Self-powered wireless in-core detector
AssigneeWestinghouse Electric Corp.
InventorsMichael D. Heibel, Daniel P. Kistler, Michael C. Prible, Jorge V. Carvajal, Jason Palmer
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Abstract
A method and apparatus for monitoring a parameter in an irradiated environment and communicating a signal representative of the monitored parameter to a less caustic environment that employs a wireless transmitter that is powered by the irradiated environment. The power for the wireless transmitter is derived from a self-powered radiation detector disposed within the radioactive environment.
Claims11
A method of transmitting a monitored parameter from a highly caustic irradiated environment in which a plurality of atoms are undergoing a fission reaction to a less caustic environment comprising the steps of:
- monitoring the parameter indicative of a condition of the highly irradiated environment and generating a signal representative of the monitored parameter;
- generating an electrical current at a location proximate the highly caustic irradiated environment, as a byproduct of the fission reaction;
- using the electrical current to power a wireless transmitter;
- and
- employing the wireless transmitter to wirelessly communicate the signal to the less caustic environment.
An in-core instrument thimble assembly for disposition in a core of a nuclear reactor, comprising:
- a self-powered radiation detector assembly responsive to a radiation environment in which it is placed to generate an electric current representative of the strength of the radiation environment;
- a wireless transmitter connected to the electric current for transmitting at least a portion of the electric current wirelessly to a less caustic environment;
- and
- a power source for powering the wireless transmitter that derives its power from the radiation environment.
A method of transmitting a monitored parameter from a highly caustic irradiated environment within a nuclear reactor in which a plurality of atoms are undergoing a fission reaction, to a less caustic environment comprising the steps of:
- monitoring the parameter indicative of a condition of the highly irradiated environment and generating a signal representative of the monitored parameter;
- generating an electrical current at a location proximate the highly caustic irradiated environment, the electrical current being generated by a self powered radiation detector as part of an in-core instrument thimble assembly, as by-product of the fission reaction;
- using the electrical current to recharge a rechargeable battery powering a wireless transmitter;
- and
- employing the wireless transmitter to wirelessly communicate the signal to the less caustic environment.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.