor mount connection can be...whose threads, relative to the radial direction, are arranged externally (external thread) and / or have a large length along the drive direction compared to a smaller diameter along the radial direction (quasi-large stroke-to-bore ratio). This can improve stability and / or the area moment of inertia. For example, the length (of the sensor holder connection, e.g., a circular thread) can be at least twice the diameter, in particular at least three times, for example at least four times, preferably at least five times, and most preferably at least six times. For example, the sensor holder connection can have an external or internal thread, and the (further) support part can have a complementary internal or external thread. It can be provided that the sensor holder connection itself is metallurgically bonded to the sensor holder.This can improve stability and / or area moment of inertia. Alternatively, the sensor mounting connection can be designed as a single piece and / or separately, for example as a C-shaped component. This allows for different diameters. The sensor mounting connection can also be designed with a support element. Therefore, it is possible to include, for example in a kit, one sensor mounting connection with and one without a support element. This allows for flexible and / or modular installation.

[0033] The components (sensor holder, front mounting area, rear mounting area, sensor holder connection, support means, carrier, [further] support part and / or [further] connecting part) can preferably be rigidly designed, made of a metal, in particular aluminum, and be modular, expandable, interchangeable, decontaminated, straight, longitudinally extended, linear and / or 3D-printable. This can optimize flexibility and / or expandability. Aluminum can save weight and / or (still) provide a high area moment of inertia. Aluminum can also be processed by a 3D printer and / or (comparatively) efficiently decontaminated. This allows for fast and / or efficient and / or widely available (re)production.

[0034] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous for the support to have at least one further support part and at least one (further) connecting part, wherein the at least one further support part can be arranged on the support part via the (further) connecting part, in particular reversibly detachable, wherein preferably the support and / or the (further) support part is designed to be rigid and / or straight.

[0035] "Arrangeable" can mean that the components are arranged, connectable, linked, attachable, and / or fastened to one another. In this context, several or a multitude of (additional) support parts and / or connecting parts can be arranged modularly and / or reversibly to form the support. Accordingly, the support and / or the sensor measurement system can be designed to be modular and / or expandable. The (additional) support and / or the (additional) connecting element can be designed for (reversibly detachable) connection to one another. The (additional) support can have an internal or external thread (at one or both ends along the direction of advance) which can engage with an external or internal thread (at one or both ends along the direction of advance) of the (additional) connecting element. The support or...whose threads, with respect to the radial direction, are arranged externally (external thread) and / or have a large length along the drive direction compared to a smaller diameter along the radial direction. This can improve the stability and / or the area moment of inertia. For example, the length (of the thread) can be greater than the diameter by at least a factor of 2, in particular by at least a factor of 3, for example at least by a factor of 4, preferably at least by a factor of 5, and most preferably by at least a factor of 6.

[0036] Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the radiation measurement system has a propulsion unit which is designed to position the sensor and / or the sensor holder.

[0037] The propulsion unit can have one or more linear motors that act on the (additional) support section and / or connecting section. This allows the support and / or the sensor holder to be moved into or out of the internal volume (insertion or retraction). The propulsion unit can preferably be electrically powered. This can enable environmentally friendly and / or quiet operation. Alternatively, the propulsion unit can have an internal combustion engine, which can enable (comparatively) self-sufficient operation. Alternatively or additionally, especially for emergency operation, the propulsion unit can have a (mechanical) crank system, allowing for manual movement.

[0038] Within the scope of the invention, it may be provided that the radiation measurement system has a data connection, in particular a (modular and / or multi-part) cable, which is set up for data transmission from the sensor to a control unit of the radiation measurement system, wherein in particular the control unit is arranged at the end of the radiation measurement system facing away from the direction of travel, preferably outside the internal volume.

[0039] The cable can be designed in multiple sections (as cable segments) and is preferably located within the (further) support section. Each support section can therefore have a corresponding cable segment, preferably of essentially identical length. The cable can thus be modular and / or extendable, particularly via plug connections at the ends. Preferably, the cable and / or cable segments can be arranged centrally, symmetrically, and / or centrally within the support or support sections. The cable and / or cable segments can be replaceable (particularly in case of contamination). The cable can connect the sensor to a control unit and / or propulsion unit for data communication. The control unit can operate the sensor and / or the propulsion unit, particularly by controlling and / or regulating it. This allows the method according to the third aspect to be implemented (at least partially).

