Hot Cell Observation Device with Retractable Sensor and Replaceable Dome
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hot cell observation instruments face limitations such as restricted viewing angles, high production costs, radiation exposure risks during maintenance, and inability to perform radiation measurements, due to expensive and complex dome replacements and limited functionality.
Innovation Solution
A modular observation instrument for hot cells with a separable dome and a mechanism allowing the sensor to move between retracted and observation positions, featuring a biological protection shield and a sensor with three-axis movement, enabling enhanced viewing angles and simplified maintenance by allowing the dome to be replaced without exposing the sensor to radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor is placed inside the hot cell for observation, then the observation quality is improved, but the sensor life is reduced due to radiation exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two separable parts: the sensor module (containing the sensor and protective shield) and the dome module. The sensor can be retracted into the protective shield when not in use, isolating it from radiation, while the dome remains in place for continuous observation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is made movable between a retracted position (inside the protective shield for protection) and an extended position (inside the dome for observation). This dynamic positioning allows the sensor to switch between protection and functionality modes.
2Ease of operation
If a thick porthole is integrated into the cell wall for direct visual observation, then observation is enabled, but the cost increases and image quality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using an expensive thick porthole for direct observation, the system uses a camera sensor that captures images which can then be viewed on external displays. This copies the visual information in a more cost-effective manner while providing superior image quality.
3Loss of information
If a cable connects the sensor to external devices, then data transmission is enabled, but the cable interferes with cell operations and can be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a flexible bellows structure instead of a rigid cable to connect the sensor to external devices. The bellows can accommodate movements and deformations within the hot cell without interfering with operations, while still maintaining the data transmission connection.
4Measurement precision
If a dome is used to protect the sensor and enable observation, then observation quality is improved, but the dome is expensive and complex to replace
Solution Approach 1:
The dome is separated into its own independent module that can be easily detached and replaced without affecting the sensor or other components. This modular design simplifies maintenance and reduces replacement complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The dome module can be extracted separately from the sensor assembly for replacement or maintenance. This extraction capability allows the dome to be serviced independently without exposing the sensor to radiation or requiring complex disassembly procedures.
5Reliability
If the sensor remains inside the protective shield, then the sensor is protected from radiation, but the viewing angle is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is designed to dynamically change its position between being retracted inside the protective shield (for protection) and extended inside the dome (for enhanced viewing angle and versatility). This dynamic capability allows the system to switch between protection and observation modes as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for maintaining a cell comprising a wall penetrated by a cavity provided with an observation instrument, the instrument comprising a dome projecting inside the cell, a protective shield, an observation sensor arranged between the dome and the shield, and a mechanism for displacing the sensor between a retracted position and a deployed position. The method comprises the following steps: extraction of the protective shield, the observation sensor and the sensor displacement mechanism from the cavity, outside the cell; if need be, the replacement of the observation sensor; insertion and sliding of a replacement dome into the cavity, until it is close to the remaining dome in place inside the cavity; insertion and sliding of the protective shield, the observation sensor and the sensor displacement mechanism into the cavity, until contact is made with the replacement dome; and the dome remaining in place in the cavity is displaced until it is ejected inside the cell by the pressure of the replacement dome on the dome remaining in place.