Systems and methods for monitoring a powergeneration module assembly after a powergeneration module shutdown event

Abstract

The embodiments relate to providing a user interface (UI) that simplifies and streamlines the process of monitoring critical PGM parameters after a power-generation module (PGM) assembly has been shut down. The UI displays indicators in real time corresponding to one or more post-shutdown PGM parameters. The UI provides indicators of whether the post-shutdown PGM parameters meet post-shutdown criteria of the PGM assembly. When the post-shutdown PGM parameters do not meet the post-shutdown criteria, a user alert is provided to the user. Additionally, a protocol may be provided to the user. In some embodiments, the protocol enables the user to return the PGM assembly to a state that satisfies the post-shutdown criteria. The protocol may be a safety protocol and / or an asset protection protocol.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] [Claim for priority]

[0002] The present application claims the benefit of priority under U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 205,084 filed on August 14, 2015, titled 'Systems and methods for the management of operator notifications and post-shutdown displays for modular fusion-based power plants', and the benefit of priority under U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 040,804 filed on February 10, 2016, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] [Government Interest]

[0004] The present invention was made with government support under Contract No. DE-NE0000633 granted by the Department of Energy. The government holds certain rights to the present invention.

[0005] [Technology Field]

[0006] The present application relates to a power generation module, and more specifically to monitoring one or more power generation modules after a power generation module shutdown event, but is not limited thereto. Background Technology

[0007] After the reactor operation is shut down, that is, when the effective neutron multiplication rate of the core drops below criticality (k eff <1), the core generates at least heat and radioactivity. Furthermore, the core can continuously generate pressure within the containment vessel housing the reactor, as well as within the piping involved in reactor cooling and steam generation. Therefore, it is important to monitor the condition of the reactor even when it is in a subcritical state.

[0008] Monitoring subcritical reactors requires the simultaneous and continuous monitoring of numerous parameters. Furthermore, when reactors are incorporated into power plants, the safety of various power plant assets that may be exposed to the hazardous effects of the reactor's residual heat, radioactivity, and pressure must also be monitored continuously and simultaneously. Such monitoring requires significant attention from reactor operators. As the number of reactors incorporated into power plants increases, the demands on these operator efforts are growing. The following disclosure is provided for these and other concerns. Prior art literature

[0009] U.S. Patent Publication No. US4,585,609 (April 29, 1986) U.S. Patent Publication No. US5,768,119 (June 16, 1998) Brief explanation of the drawing

[0011] Preferred and alternative examples of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings. FIG. 1a provides a schematic diagram of a power generation module assembly consistent with various embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 1b provides a schematic diagram of a modular power plant consistent with various embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 1c provides a schematic diagram of the sensor data bus, modular protection system, modular control system network, and control room of FIG. 1b. FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a computer device that can be included in the modular power plant shown in FIG. 1b. FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic flowchart of a process for operating a modular power plant according to at least one of various embodiments. FIG. 4a illustrates a schematic flowchart of a process for monitoring shutdown-post-power generation module parameters related to containment isolation of a power generation module assembly according to at least one of various embodiments. FIG. 4b illustrates a schematic flowchart of a process for monitoring shutdown-post-power generation module parameters related to the responsiveness control of a power generation module assembly according to at least one of various embodiments. FIG. 4c illustrates a schematic flowchart of a process for monitoring shutdown-post-power generation module parameters related to core cooling of a power generation module assembly according to at least one of various embodiments. FIG. 5a illustrates a user interface used to monitor a power generation module assembly after a power generation module shutdown event, according to at least one of various embodiments. FIG. 5b illustrates the user interface of FIG. 5a that provides a user alert to the user. FIG. 5c illustrates the user interface of FIG. 5a that provides user alerts and protocols to the user. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0012] Various embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification. The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the invention by way of example. However, the embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and should not be presumed to be limited only to the embodiments presented herein. Rather, such embodiments are provided to ensure that this disclosure is thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the embodiments to those skilled in the art. Above all, various embodiments may be methods, systems, media, or devices. Accordingly, various embodiments may be entirely hardware embodiments, entirely software embodiments, or embodiments combining software and hardware aspects. Accordingly, the detailed description below is not intended to limit the invention.

[0013] Throughout the specification and claims, unless otherwise specified by the context, the following terms have the meanings that are clearly related herein. The term “the present invention” refers to the description of the invention, claims, and drawings related to the present application. The phrase “in one embodiment” as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but may do so. Also, the phrase “in another embodiment” as used herein does not necessarily refer to different embodiments, but may do so. Accordingly, as described below, various embodiments of the present invention may be easily combined without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0014] Furthermore, the phrase "or" as used herein is the inclusive operator "or" and has the same meaning as the expression "and / or" unless explicitly stated in the context. The phrase "based on" is used to mean that, unless clearly different in the context, it does not exclude other additional elements that are not described, but rather allows for a basis for such additional elements. Additionally, throughout the specification, the meanings of "one (a, an)" and "the" include plural references. The meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on."

[0015] In summary, the embodiments relate to monitoring a power-generation module (PGM) assembly after a PGM assembly shutdown event. In some embodiments, the PGM assembly may include a reactor having a reactor core that generates at least one of heat, pressure, or radiation. The PGM assembly may be included in an array of PGM assemblies included in a modular power plant, such as a modular nuclear power plant.

[0016] A human systems interface (HSI) is provided to a user or operator of a PGM assembly or modular power plant. In various embodiments, the HSI may include one or more user interfaces (UIs). The one or more UIs may be provided to the user through one or more display devices of one or more computer devices.

[0017] The one or more UIs mentioned above simplify and / or streamline the process of monitoring critical and / or non-critical PGM parameters after a PGM assembly shutdown event. Each UI may correspond to a specific PGM assembly included within a PGM assembly array. In various embodiments, each UI may be automatically provided on a specific display device corresponding to a specific PGM assembly.

[0018] In some embodiments, UIs may display indicators corresponding to one or more post-shutdown-PGM parameters in real-time or near real-time. UIs may provide indicators of whether one or more post-shutdown-PGM parameters meet post-shutdown criteria. Post-shutdown criteria may include safety and / or asset protection criteria. In addition, one or more PGM parameter thresholds may be based on post-shutdown criteria.

[0019] In at least one embodiment, when one or more post-shutdown-PGM parameters do not meet the post-shutdown criteria, for example, when PGM parameters exceed corresponding PGM parameter thresholds and / or fall below corresponding PGM parameter thresholds, one or more user alerts are provided to the user. The user alerts may be visual and / or audible user alerts. Upon acknowledgment by the user, a protocol may be provided to the user through the selection of a user selection within the UI. In some embodiments, the protocol enables the user to restore the PGM assembly to a state that meets the post-shutdown-PGM criteria. The protocol may be a safety protocol and / or an asset protection protocol.

[0020] Urban operating environment

[0021] FIG. 1a provides a schematic diagram of a power-generation module (PGM) assembly (100) consistent with various embodiments disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the PGM assembly (100) is a modular reactor assembly, but other embodiments are not so limited, and the PGM assembly (100) may be any modular assembly that generates fluid energy (heat). In some embodiments, the PGM assembly (100) is a modular fission reactor assembly. In at least one embodiment, the PGM assembly (100) is a modular fusion reactor assembly.

[0022] The PGM assembly (100) may be housed in a PGM bay (144). The PGM bay (144) may include a cooling tank (146) of water or some other material having thermal properties that enable cooling of the PGM assembly (100). At least a portion of the PGM assembly (100) may be submerged in the cooling tank (146).

[0023] The PGM assembly (100) includes a PGM core (102). The PGM core (102) may be any device, assembly, device, or configuration that can be used to generate heat in a controllable manner. In some embodiments, the PGM core (102) may be a nuclear reactor core, such as a fission reactor core, but is not limited thereto. The PGM core (102) may be immersed in a PGM coolant (148). In at least one embodiment, the PGM coolant (148) comprises water or any other material that enables the flow of heat (generated by the PGM core (102)) away from the PGM core (102).

[0024] In some embodiments, the PGM assembly (100) includes a core shroud (134) that at least partially restricts, channeles, or guides the flow of the PGM coolant (148). As shown in FIG. 1a, the PGM core (102) may be at least partially surrounded by the core shroud (134). The PGM core (102), the core shroud (134), and the PGM coolant (148) are contained within a pressure vessel (104).

