Tokamak Vacuum Vessel Removal Using Rotating SPMT Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

The removal and replacement of a vacuum vessel from a tokamak is challenging due to its large size, heavy weight, and radioactive nature, requiring complex and potentially damaging manual operations.

Innovation Solution

A method and device using self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs) with a semi-annular plate and jacks to rotate and lift the vacuum vessel out of the tokamak, allowing for automated and non-mechanically complex tasks to minimize damage and simplify the replacement process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual operations are used to remove the vacuum vessel, then the vessel can be removed, but the complexity of operations increases and risk of damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of vacuum vessel removalVSAvoidoperational complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated lifting device performs the removal operation autonomously without requiring complex manual intervention. The system uses self-contained actuators, sensors, and control mechanisms that enable the device to lift, transport, and position the vacuum vessel automatically, thereby simplifying operations while reducing human involvement in hazardous tasks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex manual mechanical operations with an automated mechanical system. The lifting device uses programmed actuators, robotic mechanisms, and computer-controlled systems to perform tasks that would otherwise require complex coordinated manual operations, thereby reducing operational complexity and improving ease of removal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If manual operations are used to remove the vacuum vessel, then the vessel can be removed, but the risk of mechanical damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of vacuum vessel removalVSAvoidrisk of vessel damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The automated lifting device incorporates protective measures and controlled movement mechanisms that prevent damage before it can occur. The system uses sensors to detect vessel position and status, and employs controlled, gradual lifting and positioning actions that cushion against sudden movements or improper handling, thereby minimizing risk of mechanical damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Ease of manufacture

If the vacuum vessel is removed and replaced, then maintenance can be performed, but downtime increases operational costs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of vessel replacementVSAvoidtokamak downtime

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex manual operations with an automated mechanical system. The lifting device uses programmed actuators, robotic mechanisms, and computer-controlled systems to perform tasks that would otherwise require complex coordinated manual operations, thereby reducing operational complexity and improving ease of removal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The automated lifting device is pre-positioned and pre-configured within the tokamak structure, ready to immediately engage the vacuum vessel when removal is required. The system includes pre-installed support structures, sensors, and actuators that eliminate preparation time, allowing the vessel to be removed and replaced quickly, thereby minimizing downtime and associated operational costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables safe and efficient removal and replacement of the vacuum vessel with reduced risk of damage, minimizing downtime and operational costs by allowing offsite fabrication and controlled assembly, thus enhancing the economic viability of fusion power plants.

Implementation Method 1

raising the plurality of jacks of the device to support the weight of the portion of the vacuum vessel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

operating the at least one mechanism to rotate the semi-annular plate out of the portion of the tokamak, thereby removing the portion of the vacuum vessel from the portion of the tokamak

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRotational Motion:

Data Source

PatentUS12488904B2Techniques for removing a vacuum vessel from a tokamak and related systems and methods

Publication Date: 2025.12.02 COMMONWEALTH FUSION SYSTEMS LLC

AI summary

Techniques are described for automatically removing and replacing components, including a vacuum vessel, from a tokamak. The inventors have recognized that schemes for automatically removing and replacing components from a tokamak should preferably be simple (e.g., using proven equipment to perform a series of non-mechanically complex tasks) and have a very low risk of damaging components. Techniques described herein may include splitting a tokamak into multiple pieces, separating the pieces, and removing the now separate pieces of the vacuum vessel from within the pieces of the tokamak. A new vacuum vessel can be inserted in multiple pieces and the tokamak rejoined to complete the replacement process.