Sample changer for transferring radioactive samples between a hot cell and a measuring apparatus

US6630679B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• The European Community · BE

Inventors

• Herbert Ottmar · Karlsruhe, DE
• Georges Dockendorf · Blankenloch, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 14, 2001
• Grant date: Oct 7, 2003
• Expiry date: Mar 14, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G21F7/005
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A sample changer for transferring radioactive samples between a hot cell (12) and a measuring apparatus (10), as e.g. a hybrid K-edge densitometer, comprises a transfer channel (28) axially extending through a tubular containment (22) between the charging/discharging port and the measuring window section D. A recipient (24), with at least one compartment (100) for receiving therein a radioactive sample, is arranged in the transfer channel (28) so as to be movable therethrough. A threaded spindle (44) is rotatably housed in a spindle channel (42) below the transfer channel (28). A coupling (46) passing in a sealed manner through the closed rear end section connects a stepping motor (34) to the threaded spindle (44). A longitudinally guided support carriage supports the magazine (24) and engages the threaded spindle (44), so as to be subjected to a translational movement upon rotation of the spindle (44).