[0025] In various embodiments, the PGM core (102) generates heat transferred to the PGM coolant (148). As illustrated by the flow arrow in FIG. 1a, heating the PGM coolant (148) within the pressure vessel (104) generates a generally vertical circular convection current of the PGM coolant (148). The core shroud (148) at least partially restricts, channeles, or guides the generally vertical circular convection of the PGM coolant (148). The pressurizer (108) regulates the internal pressure within the pressure vessel (104) resulting from at least the heat and / or convection of the PGM coolant (148).

[0026] The PGM core (102) heats a portion of the PGM coolant (148) in the lower plenum (136) of the core shroud (134). The heated PGM coolant (148) flows upward from the shroud riser (138). As the PGM coolant (148) flows upward, the heated PGM coolant (148) provides heat to a number of steam generators (122). At least due to this heat exchange, as the PGM coolant (148) flows out of the shroud riser (138), the PGM coolant (148) is cooled. As illustrated by the flow arrows in FIG. 1a, once outside the shroud riser (138), the PGM coolant (148) generally flows downward between the core shroud (134) and the pressure vessel (104). Convection draws the cooled PGM coolant (148) back to the core shroud (134) near the lower plenum (136). The PGM core (102) reheats the PGM coolant (148), thereby causing the convection to continue circulating and cooling the PGM core (102).

[0027] The pressure vessel (102) may be housed within a containment vessel (106). The containment vessel (106) may contain any material contained in the PGM core (102) as well as the PGM coolant (148), thereby ensuring containment of the material within the pressure vessel (102). In some embodiments, the PGM assembly (100) includes a plurality of PGM vent valves (110) and / or a plurality of PGM recirculation valves (118) to relieve pressure within the pressure vessel (102) and / or to dissipate excess heat from the pressure vessel (102).

[0028] Feedwater may flow in a circuit comprising steam generators (122) and electric generators (not shown in FIG. 1a). Within the steam generators (122), feedwater is heated to generate steam. The generated steam exits from a steam header, carrying the transferred heat away from the PGM assembly (100). A number of steam isolation valves control the steam flow away from the PGM assembly (100). The steam may be sent to electric generators (but not limited to) turbine generators via a steam bus (but not limited to) such as the steam bus (160) in FIG. 1b to generate electric power or other forms of usable power.

[0029] After the energy in the steam generates power, the return of the cooled feedwater to the PGM assembly (100) can be controlled through a number of feedwater isolation valves (112). The cooled feedwater is returned to the steam generators (122) through the feedwater headers (124) to complete the circuit.

[0030] In at least some embodiments, the PGM core (102) may continue to generate heat even after the PGM assembly (100) has been shut down. For example, in embodiments where the PGM core (102) includes a reactor core, the reactor core may continue to generate heat during the decay period associated with spent fuel within the reactor core. The heat generated after the shutdown of the PGM assembly (100) may be decay heat. Accordingly, to ensure that the PGM core (102) and other components of the PGM assembly (100) do not overheat due to at least decay heat, the power generated by the PGM core (102) may be dissipated.

[0031] In some embodiments, to dissipate decay heat, the PGM assembly (100) includes a decay heat removal system (DHRS). The DHRS may include a plurality of DHRS valves (116) as well as a plurality of DHRS heat exchangers (120) submerged in a cooling tank (146) of the PGM bay (144).

[0032] During a shutdown of the PGM assembly (100), or during another event where it is desirable not to supply steam and / or heated feedwater to the electric generators, a number of steam isolation valves (114) may be closed to prevent steam and / or heated feedwater from flowing to the electric generators. Rather, the steam and / or heated feedwater flows through a number of DHRS heat exchangers (120) and is cooled. The DHRS heat exchangers (120) discharge the superheat to a cooling tank (146). The circular flow of feedwater passing through the decay heat exchangers (120) may be controlled by a number of DHRS valves (116).

[0033] The power generation speed of the PGM core (102) can be controlled by the position of one or more control rods (130). The position of the one or more control rods (130) can be driven by control rod drivers (132).

[0034] The PGM assembly (100) includes a plurality of diagnostic sensors (140) schematically illustrated in FIG. 1a. The diagnostic sensors (140) can detect and monitor various components of the PGM module (100). The diagnostic sensors (140) may include, but are not limited to, various types of sensors such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, valve configuration sensors, control rod position sensors, radiation sensors, fluid and gas flow sensors, or any other sensors that monitor parameters of the PGM assembly (100). The diagnostic sensors (140) provide sensor output signals to the sensor data bus (142). The diagnostic sensors (140) may include safety sensors or safety-related sensors as well as asset protection-related sensors.

[0035] FIG. 1b provides a schematic diagram of a modular power plant (150) consistent with various embodiments disclosed herein. The modular power plant (150) includes a power-generation module (PGM) assembly array (156). The PGM assembly array (156) includes, but is not limited to, one or more PGM assemblies such as a PGM assembly (164). In some embodiments, at least one of the PGM assemblies included in the PGM assembly array (156) may include features similar to the PGM assembly (100) of FIG. 1a. As illustrated in FIG. 1b, in at least one embodiment, the PGM assembly array (156) includes 12 PGM assemblies. However, in other embodiments, the number of PGM assemblies included in the PGM assembly array (156) includes more or fewer than 12 PGM assemblies. A PGM housing (152) may house at least a portion of the PGM assembly array (156).

[0036] In some embodiments, one or more generator housings (154) accommodate a generator array (158). The generator array (158) includes one or more devices that generate electric power or some other form of usable power from steam generated by the PGM assembly array (156). Accordingly, the generator array (158) may include one or more electric generators, such as a turbine generator (176), but is not limited thereto. As illustrated in FIG. 1b, in at least one embodiment, the generator array (158) includes 12 electric generators. However, in other embodiments, the number of generators included in the generator array (158) is greater or less than the number of electric generators. In at least one embodiment, there is a one-to-one correspondence between each PGM assembly included in the PGM assembly array (156) and each generator included in the generator array (158).

[0037] A steam bus (160) can route steam generated by a PGM assembly array (156) to a generator array (158). The steam bus (160) can provide a one-to-one correspondence between the PGM assemblies included in the PGM assembly array (156) and the generators included in the generator array (158). For example, the steam bus (160) can ensure that steam generated by a specific PGM assembly is supplied only to a specific generator. The steam bus (160) can additionally ensure that the steam supplied to a specific generator is generated only by a specific PGM assembly. A power bus (162) can transmit power generated by the modular power plant (150) to other structures.

[0038] The modular power plant (150) may include a sensor data bus (168), a module protection system (MPS) (180), a module control system (MCS) network (198), and a control room (170). As illustrated in FIG. 1b, in at least some embodiments, the MPS (180) and the control room (170) are housed within a PGM housing (152), but other embodiments are not so limited.

[0039] FIG. 1c provides a schematic diagram of the sensor data bus, MPS (180), MCS network (198), and control room of FIG. 1b. The sensor data bus (168) can provide the MPS (180) with data generated by diagnostic sensors, such as (but not limited to) the diagnostic sensors of FIG. 1a, included in each PGM assembly included in the PGM assembly array (156) of FIG. 1b. As illustrated in FIG. 1c, in various embodiments, the sensor data bus (168) can provide the MPS (180) with at least one input corresponding to each of the PGM assemblies included in the PGM assembly array (156).

[0040] The MPS (180) provides at least a portion of the diagnostic sensor data to the control room (170) via a module control system (MCS) network (198). Accordingly, the MPS (180) may be a modular protection data hub. The MPS (180) provides protection for the integrity of the diagnostic sensor data. In various embodiments, the MPS (180) includes at least one of a processor (186), a logic circuit such as (but not limited to) an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) (182) and / or a field programmable gate array (FPGA) (184), and a power supply (188). Various logic circuits may include features similar to the logic circuit (268) discussed with Fig. 2. A processor (186) that may include features similar to the processor (202) and the power supply (188) may include features similar to the power supply (230) discussed with Fig. 2.

[0041] The MPS may further include a memory (190) to store various applications (192) and data (194), such as (but not limited to) diagnostic sensor data provided by the sensor data bus (168). The memory (190) may include features similar to at least the memory (204) discussed with FIG. 2.

[0042] The control room (170) includes at least one computer device (172) and a display device array (174). The computer device (172) may be similar to the computer device (200) discussed with Fig. 2, or may include at least features similar to the computer device (200) discussed with Fig. 2. The display device array (174) includes one or more display devices. At least one of the display devices included in the display device array (174) may be similar to the display (250) discussed with Fig. 2, or may include at least features similar to the display (250) discussed with Fig. 2.

