Sample push-out fixture
AssigneeThe United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
InventorJohn L. Biernat
Life of this patent
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Abstract
This invention generally relates to the remote removal of pelletized samples from cylindrical containment capsules. V-blocks are used to receive the samples and provide guidance to push out rods. Stainless steel liners fit into the v-channels on the v-blocks which permits them to be remotely removed and replaced or cleaned to prevent cross contamination between capsules and samples. A capsule holder securely holds the capsule while allowing manual up/down and in/out movement to align each sample hole with the v-blocks. Both end sections contain identical v-blocks; one that guides the drive out screw and rods or manual push out rods and the other to receive the samples as they are driven out of the capsule.
Claims5
A fixture for removing irradiated pellets from a containment capsule, comprising:
- (a)two v-blocks positioned at opposite ends of the fixture, the v-blocks having a 90 degree angle v-channel and v-channel liners,
- (b) a capsule clamp assembly between the two v-blocks, including:
- a capsule clamp,
- a horizontal translation stage, and
- a vertical jack, and
- (c) a push out rod.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.