Remote Tool Change Drilling Device for Radioactive Heat Exchangers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for tool changes in drilling devices used in radioactive environments, such as nuclear power plants, are complex, time-consuming, and expose personnel to unnecessary radiation due to the need to detach the drilling machine from the robotic arm and transport it to a manhole for tool exchange.
Innovation Solution
A drilling device that can remain clamped to the tube sheet during tool changes, allowing remote unlocking and replacement of the drill chuck without detachment, utilizing a gripping tool to manage the tool exchange and incorporating a detector for precise positioning and automatic operation to prevent material damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the drilling machine is detached from the robotic arm for tool changes, then the tool can be exchanged, but personnel are exposed to radiation and the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A remote control device acts as an intermediary between the operator and the drilling machine. The operator controls the tool change process remotely through this device, which manipulates the gripping tool to detach and attach tools to the drill chuck without the operator needing to physically enter the radioactive environment. This resolves the contradiction by enabling tool changes while eliminating direct personnel exposure to radiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The drilling machine is equipped with a gripping tool and locking mechanism that enable automated tool changes. The locking mechanism automatically secures the tool to the drill chuck when the gripping tool releases it, allowing the system to service itself during tool changes without requiring manual intervention in the radioactive environment. This eliminates the need for personnel to enter hazardous areas for tool changes.
2Ease of operation
If the drilling machine is transported to a manhole for tool changes, then tool exchange is possible, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The tool change function is extracted from the drilling machine itself and performed by a separate gripping tool controlled by the remote control device. The gripping tool detaches the tool from the drill chuck and replaces it with a new tool, while the drilling machine remains in place on the robotic arm. This simplifies the overall system by separating the tool change function from the drilling function, allowing tool changes without transporting the entire drilling machine to a manhole.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates a spring element that dynamically adjusts to secure the tool to the drill chuck. When the gripping tool releases the tool, the spring automatically pushes the locking element into the locked position, securing the tool. This dynamic mechanism enables quick and simple tool changes without complex procedures or transportation requirements.
3Productivity
If manual tool changes are performed in the radioactive environment, then tools can be replaced, but personnel safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Manual mechanical tool changes performed by personnel in the radioactive environment are replaced by a remotely controlled mechanical system. The remote control device operates the gripping tool, which mechanically detaches and attaches tools to the drill chuck. This substitution eliminates the need for personnel to physically handle tools in the radioactive environment, maintaining productivity while ensuring personnel safety through remote operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a drilling device (10) for the machining of tubes on tube bases of heat exchangers in a radioactive environment. A holding plate (12) can be clamped in the tubes on a first side with at least two retaining fingers (16), and a first drive (30) is arranged on a second side, which drives a tool shaft (57). A tool chuck on a first front side of the tool shaft (57) is detachably connected to said tool shaft, wherein an advance of the tool shaft (57) is caused by an advancing device (20, 24, 46, 48, 50, 26). In addition, an unlocking device (34, 36, 38) can unlock the tool chuck from the tool shaft (57), said unlocking device (34, 36, 38) being controllable with a remote control device.