[0043] As illustrated in FIG. 1b, in some embodiments, the display device array (174) includes 12 display devices. In at least one embodiment, there is a one-to-one correspondence between each of the PGM assemblies included in the PGM assembly array (156) and each of the display devices included in the display device array (174). Accordingly, there may be more or fewer than 12 display devices included in the display device (174).

[0044] The data diode (166) allows data to flow from the MPS (180) to the MCS (198), but can protect the MPS (180) by preventing data from flowing from the MCS network (198) to the MPS (180). Accordingly, one or more data buses upstream of the data diode (166) can be protected from data signals downstream of the data diode (166), such as signals from the MCS network (198). In some embodiments, the data buses upstream of the data diode (166) may contain transmission data important for the safe operation of the modular power plant (150), but at least some of the data transmitted by the MCS network (198) is not important for the safe operation of the modular power plant (150).

[0045] Generalized Operations

[0046] Now, the operation of specific aspects of the present invention will be described in relation to FIGS. 3 through 4c. In at least one of the various embodiments, each of the processes (300, 400, 420 and 440) described in relation to FIGS. 3 through 4c, or parts of these processes, may be implemented by a computer device (200) of FIG. 2 (but not limited thereto) and / or executed on a computer device. In other embodiments, these processes or parts of these processes may be implemented by a number of computer devices and / or executed on a number of computer devices. Also, in other embodiments, these processes or parts of these processes may be implemented by one or more module protection systems (MPS), such as the MPS (180) as shown in FIG. 1c, and / or executed on one or more module protection systems (MPS), such as the MPS (180) as shown in FIG. 1c. Additionally, in at least one of the various embodiments, these processes or parts of these processes may be implemented by one or more cloud instances operating in one or more cloud networks, and / or executed on one or more cloud instances operating in one or more cloud networks. However, the embodiments are not so limited, and various combinations of computer devices, MPSs, cloud computers, etc. may be used.

[0047] Descriptions related to processes (300, 400, 420, and 440) additionally refer to the user interface (UI) (500) of FIGS. 5a through 5c. FIG. 5a is used to monitor a power generation module (PGM) assembly, such as (but not limited to) the PGM assembly (100) of FIG. 1a, after a PGM assembly shutdown event, according to at least one of various embodiments. FIG. 5b illustrates the UI (500) of FIG. 5a providing user alerts to the user. FIG. 5c illustrates the UI (500) of FIG. 5a providing user alerts and protocols to the user.

[0048] As discussed herein, the UI (500) is used in connection with the operation of a power plant such as (but not limited to) the modular power plant (150) of FIG. 1b. In some embodiments, a separate UI such as (but not limited to) the UI (500) is used to monitor at least some of the PGM parameters associated with each of the PGM assemblies such as (but not limited to) the PGM assembly (100) of FIG. 1a or the PGM assembly (164) of FIG. 1b, which are included in a PGM assembly array such as (but not limited to) the PGM assembly array (156) of the modular power plant (150) after the PGM assembly is shut down. In such embodiments, the individual UI for each PGM assembly may be provided to an individual display device included in a display device array such as (but not limited to) the display device array (174) of the modular power plant (150), which is included in a control room such as (but not limited to) the control room (170) of the modular power plant (150).

[0049] In various embodiments, an event that shuts down the operation of one or more PGM assemblies may be interchangeably referred to as a trip event or a scram event. Accordingly, various embodiments of the UIs discussed herein can monitor PGM parameters after a PGM assembly trip or scram.

[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic flowchart of a process for operating a modular power plant according to at least some of various embodiments. After the start block, the process (300) begins at the block of reference numeral 302, where the operation of at least one power generation module (PGM) assembly begins. The operation of at least one of the PGM assemblies included in the PGM assembly array (156) of the power plant (150) of FIG. 1b may begin at the block of reference numeral 302. In at least one embodiment, a PGM core such as (but not limited to) the PGM core (102) of the PGM assembly (100) of FIG. 1 may begin to generate heat and / or continue to generate heat at the block of reference numeral 302. For example, control rod drivers (132) may position the control rods (130) outside the PGM core (102) at the block of reference numeral 302.

[0051] In the block of reference number 304, the operation of the PGM assembly is monitored. Monitoring the operation of the PGM assembly may include monitoring at least some of the sensor data provided through diagnostic sensors included in the PGM assembly, such as (but not limited to) the diagnostic sensors (140) of the PGM assembly (100).

[0052] In the determination block of reference numeral 306, it is determined whether a PGM assembly shutdown event is detected. In some embodiments, a PGM assembly scram or trip event may be detected in the block of reference numeral 306. For example, a PGM assembly shutdown event may be detected when the operation of the PGM assembly is out of a safe operating range or when the PGM assembly is to be shut down. Detecting a PGM assembly shutdown event may be based on monitoring the operation of the PGM assembly in at least the block of reference numeral 304. In at least one embodiment, detecting a PGM assembly shutdown event may be based on at least sensor data. If a PGM assembly shutdown event is detected, the process (300) proceeds to the block of reference numeral 308. Otherwise, the process (300) returns to the block of reference numeral 304 and continues to monitor the operation of the PGM assembly.

[0053] In the block of reference number 308, the operation of the PGM assembly is shut down. In some embodiments, the operation of the PGM core is shut down. In at least one embodiment, control rods may be positioned within the PGM core via control rod drivers.

[0054] In the block of reference numeral 310, a number of post-shutdown-PGM parameters are monitored. Since the PGM assembly continues to generate at least one of heat, pressure, or radiation after at least the PGM control rods are positioned within the PGM core, the post-shutdown-PGM parameters may be monitored after a shutdown event. Thus, at least for safety and asset protection purposes, the post-shutdown-PGM parameters are monitored in the block of reference numeral 310.

[0055] Various embodiments for monitoring PGM parameters after shutdown are discussed with at least the processes (400, 420, and 440) of FIGS. 4a, FIGS. 4b, and FIGS. 4c, respectively. However, briefly, in block of reference numeral 310, a human systems interface (HSI) is provided to a user. In various embodiments, the HSI may include one or more user interfaces (UIs).

[0056] In this way, one or more UIs may provide a display that simplifies and / or simplifies the process of monitoring critical and non-critical post-shutdown PGM parameters. The UI may be automatically provided to a display device such as (but not limited to) one of the display devices included in the display device array (174) of the control room (170) of the modular power plant (150) of FIG. 1b and FIG. 1c. In at least one embodiment, an individual UI corresponding to each of the PGM assemblies included in the PGM assembly array (156) is provided to each of the display devices included in the display device array (174). Each display device providing a UI corresponds to the corresponding PGM assembly monitored in the UI.

[0057] The UI may provide information, such as shutdown-post-PGM parameters based on at least some of the sensor data, to a user such as an operator (but not limited thereto). The operator may be an operator of a modular power plant, such as a PGM assembly or a nuclear reactor. The UI may provide additional information to the user, such as user alerts (but not limited thereto), based on sensor data, one or more parameter thresholds, and / or a comparison between said sensor data and said parameter thresholds.

[0058] Multiple display windows within one or more UIs may provide a visual indication to the user that the PGM assembly is within the safe boundaries of the post-shutdown conditions (based on parameter thresholds). When the PGM assembly is not within the safe boundaries of the said post-shutdown conditions, a user alert, such as (but not limited to) a visual alert and / or an audible alert, may be provided to the user.

[0059] FIGS. 5a through 5c illustrate exemplary embodiments of a UI (500) provided to users during each of the processes (300, 400, 420) of FIGS. 3 through 4c. The visual presentation of the UI (500) may be based on at least three general categories of the shutdown-post-PGM parameters: parameters related to containment isolation, parameters related to reactivity control, and parameters related to core cooling. As illustrated in FIGS. 5a through 5c, the UI (500) includes a containment isolation window (510), a reactivity control window (530), and a core cooling window (550). Each of the windows (510, 530, 550) displays various status indicators (SI), such as (but not limited to) values, plots, graphs, charts, tables, status icons, user selections, etc. Each of the SIs represents the real-time or near-real-time state of one or more PGM parameters.

