This class provides for patents directed to processes involving
induced nuclear reactions and structures which implement such processes.
(1)
Note. For purposes of classification in this class, an induced
nuclear reaction is defined as a change in the nucleus of an atom
brought about by subjecting it (the nucleus) to (a) an impact with
other nuclei of the same or different type, or (b) an impact with,
or bombardment by, subatomic particles or high energy electromagnetic
radiations.
(2)
Note. Reactions of type (a) in (1) Note, above, include those
which cause or result in the combining or uniting of at least two nuclei
to form a different nucleus which reactions are generally referred
to as fusion reactions. Reactions of type (b) in (1) Note, above,
include (1) those which cause a splitting or subdivision of the
nucleus (usually a heavy nucleus) into a plurality of different
nuclei and are generally referred to as fission reactions, and (2)
those which result in a single but different nucleus of the same
or a different element and are generally referred to as transmutations.
(3)
Note. A basis for placing a patent into this class is that
a nuclear reactor be claimed or that it be utilized to obtain a
nuclear reaction even though the sole or primary aim of the patent
in regard to the reactor is to obtain useful nuclear energy or to
utilize such nuclear energy yielding system for conversion into
other forms of useful energy or power. This is true even though from
a chemical view there may be nothing novel, or from an economical
view, nothing of value, with respect to the products or materials
resulting from the nuclear reaction.
(4)
Note. Patents to processes are not segregated from patents
to the structure, but are classified together depending upon the
type of structure claimed or used in the claimed process.
Included within the scope of the class are patents directed
to (a) the nuclear reactor as a system of elements or parts so interrelated as
to produce induced nuclear reactions and to (b) such elements or
parts, per se, as are essential and peculiar components of nuclear
reactors. Included among (a), for example, are neutron detectors
wherein the detection takes place by means of an induced nuclear
reaction. Included among (b), for example, are fuel element structures (including
fuel "targets" or "pellets"),
control component structures, moderator component structures, fuel
element storage structures, and refueling machines.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
Also included in this class are the following (see Subclass
References to the Current Class, below, for subclass references):
(1)
Note. Patents to processes or apparatus including a step
or means for (a) converting the nucleus of a substance other than
the reactor fuel to a nucleus of another substance, (b) treating
or irradiating of material, or (c) making a material radioactive, all
within such reactor, including for such purposes as the production
of nuclear fuel or experimentation, study or research, etc.
(2)
Note. Patents to processes or apparatus including a step
or means for converting the nucleus of a substance or for making
a substance radioactive by bombardment with accelerated particles
from a source other than a nuclear reactor.
(3)
Note. Patents directed to combination of a process or apparatus
under the class definition with a step or means, e.g., (a) of cooling
or heat exchange even though the purpose is to generate steam for
extraneous uses, or (b) with a step or means for carrying out of
a chemical reaction, etc.
(4)
Note. Patents to processes or apparatus including an arrangement
of steps or means for amplifying neutrons of a subcritical mass
to controllable fission reaction levels, i.e., subcritical reactors.
(5)
Note. Patents to all devices, structures, and processes for
irradiating a nucleus with its antinucleus (e.g., protonantproton)
so as to produce annihilation radiation, i.e., induced matter-antimatter
reaction.
(6)
Note. Patents to processes or devices that utilize a gaseous
or light element fuel material, the particles of which are electrically charged
or excited to the point where they become highly ionized and the
forces of repulsion of like nuclei is overcome, or substantially
so, wherein it is the intent of the patent that this be the result
of such ionization, to the end that nuclear fusion of such like
nuclei is obtained or sought to be obtained.
Reactor structure in combination with any other art device
is classified in this class.
(1)
Note. The line between the subject matter of this class and
those classes utilizing nuclear energy reactors or reactions in
an ancillary fashion for such purposes as the production of power
either electrical or mechanical and for similar purposes is as follows:
this class provides for claimed apparatus and processes wherein
the reactor or reaction is recited either specifically or broadly
and wherein structure utilizing the reactor or reaction, e.g., motor,
generator, ship, aircraft, etc., is recited either specifically
or broadly.
(2)
Note. Patents to processes utilizing nuclear energy to bring
about chemical reactions between either inorganic or organic compounds
in order to provide a different compound or product, provided neither
reactor structure nor a nuclear reaction is claimed are classified
elsewhere (see References to Other classes, below). Class 376,
however, takes such patents if some reactor structure is claimed
or if the resulting compound or product is either claimed, or is
disclosed as being radioactive.
(3)
Note. This class also provides for patents to all processes
and to certain devices or structures for irradiating a substance
of a subject specimen or sample for research and related purposes
or for making such substance radioactive. This holds true however
only if the irradiation produces a transformation or similar modification
of the nucleus of the substance, or if the treatment makes the substance
radioactive. For other types of irradiation, see References to Other
classes, below.
(4)
Note. Elements and subcombinations of nuclear reactors which
may, if recited in general terms, be provided for elsewhere, are
classified in this class if recited in terms of the subject matter
of this class.
(5)
Note. A process of utilizing nuclear energy to bring about
chemical reactions that treat or prepare a synthetic resin or rubber,
provided neither nuclear reactor structure nor a nuclear reaction
is claimed, is elsewhere (see References to Other Classes, below).
Class 376, however, takes such patents if some reactor structure
is claimed or if the resulting product is either claimed or disclosed
as being radioactive.
SECTION III - SUBCLASS REFERENCES TO THE CURRENT CLASS
for patents to processes or devices that utilize
a gaseous or light element fuel material, the particles of which
are electrically charged or excited to the point where they become
highly ionized and the forces of repulsion of like nuclei is overcome,
or substantially so, wherein it is the intent of the patent that
this be the result of such ionization, to the end that nuclear fusion
of such like nuclei is obtained or sought to be obtained.
for patents to processes or apparatus including a
step or means for (a) converting the nucleus of a substance other
than the reactor fuel to a nucleus of another substance, (b) treating
or irradiating of material, or (c) making a material radioactive,
all within such reactor, including for such purposes as the production
of nuclear fuel or experimentation, study or research, etc.
patents to all devices, structures, and processes for
irradiating a nucleus with its antinucleus (e.g., protonantproton)
so as to produce annihilation radiation, i.e., induced matter-antimatter reaction.
for patents to processes or apparatus including a
step or means for converting the nucleus of a substance or for making
a substance radioactive by bombardment with accelerated particles from
a source other than a nuclear reactor. See subclasses.
for patents directed to combination of a process or
apparatus under the class definition with a step or means, e.g.,
(a) of cooling or heat exchange even though the purpose is to generate
steam for extraneous uses, or (b) with a step or means for carrying
out of a chemical reaction, etc.
for patents to processes or apparatus including an
arrangement of steps or means for amplifying neutrons of a subcritical
mass to controllable fission reaction levels, i.e., subcritical reactors.
Plant Husbandry, appropriate subclasses for processes of subjecting
living plant or plant matter to nuclear radiation devices other
than within a nuclear reactor.
Power Plants,
subclass 644.1 for a power plant energized by externally applied
heat in which heat directly from radioactive decay or indirectly
from a nominally recited nuclear reactor is used.
Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses for control elements, per
se, (including its moving parts) except where (a) the element is
structurally associated with the reactor and some reactor structure
is also recited (other than in a mere broad reference to the reactor), or
where (b) the control element or portion thereof is defined as being
absorbing material or neutron absorbing material - patents to such elements
are classified in this class (376).
Ships, appropriate subclasses for patents to ship structures
utilizing nuclear reactors for power-generating purposes in which
no structural elements of the nuclear reactor are claimed.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,
subclasses 157.2+ and 193 for processes and structure for bringing
about chemical reactions by subjecting material to nuclear radiation;
subclasses 157.15+ for patents to processes utilizing nuclear
energy to bring about chemical reactions between either inorganic
or organic compounds in order to provide a different compound or
product, provided neither reactor structure nor a nuclear reaction
is claimed. (See Lines With other Classes, "Reactor structure
in combination with any other art device.").
Aeronautics and Astronautics, appropriate subclasses, particularly
subclasses 53+ , for patents to aircraft using a nuclear reactor
as a power-generating source in which no structural elements of
the nuclear reactor is claimed.
