Nuclear Facility Automation Simulation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Nuclear facilities face challenges in efficiently operating and training operators for complex automated tools, such as those used in major component replacement tasks, due to unfamiliarity with the tools and increased radiation exposure and delays.
Innovation Solution
A simulation system that includes a communication component, local controllers, and a processor to animate a three-dimensional model of automated tools within a nuclear facility, allowing for training and operation simulation based on geometrical designs and real-time motion data, reducing the need for physical tool operation and radiation exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If operators physically train with automated tools in radiation protective zones, then operational skill is improved, but radiation exposure and training time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy (digital twin) of the automated tool and radiation protective zone environment. Operators interact with the virtual replica through a computing device, receiving visual and haptic feedback that mimics the physical tool's behavior. This virtual copy allows unlimited training repetitions without radiation exposure, directly resolving the contradiction between skill acquisition and radiation exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary layer between the operator and the physical tool. The virtual environment serves as a mediator that provides a safe interface for training, translating operator inputs into virtual tool responses. This intermediary enables skill development without direct contact with the harmful radiation environment.
2Ease of operation
If operators physically set up automated tools in radiation protective zones, then operational readiness is improved, but setup time and delays increase
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual training environment enables operators to perform all setup procedures in advance before entering the radiation protective zone. Operators can familiarize themselves with tool configuration, positioning, and operation sequences through the virtual replica, completing preparatory actions without time loss in the actual facility.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual copy of the tool and environment allows operators to practice setup procedures repeatedly without consuming actual facility time. The simulation replicates the physical setup process, enabling operators to achieve readiness through virtual repetitions that do not translate to proportional physical time consumption.
3Ease of operation
If operators physically operate automated tools for the first time, then operational capability is improved, but unfamiliarity and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a simplified virtual representation of the complex automated tool, preserving essential operational characteristics while removing physical complexity. The virtual tool maintains the same functional interfaces and control mechanisms, allowing operators to grasp complexity through interaction with the digital replica before facing the physical system.
Solution Approach 2:
Operators can perform preliminary exploration and familiarization with the tool's complexity in the virtual environment. The simulation allows step-by-step discovery of tool functions, control parameters, and operational sequences without the pressure of physical operation, enabling gradual comprehension of complex systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and a method for simulating an operation of one or more automated tools within a nuclear facility. The system includes a communication component to provide access to one or more computing devices, one or more local controllers for processing command requests from the one or more computing devices for the one or more automated tools, and a processor in communication with the communication component and the one or more local controllers. The local controllers may be programmable logic controllers. The method includes using the local controllers for processing command requests received from the computing devices to generate process values for the one or more automated tools, and operating a processor use the process values to animate a three-dimensional model and generate one or more views of the animation of the three-dimensional model to be displayed at one or more computing devices.