[0060] As described above, when one or more PGM parameters are outside a predetermined range (based on PGM parameter thresholds), one or more user alerts may be provided to the user, as illustrated in FIG. 5b. User alerts may include visual alerts, such as color changes of one or more SIs within the UI. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5a, a reactive control SI (540) may be colored green, as shown in FIG. 5a, when each of the relevant PGM parameters monitored within the reactive control window (530) is within a predetermined parameter range for that PGM parameter.

[0061] When one or more of the PGM parameters associated with the reactive control SI (540) exceed the corresponding PGM parameter threshold (or fall below the threshold), the color of the reactive control SI (540) may change to red in real time or near real time. At least as illustrated in FIG. 5b, a visual user alert is provided to the user by the color of the reactive control SI (540) changing to red. In various embodiments, at least one audible user alert, such as (but not limited to) a siren or alarm, may accompany this visual user alert.

[0062] At least one of the provided user alerts may indicate that the user must take action to handle the state in which the user has triggered the user alert. In such embodiments, at least one of the SIs, such as (but not limited to) a reactive control SI (540), may also be used to provide the user with a user choice. For example, when at least the reactive control SI (540) is colored red, the reactive control SU (540) may be selected by the user via a click, touch, or some other selection mechanism.

[0063] When one or more of the above user selections are selected, the UI (500) may provide the user with one or more protocols for processing triggering states and returning the PGM assembly to an acceptable range of PGM parameters. As illustrated in the UI (500) of FIG. 5c, the user selects a user selection provided via the reactive control SI (540). The right side of the UI (500) is switched to provide a protocol window (570). Based on the selection of the user selection via the reactive control SI (540), a protocol is provided that, when executed by the user, allows at least some of the associated reactive parameters to return to an acceptable parameter range. The protocol window (570) provides a back button that returns the UI to a previous state.

[0064] In various embodiments, the containment isolation SI (520) and the core cooling SI (560), together with the containment isolation window (510) and the core cooling window (550), respectively, may provide features similar to those of the reactive control SI (540). Various protocols provided through the protocol window (570) may divide multiple criteria for various associated PGM parameters into several smaller individual components, enabling the user to identify the problem that triggered the user alert and respond in an efficient manner.

[0065] In the decision block of reference number 312, it is determined whether to continue monitoring the shutdown-post-PGM parameters. If the PGM parameters must continue to be monitored, the process (300) returns to the block of reference number 310. Otherwise, when the PGM assembly is ready to resume operation or when there is no longer a need to monitor the PGM parameters, the process (300) moves to the decision block of reference number 314.

[0066] In the decision block of reference number 314, it is determined whether to resume the operation of the PGM assembly. If the operation of the PGM assembly should be resumed, the process moves to the block of reference number 316 where the operation of the PGM assembly is resumed. Then, the process (300) returns to the block of reference number 304 to monitor the operation of the PGM assembly. Otherwise, the process (300) may terminate and / or return to the calling process to perform other operations.

[0067] FIG. 4a illustrates a schematic flowchart of a process for monitoring shutdown-post-power generation module parameters associated with containment isolation of a power generation module assembly according to at least one embodiment of various embodiments. After the start block, the process (400) may start at the block of reference numeral 402, where one or more containment parameter thresholds may be determined. The containment parameter thresholds may be determined through access to a lookup table, a database query, access to a storage medium, etc.

[0068] Each of the above containment parameter thresholds may correspond to one or more shutdown-post-power generation module (PGM) parameters associated with containment isolation of a PGM assembly such as (but not limited to) the PGM assembly (100) of FIG. 1a. At least one of the above containment parameter thresholds may correspond to an acceptable upper limit of a shutdown-post-PGM parameter such as (but not limited to) one or more containment parameters. In some embodiments, at least one of the containment parameter thresholds may correspond to an acceptable lower limit of one or more containment parameters. In at least one embodiment, a pair or ordered containment parameter thresholds may correspond to an acceptable range (lower limit and upper limit) of one or more corresponding containment parameters.

[0069] In some embodiments, at least one of the containment parameter thresholds may represent an acceptable or desirable configuration, state, or value of one or more containment parameters. For example, the containment parameter threshold may indicate that a valve associated with or coupled to containment isolation is open or closed in an acceptable or desirable configuration or state.

[0070] In the block of reference number 404, one or more containment parameters are monitored. Monitoring said containment parameters may include monitoring at least some of the sensor data provided through diagnostic sensors included in the PGM assembly, such as (but not limited to) the diagnostic sensors (140) of the PGM assembly (100). Monitoring said one or more containment parameters may include providing status indicators (SIs) of said one or more containment parameters to a user through a user interface (UI), such as (but not limited to) the UI (500) of FIGS. 5a through 5c. At least some of the SIs may be displayed in a containment isolation window, such as (but not limited to) the containment isolation window (510) of the UI (500).

[0071] In various embodiments, containment parameters may include at least the pressure within the containment vessel of a PGM assembly such as (but not limited to) the containment vessel (106) of FIG. 1a. The containment vessel pressure may be provided by a pressure sensor included within the containment vessel. In an exemplary embodiment, the pressure SI (512) of the containment isolation window (510) provides a real-time or near-real-time state of the containment vessel pressure.

[0072] The main steam SI (514) provides indicators for the status of one or more steam isolation valves, such as (but not limited to) the steam isolation valves (114) of FIG. 1a. The main steam SI (514) may indicate whether each of the one or more steam isolation valves is configured to be open or closed. Similarly, the feedwater SI (522) indicates the status of one or more feedwater isolation valves, such as (but not limited to) the feedwater isolation valves (112) of FIG. 1a. Likewise, the CVS SI (516) and CE SI (518) indicate the status of other valves coupled to the containment of the power generation module.

[0073] In the decision block of reference number 406, it is determined whether one or more containment parameters monitored in the block of reference number 404 exceed (or fall below) one or more corresponding containment parameter thresholds. This determination may be based on a comparison between the monitored containment parameters and one or more corresponding containment parameter thresholds. If the containment parameter exceeds (or falls below) the corresponding containment parameter threshold, the process (400) moves to the block of reference number 408. Otherwise, the process (400) returns to the block of reference number 404 and continues to monitor the one or more containment parameters.

[0074] In the block of reference number 408, a user alert may be provided to the user. The user alert may be a visual and / or audible user alert. In one exemplary embodiment, the user alert may include a color change of at least the containment isolation SI (520) of the containment isolation window (510).

[0075] In the decision block of reference number 410, it is determined whether a user selection is received. One or more user selections may be provided to the user through the UI (500). The user selections may include selectable buttons, fields, etc., which can be selected via a click, a touch-sensitive screen on a display device, etc. For example, the containment isolation SI (520) may be a selectable button. If the user selects one or more of the provided user selections, the process (400) may proceed to the block of reference number 412. Otherwise, the process (400) returns to the block of reference number 404 and continues to monitor the containment parameters.

[0076] In the block of reference number 412, one or more protocols may be provided to the user through the UI. The provided protocols may be based on at least one of the storage parameters, storage parameter thresholds, or the received user selection. In various embodiments, the protocol relates to enabling the user to return one or more storage parameters to an acceptable range determined by one or more corresponding storage parameter thresholds.

[0077] In the decision block of reference number 414, it is determined whether another user selection is received. If another user selection is received, the process (400) returns to the block of reference number 412 and provides another protocol to the user based on at least the other received user selection. Otherwise, the process (400) moves to the decision block of reference number 416.

[0078] In the decision block of reference number 416, it is determined whether to continue monitoring the one or more storage parameters. If it is determined to continue monitoring the storage parameters, the process (400) returns to the block of reference number 404. Otherwise, the process (400) may terminate and / or return to the calling process to perform other operations.

[0079] FIG. 4b illustrates a schematic flowchart of a process for monitoring shutdown-post-power generation module parameters associated with the reactivity control of a power generation module assembly according to at least one of various embodiments. After the start block, the process (420) may start at the block of reference numeral 422, where one or more reactivity parameter thresholds may be determined. The reactivity parameter thresholds may be determined through access to a lookup table, a database query, access to a storage medium, etc.

[0080] Each of the reactivity parameter thresholds may correspond to one or more shutdown-post-power generation module (PGM) parameters associated with the reactivity control of a PGM assembly such as (but not limited to) the PGM assembly (100) of FIG. 1a. At least one of the reactivity parameter thresholds may correspond to an acceptable upper limit of one or more shutdown-post-PGM parameters such as (but not limited to) reactivity parameters. In some embodiments, at least one of the reactivity parameter thresholds may correspond to an acceptable lower limit of one or more reactivity parameters. In at least one embodiment, a pair or ordered set of reactivity parameter thresholds may correspond to an acceptable range (lower limit and upper limit) of one or more corresponding reactivity parameters.