Radiant Energy,
subclass 251 for molecular or atomic beam devices for producing
and propagating a unidirectional stream of neutral molecules or
atoms through a vacuum, usually at thermal velocities; subclasses
253+ for geological signal processing steps or apparatus involving
only a nominally recited nuclear reaction; subclasses 324+ for
methods and apparatus to irradiate materials by corona radiation;
subclasses 390.01+ for neutron responsive means involving
no induced nuclear reactions; subclasses 423+ for methods
and apparatus to generate ions not involving induced nuclear reactions;
subclasses 453.11+ for methods and apparatus including
supports for objects to be irradiated with or without an irradiating
source; subclasses 458.1+ for methods and apparatus to
irradiate luminophors; subclasses 492.1+ for methods and
apparatus to irradiate objects or materials generally; subclasses
493.1+ for invisible radiation generation and sources not
involving induced nuclear reactions; and subclasses 505.1+ for
generic storage devices for radioactive material.
Prime-Mover Dynamo Plants, appropriate subclasses for prime-mover plant using
nuclear reactor as power-generating source in which no structural
elements of the nuclear reactor is claimed.
Electricity: Single Generator Systems, appropriate subclasses for patents to generator
systems utilizing nuclear reactors for power source in which no
structural element of the nuclear reactor is claimed.
Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions, particularly
subclasses 1.11+ for radionuclide containing subject matter, for:
compositions (A) for preventing, alleviating, treating, or curing
abnormal and pathological conditions of the living body, for maintaining, increasing,
decreasing, limiting, or destroying a physiologic body function,
for diagnosing a physiological condition or state by an in vivo test,
for controlling or protecting an environment or living body by attracting,
disabling, inhibiting, killing, modifying, repelling, or retarding
an animal or micro-organism, (B) for deodorizing, protecting, adorning,
or grooming a body, (C) for fermentates and extracts for use in
A or B and not elsewhere provided for, and (D) for such compositions
defined in terms of specific structure; methods of making the above
compositions; methods of using the class defined compositions for
purposes in A and B; and methods of using compounds, per se, for purposes
in A and B.
Food or Edible Material: Processes, Compositions,
and Products,
subclass 240 for process of subjecting food to nuclear radiation
devices other than within a nuclear reactor.
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, for a process of utilizing nuclear energy to bring
about chemical reactions that treat or prepare a synthetic resin
or rubber, provided neither nuclear reactor structure nor a nuclear
reaction is claimed.
Nuclear Technology, for an alternative search, based on a modification
of the European Patent Office Classification.
SECTION V - GLOSSARY
Certain terms employed in this class have been assigned definitions
tailored to meet the needs of this class and therefore may be more
or less restricted or even altogether different from those in common
usage. These terms are listed below and are flagged with an asterisk where
they occur in the subclass definition that follow. The meaning
to be given to the various "art" terms appearing
in this class, but which have not been included in the Glossary
below, is the same as that generally accepted or is in common usage.
ABSORBING MATERIAL
See Neutron Absorbing Material.
ACTIVE VOLUME
See Reactor Core.
AMPLIFICATION, NEUTRON
See Subcritical Reactor.
BLANKET MATERIAL
A layer of fertile material placed external to core of
the fission reactor. See Fertile Material.
BREEDER MATERIAL
See (a) Blanket Material and (b) Fertile Material.
BURNABLE POISON
A substance with high neutron capture cross section which
has a capture reaction product of low capture cross section and
which is purposely put in a fission reactor to influence the long
term reactivity variations.
BY-PRODUCT MATERIALS
Are nuclear reaction products (except special nuclear fuel
material (see Nuclear Fuel) including gases yielded in or made radioactive
by exposure to the radiation incident to the process of producing
or utilizing special nuclear fuel in the nuclear reaction.
COMPONENT, REACTOR
For the purpose of this class, relates to any of the
functional segments or parts comprising, when properly associated
together, a nuclear reactor, e.g., fuel, moderator, coolant (fluid
or solid), control rod, reflector, shield, etc.
CONFINEMENT PLASMA
For the purpose of this class, is either the containment
or restraint force or the means (structure) for producing such force
placed upon the charged particles or plasma, e.g., by electric or
magnetic fields, so as to restrict said particles or plasma within
a given volume.
CONTROL ELEMENT
For the purpose of this class, is rods, tubes, plates,
etc., of a reactivity affecting material used to hold a fission reactor
at a given power level or to vary the rate of reaction. Control
elements can be given three names corresponding to three different
functions, namely: (a) power control, regulating or fine control
(affecting only a small change in reactivity); (b) safety or scram
(capable or reducing the reactivity below critical and used general when
some emergency condition exists, such as power level to high); and
(c) shim (affecting a relatively large change in reactivity of a
reactor, i.e., it is used for coarse control or reactivity).
CONTROL ROD
See Control Element.
CONVERSION
For the purpose of this class, is the process of artificially bringing
about a change or transformation in the nucleus of an atom. Nuclear
conversion is generally caused by subjecting a material to particle
bombardment, usually by neutron irradiation as happens in a fission
reactor. See also Transmutation.
COOLANT
A fluid (liquid, gaseous, or particulate) whose function is
to absorb heat from the reactor core and to deliver this absorbed
heat to a heat exchanger or other utilization means exterior to
the reactor core.
CORE, REACTOR
See Reactor Core.
CRITICAL
For the purpose of this class, is the term used to describe the
condition in which a chain reaction is being maintained at a constant
level, i.e., it is just self-sustaining. In order for this state
to exist a sufficient quantity of fissile material (critical mass)
must be assembled in the proper shape and concentration.
FAST NEUTRONS
See Thermal Neutrons.
FAST (FISSION) REACTOR
A nuclear reactor in which most of the fissions are caused
by neutrons moving with substantially the high speeds they possess
at the time of their birth in fission. Such reactors contain little
or no moderator.
FERTILE MATERIAL
An element (isotope) capable of being readily transformed
or converted into a fissionable substance by capture of a neutron,
examples include, U238 and Th232.
FISSILE MATERIAL
See Fissionable Material.
FISSION
The splitting of a heavy nucleus into two (or, very rarely,
more) fragments (fission products) of more or less equal mass accompanied
by the emission of neutrons and the release of energy. It can be
spontaneous or it can be caused by the impact or a neutron, a fast charged
particle or a photon. See Fissionable Material. Cf. Spallation.
FISSIONABLE MATERIAL
Any element or isotope the nucleus of which can be caused
by nuclear bombardment to undergo nuclear fission and to produce
a fission chain reaction U233, U235, and
Pu239, are examples. Unless a patent refers
to a distinction, "fissionable" and "fissile" are
considered synonymous for the purpose of this class.
FLUIDIZED BED (FISSION) REACTOR
A reactor in which the fuel in the form of particles
is maintained in a fluidized state by a fluid medium. (The fuel
and the fluid are general moving in opposite directions). See subclass
355. (Includes also support of fuel in pellet form in a liquid bath
by an upwardly flowing liquid).
FUEL, FUEL ELEMENT, or FUEL COMPONENT
See Nuclear Fuel.
FULLY IONIZED
For the purpose of this class, is state in which atoms
are entirely stripped of their orbital electrons for atoms of low
mass number, this occurs at kinetic temperatures in the region of
1 Kev or more. In other words, matter is in a state of complete
ionization; it consists of a gas composed of positively charged
nuclei and an equivalent number of negative electrons with no neutral
particles. See also Plasma.
FUSION
For the purpose of this class, is a nuclear reaction
in which light nuclei combine to form a nucleus of a heavier mass
number. See also Thermonuclear Fusion Reaction.
HOMOGENEOUS FUEL
See Homogeneous Fission Reactor.
HOMOGENEOUS (FISSION) REACTOR
A reactor in which the fuel and moderator are intimately mixed
or dispersed (e.g., the fuel may be a uranium salt dissolved in
heavy water) as a solution or slurry.
INDUCED NUCLEAR REACTION
See section I, (1) Note.
INTERMEDIATE NEUTRONS
See Thermal Neutrons.
IONIZED
See (a) Fully Ionized and (b) Plasma.
MAGNETIC MIRRORS
See Mirror Field.
MIRROR FIELD
For confinement of plasma, a system has been devised whereby
a longitudinal magnetic field is applied to the plasma, but instead
of being uniform, the field strength is increased at spaced points.
The region of enhanced magnetic field is referred to as a mirror
field or magnetic mirror. Substantially all of the charged particles moving
from the region of lower to that of the higher field strength, will
be reflected back into the former region. This field thus acts as
a sort of potential well which inhibits escape of many of the charged
particles (and consequent loss of energy).
