Modular Radioactive Waste Packaging System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current engineered packaging systems for radioactive waste require custom design for each project, leading to high costs, complex fabrication, and frequent schedule and compliance issues due to unique project requirements, making them unsuitable for different applications and increasing the complexity of managing radioactive waste.
Innovation Solution
A modular packaging system that is structurally and mechanically robust, configurable, and adaptable for various radioactive waste streams, featuring a standard modular container that can be tailored with interchangeable components such as shielding inserts and support frameworks, allowing for flexible configuration to meet specific project needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a custom packaging system is designed for each project, then the packaging meets specific project requirements, but the cost and fabrication complexity increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system is divided into modular components including container bodies, lids, shielding elements, and support structures that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows standardization of individual modules while enabling customization through different combinations, thereby reducing fabrication complexity and cost without sacrificing adaptability to specific project requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal container modules that can serve multiple waste types and applications. The standardized container bodies, lids, and shielding components are designed to be interchangeable and applicable across different projects, eliminating the need for custom-designed packaging for each application while still meeting specific requirements through configuration selection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a custom packaging system is designed for each project, then the packaging meets specific project requirements, but the design and fabrication cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the packaging system into standardized modules, the patent enables economies of scale in manufacturing. Individual components such as container bodies, lids, and shielding elements can be mass-produced using conventional fabrication methods, significantly reducing per-unit costs compared to custom fabrication, while still allowing customization through module selection and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by offering standardized containers in different sizes, wall thicknesses, and shielding configurations that can be selected based on specific project requirements. This approach allows cost-effective manufacturing of standard parameters while meeting diverse needs without requiring custom design and fabrication for each application.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a custom packaging system is designed for each project, then the packaging meets specific project requirements, but the fabrication schedule and regulatory compliance become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-designing and pre-certifying standardized container modules for regulatory compliance. The modular components are fabricated using established processes with known compliance histories, eliminating the time-consuming regulatory approval process that would be required for custom-designed packaging. This allows rapid deployment while meeting specific project requirements through appropriate module selection.
Data Source
AI summary
A packaging system for radioactive waste is robust, highly functional, and can be used for nearly all radioactive waste streams that require shielded packaging. The packaging system includes a modular container that is configured to receive modular shielding inserts. The packaging system can be used to store, transport, and dispose of radioactive waste.