Segmented Ablation Chamber Liner for Multi-Sample Nuclear Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ablation chambers for nuclear samples are limited in performing multi-sample analyses without cross-contamination and require frequent replacement, leading to high costs and safety concerns due to contamination buildup.
Innovation Solution
An ablation chamber assembly with a support structure and a liner featuring multiple sample chambers that can be rotated for sequential analysis, allowing for fluid passageways to direct testing fluids through each sample chamber without the need for chamber replacement, utilizing materials with low absorption characteristics for radiation shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional ablation chambers are used for nuclear samples, then single-sample analysis is performed, but multi-sample analysis capability is lost and cross-contamination occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The ablation chamber is segmented into multiple independent sample chambers (e.g., 3-6 chambers) arranged circumferentially around a central axis. Each chamber is isolated from others, allowing simultaneous or sequential analysis of multiple nuclear samples without cross-contamination. The segmentation enables the chamber to handle multiple samples while maintaining reliability through physical isolation barriers.
Solution Approach 2:
The ablation chamber is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate and analyze multiple different nuclear fuel types (e.g., MOX, UO2, mixed oxide blends) within a single chamber. The chamber structure and fluid distribution system are configured to universally support various sample types, enabling multi-sample analysis capability while maintaining controlled conditions for each sample type.
2Reliability
If conventional ablation chambers are used for nuclear samples, then analysis is performed, but contamination buildup requires frequent chamber replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The chamber is divided into multiple separable sample chambers that can be individually accessed and maintained. This segmentation allows for localized cleaning or replacement of specific chambers without requiring complete chamber replacement, reducing downtime and maintaining contamination control through targeted maintenance of affected segments only.
Solution Approach 2:
A fluid distribution system with multiple fluid outlets is integrated into the chamber, with each outlet positioned to deliver cooling or cleaning fluids to specific sample chambers. This hydraulic system enables rapid washout and cleaning of individual chambers or the entire chamber assembly, reducing contamination buildup time and extending chamber operational life between replacements.
3Reliability
If conventional ablation chambers are replaced frequently, then contamination is controlled, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modular segmented design allows selective replacement or refurbishment of individual sample chambers rather than the entire expensive chamber assembly. This reduces material loss and cost by maintaining the core chamber structure while replacing only the contaminated segments, achieving contamination control with lower economic impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated fluid distribution system enables efficient cleaning and washout of the chamber, extending the operational life of expensive chamber components. By using hydraulic flushing to remove contamination, the system reduces the frequency of costly chamber replacements while maintaining contamination control, thereby reducing overall material loss and operational costs.
4Productivity
If conventional ablation chambers are used, then single-sample analysis is performed, but analysis speed and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The chamber is segmented into multiple sample chambers that can be analyzed simultaneously or in rapid succession, significantly increasing productivity compared to single-sample chambers. The segmented design with multiple fluid outlets enables parallel processing of multiple samples, accelerating analysis speed while the modular structure manages the complexity through standardized repeating units.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal chamber design with multiple fluid outlets and standardized sample chamber configurations allows a single chamber structure to perform multiple sample analyses without requiring separate specialized chambers for each sample type. This multi-functionality increases productivity by eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices while managing complexity through a unified versatile platform.
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
Facilitates multi-sample analysis without cross-contamination, reduces costs by reusing the chamber and disposing of the liners, and enhances safety through a leak-tight system, while allowing for rapid washout and increased mapping speed.
Implementation Method 1
The fluid passageway is configured to direct a fluid from the fluid inlet into one sample chamber of the one or more sample chambers through the central opening of the liner and out the fluid outlet
Data Source
AI summary
An ablation chamber assembly, comprising a chamber, a support structure, and a liner. The chamber may have a fluid inlet, a central cavity, and a fluid outlet. The support structure may be disposed in the interior cavity and include a support flange and a fluid passageway defined through the support structure. The liner may be disposed in the chamber over the support flange of the support structure. The liner may include a central opening and one or more sample chambers spaced about the central opening. The one or more sample chambers may be configured to receive testing samples. The support structure fluid passageway may be configured to direct a fluid from the fluid inlet into one sample chamber of the one or more sample chambers through the central opening of the liner and out the fluid outlet.