MODERATOR
For the purpose of this class, is a substance used within a
fission reactor core in special relationship with the fuel to reduce
the energy, and hence speed, of fast neutrons (so far as possible)
emanating from the fuel by means of collisions without capturing
them. Graphite and heavy water are examples.
MODERATED NEUTRONS
See Thermal Neutrons.
NEUTRON ABSORBING MATERIAL
As it relates to nuclear reactors, a substance that poses
a high neutron absorption ability.
NEUTRON APLIFICATION
See Subcritical Reactor.
NUCLEAR FUEL
(a) Light elements such as hydrogen, deuterium tritium, lithium,
boron beryllium, etc., which are capable of fusing or combining
to form a nucleus of higher mass number, (b) fissionable fissile,
or special nuclear material such as U233, U235,
or uranium enriched with either of these Pu239,
etc., capable of sustaining a chain reaction.
NUCLEAR REACTION
For the purpose of this class, a change in the composition
or physical characteristics of an atomic nucleus produced (a) directly
or indirectly, by its irradiation or bombardment by high energy
alpha particles, protons, deuterons, slow or fast neutrons or high
energy radiations (gamma rays) or (b) by fusing or combining nuclei of
low atomic number to produce a nucleus of higher mass number. See
also class definition, section I, and (1) Note.
NUCLEAR REACTOR
For the purpose of this class, a structure inside which
an induced nuclear reaction is confined, manipulated, or controlled.
A nuclear fission reactor is a structure in which a fission chain
reaction is a fissionable material can be maintained and controlled.
Besides the fuel, it generally contains control apparatus, moderator,
coolant, etc., and is often surrounded by a biological shield. A
nuclear fusion reactor is a structure in which a fusion reaction
in a nuclear fuel capable of fusing is controlled or manipulated.
Although it is implied that the rate of such reactions increases
as the relative velocities of such particles at the time of collision,
nothing is implied about the means by which such precollision velocities are
attained. The same reaction may and usually does produce one or
more other particles such as neutrons or protons, in accordance
with well-known reactions.
PINCH EFFECT
The self-constriction that occurs in a plasma as a result of
the passage of a unindirectional current, which current produces
an azimuthal self-magnetic field that tends to constrict (or pinch)
the plasma; or the equivalent effect which is produced when a plasma
is contained between parallel circuits carrying current in the same
direction attracting each other.
PLASMA
For the purpose of this class is a very hot, at least
partially, ionized gaseous system consisting of equivalent (substantially
so) numbers of positive ions and electrons, irrespective of whether
neutral particles are present or not. It is nearly neutral electrically
and highly conducting. See also Fully Ionized and subclasses 100+.
REACTION BY-PRODUCTS
See By-Product Materials.
REACTIVITY
A measure of the amount of the possible departure of
a reactor from the critical condition where the reaction is just
self- supporting. At any steady state of operation the reactivity
is zero. Addition of positive reactivity causes divergence; addition
of negative reactivity causes the reaction to die down.
REACTIVITY AFFECTING MATERIAL
As it relates to fission nuclear reactors, this is a
material which affects the criticality of the reactor and can be
(a) a neutron absorbing material (which for the purpose of this
class is a material which can absorb neutrons without reproducing
them, e.g., boron, or a fertile material such a uranium (U238 or
thorium) thus providing a decrease in reactivity, (b) a fissionable
material such as U235, Pu239,
U233 (thus providing an increase in reactivity),
and (c) a reflector (moderator) material such as graphite or water
(thus providing an increase in reactivity).
REACTOR CORE (FISSION REACTOR)
The central or heart of a nuclear reactor containing
as its main constituent the nuclear fuel (e.g., enriched uranium,
Pu239, etc.), and the moderator, if any. Also known
as the active volume of the reactor.
REACTOR GEOMETRY (FISSION REACTOR)
See subclasses 347+.
REFLECTOR
A volume of material placed around the active volume (core)
or other neutron yielding source serving to scatter back into the
active volume some of the neutrons which would otherwise be lost
to the chain reaction thus permitting a reduction in the critical
size of the active volume.
SAFETY ELEMENT or ROD
See Control Element.
SCRAM ROD
See Control Element.
SHIELD
For the purpose of this class, generally a mass or armor of
concrete, lead or other heavy material or other neutron absorbing
material erected around a reactor or other radioactive source to
shield operating staff by absorbing and reducing dangerous radiations
(especially neutrons and gamma rays) to permissible levels. See
also Neutron Absorbing Material.
SHIM
See Control Element.
SLURRY
See Homogeneous Reactor.
SPALLATION
A nuclear reaction induced by high energy bombardment
and involving the ejection of two or more small particles or fragments
leaving only one large residual nucleus.
SPECIAL NUCLEAR MATERIAL
See Nuclear Fuel (b).
SPLITTING
See Fission.
STRIPPED of ORBITAL ELECTRONS
See Fully Ionized.
SUBATOMIC PARTICLES
All particles of less than atomic mass, i.e., the elementary
particles (proton, neutron, electron, positron, neutrino, meson,
etc.) as well as the alpha particles and deutrons, the charge and
mass of which indicates them to be composite particles.
SUBCRITICAL (FISSION) REACTOR
For the purpose of this class, is a reactor which has
(a) an active volume (core) containing less than the necessary amount
of fissionable material (fuel) to become critical, and (b) an auxiliary
neutron source combined therewith in such a way as to trigger fissioning
with the active volume and with proper amplification of neutrons whereby
a steady state chain reaction results, i.e., it becomes critical.
TARGET
The substance which is subjected bombardment by particles
of photons of high energy in order to produce nuclear reactions
therein.
THERMAL NEUTRONS
As the energy of any substance has a temperature factor, that
of the prevailing temperature is termed thermal energy, and when
neutrons reach equilibrium with the moderator they are called thermal
neutrons. Their most probable energy is about 0.025 ev; or the speed
of a gas molecule at room temperature. It is this type of neutron that
can best enter the nucleus of a fissionable atom and remain there
long enough to excite the atom to the breaking point, attaining
fission. Two other categories of neutrons are intermediate and fast.
Fast neutrons are those resulting from fission that have lost relatively
little of their energy by collision, etc.; having energies exceeding
0.1 Mev. Intermediate neutrons have energies lying between thermal
and fast neutrons.
THERMONUCLEAR FUEL
See Nuclear Fuel.
THERMONUCLEAR (FUSION) REACTORS
Apparatus in which fusion reactions occur primarily as the
result of random collisions within the apparatus between gas particles
having a Maxwellian distribution of velocities about some average
temperature. It is implied that such reactions are not the result
of accelerating one particle into another. While it is also implied that
a high average gas temperature is sought for to attain a high thermonuclear
reaction rate, nothing is implied as to the attainment of any minimum
temperature.
TRANSMUTATION
The bombardment of a nucleus by particle or photon so as
to bring about a change in the nucleus resulting in a different
isotope of the original nucleus or resulting in different element(s).
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising structures and processes in which
two reacting nuclei are combined to yield at least one nucleus having
a greater mass than either of the reacting nuclei.
(1)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass and of the subclasses
indented hereunder may include, for example, reactions and methods
including neutron generators wherein the neutron is a product of
a fusion reaction, e.g., A D-T reaction.
(2)
Note. Patents are included in this and indented subclasses
even if there is failure of the system to actually obtain fusion
if it is clear that the intent or aim of the patent is to obtain
it.
(3)
Note. Neutrons from an ionized or plasma system or reaction
may be appropriately utilized or moderated to bring about or cause
a fission-type nuclear reaction.
(4)
Note. Energy or heat of a nuclear fission reaction system
may be appropriately utilized to bring about ionization to plasma
or fusion reaction levels.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter wherein the reacting nuclei are contained
in a fuel body and the disassembly of the body is prevented or retarded
for a predetermined time by mass forces within the body, said nuclei
being caused to react by the application of external or internal
sources of energy.
(1)
Note. The above mass forces includes but is not restricted
to the mass of outer layer.
(2)
Note. Nuclear explosives are included in this and indented
subclasses. The nuclear explosive may include a chemical explosive
to aid in causing the nuclei to react.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Subject matter wherein the source of energy is either a
charged particle beam or a neutral particle beam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter wherein the nuclei which are to undergo reaction
are in the form of plasma or beams which are directed towards and
caused to impact one another so as to cause the fusion reaction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter wherein at least one of the reacting nuclei
is directed into a fixed fuel body containing the other of the reacting
nuclei in nongaseous form with sufficient energy to produce fusion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the reacting nuclei produce a neutron
of a given energy and wherein this given energy is altered or attenuated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein a plurality of ionized nuclei are
directed towards a target along a given path and the average number
of nuclei in the path per unit volume varies with time.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the directed nuclei reach the sufficient
energy through traversal of an orbital path.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the directed nuclei reaches the sufficient
energy by means which creates a static electric accelerating potential.
