Nuclear Fuel Cartridge with Segmented Assemblies and Passive Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nuclear reactor systems face inefficiencies in fuel assembly arrangement, leading to wasted space and prolonged refueling processes, as well as challenges with control rod drive systems and passive cooling systems, particularly in handling long drive rods and maintaining operational safety during emergency shutdowns and loss-of-coolant accidents.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of nuclear fuel assemblies with two different transverse cross-sectional configurations to optimize space usage in the reactor core, a portable nuclear fuel cartridge for streamlined refueling, and a control rod drive system with a drive rod extension and electromagnet for safe operation, along with a passive cooling system using gravity-driven heat rejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If fuel assemblies with two different transverse cross-sectional configurations are used, then space utilization in the reactor core is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel core is segmented into different regions with different fuel assembly configurations. Square fuel assemblies are used in corner regions while rectangular fuel assemblies are used in other regions, allowing optimized space utilization in each region while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized assembly designs.
Solution Approach 2:
Different fuel assembly configurations are applied to different locations within the reactor core. The corner regions receive square fuel assemblies optimized for their geometry, while other regions receive rectangular fuel assemblies, creating local optimization without requiring complete redesign of all fuel assemblies.
2Productivity
If a portable nuclear fuel cartridge is used, then refueling productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fuel assemblies are merged into a single portable fuel cartridge assembly that can be handled as one unit. This combines the functions of multiple individual fuel assemblies with the handling mechanism, enabling rapid refueling by treating the entire cartridge as a single replaceable component.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel cartridge serves multiple functions: it contains and protects the fuel assemblies, provides a standardized handling interface, and enables rapid refueling operations. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single integrated solution.
3Reliability
If a control rod drive system with drive rod extension and electromagnet is used, then operational safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A drive rod extension acts as an intermediary component between the control rod drive mechanism and the control rod. This extension allows the control rod to be operated from a safe distance while maintaining precise control, mediating the interaction between the operator and the control rod to improve safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnet replaces direct mechanical connection for controlling the control rod. By using electromagnetic force instead of purely mechanical linkage, the system achieves safer remote operation while maintaining reliable control of the control rod position.
4Reliability
If a passive cooling system is used, then reliability during accidents is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is designed to cool the reactor core using passive natural convection and heat transfer mechanisms without requiring external power or active control systems. The system serves itself by utilizing the natural temperature differences and fluid dynamics to maintain cooling, eliminating the need for powered pumps or control mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The optimized fuel assembly arrangement increases reactor cycle life and reduces refueling downtime, while the control rod drive system enhances safety and efficiency, and the passive cooling system ensures rapid pressure normalization during accidents without relying on external power.
Implementation Method 1
a control rod drive system with a drive rod extension and electromagnet for safe operation
Implementation Method 2
a passive cooling system using gravity-driven heat rejection
Data Source
AI summary
Portable nuclear fuel cartridge comprising a unitary support structure and plurality of nuclear fuel assemblies that collectively form a nuclear fuel core. Control rod drive system for a nuclear reactor. A nuclear steam supply system having a shutdown system for removing residual decay heat generated by a nuclear fuel core. A nuclear reactor including a cylindrical body having an internal cavity, nuclear fuel core, and a shroud disposed in the cavity. A nuclear reactor cooling system with passive cooling capabilities operable during a loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) without available electric power.