Bolt installation and tensioning system
US11017909B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 13, 2017 |
| Grant date | May 25, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 10, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/53548
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A bolt installation and removal (BIR) system is used for assembling and disassembling a nuclear vessel. The BIR system includes a platform with a stand for supporting the nuclear vessel. A track extends around an outside perimeter of the platform and multiple tool carts include wheels that roll on the track. Tool towers are located on the carts and include tool assemblies configured to install and remove bolts on the nuclear reactor vessel. Magazine towers also extend up from the tool carts next to the tool towers and include magazines that hold bolts for exchanging with the tool assemblies. Drive mechanisms move tool heads in the tool assemblies around a first vertical axis, vertically up and down, and laterally to more simply and reliably install and remove the bolts in a radioactive underwater environment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.