(1)
Note. The accelerating potential can be provided by a Van
de Grof belt-driven generator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein all reacting nuclei are contained
within the same enclosure and the product of the reacting nuclei
includes a neutron.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Subject matter wherein either (a) the fixed fuel body, or
(b) a conductor of electrical energy for accelerating or directing
the nuclei has a provision for removal of heat therefrom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Subject matter wherein (a) the cross-sectional area, or
(b) the density of the directed nuclei in space, traversed by the
directed nuclei is altered prior to reaction with the fixed nuclei.
(1)
Note. The subject matter of this subclass provides for an
extractor electrode or other means to modify the diameter of the
ion beam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein (a) the cross-sectional area occupied
by the directed nuclei, or (b) the density of the directed nuclei
in space is altered prior to reaction with the fixed nuclei.
(1)
Note. The subject matter of this subclass provides for an
extractor electrode or other means to modify the diameter of the
ion beam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Subject matter wherein the reaction between the reacting
nuclei takes place beneath the surface of the earth.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter wherein traveling in an ordered path organized
in clusters at least some of the nuclei involved in the reaction
traverse fixed paths in groups.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter wherein (a) the nuclei are in a plasma* state
in a given volume, and (b) the plasma is restrained to the given
volume through magnetic forces.
(1)
Note. Patents wherein magnetic forces solely generated by
(a) electric discharge, or (b) self-generation in a plasma are not
proper for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein the nuclei after introduction into
the given volume in a nonplasma state are changed to the plasma
state with the aid of coherent light.
(1)
Note. The nuclei can be introduced into the given volume in
the form of a liquid, solid, or gas.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein most of the energy imparted to the
nuclei for bringing the nuclei to a condition sufficient for reaction
to take place is imparted through electromagnetic energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 123. Subject matter wherein the electromagnetic energy is in
the form of magnetic flux lines whose density changes with time
so as to compress the confined plasma.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein the restraining of the nuclei is
assisted by the sudden inward movement of a body which at least
partially encloses the plasma.
(1)
Note. Liners of this subclass type may be either liquid or
solid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein the magnetic force cooperates with
a charged particle layer (e.g., a layer of electrons or protons)
separate from an external to the plasma to form a further restraining
means for maintaining the plasma within the given volume.
(1)
Note. The enveloping charged particle layer can be formed
from a beam of high energy particles injected within a cylindrical
zone or chamber, which beam is parallel to and enveloping a long
axis and is subjected to the effects of a magnetic field in a way
so as to contain a plasma between it and the long axis of the chamber.
(2)
Note. The rotary motion of an E layer would generally be in
a direction opposite to that of the contained plasma.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein electrically charged or accelerated
particulate bodies are injected into the given volume.
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter wherein the particulate bodies comprise substantially
equal numbers of positively and negatively charged ions.
(1)
Note. The bodies may be in the form of protons and electrons.
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter wherein the charged particulate bodies are
comprised of electrons or ions of negative charge.
(1)
Note. The particulate bodies of this subclass may be macroparticles,
i.e., comprised of atoms and/or molecules, having an overall
negative charge.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Subject matter wherein the energy is selected from a predetermined
portion of the electromagnetic spectrum.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein the given volume is generated by
a rotation of a plane closed curve about an axis lying in its plane.
(1)
Note. The given volume may be in the shape of a torus, or
doughnut or race track.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Subject matter for removing particles at the extremities
of the given volume which would otherwise (a) impact on means (i.e.,
chamber) physically containing the volume, or (b) enter the given
volume and mix with the plasma.
(1)
Note. The difference between the divertors of this subclass
type and the limiters and liners of subclass 136 is that the divertors
remove the particles, as by means of gaseous flow or magnetic fields,
whereas limiters and liners are structural elements which trap or
absorb the particles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Subject matter for protecting at least a portion of physical
means (i.e., chamber) containing the given volume.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Subject matter wherein at least a portion of the magnetic
restraining force is created by electrical current-carrying structure
located within means (i.e., chamber) physically containing the volume.
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Subject matter having means (i.e., chamber) physically containing
the given volume and wherein the physical surface of the means has regularly
spaced depressions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein the given volume forms a linear containment
zone or chamber for the plasma, the lines of magnetic force generally being
concentric to the axis of the zone or chamber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 139. Subject matter having substantially constant magnetic force
along a portion of the axis of the zone or chamber with at least
one other portion of the axis having a magnetic force whose intensity
is substantially greater than the intensity of the constant magnetic
force.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter comprising means for producing magnetic confinement
forces and support structure therefore.
(1)
Note. This may include the coil design by itself or other
additional features of the electromagnet system such as a coil support
structure, a coil cooling system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein electrical signal processing means
is employed to vary, determine, or otherwise affect the physical
characteristics of the reacting nuclei in a fusion device directly or
indirectly.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter wherein the plasma is produced by an electrical
discharge between two current carrying conductors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 144. Subject matter wherein compression of the plasma is induced
bymagnetic forces generated by the electrical discharge and/or
by magnetic forces self-generated in the plasma.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter for removing (a) reaction products which
may be in the form of particles (charged or neutral) or electromagnetic
radiation, or (b) undesired particles which have been introduced
into the given volume, or (c) a portion of the energy of the particles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Subject matter wherein a portion of the energy of the particles
is transformed into electrical output with the use of a one-step
process or apparatus for accomplishing said one-step process.
(1)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass type includes, for example,
MHD conversion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Subject matter wherein the electromagnetic or thermal energy
resulting directly or indirectly from the reaction of the nuclei
causes or aids a chemical reaction between materials other than said
nuclei.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter wherein the nuclei which are to undergo reaction
are in a plasma or gaseous state and wherein the plasma or gas is
subjected to compressional force acting at a rate greater than the
velocity of a compressional wave through the plasma or gas.
(1)
Note. The action of force on the plasma or gas may be direct
or indirect.
(2)
Note. The shock wave may be produced by an electrical discharge.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter including details of the geometry or composition
means (i.e., chamber) for physically containing a given volume in
which the nuclear fusion reaction occurs.
(1)
Note. Subject matter under subclass type must consist of more
than a nominal recitation of a toroidal chambers. A geometrical
description of the type in subclass 133 of a normal toroid is considered
a nominal recitation of a toroidal chamber for purposes of this
subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter wherein either (a) the two nuclei are caused
to react with the aid of an irradiating energy beam, or (b) one
of the two nuclei is part of an energy beam which is to irradiate
the other nuclei to cause the two nuclei to combine, and (c) wherein
at least one of the irradiated nuclei comprises in part a fusion
fuel body having physical characteristics determined by the nature
of the irradiating energy beam.
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Subject matter wherein the physical characteristics of the
fuel body are such that the disassembly of the body is prevented
or retarded for a predetermined time by mass forces within the body
when the body is irradiated by an energy beam of coherent light.
DETECTION OF RADIATION BY INDUCED NUCLEAR REACTION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein the induced nuclear reaction takes
place in response to the incidence of electromagnetic or particulate energy
upon the material and a product of the nuclear reaction within a
structure, which structure is used to indicate incidence of such radiation.
(1)
Note. Class 376, this subclass takes all detection whose claims
include an induced nuclear reaction.
(2)
Note. The reactions may include B10 + N
Li7 + He4,
He3 + N H3 + p
(proton recoil), B11 + N (B12)
C12 + e, or N1 + Li6
H3+ He4.
NUCLEAR TRANSMUTATION (E.G., BY MEANS OF PARTICLE OR WAVE ENERGY):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising the bombardment of a material
to produce an induced nuclear reaction other than that resulting
in the splitting of a nucleus.
(1)
Note. The subject matter of this class includes reactions
wherein a nucleus of the material is converted or transformed into
a different nucleus; inclusive of (a) making the material radioactive,
(b) producing isotopes of the same or a different element, e.g.,
Co59 Co60, Th232 U233, and
(b) producing annihilation radiation, e.g., a matter antimatter
reaction.
(2)
Note. Where a substance such as U238 (or
other material) is merely used as a fuel carrier with no stated
intention of converting it to fuel, the substance U238 is
not regarded as fertile material for this and indented subclasses.
Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy
Growth Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, for processes and non-coating apparatus for growing
therein-defined single-crystal of all types of materials, and such
processes combined with perfecting operations. A subsequent step
of irradiation to produce a nuclear transformation is provided for
in Class 376.
Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions,
subclasses 1.11+ for class defined compositions and methods comprising
a radionuclide or intended radionuclide.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter wherein gamma or charged particle bombardment
of the material results in the production of a transmuted nuclei
of the material, which product is to be analyzed to yield data concerning
the nucleus of the material and/or its environment.
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds,
subclasses 2+ and 249+ for radioactive materials and
treatment thereof which does not involve irradiation to produce
the radioactive material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Subject matter wherein the neutron bombardment of the material
results in the production of a product which is to be analyzed to
yield data concerning the nucleus of the material and/or its
environment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Subject matter wherein the bombardment takes place beneath
the surface of the earth.
(1)
Note. As between Class 376 and Class 250, subclasses 253-269.8
(well-logging), Class 376 takes all well-logging apparatus and processes
involving induced nuclear reactions even if only nominally recited
except when the nuclear reaction is nominally recited and the signal
processing steps or apparatus are recited in detail (e.g., developing
of a ratio of two signals, classification is in Class 250, subclasses
253-269.8.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Subject matter wherein the material bombarded with neutrons
is a fertile material and this fertile material is a component of
and positioned in, a nuclear fission reactor* comprised
of two or more of the following structural elements: moderator
structure, fuel structure, coolant structure (including primary
coolant, per se), or fuel support structure.
(1)
Note. The nuclear reactor will generally comprise a core
of fissile fuel assemblies with or without moderator, and a coolant.
The fertile material may be (1) positioned in the fissile fuel
assembly either (a) mixed with the fissile fuel material itself,
or (b) as a separate distinct component of the fissile fuel assembly;
or (2) positioned in a nonfissile fuel assembly, i.e., a fertile
fuel assembly.
(2)
Note. Methods of operation directed refueling schemes are
provided for in subclass 267.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171. Subject matter wherein the structure or arrangement of the
fertile material component is more than nominally recited.
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Subject matter wherein components containing fertile material
are positioned inside the reactor core proper.
(1)
Note. Since it is normal for most fissile fuel components
to include fertile materials along with the fissile materials and still
be classified as fissile fuel components, for a patent to be placed
in this subclass as an original, there must be such a preponderance
of fertile material present that the component itself is classified
as a fertile fuel component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171. Subject matter wherein the coolant* is made to traverse
a specifically defined route or channel within the reactor core
or the route taken is such as to place the coolant into a pattern
or network.
(1)
Note. The recitation of a coolant flowing or circulating
through the reactor core is not by itself proper subject matter for
this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 174. Subject matter wherein means are provided which will alter
the amount of coolant which is (a) flowing into the coolant channel,
or (b) flowing out of the coolant channel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 175. Subject matter wherein a fuel assembly is positioned in
the coolant channel and the pressure of the coolant is utilized
to help maintain the fuel assembly in its desired position in the coolant
channel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 174. Subject matter wherein (a) coolant is caused to traverse
the reactor core through separate and independent routes, or (b)
coolant is caused to traverse the reactor core a plurality of times prior
to its being sent to a heat exchanger or other utilization means
which would remove the heat from the coolant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171. Subject matter wherein means are provided for maintaining
the fuel assembly in its desired position within the nuclear reactor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 171. Subject matter wherein the coolant circulating within the
reactor core area has energy (e.g., thermal or kinetic) added to
or removed therefrom (e.g., by a heat exchanger, pump, or turbine)
exterior of the reactor core.
(1)
Note. The "energy" may be transferred by
heat exchange to a secondary fluid, etc., which is then utilized
in a turbine.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Subject matter wherein the neutron bombardment of the actinide
material results in the production of uranium isotopes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Subject matter wherein the neutron bombardment of the actinide
material results in the production of plutonium isotopes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Subject matter wherein the material is a semiconductor which
contains an element which is converted to a desired dopant by the
neutron bombardment.
Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy
Growth Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, for processes and non-coating apparatus for growing
therein-defined single-crystal of all types of materials, and such
processes combined with perfecting operations. A process comprising
the step of irradiation to produce a nuclear transformation is provided
for in Class 376.
Semiconductor Device Manufacturing: Process,
subclass 512 for methods of introducing an electrically active
dopant into a semiconductor region having a combination of diverse
steps in which one step involves the conversion of an element into
a dopant by nuclear transmutation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Subject matter wherein the material bombarded is at least
one of La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu.
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Subject matter wherein the material bombarded is selected
from Group I or Group II of the periodic table.
This subclass is indented under subclass 190. Subject matter wherein the charged particles is an alpha
particle and a by-product of the reaction is a neutron.
This subclass is indented under subclass 190. Subject matter wherein the charged particle bombardment
causes the ejection of two or more particles from a nucleus in the
material.
(1)
Note. The ejected particles can by neutrons, protons, deuterons,
alpha particles, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter wherein the alpha bombardment of the material
produces an element of atomic number 89 or greater.
This subclass is indented under subclass 199. Subject matter wherein the deuteron bombardment of the material
produces an element of atomic number 89 or greater.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter wherein the material to be bombarded is in
a carrier or other support structure and this carrier or other support
structure is subsequently used to convey, position, or insert the
material into or remove it from the vicinity of the radiation means.
(1)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass type includes, for
example, insertable carriers of the rabbit tube type.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter for substantially preventing the escape of
fluid from a joint between two elements of a nuclear reactor fluid
confining means.
Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing means or process,
subclasses 628+ for a static contact seal for other than an internal
combustion engine, or a pipe, conduit, or cable.
This subclass is indented under subclass 203. Subject matter wherein one of the two elements is a fluid
conduit which projects from a surface of a pressure vessel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 203. Subject matter wherein one of the elements is a container,
the interior pressure of which is different from the ambient pressure
and the other element is a closure element for such a container.
WITH CONTROL OF REACTOR (E.G., CONTROL OF COOLANT FLOW):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter for changing (including "shut down")
or maintaining constant the fission reaction rate or power output
of a nuclear fission reactor.
(1)
Note. Detection of a reactor state is proper subject matter
for this subclass provided it is in combination with a control means
for the fission reactor.
(2)
Note. For the structure of the subcombination control component
which is an absorber, see this class (376), subclass 327.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter involving a nuclear reactor which is designed
to be operated in a pulsed mode or which is designed for the sudden injection
of a large amount of reactivity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter wherein control is realized through an adjustment
made to the energies of the total neutron population.
(1)
Note. For purposes of this subclass, the word "total" in
regard to neutron population means the overall or core-wide neutron
population.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter wherein the control involves changing the
rate at which a given mass of coolant enters or exits a fixed volume
of reactor structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter wherein control of the fission reaction is
realized (a) by reducing the effective quantity of fission fuel
in the critical area, or (b) by effecting an in situ change in the physical
state of the fuel.
(1)
Note. The change of the physical state is brought about by
the lowering of density, such as by melting.
This subclass is indented under subclass 212. Subject matter wherein a control element includes a material
which increases the neutron population present.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter wherein the fission rate is manipulated to
achieve a critical condition having at least as many neutrons produced
by fission as their are fissions, i.e., self-sustaining fission
reaction.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter comprising electronic circuit means which
derives a control signal for raising or lowering reactor power from
an electrical signal representative of a measured reactor variable.
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter wherein representation of at least two different
measured variables are utilized in the formulation of the control
signal.
(1)
Note. The body of art in this subclass is that which utilizes,
for example, electronic computers to analyze practically instantaneously,
a number of reactor variables or conditions and to automatically
warn of change of a critical reactor condition or actually apply
the safety control or other element; to energize a system which
automatically makes the appropriate adjustment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 216. Subject matter wherein at least one of the measured variables
is caused to be altered by a computerized program or its analog
equivalent so as to produce a predetermined desired result.
This subclass is indented under subclass 217. Subject matter wherein an operating program is developed
to minimize the xenon concentration in the nuclear fuel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter wherein control is realized by the insertion
or withdrawal of a reactivity affecting material from the area occupied
by fissioning reactor fuel.
(1)
Note. For the Structure of the subcombination of the control
component, per se, see this class (376), subclass 327.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter wherein the control element is fabricated
from a material which either attenuates incident neutron energy
or alters the vector velocity of the neutron.
