Passive Pressure Control Device for Nuclear Vessels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure regulation systems in nuclear reactors, particularly those on underwater vehicles, are complex and unreliable due to the use of multiple moving parts, which can compromise safety in critical environments.
Innovation Solution
A passive pressure regulation device featuring an intermediate receptacle with adjustable fluid distribution orifices and evacuation pipes that automatically distribute fluid between a spray assembly and exhaust lines, eliminating the need for active control components and allowing for reliable, inexpensive pressure regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If controlled valves are used to regulate fluid flow into and out of the pressurizer, then pressure regulation precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressurizer uses passive self-regulation through the relationship between fluid level height and spray nozzle submersion. As fluid level rises, more nozzles become submerged, automatically increasing spray rate and condensation to reduce pressure. This eliminates the need for external control valves while maintaining pressure regulation precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter from active valve control to passive fluid level-dependent spray rate. The spray rate automatically adjusts based on fluid level height, which determines how many nozzles are submerged and thus how much fluid is sprayed into the headspace for condensation.
2Ease of operation
If multiple valves and moving parts are used for pressure regulation, then pressure control capability is improved, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pressurizer operates autonomously without moving parts or external control systems. The passive regulation mechanism uses the natural relationship between fluid level and nozzle submersion to automatically control spray rate, eliminating valves and improving reliability in critical nuclear applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes all active control components (valves, actuators, control systems) from the pressurizer, retaining only the essential passive regulation mechanism based on fluid level-dependent spray nozzle submersion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If active control valves are used in the pressurizer, then pressure regulation flexibility is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressurizer achieves pressure regulation flexibility passively through the fluid level-dependent spray mechanism. As fluid level changes, different numbers of nozzles are submerged, automatically adjusting spray rate and providing adaptive pressure control without expensive active components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex control valves with simple, inexpensive spray nozzles and passive fluid level control mechanisms, significantly reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining regulatory flexibility.
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 device provides reliable and automatic pressure regulation without moving parts, adjusting fluid distribution based on flow rate and inclination, ensuring consistent operation and reducing the risk of mechanical failure in harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
The formation of droplets condenses part of the gas present in the gaseous sky, which reduces the pressure of the fluid.
Implementation Method 2
an intermediate receptacle for distributing the fluid, interposed between the supply pipe and the spray assembly, the intermediate receptacle being connected upstream to the supply pipe and comprising a side wall for discharging the fluid delimiting at least one orifice through connected to the spray assembly
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a passive device for controlling pressure in an enclosure, to the enclosure, and to associated equipment. Said device comprises a unit (40) for spraying fluid in the enclosure, and a pipe (42) for supplying fluid, which is to supply the fluid to the spraying unit (40). The device comprises an intermediate container (46) for distributing the fluid, which is inserted between the supply pipe (42) and the spraying unit (40), the intermediate container (46) being connected, upstream, to the supply pipe (42), and comprising a sidewall (52) for discharging the fluid, said sidewall delimiting through-holes (60) connected to the spraying unit (40). The device includes at least one pipe (44A to 44D) for discharging fluid toward the enclosure (19), said pipe projecting into the intermediate container (46) opposite the sidewall (52).