Modular Radiation Shield Support with Quick Disconnect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiation protection systems for workers in high-radiation environments are cumbersome, prone to gaps, and not highly portable, failing to effectively create reduced radiation areas.
Innovation Solution
A radiation shield support system comprising a first and second frame subassembly with a quick disconnect mechanism, allowing for easy assembly and secure attachment of radiation shields to form a reduced radiation area, utilizing upper and lower partial ring supports and vertical supports with a plug and bolt configuration for secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If scaffolding or traditional means are used for supporting radiation shields, then radiation protection is provided, but the system becomes cumbersome and difficult to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into modular frame subassemblies that can be independently assembled and connected. Each subassembly contains standardized components (vertical supports, partial ring supports, cross supports) that can be quickly connected using quick disconnect mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex traditional scaffolding assembly while maintaining radiation protection effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates quick disconnect mechanisms that allow for rapid assembly and disconnection of frame subassemblies. This dynamic connection system enables workers to quickly configure and reconfigure the radiation shield support structure without cumbersome fastening operations, directly addressing the assembly convenience problem
2Reliability
If traditional support systems are used, then radiation shields can be supported, but gaps are more likely to form where radiation may reach workers
Solution Approach 1:
The modular frame subassemblies are designed with standardized connection points and dimensions that ensure precise alignment when connected. The partial ring supports and vertical supports form geometrically precise structures that minimize gaps, while the quick disconnect mechanisms include alignment features that maintain assembly precision during rapid configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses visual indicators (such as colored alignment pins or marked connection points) to guide workers in properly aligning frame subassemblies during assembly. This visual guidance system ensures that connections are made precisely, preventing gaps from forming at joint locations and maintaining continuous radiation protection
3Reliability
If traditional support systems are used, then radiation shields can be supported, but portability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the support system into modular frame subassemblies, the overall system weight is distributed into manageable sections that can be easily transported and reconfigured. Each subassembly can be handled by a small number of workers, and the modular design allows the system to be disassembled into compact units for storage and transport while maintaining full radiation protection capability when assembled
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is new and improved system and method for supporting radiation shields. The system may include a first frame subassembly, a second frame assembly, and a quick disconnect. The first frame sub assembly may include an upper partial ring support, a lower partial ring support, and a plurality of vertical supports. The second frame sub assembly may include an upper partial ring support, a lower partial ring support, and a plurality of vertical supports. The second frame subassembly may have a ring hole. The quick disconnect may include a plug and a bolt. The plug may be permanently affixed to the first frame subassembly, and the bolt may be configured to pass through the ring hole and the plug hole in order to removably secure the first frame subassembly to the second frame subassembly.