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter wherein a quantity of liquid, gaseous, or
particulate material having the capacity to alter neutron energy
or velocity relative to the quantity of fission fuel can be changed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter wherein the surface of the control element
adjacent the surface of a fuel element revolves about an axis parallel
to each of said surfaces.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter wherein plural control elements joined at
their points most remote from the fission fuel are moved into a
repetitive assemblage of fission fuel elements to vacant positions
which would otherwise be occupied by fission fuel elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter wherein the control element is moved into
an assemblage of fuel elements having no fixed position.
(1)
Note. These fuel elements are usually piles of spherically
shaped bodies.
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Subject matter having motion induced by an electrical means
which drives a fluid pressure means which in turn moves the control
element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter wherein the movement of the control element
is effectuated by at least a pair of interconnected and relatively
movable motion transmitting members.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter wherein a disconnectable joint is provided
between the control element and the means producing motion so that
the motion means may be separated from the control element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 236. Subject matter wherein the neutron control element is inserted
into a fuel region to less than its full extent and maintained at
that level for a predetermined time period.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter wherein at least two neutron absorber elements,
other nonfuel reactivity affecting mechanisms, or one of the above
in combination with another reactor component are secured to each
other and moved as a single unit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter wherein the structure of the control element
includes a means for measuring the state of a reactor.
(1)
Note. The state is usually the temperature or neutron density.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter wherein control is realized through means
external to the region of fission reaction which raises or lowers
the deliverable energy of the system.
(1)
Note. For similar subject matter involving a boiling water
reactor, see this class (376), subclass 379.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter wherein a reactivity affecting material is
locked in a fixed position relative to the reactor fuel for a predetermined
time period.
(1)
Note. During this period normal control signals inducing
movement are usually overridden.
TESTING, SENSING, MEASURING, OR DETECTING A FISSION REACTOR CONDITION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter for determining the state of the reactor
system or a component thereof.
(1)
Note. When the determination involves a nuclear reaction
as a portion of the detection chain, see this class (376), subclass
153.
(2)
Note. Merely providing a window or a trap for visually detecting
or sampling or inspecting or mentally judging is not considered
as proper subject matter for this and indented subclasses.
(3)
Note. "Operation" or "reaction" is
inclusive of the period from startup through shutdown.
(4)
Note. The "conditions" generally "measured" or "detected",
etc., included such as for example, reactor power level, or reactor
period, neutron density, neutron flux, neutron flux distribution,
radioactivity or other radiations, temperature, etc.
for fuel element having enclosed within it, or integrally
associated with it, some means, device, or material which may be
used to warn of a condition or in measuring, sensing, monitoring,
etc., of a condition during normal use of the fuel.
for fuel element and its closure structure which
includes a feature, means, or material useful or assisting in detecting
or warning in regard to leaks or of an otherwise improperly constructed
or functioning fuel element.
Radiant Energy, appropriate subclasses for miscellaneous measuring or
detecting, etc., devices for use in conjunction with neutrons or
other invisible radiations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the state determined is the passage
of a given fluid volume passing a fixed point per unit time.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the state being determined is a temperature
or pressure of the reactor system or component thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the state being determined is the
undesirable release of material from within a reactor system or
component thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Subject matter wherein the determination is made by the
analysis of compressional wave energy reflected or emitted from
the fuel element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Subject matter wherein the determination is made by sensing
the presence of nuclear fission reaction product outside the fuel
element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the state being determined is the
quantity of neutrons existing in a given area per unit time.
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Subject matter wherein the determination is performed by
electrical means directly responsive to neutrons which means produce
an electrical signal proportional to neutron incidence.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the state determined is the presence
of a particular gas in the reactor system or component, such as
hydrogen.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the state determined is the quantity
of fissionable material, i.e., material whose nuclei have the capacity
to split under irradiation, in a reactor fission fuel element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter wherein the state determined is the extent
to which an element is inserted or withdrawn relative to the position
of another element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter comprising electrical circuitry designed
to process signals representing measured quantities from which the
state can be determined.
HANDLING OF FISSION REACTOR COMPONENT STRUCTURE WITHIN REACTOR
SYSTEM:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter for physically moving structure within the
nuclear fission reactor system.
(1)
Note. "Handling" as used in this and indented
subclasses includes moving, or any motion, of a component or segment thereof
from one position or location to another within or to the outside
of; or altogether externally of the reactor; and is inclusive also
of a rotating or a reciprocating motion, but not of a stationary vibrating
motion.
(2)
Note. The mere circulation of a fluid component is not considered
as "handling" for this and indented subclasses; however,
a peculiar or particular nature of circulation may be so considered.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Subject matter wherein the object moved is the fission reactor
fuel.
(1)
Note. The fuel material, component, or segment as used in
this and indented subclasses may be a single fuel element or a cluster,
etc., of fuel elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 261. Subject matter wherein the fission reactor fuel is moved
together with another fission reactor system component.
(1)
Note. The fission reactor fuel may be moved relative to the
other reactor component at the same time they are moved together
relative to fixed element of the reactor system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter wherein the movement of fuel requires the
prior movement of the closure of the fuel containing receptacle.
Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses for machine elements or mechanisms,
per se, which can be used for mechanically manipulating the fuel
or other reactor component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 264. Subject matter wherein the movement of fuel occurs within
a nuclear fission reactor of the type wherein the fuel elements
of which have a generally spherical shape.
(1)
Note. Such fission reactors are commonly referred to as pebble-bed
reactors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 265. Subject matter wherein the movement of the fuel elements
include means for directing fuel elements which have been in the
reactor system for a short period of time to one location and means
for directing fuel element which have been in the reactor system
for a longer period of time to another location.
(1)
Note. Fuel elements which have no fuel left, i.e., are burned
up, are usually removed from the reactor system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 264. Subject matter wherein the movement involves at least a
partial rearrangement of the fuel elements in the reactor system
to new positions previously occupied by other fuel elements or by
movement of the fuel from or to different portions of the reactor
system.
(1)
Note. The purpose of the above is typically to improve fission
fuel consumption.
(2)
Note. For the purpose of this subclass, the rearrangement
of fuel elements may include the movement of other core elements
such as control elements or reflector elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter wherein the transfer of fuel involves the
use of a temporary fuel storage means.
(1)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass type includes for example,
(a) fuel transferring machines which have the capacity to store
a fuel element, and (b) transfer paths which have storage areas therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter wherein the fuel element is rotated from
a position in axial alignment with respect to its position in the
core to another position about an axis which intersects the axis of
its original alignment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Subject matter wherein the fuel element is moved between
its position in the core and a position above and in axial alignment
with its core position by means located above the core.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Subject matter wherein reactor core elements are in a physical
enclosure within the reactor system, which enclosure is distinct
therefrom.
(1)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass type consists of more
than a mere container for a single core element and therefore referred
to as container systems. Structures consisting of more than one
container, or storage for plural core assemblies, or one container
with means to support or affix the container in a storage pool are
typical of the systems of this subclass type, such systems are distinguished
by their operative or structural association with nuclear reactors.
(2)
Note. Search Class 250, subclasses 506.1+, and 515.1+ for
generic storage devices (particularly shipping casks for radioactive
material.
(3)
Note. The storage systems herein may include a specific means
for preventing (and therefor controlling) nuclear fission reactions,
e.g., by the use of neutron absorber materials or by limiting the number
of fuel elements in a given storage system.
(4)
Note. Included in this subclass are storage systems which
include means for cooling the core elements.
(5)
Note. The storage systems herein are for core elements (new,
used, or irradiated, or damaged) that still retain their structural
form which identifies them as core elements, for example, before
they have been physically or chemically altered for processing of
the irradiated or radioactive material therein.
for similar subject matter. The structure and also
the cooling systems for the subject matter of this subclass (272)
may be similar to the structure and cooling systems for the core
elements in the nuclear reactor itself.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein the reactor structure is recited
as being located beneath the surface of the earth.
(1)
Note. Underground nuclear explosives are proper subject matter
for this and indented subclass.
(2)
Note. The nuclear reaction energy may be obtained from nuclear
explosives (either fission or fusion) or from a nuclear reactor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Subject matter wherein the reactor structure is in an underground
cavity or is caused to form the cavity and radioactive contamination resulting
from operation of the reactor structure is removed or reduced.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Subject matter wherein the energy of the nuclear reaction
is transferred to the earth or to the reactor structure surroundings
so as to recover material or transferred energy therefrom.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter for reducing undesired effects resulting
from the operation, malfunction, or failure of a nuclear fission
reactor component.
