Connexion

This is a proposed solution to the design challenge brought forward by Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL).

Problem Statement:
CNL needs to collect a 30-80mg sample, 15 feet inside their reactor's fuel tubes. The sample must be stored in such a way that it does not come into contact with anyone while it is removed from the tool and transported for testing. A single operator must be able to transport, set up and operate the tool, along with receiving feedback from the tool while it is in use.


Solution:
Our solution is comprised of three main subsystems, a driving mechanism, a scraping/storage mechanism, and an engagement system. The driving mechanism moves the device in and out of the tube and is made up of a hand crank, gear, and 3d printed rails. The scraping/storage mechanism collects the sample of the tube and stores it to be retrieved safely by the operator. It is made up of mostly 3d printed components as well as a scraping blade (specifics TBD). The engagement system is a series of fishing lines connected to various points of the scraper used to position the blade while inside the tube (specifics TBD).

Cost:
Currently, our costs are relatively low. Most of the tool will be made up of 3d printed materials. A PVC pipe (diameter 2in) will make up most of the length of the tool (~10-14 ft) so the exact price is unknown at the moment. The only other cost is that of the blade (scraping component) which is still TBD.