[0081] In some embodiments, at least one of the reactivity parameter thresholds may represent an acceptable or desirable configuration, state, or value of one or more reactivity parameters. For example, a reactivity parameter threshold may indicate that a valve associated with the PGM core of a PGM assembly is open or closed in an acceptable or desirable configuration or state.

[0082] In the block of reference number 424, one or more reactive parameters are monitored. Monitoring the reactive parameters may include monitoring at least some of the sensor data provided through diagnostic sensors included in the PGM assembly, such as (but not limited to) the diagnostic sensors (140) of the PGM assembly (100). Monitoring the one or more reactive parameters may include providing status indicators (SIs) of one or more reactive parameters to a user through a user interface (UI), such as (but not limited to) the UI (500) of FIGS. 5a through 5c. At least some of the SIs may be displayed in a reactive control window, such as (but not limited to) the reactive control window (530) of the UI (500).

[0083] In various embodiments, one or more of the reactivity parameters may be associated with the radioactivity of the PGM core of a PGM assembly, such as (but not limited to) a reactor core. The reactivity parameters may include at least the state for one or more circuit breakers for control rod drivers, such as (but not limited to) the control rod drivers (132) of FIG. 1a. In an exemplary embodiment, the circuit breaker SI (534) of the reactivity control window (530) provides a real-time or near-real-time state of the configuration of one or more control rod drivers.

[0084] Other SIs included in the reactive control window (530), such as (but not limited to) power SI (536), startup SI (538), and control rod position SI (542), provide real-time or near-real-time status of other reactive parameters.

[0085] In the decision block of reference number 426, it is determined whether one or more reactive parameters monitored in the block of reference number 424 exceed (or fall below) one or more corresponding reactive parameter thresholds. This determination may be based on a comparison between the monitored reactive parameter and one or more corresponding reactive parameter thresholds. If the reactive parameter exceeds (or falls below) the corresponding reactive parameter threshold, the process (420) moves to the block of reference number 428. Otherwise, the process (420) returns to the block of reference number 424 and continues to monitor the one or more reactive parameters.

[0086] In the block of reference numeral 428, a user alert may be provided to the user. The user alert may be a visual and / or audible user alert. In one exemplary embodiment, the user alert may include a color change of at least the reactive control SI (540) of the reactive control window (530).

[0087] In the decision block of reference number 430, it is determined whether a user selection is received. One or more user selections may be provided to the user through the UI (500). User selections may include selectable buttons, fields, etc., which can be selected via a click, a touch-sensitive screen on a display device, etc. For example, a reactive control SI (540) may be a selectable button. If the user selects one or more of the provided user selections, the process (420) may proceed to the block of reference number 432. Otherwise, the process (420) returns to the block of reference number 424 and continues to monitor the reactive parameters.

[0088] In the block of reference number 432, one or more protocols may be provided to the user through the UI. The provided protocols may be based on at least one of the reactive parameters, reactive parameter thresholds, or the received user selection. In various embodiments, the protocol relates to enabling the user to return one or more reactive parameters to an acceptable range determined by one or more corresponding reactive parameter thresholds.

[0089] In an exemplary embodiment, the right side of the UI (500) of FIG. 5c includes a protocol window (570). Based on a user selection via the reactivity control SI (540), in the block of reference numeral 430, the protocol window (570) provides a protocol in which at least some of the associated reactivity parameters can be returned to an acceptable parameter range when executed by the user. The protocol window (570) provides a back button that returns the UI (500) to a previous state.

[0090] In the decision block of reference number 434, it is determined whether another user selection is received. If another user selection is received, the process (420) returns to the block of reference number 422 and provides another protocol to the user based on at least the other received user selection. Otherwise, the process (420) moves to the decision block of reference number 436.

[0091] In the decision block of reference number 436, it is determined whether to continue monitoring the one or more reactive parameters. If it is determined to continue monitoring the reactive parameters, the process (420) returns to the block of reference number 424. Otherwise, the process (420) may terminate and / or return to the calling process to perform other operations.

[0092] FIG. 4c illustrates a schematic flowchart of a process for monitoring shutdown-post-power generation module parameters associated with core cooling of a power generation module assembly according to at least one of various embodiments. After the start block, the process (440) may start at the block of reference numeral 442, where one or more core parameter thresholds may be determined. The core parameter thresholds may be determined through access to a lookup table, a database query, access to a storage medium, etc.

[0093] Each of the core parameter thresholds may correspond to one or more shutdown-post-power generation module (PGM) parameters associated with core cooling of a PGM assembly such as (but not limited to) the PGM assembly (100) of FIG. 1a. At least one of the core parameter thresholds may correspond to an acceptable upper limit of one or more core parameters such as (but not limited to) shutdown-post-PGM parameters. In some embodiments, at least one of the core parameter thresholds may correspond to an acceptable lower limit of one or more reactivity parameters. In at least one embodiment, a pair or ordered core parameter thresholds may correspond to an acceptable range (lower limit and upper limit) of one or more corresponding core parameters.

[0094] In some embodiments, at least one of the core parameter thresholds may represent an acceptable or desirable configuration, state, or value of one or more core parameters. For example, a core parameter threshold may indicate that a valve associated with a decay heart removal system (DHRS) included in a power generation module is open or closed in an acceptable or desirable configuration or state.

[0095] In the block of reference numeral 444, one or more core parameters are monitored. Monitoring the core parameters may include monitoring at least some of the sensor data provided through diagnostic sensors included in the PGM assembly, such as (but not limited to) the diagnostic sensors (140) of the PGM assembly (100). Monitoring the one or more core parameters may include providing status indicators (SI) of one or more core parameters to a user through a user interface (UI), such as (but not limited to) the UI (500) of FIGS. 5a through 5c. At least some of the SIs may be displayed in a core cooling window, such as (but not limited to) the core cooling window (550) of the UI (500).

[0096] In various embodiments, the core parameters may include at least one parameter associated with one or more steam generators included in the PGM assembly, such as the steam generators (122) of FIG. 1a. The core parameters may include at least one of pressure, temperature, level, and the inflow and outflow rates of the steam generator. Pressure, temperature, flow rate, etc. may be provided by pressure, temperature, and flow rate sensors included in the PGM assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the steam generator SI (552) of the core cooling window (550) provides real-time or near-real-time status of various pressures, temperatures, levels, flow rates, etc. within one or more steam generators. The steam generator SI (552) may provide plots of any of the associated containment parameters, including but not limited to plots as a function of time.

[0097] Other SIs included in the core cooling window (550), such as steam mismatch SI (554), feedwater SI (556), decay heat removal (DHR) valve SI (558), and bypass valve SI (562) (but not limited thereto), provide real-time or near-real-time status of other core parameters. For example, the DHR valve SI (558) provides indicators for the status of one or more DHRS valves, such as the DHRS valves (116) of FIG. 1a (but not limited thereto). The DHRS valve SI (558) may indicate whether each of the one or more DHR valves is configured to be open or closed.

[0098] In the decision block of reference number 446, it is determined whether one or more core parameters monitored in the block of reference number 444 exceed (or fall below) one or more corresponding core parameter thresholds. This determination may be based on a comparison between the monitored core parameter and one or more corresponding core parameter thresholds. If the core parameter exceeds (or falls below) the corresponding core parameter threshold, the process (440) moves to the block of reference number 448. Otherwise, the process (440) returns to the block of reference number 444 and continues to monitor the one or more core parameters.

[0099] In the block of reference numeral 448, a user alert may be provided to the user. The user alert may be a visual and / or audible user alert. In one exemplary embodiment, the user alert may include a color change of at least the core cooling SI (560) of the core cooling window (540).

[0100] In the decision block of reference number 450, it is determined whether a user selection is received. One or more user selections may be provided to the user through the UI (500). User selections may include selectable buttons, fields, etc., which can be selected via a click, a touch-sensitive screen on a display device, etc. For example, the core cooling SI (560) may be a selectable button. If the user selects one or more of the provided user selections, the process (440) may proceed to the block of reference number 452. Otherwise, the process (440) returns to the block of reference number 444 and continues to monitor the core parameters.

[0101] In the block of reference number 452, one or more protocols may be provided to the user through the UI. The provided protocols may be based on at least one of the core parameters, core parameter thresholds, or the received user selection. In various embodiments, the protocol relates to enabling the user to return one or more core parameters to an acceptable range determined by one or more corresponding core parameter thresholds.

