Optimal segmentation and packaging process

Patent · Tue Aug 10 04:00:00 EDT 1999

OSTI ID:678604

Kostelnik, K M; Meservey, R H; Landon, M D

A process for improving packaging efficiency uses three dimensional, computer simulated models with various optimization algorithms to determine the optimal segmentation process and packaging configurations based on constraints including container limitations. The present invention is applied to a process for decontaminating, decommissioning (D and D), and remediating a nuclear facility involving the segmentation and packaging of contaminated items in waste containers in order to minimize the number of cuts, maximize packaging density, and reduce worker radiation exposure. A three-dimensional, computer simulated, facility model of the contaminated items are created. The contaminated items are differentiated. The optimal location, orientation and sequence of the segmentation and packaging of the contaminated items is determined using the simulated model, the algorithms, and various constraints including container limitations. The cut locations and orientations are transposed to the simulated model. The contaminated items are actually segmented and packaged. The segmentation and packaging may be simulated beforehand. In addition, the contaminated items may be cataloged and recorded. 3 figs.

• Research Organization: Lockheed Martin Idaho Tech Co
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: AC07-94ID13223
• Assignee: Lockheed Martin Idaho Technologies Co., Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
• Patent Number(s): US 5,936,863/A/
• Application Number: PAN: 9-014,696
• OSTI ID: 678604
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

05 NUCLEAR FUELS
22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS
ALGORITHMS
CONTAINERS
DECOMMISSIONING
DECONTAMINATION
DEMOLITION
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
NUCLEAR FACILITIES
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE
PACKAGING
PERFORMANCE
RADIOACTIVE WASTES
REMEDIAL ACTION
THREE-DIMENSIONAL CALCULATIONS