Modular Horizontal Storage Module Footprint Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing horizontal storage modules (HSMs) for radioactive materials have a large footprint, high shipping costs due to their size and weight, and limited on-site construction capabilities, necessitating a more efficient and modular design for improved storage facility capacity and access.
Innovation Solution
A modular HSM design with a body comprising multiple compartments arranged in staggered rows, allowing for on-site construction and a reduced footprint, featuring a carriage assembly for lifting canisters between rows, and enhanced ventilation and impact-resistant features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional single body unit HSM design is used, then storage capacity is achieved, but footprint is large and shipping costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The HSM is divided into multiple modular segments that can be stacked vertically. Each segment contains compartments for canisters, and segments are connected through vertical interfaces. This segmentation allows the storage system to achieve high capacity while reducing the horizontal footprint by utilizing vertical space.
Solution Approach 2:
The design transitions from a horizontal arrangement of compartments to a vertical stacking configuration. Multiple rows of compartments are arranged at different elevations, with canisters accessible from ground level through vertical access points. This dimensional change reduces footprint while maintaining storage capacity.
2Quantity of substance
If traditional single body unit HSM design is used, then storage capacity is achieved, but shipping costs are prohibitive due to size and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The HSM is divided into multiple modular segments that can be manufactured separately and transported independently. Each segment is sized to fit within standard shipping container dimensions, avoiding the need for expensive special transportation arrangements for large, heavy monolithic units.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segments are designed to be assembled on-site through standardized interfaces. This dynamic assembly approach allows the system to be transported in a disassembled state at lower costs and then configured at the destination, reducing overall shipping expenses.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional HSM design is used, then canister storage is provided, but access and handling of canisters is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Canister access points are positioned at ground level and canisters are retrieved vertically from underground compartments. This vertical access configuration eliminates the need for overhead cranes or complex handling mechanisms required by traditional horizontal access designs, simplifying the handling operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A vertical conveyance system acts as an intermediary mechanism between ground level access points and underground canister storage compartments. This mediator system automates the transfer of canisters, reducing manual handling complexity while maintaining efficient access to stored materials.
4Ease of manufacture
If modular segmented design is used, then on-site construction is enabled and footprint is reduced, but structural integrity and shielding effectiveness must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The HSM is divided into modular segments with standardized connection interfaces designed to maintain structural continuity. Each segment incorporates shielding materials and reinforcement elements at the connection points, ensuring that the assembled structure achieves the required structural integrity and radiation shielding effectiveness equivalent to monolithic designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented structure utilizes composite construction methods where multiple materials (concrete, steel reinforcement, shielding materials) are combined at segment interfaces. This composite approach ensures that the connections between segments provide adequate structural strength and radiation shielding, maintaining overall integrity while enabling modular assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A horizontal storage module (HSM) includes a body defining a plurality of compartments configured for receiving canisters, wherein the compartments are arranged in a first row at a first elevation and a second row at a second elevation higher than the first elevation, and wherein at least a portion of one compartment in the first row is in the same horizontal axis location as at least a portion of one compartment in the second row. A method of manufacturing the HSM includes positioning adjacent segments. A carriage assembly for the HSM includes a frame and an actuation means for lifting a cask containing a canister. A method of lifting includes receiving a cask and lifting a cask for delivery of the canister to the HSM.