Neutron Flux Sensor Disposal Device with Segmented Cutting Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for disposing of neutron flux sensors and thermocouples from nuclear reactors are inefficient due to small disposal capacity, long disposal times, difficult manipulation, and the need for operator intervention, with existing solutions generating secondary radioactive waste and being unsuitable for long objects.
Innovation Solution
A device with a shielding body and a cutting mechanism that includes a sensor guiding channel and a cutting head, allowing for automated disposal with a large capacity receptacle, minimizing radioactive exposure for the operator, and featuring a rotational cutting head and auxiliary feeding mechanism to facilitate easy handling and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a winding device with a small rotary container is used to dispose of sensors, then the device structure is simple, but the disposal capacity is limited and the disposal time is long
Solution Approach 1:
The disposal device is divided into multiple functional modules: a feeding mechanism module, a cutting mechanism module, and a storage container module. The storage container is segmented into multiple compartments to hold different types of disposed sensors. This modular segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, enabling large-capacity storage while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized interfaces between modules.
2Ease of operation
If manual winding of sensors on a mandrel is performed, then operator control is precise, but operator intervention is required and manipulation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The feeding mechanism is designed to automatically guide the sensor from the input opening through the cutting mechanism to the storage container without requiring manual winding operations. The mechanism uses self-aligning guides and automated positioning systems that detect the sensor's position and adjust accordingly, enabling the system to service itself during the disposal process and eliminating the need for continuous operator intervention.
3Productivity
If the cutting mechanism is positioned close to the input opening, then the channel length is short, but the cut pieces may clog the channel
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting mechanism is positioned in three-dimensional space above the storage container rather than linearly adjacent to the input opening. The channel is designed with a vertical component that drops cut pieces directly into the container, changing the disposal path from a horizontal linear arrangement to a vertical three-dimensional arrangement. This dimensional change allows the channel to be short while ensuring cut pieces fall directly into storage, preventing clogging.
4Productivity
If sensors are disposed of as whole units, then the disposal process is simple, but the storage capacity is inefficient and radioactivity exposure is higher
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting mechanism automatically segments sensors into smaller sections at predetermined intervals as they pass through the disposal device. This segmentation allows the storage container to hold multiple times the volume of whole sensors, improving capacity utilization. The cutting process is integrated into the automated disposal flow, adding minimal complexity while achieving both compact storage and reduced radioactivity exposure through smaller, contained segments.
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 enables efficient, automated, and safe disposal of neutron flux sensors and thermocouples with increased capacity, reducing operator risk and eliminating the need for manual handling, while preventing clogging and secondary waste generation.
Implementation Method 1
the bent part is constructed so as to feed the sensor to the cutting head located above the vessel for direct transfer of the cut out parts of the sensor being disposed of into the vessel by gravity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Device for disposal of neutron flux sensors and/or thermocouples comprising a shielding body (1) with a cavity formed lengthwise (20) inside, which is provided with ah input opening (21) in its lower part for inserting sensors, wherein a cutting mechanism (3) is arranged in the upper part of the cavity (20), the cutting mechanism (3) comprising a cutting body (3.1) and a cutting head (3.4), under which, a receptacle (11) is arranged to keep the disposed of sensors, while there is a channel (10) arranged above the input opening (21) and a feeding mechanism (4) is provided at the input opening (21) to pass sensors through the channel (10) towards the cutting mechanism (3).