Core Component Rodlet Reattachment via Bayonet Connector
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current core component assembly designs require complete removal and disposal of irradiated rodlets, leading to significant waste disposal costs due to the permanent detachment of targets from the assembly.
Innovation Solution
A core component assembly with a baseplate, crimp nut, and connector system that allows for the removable attachment and reattachment of rodlets, enabling the reuse of irradiated rodlets within a spent fuel assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If rodlets are permanently detached from the baseplate after irradiation, then the targets can be harvested, but the rodlets become waste requiring costly disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The connector enables the rodlet to be detached from the baseplate after irradiation for target harvesting, while maintaining the capability for reattachment. This recovers the rodlet from waste status and allows it to be reused in subsequent irradiation cycles, directly reducing waste disposal costs while maintaining operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system transitions from a permanent static connection to a dynamic reversible connection. The connector allows the rodlet to be detached when needed for harvesting and reattached for reuse, providing operational flexibility without compromising the security of the connection during irradiation
2Reliability
If the connector is securely attached to the baseplate, then the rodlet remains fixed during irradiation, but the connector becomes a potential loose part when detached
Solution Approach 1:
The bayonet feature acts as an intermediary gripping element between the connector and baseplate. During detachment, the bayonet provides a positive engagement point that allows the connector to be controlled and guided, preventing it from becoming a loose part while still enabling secure attachment during irradiation
Solution Approach 2:
The connector's own structural features (bayonet, threaded portion, annular shoulder) provide the means for its own controlled detachment and reattachment. The bayonet's four-sided geometry allows it to engage with tools or grippers for controlled removal, eliminating the need for external assistance and preventing uncontrolled loosening
3Strength
If the crimp sleeve is tightly crimped around the bayonet, then the connector is securely held, but the connector becomes difficult to detach
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional segments: the crimp sleeve provides secure holding during irradiation, while the bayonet feature provides a separate detachment interface. This segmentation allows the crimp to be tight for security while the bayonet remains accessible for controlled detachment, resolving the contradiction between connection strength and ease of repair
Solution Approach 2:
The bayonet feature is prepared in advance as a predetermined detachment point. Its four-sided geometry is specifically designed to engage with tools or grippers, allowing the connector to be detached by applying force at this pre-prepared location without needing to overcome the full crimp force, thus facilitating easy repair while maintaining strong connection
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates the reattachment of harvested rodlets to the baseplate, reducing waste disposal costs by allowing the entire core component assembly to be disposed of as a unit, rather than individual rodlets.
Implementation Method 1
The crimp nut is aligned with the aperture of the baseplate and welded to the first side of the baseplate
Implementation Method 2
The threaded portion of the connector is threaded into the threaded opening of the crimp nut to attach the connector to the baseplate
Implementation Method 3
The crimp sleeve is crimpable around the bayonet
Implementation Method 4
irradiating the rodlet by positioning the core component assembly within a fuel assembly of a nuclear reactor during operation
Data Source
AI summary
A core component assembly for insertion into a fuel assembly of a nuclear reactor is disclosed. The core component assembly includes a baseplate, a connector, and a crimp nut. The baseplate includes a first side and a second side. An aperture is defined through the baseplate between the first side and the second side. The connector includes a bayonet, a threaded portion disposed beneath the bayonet, an annular shoulder disposed beneath the threaded portion, a gripping area disposed beneath the annular shoulder, and a hole disposed beneath the gripping area. The crimp nut includes a crimp sleeve and a threaded opening and is aligned with the aperture of the baseplate and welded to the first side of the baseplate. The threaded portion of the connector is threaded into the threaded opening of the crimp nut to attach the connector to the baseplate and position the bayonet within the crimp sleeve.