[0102] In the decision block of reference number 454, it is determined whether another user selection is received. If another user selection is received, the process (440) returns to the block of reference number 452 and provides another protocol to the user based on at least the other received user selection. Otherwise, the process (440) moves to the decision block of reference number 456.

[0103] In the decision block of reference number 456, it is determined whether to continue monitoring the one or more core parameters. If it is determined to continue monitoring the core parameters, the process (440) returns to the block of reference number 444. Otherwise, the process (440) may terminate and / or return to the calling process to perform other operations.

[0104] Additionally, UIs discussed herein, including but not limited to UI (500), may provide other status indicators tailored to the protection of assets associated with the power plant. For example, when no protocol is provided as in FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b, the UI (500) may include an electrical distribution SI (590). A selectable button included in the electrical distribution SI (590) may switch from green to red when a state indicating one or more risk factors for hardware included in the electrical distribution system exists within the power plant, such as (but not limited to) the power bus (162) of the power plant (150) in FIG. 1b.

[0105] When the above selectable button is selected by the user, a protocol that enables the user to resolve problems representing one or more risk factors for the electrical distribution system may be provided to the user through a protocol window such as the protocol window (570) of FIG. 5c. The chemical and volume control system (CVCS) SI (592), condenser SI (594), pressurizer control SI (596), and turbine generator SI (598) of the UI may provide similar functions.

[0106] Exemplary computer device

[0107] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a computer device (200) that may include more or fewer components than the components shown. The computer device (200) may represent, for example, at least one embodiment of the computer device (172) of FIG. 1b and FIG. 1c.

[0108] The computer device (200) may include a processor (202), such as a central processing unit (CPU), that communicates with memory (204) via a bus (228). Additionally, the computer device (200) may include a power supply (230), a network interface (232), a processor-readable fixed storage device (234), a processor-readable removable storage device (236), an input / output interface (238), camera(s) (240), a video interface (242), a touch interface (244), a projector (246), a display (250), a keypad (252), an illuminator (254), an audio interface (256), a GPS (global positioning system) receiver (258), an open air gesture interface (260), a temperature interface (262), a haptic interface (264), a pointing device interface (266), etc. Optionally, the computer device (200) may communicate with a base station (not shown) or directly with another computer. And in one embodiment, although not shown, an accelerometer or gyroscope may be used within the computer device (200) to measure and / or maintain the orientation of the computer device (200).

[0109] Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the computer device (200) may include a logic circuit (268). The logic circuit (268) may be an embedded logic hardware device that contrasts with or complements the processor (202). The embedded logic hardware device will perform operations by directly executing its embedded logic (e.g., an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), etc.).

[0110] Additionally, in one or more embodiments (not illustrated in the drawings), the mobile computer may include a hardware microcontroller instead of a CPU. In at least one embodiment, a microcontroller such as a System On a Chip (SOC) will perform operations by directly executing its embedded logic and will perform operations by accessing its internal memory and its external input and output interfaces (e.g., hardware pins and / or wireless transceivers).

[0111] The power source (230) can provide power to the computer device (200). A rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery may be used to provide power. Additionally, power may be provided by an external power source, such as an AC adapter or a powered docking cradle, to replenish and / or recharge the battery.

[0112] The network interface (232) includes circuitry for connecting a computer device (200) to one or more networks and is configured to be used with one or more communication protocols and technologies, including but not limited to protocols and technologies that implement any part of any of the OSI model, GSM, CDMA, TDMA (time division multiple access), UDP, TCP / IP, SMS, MMS, GPRS, WAP, UWB, WiMax, SIP / RTP, GPRS, EDGE, WCDMA, LTE, UMTS, OFDM, CDMA 2000, EV-DO, HSDPA, or any other various wireless communication protocols. The network interface (232) is sometimes known as a transceiver, a transceiver device, or a network interface card (NIC).

[0113] The audio interface (256) may be arranged to generate and receive audio signals, such as the sound of human speech. For example, the audio interface (256) may be connected to a speaker and a microphone (not shown) to enable communication with other people and / or to generate an audio acknowledgment for any action. Additionally, the microphone within the audio interface (256) may be used to detect sound-based touches, for example, using voice recognition, for input to the computer device (200) or for control of the computer device (200).

[0114] The display (250) may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), gas plasma, electronic ink, light-emitting diode (LED), organic LED (OLED), or any other type of light-reflecting or light-transmitting display that can be used with a computer. Additionally, the display (250) may be a touch interface (244) configured to receive input from an object such as a stylus or from a finger of a human hand, and may use resistive, capacitive, surface acoustic wave (SAW), infrared, radar, or other technologies that detect touch and / or gestures.

[0115] The projector (246) may be a remote handheld projector or an integrated projector capable of projecting an image onto any other reflective object, such as a remote wall or a remote screen.

[0116] The video interface (242) may be configured to capture video images such as still photos, video segments, infrared video, etc. For example, the video interface (242) may be connected to a digital video camera, a webcam, etc. The video interface (242) may include a lens, an image sensor, and other electronic devices. The image sensors may include a CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) integrated circuit, a CCD (charge-coupled device), or other integrated circuits for detecting light.

[0117] The keypad (252) may include any input device arranged to receive input from a user. For example, the keypad (252) may include a push-button number dial or a keyboard. Additionally, the keypad (252) may include command buttons associated with selecting and sending images.

[0118] The lighting fixture (254) may provide a status indicator and / or provide light. The lighting fixture (254) may remain active for a specific period of time or in response to an event. For example, when the lighting fixture (254) is active, it may illuminate behind the buttons on the keypad (252) and may remain on while the mobile device is powered on. Additionally, the lighting fixture (254) may illuminate behind these buttons in various patterns when specific actions are performed, such as dialing another mobile computer. Additionally, the lighting fixture (254) may cause light sources placed within the transparent or translucent case of the mobile device to emit light in response to actions.

[0119] Additionally, the computer device (200) may include an input / output interface (238) to communicate with other computers or external peripheral devices, such as other mobile computers and network computers. The input / output interface (238) may enable the computer device (200) to communicate with one or more other computer devices. In some embodiments, the input / output interface (238) may enable the computer device (200) to connect and communicate with one or more network computers. Other peripheral devices that the computer device (200) can communicate with may include remote speakers and / or microphones (for providing user alerts), headphones, display screen glasses, or similar devices. The input / output interface (238) may use one or more technologies such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), infrared, Wi-Fi, WiMax, Bluetooth™, wired technologies, or other similar ones.

[0120] A haptic interface (264) may be configured to provide haptic feedback to a user of the computer device (200). For example, the haptic interface (264) may be used to vibrate the computer device (200) in a specific way when called upon by another user of the computer. A temperature interface (262) may be used to provide a temperature measurement input and / or a temperature change output to a user of the computer device (200). An outdoor gesture interface (260) may detect physical gestures of a user of the computer device (200) using, for example, single or stereo video cameras, radar, a gyroscope sensor inside the computer that is held or worn by the user, etc. A camera (240) may be used to track the physical eye movements of a user of the computer device (200).

[0121] A GPS transceiver (258) can determine the physical coordinates of a computer device (200) on the Earth's surface, which generally output a location as latitude and longitude values. The physical coordinates of a mobile computer including a GPS transceiver can be referred to as geographic location data. Additionally, the GPS transceiver (258) may use other geographic-location determination mechanisms, including but not limited to triangulation, AGPS (assisted GPS), E-OTD (Enhanced Observed Time Difference), CI (Cell Identifier), SAI (Service Area Identifier), ETA (Enhanced Timing Advance), BSS (Base Station Subsystem), etc., to further determine the physical location of the computer device (200) on the Earth's surface. Under different conditions, it is understood that the GPS transceiver (258) can determine the physical location of the computer device (200). However, in at least one embodiment, the computer device (200) may provide other information that can be used to determine the physical location of the mobile computer, such as a MAC (Media Access Control) address, an IP address, etc., through other components.

[0122] In at least one embodiment, a GPS transceiver (258) is used for the localization of the various embodiments discussed herein. For example, various embodiments may be localized via the GPS transceiver (258) to customize linguistics, technical parameters, time zones, configuration parameters, units of measurement, currency units, etc., based on the location of the user of the computer device (200). In at least one embodiment, the localization of at least part of any application included in the computer device (200) is performed based on geographic location data or other data obtained by the GPS transceiver (258) or other sensors included in the computer device (200). For example, time zone parameters, currency type, language parameters, etc., are set or otherwise configured in various parts of software included in one or more mobile computers. In addition, any process discussed herein, including but not limited to any process discussed in the context of any flowchart described herein, may be localized in this way.