1) Note. The utilization of shielding or insulation to reduce
or prevent irradiation damage is proper subject matter for this
subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein means is provided which minimizes
or reduces the amount of reactivity increase due to a loss of coolant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein component failure within the fissile
and/or fertile region of a reactor is mitigated through
the use of a barrier that slows or stops the egress of said components(s) from
the region.
(1)
Note. The barrier will also serve to prevent the egress of
any other component transported with the failed component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect is a change
in the direction of flow of a fluid within a reactor component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect is fuel melting
which undesired effect is minimized by providing an alternate supply
of coolant to the fuel in the event of stoppage or partial diminution
of the normally present supply of coolant.
(1)
Note. The alternate coolant is usually supplied at a rate
significantly lower than normal coolant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect is component
damage (e.g., rupture) due to overpressure which undesired effect
is minimized by providing an energy removal means to dissipate said
overpressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 283. Subject matter wherein the energy removal means includes
a material which absorbs energy through a physical change of state.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect is the deformation
of reactor components due to thermal stress which undesired effect
is minimized by providing a structure to accommodate such deformation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect (a) is the presence
of radiation in a given area which undesired effect is minimized
by providing means to attenuate the radiation prior to its entry
into said area, or (b) to attenuate the egress of material into
the area to be protected.
(1)
Note. Means to attenuate includes means to prevent or retard
the egress of steam or effluent from a malfunctioning reactor component.
Said steam or effluent will contain at least nominal radioactivity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 289. Subject matter having the attenuation in a system which
includes an unmoderated fission fuel system cooled by molten metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 289. Subject matter wherein the means to attenuate thermal radiation
is or supported by set(s) of nested cylinders.
This subclass is indented under subclass 287. Subject matter wherein the means to attenuate radiation
and/or egress of material includes set of nested cylinders.
(1)
Note. The outer cylinder may provide an additional means
to retard the egress of material within the inner cylinder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 287. Subject matter wherein the means to attenuate either (a)
completely surrounds the fission fuel region, or (b) provides the
last level of attenuation of radiation prior to its entry into the
environment.
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Subject matter wherein the means to attenuate completely
surrounds the fission fuel region, and has the capacity to contain
a pressurized fluid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 295. Subject matter wherein the means to attenuate includes structure
having built-in compressive or tensile forces.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect is turbine damage
which undesired effect is minimized by reducing or eliminating the
energy transfer from the fissioning fuel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect is component
overheating which undesired effect is minimized by providing additional
thermal energy transfer from said component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 298. Subject matter wherein the components are the fission fuel
bodies and the energy removed is generated when the reactor is shutdown.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect is the decomposition
of water into hydrogen and oxygen which undesired effect is minimized
by providing structures or processes to join the hydrogen and oxygen
to form water.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the effect is the undesired movement
of components in the region of the fission fuel bodies which effect
is minimized by providing structures or processes to retard such
movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 302. Subject matter wherein the structures or processes to retard
such movement are positioned among or within the fuel bodies.
This subclass is indented under subclass 302. Subject matter wherein the components whose movement is
retarded are those components which attenuate neutron energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect is the chemical
decomposition of a reactor component which undesired effect is minimized
(a) by providing the component with a barrier to retard the dissolution,
or (b) by providing a reactant which will react with the corrosion causing
agent to remove it from or reduce presence in the reactor system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Subject matter wherein the barrier is established by the
introduction of a material into the coolant which forms a barrier
layer on the component or which will react with the corrosion causing
agent.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter wherein the undesired effect is the uncontrolled
or pressure variations which undesired effect is minimized by means
for maintaining a desired coolant pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Subject matter including the removal of material dislocated
by accident or by the failure of a reactor component.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures,
subclasses 393+ for processes of producing or treating Radioactive
metal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Subject matter wherein the impurities are removed from a
fluid stream by lowering the temperature thereof to a point which
induces precipitation of the impurities.
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Subject matter wherein the impurity is removed from a fluid
through the use of (a) a porous mass through which the fluid is
passed to separate from it the material held in suspension, or (b)
a composition of matter which has the property of replacing the
charged specie of the material in solution with ions of the composition.
(1)
Note. This and indented subclasses include filters at the
coolant inlet and of, and integral with, the fuel assembly.
This subclass is indented under subclass 310. Subject matter wherein the impurities are flushed from the
surface of a reactor component by a fluid driven by a fluid pressure
differential.
(1)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass type includes, for
example, the removal of corrosion products from a heat exchanger
by a pressurized fluid.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter in combination with structures or processes
not provided for in this class, per se.
(1)
Note. The combination of a reactor with a heat exchanger,
pump, or turbine is provided for elsewhere in this class, see subclasses
179, 211, 378, 391, and 402.
This subclass is indented under subclass 317. Subject matter including a nuclear fission reactor combined
with a device to move the combined structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 318. Subject matter wherein the nuclear reactor has its fissionable
portion in the gas or vapor state or dispersed in a gas or vapor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 317. Subject matter wherein the nuclear reaction produces energy,
a portion of which energy is transformed into electrical output
by a one-step process or apparatus for accomplishing such one-step
process.
Batteries: Thermoelectric and Photoelectric,
subclasses 200+ for thermoelectric systems, per se; and subclass 202
for the combination with radioactive decay heat source.
This subclass is indented under subclass 320. Subject matter wherein the one-step includes the heating
of a material by the products of the nuclear reaction which material
emits electrons or ions due to the high temperature induced therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 317. Subject matter wherein the energy produced by the nuclear
reaction is converted to a storable form for later utilization.
This subclass is indented under subclass 324. Subject matter wherein the chemical reaction includes the
breaking of hydrogen carbon molecular linkages.
This subclass is indented under subclass 317. Subject matter wherein the structure or process to be combined
with is a source of coherent electromagnetic radiation.
This subclass is indented under subclass 328. Subject matter wherein the liquid is vaporized to adjust
the amount of reactivity affecting material that is within the reactor
core region.
(1)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass includes, for example,
the use of a heat pipe for varying the amount of reactivity affecting
material in the reactor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Subject matter wherein the reactivity affecting material
is in the form of a plurality of elements adapted to slide or move
one within the other as in the manner of a telescope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Subject matter wherein the control element is comprised
of reactivity affecting material and some other material and the
relative amounts of each material varies radially and/or
axially along the length of the control element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 333. Subject matter wherein the axial variation in the amount
of reactivity affecting material is effected by axially joining
an auxiliary control element (follower) having one reactivity effect to
a primary control element having a different reactivity effect.
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Subject matter wherein the control component is in the form
of a nonrigid or nonself-supporting element (e.g., a cable or a
plurality of short elements joined one to the other with flexible or
pivotal couplings).
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Subject matter wherein the control component is moveable
with respect to the reactor core and the means for affecting movement
of the control component is actuated by or is responsive to, an
abnormal reactor operating condition (e.g., abnormal increase in
temperature or abnormal increase in neutron flux).
(1)
Note. The abnormal increase in temperature or neutron flux
may cause the melting of a solder plug which will then allow the
control component to move relative to the reactor core into a position which
will cause a decrease in the reactivity of the reactor core.
This subclass is indented under subclass 336. Subject matter wherein the control component is comprised
of a mass of separate individual elements which are released for
movement with respect to the reactor core when the fuse is actuated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Subject matter wherein the control component comprises a
mass of separate individual elements of reactivity affecting material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Subject matter wherein the reactivity affecting material
is defined in terms of its composition or elemental constituents
and in other than one of the conventional control material, i.e.,
boron or cadmium.
REACTOR STRUCTURES WITH TESTING OR IRRADIATION FACILITIES:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising the combination of two or more
of the following: moderator structure, fuel structure, coolant
structure, fuel support structure along with structure designed
to facilitate or enhance the capability of the reactor structure
for the testing or irradiation of materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 340. Subject matter wherein the target holder or support is positioned
or caused to be positioned outside or adjacent to the radiation
source.
This subclass is indented under subclass 340. Subject matter wherein the reactor structure is designed
to allow insertion of the material to be irradiated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 342. Subject matter wherein a nuclear fission reactor* specially
constructed so as to provide an internal fuel* free region
in which the target can be inserted, the fuel free region having
a high thermal neutron flux*.
(1)
Note. The fuel free region will constitute a region or island
of internal reflector/moderator.