[0040] The above problem is solved according to a third aspect by a method according to the invention for carrying out a radiation measurement with a radiation measurement system (according to the second aspect) in an internal volume, in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit, comprising: - Providing a radiation measurement system in accordance with the second aspect, - (Stepwise and / or continuous) insertion of the sensor and sensor holder (especially according to the first aspect) into an internal volume, in particular a pipe, wall or conduit, - Positioning the sensor at at least one measurement position within the internal volume, - Measuring, with the sensor, a radiation of the internal volume, in particular of a pipe, a wall or a conduit, for example of a nuclear facility.

[0041] The internal volume can be, for example, specific to a (horizontal) hollow cylindrical tube within a wall, such as in a nuclear facility, e.g., a nuclear power plant. A wall opening can provide access to the internal volume to allow at least partial insertion of the radiation measurement system. The internal volume can have a diameter (perpendicular to the direction of advance) of, for example, 100 to 130 mm. The sensor mount and / or support can be inserted (at least partially) into and / or removed from the internal volume along the direction of advance, preferably without contact with the internal volume or with any surface of the internal volume (that surrounds the sensor mount and / or support). This optimizes safety.It may be provided that a user extends the support, in particular by (modularly) adding further support components and / or connecting parts. For example, positioning and / or measuring and / or extending can be carried out step by step and / or alternately. It may also be provided that assembly or extension, until a mounting configuration is preferably reached, is carried out before insertion. Provisioning can include arranging a sensor in the sensor holder to obtain a mounting configuration. Furthermore, the support can be positioned on the sensor holder, in particular via the sensor holder connection. Positioning can involve (step-by-step) movement along the direction of advance, in particular guiding and / or supporting via the at least one support means.The measurement process can involve data transmission via a connection, particularly a cable, between the sensor and the control unit. This allows the radioactive radiation measured by the sensor (or the measured values) to be transmitted to the control unit.

[0042] This results in the same advantages with regard to a method according to the invention in accordance with the third aspect as have already been described with regard to a sensor holder according to the invention in accordance with the first aspect and / or a radiation measurement system according to the invention in accordance with the third aspect.

[0043] It is also conceivable that, particularly after measurement, at least one further positioning and / or at least one further measurement is carried out, preferably to enable radiation measurement at a multitude of measurement positions.

[0044] This can be done alternately; in particular, (further) positioning and (further) measuring can alternate.

[0045] It is also conceivable that, particularly after measurement and / or at least one further measurement, a modular extension of the radiation measurement system is carried out, in particular by means of a support, especially by arranging at least one further connecting part and / or further support part at an end of the radiation measurement system, in particular of the support, facing away from the direction of advance.

[0046] Accordingly, the carrier and / or the sensor measurement system can be expanded modularly, in particular by (additional) carrier parts and / or (additional) connecting parts and / or a large number of additional carrier parts and / or connecting parts.

[0047] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which several exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. The drawings illustrate this by way of example. Fig. 1 a radiation measurement system, Fig. 2 a carrier, Fig. 3 a radiation measurement system in a nuclear facility and Fig. 4 a procedure.

[0048] The figures use identical reference numerals for the same technical features, even for different embodiments.

[0049] Fig. Figure 1 shows a sensor measurement system 200 comprising a sensor holder 100 for a radiation measurement system 200 for measuring 140 in a longitudinally extended internal volume U (see also Fig. 4), in particular comprising a pipe, a wall or a conduit: - a front receiving area 10, which is designed to receive a sensor 210 and is formed along a thrust direction V, - a rear mounting area 20, which is arranged behind the front receiving area 10 in the direction of propulsion V, wherein the rear mounting area 20 can be mechanically connected to a carrier 220 of a radiation measurement system 200.

[0050] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous that the front receiving area 10 is configured to receive a sensor 210 in a mounting configuration I, wherein the sensor 210 can be arranged to float freely at least partially in the mounting configuration I, wherein in particular the sensor 210 can be arranged to be exposed at least in a section 211 of the sensor 210 located forward in the direction of propulsion V and / or is not enclosed by the front receiving area 10.

[0051] Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the front receiving area 10 is designed to be free-floating, wherein in particular the front receiving area 10 has no support means 30 and / or is not surrounded by the sensor holder 100, in particular components of the sensor holder 100, in radial direction R perpendicular to the direction of travel V.