[0123] Human interface components may be peripheral devices physically separated from the computer device (200) and enable input and / or output to the computer device (200). For example, instead, information routed as described herein through human interface components such as a display (250) or a keyboard (252) may be routed to appropriate human interface components located remotely via a network interface (232). Examples of human interface peripheral components that may be remote include, but are not limited to, audio devices, pointing devices, keypads, displays, cameras, projectors, etc. These peripheral components may communicate via a pico network such as Bluetooth™, Zigbee™, etc. One non-limiting example of a mobile computer having these surrounding human interface components is a wearable computer that may include a remote pico projector with one or more cameras that communicate remotely with a separately located mobile computer to detect parts of an image projected onto a reflected surface, such as a wall or the user's hand, by the pico projector.

[0124] A computer device (200) may include a browser application configured to receive and send web pages, web-based messages, graphics, text, multimedia, etc. The browser application of the mobile computer (200) may use virtually any programming language, including WAP (wireless application protocol messages), etc. In at least one embodiment, the browser application may use HDML (Handheld Device Markup Language), WML (Wireless Markup Language), WMLScript, JavaScript, SGML (Standard Generalized Markup Language), HTML (HyperText Markup Language), XML (eXtensible Markup Language), HTML5, etc.

[0125] In various embodiments, the browser application may be configured to allow the user to log in to an account and / or user interface to access and / or view content data.

[0126] Memory (204) may include RAM, ROM, and / or other types of memory. Memory (204) illustrates examples of computer-readable storage media (devices) for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Memory (204) may store system firmware (208) (e.g., BIOS) for controlling low-level operations of the computer device (200). Additionally, the memory may store an operating system (206) for controlling the operations of the computer device (200). It will be understood that such components may include a general-purpose operating system such as a UNIX version or LINUX™, or a specialized mobile computer communication operating system such as a Windows Phone™ or Symbian™ operating system. The operating system may include or interface with a Java virtual machine module capable of controlling hardware components and / or operating system operations through a Java application.

[0127] The memory (204) may further include one or more data storage units (210) that can be utilized by the computer device (200) to store applications (220) and / or other data, among other things. The data storage units (210) may store sensor data generated and / or provided by one or more diagnostic sensors, such as (but not limited to) the diagnostic sensors (140) of the power generation module (PGM) assembly (100) of FIG. 1a. The data storage units (210) may further include program code, data, algorithms, etc., for use by a processor, such as the processor (202), to execute and perform operations. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the data storage units (210) may also be stored on other components of the computer device (200), including but not limited to non-transient processor-readable removable storage units (236), processor-readable fixed storage units (234), or even storage units located outside the mobile device. The removable storage device (236) may be a USB drive, a USB thumb drive, a dongle, etc.

[0128] Applications (220) may include computer-executable commands that transmit, receive, and / or process commands and data when executed by a computer device (200). Applications (220) may include a PGM assembly monitoring application (222) that, when executed by a computer device (200) or another computer device, can provide computer-executable commands capable of enabling operations described in relation to any of the processes described herein (including, but not limited to, the processes (300, 400, 420, and 440) of FIGS. 3 through 4c). Other examples of application programs that may be included in applications (220) include, but are not limited to, calendars, search programs, email client applications, IM applications, SMS applications, VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) applications, contact managers, task managers, transcoders, database programs, word processor programs, security applications, spreadsheet programs, games, search programs, etc.

[0129] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the computer device (200) may use various embodiments, combinations of embodiments, processes, or parts of processes as discussed herein. Additionally, in various embodiments, the computer device may not only provide any of the user interfaces described herein that include at least the UI (500) of FIGS. 5a through 5c, but may also use any of the processes (300, 400, 420) described above in relation to the computer device (172) of FIGS. 1b and 1c and / or FIGS. 3 through 4c.

[0130] Each block of the flowchart examples and combinations of blocks of the flowchart examples may be implemented by computer program instructions. These program instructions may be provided to a processor to create a machine such that instructions executed on the processor create means for implementing specific operations in the flowchart blocks or blocks. Computer program instructions may be executed by the processor to cause a series of operational steps to be performed by the processor to create a computer implementation process, thereby the instructions are executed on the processor to provide steps for implementing specific operations in the flowchart blocks or blocks. Additionally, computer program instructions may allow at least some of the operational steps illustrated in the blocks of the flowcharts to be performed simultaneously. Additionally, some of the steps may be performed across two or more processors, as may occur in a multiprocessor computer system. Furthermore, one or more blocks of the flowchart examples or combinations of blocks may be performed simultaneously with other blocks or combinations of blocks, or even in a different order than illustrated, without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention.

[0131] Additionally, one or more stages or blocks may be implemented using embedded logic hardware, such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Programmable Array Logic (PAL), or a combination thereof, instead of a computer program. The embedded logic hardware may directly execute the embedded logic to perform some or all of the operations in one or more stages or blocks. Additionally, in one or more embodiments (not shown in the drawings), some or all of the operations of one or more stages or blocks may be performed by a hardware microcontroller instead of a CPU. In at least one embodiment, a microcontroller, such as a System-on-Chip (SOC), may directly execute its embedded logic to perform operations and may access its internal memory and its external input and output interfaces (e.g., hardware pins and / or wireless transceivers) to perform operations.

[0132] The foregoing specification, examples, and data provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the components of the present invention. Since many embodiments of the present invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0133] Embodiments of the present invention in which exclusive attributes or privileges are claimed are defined as follows.

