Nuclear Gas Propellant System for Integrated Energy Conversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nuclear power generation systems face challenges such as public perception issues, limited siting options due to size and design, high capital costs, and inefficiencies in energy conversion, which are exacerbated by the need for complex heat exchangers and piping.
Innovation Solution
A nuclear power generation system utilizing a gas propellant chamber with a nuclear fuel chamber that heats a pressurized gas, which is then converted into kinetic energy to generate rotational energy, eliminating the need for complex thermal conversion machinery and using a single-phase gas coolant for both heat removal and energy conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional nuclear power generation systems use heat exchangers and piping for thermal energy conversion, then nuclear energy can be converted to electrical energy, but the system complexity and capital costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the heat removal and energy conversion functions into a single integrated system. The working fluid directly contacts the nuclear fuel elements in the reactor core, absorbing thermal energy, and then expands through a turbine to generate electricity. This eliminates the need for separate heat exchangers and piping systems, reducing both device complexity and capital costs while maintaining energy conversion efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The working fluid serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the coolant that removes heat from the nuclear fuel, as the working medium that drives the turbine for electricity generation, and as the propellant that can provide thrust for propulsion applications. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate systems needed, thereby reducing system complexity and capital costs.
2Power
If conventional nuclear power plants use large-scale reactors with complex thermal conversion machinery, then electrical energy can be generated, but the siting options are limited and capital costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the nuclear power generation system into modular components that can be scaled and configured for different applications. The integrated reactor-turbine system can be designed in various sizes and configurations, allowing deployment in remote locations, on ships, or in space applications, thereby expanding siting options while maintaining electrical energy generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be adaptable and scalable, with the ability to adjust operating parameters and configuration based on specific application requirements. This dynamic design allows the same fundamental system to serve multiple purposes and locations, from small remote power sources to large-scale electricity generation and propulsion applications.
3Temperature
If conventional systems use separate coolant and working fluid systems, then heat transfer can be controlled, but energy losses increase due to thermal conversion inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coolant and working fluid into a single integrated system. The working fluid directly absorbs thermal energy from the nuclear fuel elements and then expands through the turbine, eliminating intermediate heat transfer steps. This direct conversion process reduces thermal losses and improves overall energy efficiency while maintaining temperature control capabilities.
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
This design provides a safer, more efficient, and adaptable energy conversion process, reducing energy losses and capital costs, while being scalable, modular, and proliferation-resistant, suitable for various applications including remote locations and space power generation.
Implementation Method 1
a nuclear fuel chamber positioned within the annular body of the gas propellant chamber between the first and second ends, the nuclear fuel chamber configured to heat the operating gas
Implementation Method 2
a compressor positioned proximate the first end of the gas propellant chamber, the compressor configured to compress the operating gas prior to entry into the nuclear fuel chamber
Implementation Method 3
a conversion apparatus positioned proximate the second end of the gas propellant chamber, the conversion apparatus configured to convert kinetic energy of the operating gas exiting the nuclear fuel chamber into rotational energy
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an apparatus for generating electricity, mechanical energy, and/or process and district heat using a gas propellant chamber fueled with fissile material and enclosed in a sealed containment vessel which also contains an operating gas. The system allows for the operating gas to be compressed as it enters the nuclear fuel chamber where it is heated. As the operating gas exits the nuclear fuel chamber, the kinetic energy of the gas is converted to rotational energy by a variety of methods. The rotational energy is further converted to electricity, mechanical energy, and/or process and district heat. The operating gas circulates in the containment vessel and is cooled prior to re-entering the gas propellant chamber. The apparatus thereby provides a simpler and safer design that is both scalable and adaptable. The apparatus is easily and safely transportable and can be designed to be highly nuclear-proliferation-resistant.