Modular Dosimetry Support Apparatus for Nuclear Reactor Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ex-vessel neutron dosimetry systems in nuclear power plants face challenges in reliable positioning and frequent replacement due to space constraints and limited access, making initial installation and maintenance difficult, especially since dosimetry data is meaningful only when dosimetry capsules are precisely positioned.
Innovation Solution
A support apparatus is designed to securely position and replace dosimetry systems within a containment apparatus, using a retention apparatus with aligned receptacles and a tube apparatus composed of connectable segments, allowing for precise placement and easy installation/removal, with features like quick-release pins and ramped edges for efficient alignment and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dosimetry systems are placed in proximity to reactor apparatus, then radiation environment characterization is enabled, but space constraints and limited access make installation and replacement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The support apparatus is divided into modular components including a retention apparatus with multiple receptacles and a tube apparatus with connectable segments. This segmentation allows the dosimetry system to be installed in sections and facilitates easy removal and replacement while maintaining precise positioning capabilities in the constrained space near the reactor apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention apparatus with aligned receptacles and the tube apparatus with connection features are pre-configured during initial installation. This preliminary arrangement enables quick exchange of dosimetry systems later, as the support structure is already in place to receive and secure replacement units without requiring complex reconfiguration.
2Measurement precision
If dosimetry capsules are precisely positioned, then dosimetry data becomes meaningful, but reliable positioning in nuclear environments is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tube apparatus incorporates self-aligning features with the retention apparatus receptacles, including ramped edges that guide the tube segments into proper alignment. This self-service mechanism ensures precise positioning of dosimetry capsules without requiring complex external alignment tools or procedures, maintaining measurement accuracy while simplifying installation.
3Productivity
If dosimetry systems are frequently replaced for maintenance, then dosimetry information can be obtained, but space constraints make replacement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tube apparatus is designed with connectable segments that can be easily assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows the dosimetry system to be replaced in manageable sections, reducing the complexity of maintenance operations while enabling frequent replacement cycles to obtain dosimetry information.
Solution Approach 2:
The support apparatus incorporates movable and adjustable components that facilitate dynamic reconfiguration during replacement operations. The connectable tube segments can be quickly assembled and disassembled, and the retention apparatus can accommodate different dosimetry system configurations, making the replacement process more flexible and less complex.
Data Source
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AI summary
An improved support apparatus is structured to support a dosimetry system within an interior region of a containment apparatus. The dosimetry system is supported in a region between an interior surface of the containment apparatus and an exterior surface of a reactor apparatus that is disposed within the interior of the containment apparatus. The support apparatus includes a retention apparatus having a plurality of brace elements that each have a receptacle formed therein. The receptacles are aligned with one another when installed within the interior of the containment apparatus. The support apparatus further includes a tube apparatus that includes a plurality of tube segments that are connectable together. The dosimetry system is situated within an elongated cavity formed in the tube apparatus. The tube apparatus is situated in the receptacles and thereby supports the dosimetry system on the containment apparatus.