Claims

Claim 1 As a modular power plant, the modular power plant is configured to monitor a plurality of power generation module (PGM) assemblies after a power generation module assembly shutdown event, and the modular power plant comprises: a power generation module (PGM) assembly array including a plurality of power generation module (PGM) assemblies, wherein each of the plurality of PGM assemblies includes a reactor core and is associated with diagnostic sensors arranged to measure parameters of each PGM assembly; a plurality of displays, wherein each of the plurality of displays displays information associated with each PGM assembly; and a computer device communicating with the diagnostic sensors of each of the plurality of PGM assemblies and communicating with the plurality of displays, wherein the computer device comprises a processor and a non-transient computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that cause the processor to perform operations when executed by the processor; and wherein the operations include: receiving sensing data from the diagnostic sensors representing PGM parameters measured in association with each of the plurality of PGM assemblies; Detecting an event of shutdown of a first PGM assembly among the plurality of PGM assemblies—the event being detected based on one or more PGM parameters of the first PGM assembly being outside a predetermined range—; and in response to detecting the event of shutdown of the first PGM assembly, i) monitoring sensing data associated with the first PGM assembly—the sensing data being classified into a plurality of post-shutdown PGM categories, said plurality of post-shutdown PGM categories representing data regarding different post-shutdown safety aspects of the first PGM assembly, said plurality of post-shutdown PGM categories including PGM assembly shutdown-related containment isolation, PGM assembly shutdown-related reactivity control, and PGM assembly shutdown-related core cooling—;ii) providing at least one protocol associated with each of the plurality of assets associated with the plurality of shutdown-post-PGM categories above—the at least one protocol is configured such that the selection of the protocol restores one or more PGM parameters of the first PGM assembly to their predetermined ranges, and the one or more PGM parameters are associated with each of the plurality of assets above—; iii) Creating a shutdown monitoring user interface (UI) displayed on a first display among the plurality of displays above - the first display is associated with a first PGM assembly, and the shutdown monitoring user interface (UI) on the first display comprises a first window for displaying information corresponding to sensing data associated with containment isolation related to the PGM assembly shutdown, a second window for displaying information corresponding to sensing data associated with reactivity control related to the PGM assembly shutdown, a third window for displaying information corresponding to sensing data associated with core cooling related to the PGM assembly shutdown, and a fourth window for displaying information corresponding to a plurality of other assets associated with the first PGM assembly, wherein the fourth window comprises a plurality of selectable buttons, and the selection of one button among the plurality of selectable buttons causes the display of a protocol window displaying at least one protocol associated with each of the plurality of other assets associated with the first PGM assembly -;and iv) generating a protocol window that displays at least one protocol associated with each of the plurality of assets associated with the plurality of shutdown-post-PGM categories, wherein the protocol window that displays at least one protocol associated with each of the plurality of assets associated with the plurality of shutdown-post-PGM categories is generated to include a selectable button associated with the at least one protocol, and the selectable button is configured to allow a user to execute the at least one protocol to return one or more PGM parameters of the first PGM assembly to their predetermined range, and the one or more PGM parameters are associated with each of the plurality of assets, a modular power plant; Claim 2 A modular power plant according to claim 1, wherein a first window displays a first PGM parameter indicating the pressure within the containment vessel of at least a first PGM assembly—the first PGM parameter indicates the configuration of a valve coupled to said containment vessel—and one or more first user selections among said plurality of selectable buttons; a second window displays a second PGM parameter indicating the radioactivity associated with the first reactor core of at least a first PGM assembly—the second PGM parameter indicates the configuration of one or more circuit breakers associated with one or more control rod driving units positioning a plurality of control rods within said first reactor core—and one or more second user selections among said plurality of selectable buttons; and a third window displays a third PGM parameter indicating the pressure within the steam generator of at least the first PGM assembly, a third PGM parameter indicating the temperature within said steam generator, and a third PGM parameter indicating the configuration of a decay heat removal valve of said first PGM assembly. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the above instructions, when executed by the processor, for an individual shutdown-post-PGM category, the processor: compares sensing data associated with a first PGM assembly with at least one predetermined threshold value among first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters to determine whether at least one of the first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters related to the shutdown-post-safety aspect represented by the individual shutdown-post-PGM category is outside the range of said at least one predetermined threshold value among the first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters; A modular power plant capable of performing operations including: providing a graphic indicator corresponding to sensing data associated with the individual shutdown-post-PGM category in response to a determination that at least one of the first PGM parameters, the second PGM parameters, and the third PGM parameters related to the shutdown-post-safety aspect represented by the individual shutdown-post-PGM category is outside the range of a corresponding predetermined threshold value; wherein the graphic indicator further indicates that at least one PGM parameter of the individual shutdown-post-PGM category is outside a predetermined safe boundary for at least one PGM parameter of the first PGM parameters, the second PGM parameters, and the third PGM parameters. Claim 4 In paragraph 3, the processor provides one or more shutdown-post user alerts based on a determination that at least one of the first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters related to the shutdown-post safety aspect represented by the individual shutdown-post PGM category is outside the range of a predetermined threshold value of at least one of the first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters; and receives at least one user selection of a selectable button among the plurality of selectable buttons based on the one or more shutdown-post user alerts. A modular power plant further configured to perform operations including, based on the at least one user selection, providing one or more safety protocols on the protocol window—each of the one or more safety protocols comprising dividing a plurality of safety criteria for at least one of first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters into individual safety criteria—and enabling the user to identify one or more states that trigger the one or more shutdown-post-user alarms and to respond to the one or more states. Claim 5 A modular power plant according to claim 1, wherein the modular power plant includes a module protection system (MPS), and the module protection system (MPS) performs at least one of the operations. Claim 6 A modular power plant according to paragraph 2, wherein at least one protocol is configured to allow a user to return all of the first PGM parameters, the second PGM parameters, and the third PGM parameters, which are PGM assembly shutdown related parameters, to their respective predetermined ranges. Claim 7 A method for operating a plurality of power generation module (PGM) assemblies within an array of power generation module (PGM) assemblies included in a modular power plant, wherein each of the plurality of PGM assemblies comprises a reactor core and is associated with diagnostic sensors arranged to measure parameters of each PGM assembly, wherein each of the plurality of PGM assemblies is associated with each of the plurality of displays, wherein each of the plurality of displays displays information associated with each of the plurality of PGM assemblies, and wherein the diagnostic sensors and the plurality of displays communicate with a computer device comprising a processor, and wherein the method is performed by the processor, and wherein the method comprises: receiving sensing data from the diagnostic sensors representing measured PGM parameters associated with each of the plurality of PGM assemblies; and detecting an event of shutdown of a first PGM assembly among the plurality of PGM assemblies, wherein the event is detected based on one or more PGM parameters of the first PGM assembly being outside a predetermined range. And in response to detecting an event of shutdown of the first PGM assembly: i) a step of monitoring sensing data associated with the first PGM assembly - said sensing data is classified into a plurality of shutdown-post-PGM categories, said plurality of shutdown-post-PGM categories include containment isolation related to PGM assembly shutdown, reactivity control related to PGM assembly shutdown, and core cooling related to PGM assembly shutdown, and represents data related to monitoring different safety aspects of the PGM assembly shutdown - ;and ii) providing at least one protocol associated with each of the plurality of assets associated with the plurality of shutdown-post-PGM categories, wherein the selection of the at least one protocol is configured to return one or more PGM parameters of the first PGM assembly to their predetermined ranges, and said one or more PGM parameters are associated with each of the plurality of assets -; iii) A step of creating a shutdown monitoring user interface (UI) to be displayed on a first display among the plurality of displays above - the first display is associated with a first PGM assembly, and the shutdown monitoring user interface (UI) on the first display includes a first window for displaying information corresponding to sensing data associated with containment isolation related to the PGM assembly shutdown, a second window for displaying information corresponding to sensing data associated with reactivity control related to the PGM assembly shutdown, a third window for displaying information corresponding to sensing data associated with core cooling related to the PGM assembly shutdown, and a fourth window for displaying information corresponding to a plurality of other assets associated with the first PGM assembly, wherein the fourth window includes a plurality of selectable buttons, and the selection of one button among the plurality of selectable buttons causes the display of a protocol window that displays at least one protocol associated with each of the plurality of other assets associated with the first PGM assembly - ;and iv) a step of creating a protocol window that displays at least one protocol associated with each of the plurality of assets associated with the plurality of shutdown-post-PGM categories, wherein the protocol window that displays at least one protocol associated with each of the plurality of assets associated with the plurality of shutdown-post-PGM categories is created to include a selectable button associated with the at least one protocol, and the selectable button is configured to allow a user to execute the at least one protocol to return one or more PGM parameters of the first PGM assembly to their predetermined range, and the one or more PGM parameters are associated with each of the plurality of assets. Claim 8 The method of claim 7 further comprises: a step of comparing sensing data associated with a first PGM assembly with at least one predetermined threshold value among first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters to determine whether at least one of the first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters related to the safety aspect represented by the individual shutdown-post-PGM category is outside the range of the corresponding predetermined threshold value; and a step of providing a graphic indicator corresponding to the sensing data associated with the individual shutdown-post-PGM category in response to the determination that at least one of the first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters related to the safety aspect represented by the individual shutdown-post-PGM category is outside the range of the corresponding predetermined threshold value, wherein the graphic indicator further indicates that at least one PGM parameter of the individual shutdown-post-PGM category is outside the predetermined safe boundary for the at least one PGM parameter. Claim 9 A method according to claim 7, wherein a first window displays a first PGM parameter indicating a pressure within a containment vessel of at least a first PGM assembly—the first PGM parameter indicates a configuration of a valve coupled to said containment vessel—and one or more first user selections among said plurality of selectable buttons; a second window displays a second PGM parameter indicating a radioactivity associated with a reactor core of at least a first PGM assembly—the second PGM parameter indicates a configuration of one or more circuit breakers associated with one or more control rod driving units positioning a plurality of control rods within the reactor core of the first PGM assembly—and one or more second user selections among said plurality of selectable buttons; and a third window displays a third PGM parameter indicating a pressure within a steam generator of at least a first PGM assembly, a third PGM parameter indicating a temperature within said steam generator, and a third PGM parameter indicating a configuration of a decay heat removal valve of said first PGM assembly. Claim 10 A method according to claim 9, further comprising: providing one or more shutdown-post user alerts based on a determination that at least one of the first PGM parameters, second PGM parameters, and third PGM parameters related to the safety aspect represented by an individual shutdown-post PGM category is outside the range of a corresponding predetermined threshold; receiving at least one user selection among the user selections from a user based on the one or more shutdown-post user alerts; and providing one or more protocols on the protocol window based on the at least one user selection. Claim 11 In claim 7, the modular power plant further comprises a module protection system (MPS), and the module protection system performs at least one of the steps. Claim 12 In claim 9, the at least one protocol is configured such that, after the shutdown of the first PGM assembly and the reactor core within it, the user can restore all of the first PGM parameters, the second PGM parameters, and the third PGM parameters to their respective predetermined ranges.

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