[0052] Within the scope of the invention, it may be provided that the sensor holder 100, in particular the front receiving area 10, has a round cross-section, which is in particular designed to be complementary to the sensor 210 and / or fully encloses the sensor 210 in the mounting configuration I.

[0053] It is also conceivable that the sensor holder 100, in particular the front receiving area 10 and / or rear mounting area 20, is designed at least partially as a hollow body, in particular cylindrical and / or hollow cylindrical.

[0054] It is also conceivable that the sensor holder 100, in particular the front receiving area 10 and / or rear mounting area 20, has at least partially recesses 11, 21 which are arranged in particular over a surface of the front receiving area 10 and / or rear mounting area 20.

[0055] Within the scope of the invention, it is optionally possible that the sensor holder 100, in particular the rear mounting area 20, has at least one support means 30 which is configured to mount the sensor holder 100, in particular at a distance relative to an inwardly facing surface of an inner volume U surrounding the sensor holder 100, movably along or against the direction of advance V.

[0056] Furthermore, a radiation measurement system 200 according to the invention is shown for an internal volume U, in particular of a pipe, a wall or a conduit, comprising: - a sensor 210, which is set up to measure 140 of radiation, - a sensor holder 100 according to one of the preceding claims in which the sensor 210 can be arranged.

[0057] As particularly in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, it may be provided within the scope of the invention that the radiation measurement system 200 has a carrier 220 which can be reversibly and detachably arranged on a sensor mounting connection 22 of the sensor mounting 100, in particular on an end of the sensor mounting 100 facing away from the direction of travel V.

[0058] With regard to the present invention, it is conceivable that the carrier 220 has a carrier part 221 which can be reversibly and detachably connected to the sensor holder connection 22, wherein the carrier part 221 is designed to be rigid.

[0059] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the support 220 has at least one further support part 223 and at least one connecting part 222, wherein the at least one further support part 223 can be arranged on the support part 221 via the connecting part 222, in particular reversibly detachable, wherein preferably the support 220 is designed to be rigid and / or straight.

[0060] How Fig. As shown in Figure 3, it can be advantageous for the radiation measurement system 200 to have a drive unit 240, which is set up for positioning 130 the sensor 210 and / or the sensor holder 100.

[0061] Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the radiation measurement system 200 has a data connection 230, in particular a cable 230, which is set up for data transmission from the sensor 210 to a control unit ECU of the radiation measurement system 200, wherein in particular the control unit ECU is arranged at the end of the radiation measurement system 200 facing away from the direction of travel V, preferably outside the internal volume U.

[0062] Fig. Figure 4 shows an exemplary method for carrying out a radiation measurement with a radiation measurement system 200 in an internal volume U, in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit, comprising: - Providing 110 of a radiation measurement system 200 according to one of the preceding claims, - Inserting 120 of the sensor 210 and the sensor holder 100 into an internal volume U, in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit, - Positioning 130 of the sensor 210 at at least one measuring position in the internal volume U, - Measuring 140, with the sensor 210, a radiation of the internal volume U, in particular of a pipe, a wall or a conduit, for example of a nuclear power plant.

[0063] It is also conceivable that, in particular after measuring 130, at least one further positioning 150 and / or at least one further measuring 160 is carried out, preferably to enable a radiation measurement at a plurality of measuring positions.

[0064] Within the scope of the invention, it may be provided that, in particular after measuring 140 and / or at least one further measuring 160, a modular extension 170 of the radiation measuring system 200 is carried out, in particular by means of a support 220, in particular by arranging at least one further connecting part 222 and / or further support part 223 at an end of the radiation measuring system 200, in particular of the support 220, that is opposite the direction of advance V. Reference symbol list 10 front recording area 11, 21 exceptions 20 rear mounting area 22 Sensor mounting connector 30 shoring devices 100 sensor holders 110 Provide 120 Introduce 130 Positioning 140 trade fairs 150 more positioning 160 more measurements 170 Expanding the radiation measurement system 200 radiation measurement system 210 Sensor 211 front section 220 carriers 221 Carrier part 222 Connecting part 223 further support part 230 data connection 240 drive unit ECU control unit I Assembly configuration Nuclear power plant (NPP), e.g., nuclear power plant R radial direction U Internal volume V Direction of advance

Claims

[1] Sensor holder (100) for a radiation measurement system (200) for measuring (140) in a longitudinally extended internal volume (U), in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit, comprising: - a front receiving area (10) which is designed to receive a sensor (210) and is formed along a thrust direction (V), - a rear mounting area (20) which is arranged in the direction of travel (V) behind the front receiving area (10), wherein the rear mounting area (20) can be mechanically connected to a carrier (220) of a radiation measurement system (200). [2] Sensor holder (100) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the front receiving area (10) is configured to receive a sensor (210) in a mounting configuration (I), wherein the sensor (210) can be arranged to be free-floating at least partially in the mounting configuration (I), wherein in particular the sensor (210) can be arranged to be free-floating at least in a section (211) of the sensor (210) located at the front in the direction of travel (V) and / or is not enclosed by the front receiving area (10). [3] Sensor holder (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the front receiving area (10) is designed to be free-floating, wherein in particular the front receiving area (10) does not have a support means (30) and / or is not surrounded by the sensor holder (100), in particular components of the sensor holder (100), in a radial direction (R) perpendicular to the direction of travel (V). [4] Sensor holder (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the sensor holder (100), in particular the front receiving area (10), has a round cross-section which is in particular complementary to the sensor (210) and / or fully encloses the sensor (210) in the mounting configuration (I). [5] Sensor holder (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the sensor holder (100), in particular the front receiving area (10) and / or rear mounting area (20), is designed at least partially as a hollow body, in particular cylindrical and / or hollow cylindrical. [6] Sensor holder (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the sensor holder (100), in particular the front receiving area (10) and / or rear mounting area (20), has at least partially recesses (11, 21) which are arranged in particular over a surface of the front receiving area (10) and / or rear mounting area (20). [7] Sensor holder (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the sensor holder (100), in particular the rear mounting area (20), has at least one support means (30) which is designed to mount the sensor holder (100) movably, in particular relative to an inwardly facing surface of an internal volume (U) surrounding the sensor holder (100), along or against the direction of advance (V). [8] Radiation measurement system (200) for an internal volume (U), in particular of a pipe, a wall or a conduit, comprising: - a sensor (210) designed to measure (140) radiation, - a sensor holder (100) according to one of the preceding claims in which the sensor (210) can be arranged. [9] Radiation measurement system (200) according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that the radiation measurement system (200) has a carrier (220) which can be reversibly and detachably arranged on a sensor holder connection (22) of the sensor holder (100), in particular on an end of the sensor holder (100) facing away from the direction of advance (V). [10] Radiation measurement system (200) according to one of the preceding claims 8 or 9, characterized by , that the carrier (220) has a carrier part (221) which can be reversibly detachably connected to the sensor mounting connection (22), wherein the carrier part (221) is designed to be rigid. [11] Radiation measurement system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims 8 to 10, characterized bythat the support (220) has at least one further support part (223) and at least one connecting part (222), wherein the at least one further support part (223) can be arranged on the support part (221) via the connecting part (222), in particular reversibly detachable, wherein preferably the support (220) is designed to be rigid and / or straight. [12] Radiation measurement system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims 8 to 11, characterized by , that the radiation measurement system (200) has a drive unit (240) which is designed to position (130) the sensor (210) and / or the sensor holder (100). [13] Radiation measurement system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims 8 to 12, characterized by, that the radiation measurement system (200) has a data connection (230), in particular a cable (230), which is set up for data transmission from the sensor (210) to a control unit (ECU) of the radiation measurement system (200), wherein in particular the control unit (ECU) is arranged at the end of the radiation measurement system (200) facing away from the direction of advance (V), preferably outside the internal volume (U). [14] Method for performing a radiation measurement with a radiation measurement system (200) in an internal volume (U), in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit, comprising: - Providing (110) a radiation measurement system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims 8 to 13, - Inserting (120) the sensor (210) and the sensor holder (100) into an internal volume (U), in particular a pipe, a wall or a conduit, - Positioning (130) the sensor (210) at at least one measuring position in the internal volume (U), - Measuring (140) with the sensor (210) a radiation of the internal volume (U), in particular of a pipe, a wall or a conduit, for example of a nuclear power plant (NPP). [15] Method according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that, in particular after measuring (140) and / or at least one further measuring (160), a modular extension (170) of the radiation measuring system (200) is carried out, in particular by means of a support (220), in particular by arranging at least one further connecting part (222) and / or further support part (223) at an end of the radiation measuring system (200), in particular of the support (220), that is opposite the direction of advance (V).

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