(2)
Note. Flux trap reactors utilized for testing of reactor
components is proper subject matter for this subclass.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising a nuclear fission reactor having
some moderating material and wherein the neutrons which induce the splitting
of nuclei, i.e., fission, have velocities in excess of thermal velocities,
2200 meters per second.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising the combination of two or more
of the following structural elements: moderator structure, fuel
structure, coolant structure (including primary coolant, per se),
or fuel support structure.
(1)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass type includes, for
example, thermal reactors, i.e., reactors which contain moderating
material which, though not necessarily disclosed, reduces the energy of
the neutrons to thermal energy, e.g., 2200 meters per second or
0.03 ev.
(2)
Note. If a reactor is generically recited but is disclosed
in the preferred embodiment as a type of reactor specifically provided
for in the preceding subclasses, the original copy is placed in
the appropriate subclass and a cross-reference copy may be placed
in this subclass or in a subclass indented hereunder.
(3)
Note. The coolant structure must be other than such structure
built into the fuel structure. For such structures, see subclasses
424 and 439.
(4)
Note. The fuel support structure of this subclass type is
other than the support structure for fuel components, per se, as provided
for, for example, in subclass 437.
(5)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass type may include subcritical
or neutrons amplifying reactor structures.
This subclass is indented under subclass 347. Subject matter wherein the reactor core is comprised of
at least two regions, one region operating with fast neutrons and
the other region operating with neutrons at thermal energies, i.e.,
about 0.025 ev.
This subclass is indented under subclass 347. Subject matter wherein (a) the number of atoms of moderator
component per unit volume varies in space, or (b) the nature of
the composition of the moderator varies in space so as to display
a different moderating effect in one zone of the reactor core area
relative to that displayed in another zone.
(1)
Note. The normal change in coolant density as is found along
the length of a fuel assembly in a boiling water reactor is not
proper for placement in this subclass. Boiling water reactors are
in subclasses 370+.
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter wherein reflector* or moderator* material
is placed inside the reactor core at spaced intervals occupied normally
by fuel assemblies or other internal reactor core structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 347. Subject matter wherein means are provided which alter the
amount of coolant* which is (a) flowing into the coolant
channel, or (b) flowing out of the coolant channel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 347. Subject matter wherein the reactor is controlled by use
of a control rod* and structure is provided for guiding
the control rod during movement thereof, said structure being other
than the normal in-core control rod guide tube structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 347. Subject matter wherein the fuel material is in contact with
a fluid and at some point in the reactor, or at some time during
the reaction, the fuel is also supported by the fluid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 354. Subject matter wherein the fuel material is in the form
of particulate bodies, a plurality of which are grouped together
to form a bed and wherein a fluid flows through the bed of fuel bodies
with sufficient force to expand the bed of bodies against any force,
e.g., gravity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 354. Subject matter wherein the moderator is in liquid form and
the fuel is dissolved in, or a particulate form of the fuel is homogeneously distributed
throughout the liquid moderator to form a solution, colloid, or
slurry.
This subclass is indented under subclass 356. Subject matter wherein steam or vapor is (a) formed from
the liquid moderator at least in part during the course of the reaction,
(b) separated as steam or vapor from the liquid moderator, or (c)
wherein such steam or vapor is handled in some way internally or
externally of the reactor.
(1)
Note. For other boiling liquid reactors, see subclasses 370+.
This subclass is indented under subclass 356. Subject matter wherein the fuel moderator component is reconstituted
or modified during the operation of the reactor by the addition
or removal of material other than a gas or vapor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 354. Subject matter wherein either the fuel or its carrier is
in a fused or melted state.
(1)
Note. The fuel may be a liquefied metal, alloy, or compound
or one of these dispersed (in particulate form) in a liquefied carrier
metal alloy, salt, or other compound.
This subclass is indented under subclass 347. Subject matter wherein one of the reactor components is
a fluid and is under sufficient pressure as to flow into or within
the reactor during its operation.
(1)
Note. A patent is placed in this and indented subclasses
even if it is not explicit in the claim that a fluid is circulating
or flowing if by disclosure the fluid must be or is intended to
flow or to circulate.
(2)
Note. In the subject matter of this subclass type the flow
or circulation may be intermittent or pulsed.
(3)
Note. A patent is not placed in this and indented subclasses
where there is no flow or circulation but there is a static pressure
acting on a fluid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 361. Subject matter wherein structure is provided for supporting
or maintaining the fuel assemblies in their desired positions within
the nuclear reactor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter comprising means for supporting fuel assemblies
by their upper ends from the top of the reactor, e.g., or by being
attached to the closure plug.
This subclass is indented under subclass 362. Subject matter wherein means are provided for maintaining
the fuel assembly in its desired position within the reactor against
the force of the coolant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 364. Subject matter wherein a fuel assembly is positioned in
the coolant channel and the pressure of the coolant itself is utilized
to help maintain the fuel assembly in its desired position in the coolant
channel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 361. Subject matter involving the circulation within a reactor
(e.g., pressure tube reactor) of at least two fluid streams which
may differ from each other in chemical composition or physical state,
e.g., water and steam, water and molten metal, or hydrocarbon.
(1)
Note. For a pressure tube reactor to issue in this or indented
subclasses, a first fluid must be circulating through the pressure
tubes with a second fluid being present or circulating outside of
the tube through which the first fluid circulates.
(2)
Note. For single fluid pressure tube reactors, search this
class (376), subclass 401.
This subclass is indented under subclass 366. Subject matter wherein the fluid in plural phases flows
in a conduit comprised of two zones, one for transport of the fluid
in the liquid state and the other for transport of the fluid in
the gaseous state.
This subclass is indented under subclass 366. Subject matter wherein one fluid is a gas which is chemically
different from other fluids present, e.g., water and helium.
(1)
Note. The term "gas" includes a liquid or
solid in the vapor state.
This subclass is indented under subclass 368. Subject matter wherein a second gaseous component is present
in the reactor as either steam or vapor and is (a) formed during
the course of the reaction, (b) separated from another fluid present,
or (c) handled in some way internally or externally of the reactor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 366. Subject matter wherein one of the fluids is steam or vapor
which is (a) formed at least in part during course of reaction,
(b) separated as steam or vapor from another fluid, or (c) handled
as such in some way internally or externally of the reactor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 370. Subject matter wherein the coolant is made to traverse a
specified or predetermined route or channel within the reactor core
or the route taken is such as to place the coolant into a pattern
or network which serves to exert a particular effect upon the reactor
or reaction.
(1)
Note. The recitation of a coolant flowing or circulating
through the reactor core is not by itself enough to place a patent
in this or indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Subject matter wherein coolant is caused to traverse the
reactor core through separate and independent routes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Subject matter wherein the coolant is caused to traverse
the reactor core a plurality of times prior to its being sent to
a heat exchanger or other utilization means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 375. Subject matter wherein the plural coolant passes, the coolant
flows first along one flow path in a fuel element structure in one
direction and then flow through a different flow path in the same
fuel element structure in the reverse direction.
(1)
Note. The flow, for example, may first be along the inner
surface of the outer wall of the fuel assembly and then reverse
its direction and flow back through a center portion of the fuel assembly.
This subclass is indented under subclass 373. Subject matter wherein structure is provided solely for
the specific purposes of altering the direction of coolant flow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 370. Subject matter wherein the steam or vapor has energy (e.g.,
thermal or kinetic) added to or removed therefrom (e.g., by a heat
exchanger, pump, or turbine) exterior of the reactor core.
This subclass is indented under subclass 378. Subject matter wherein the manipulation or utilization of
the vapor exteriorly of the reactor effects some control of (a)
the flow of the fluids within the reactor core, or (b) the flow
of the fluids to an external component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 361. Subject matter wherein the fuel material is in the form
of generally spherical elements, a plurality of which are held together
in a container.
This subclass is indented under subclass 381. Subject matter wherein the fuel elements are in a plurality
of separate containers which are arranged together to form the active
region of the core.
This subclass is indented under subclass 361. Subject matter wherein the only fluid being circulated or
otherwise flowing within the reactor is in a gaseous state.
(1)
Note. Patents are placed into this and indented subclasses
even though the gas is capable of existing normally in a nongaseous
phase provided it is maintained in the reactor without permitting
any substantial quantity of it to revert to the nongaseous phase.
(2)
Note. This subclass is inclusive of gas having entrained
solids.
This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Subject matter wherein the coolant is made to traverse a
specified or predetermined route or channel within the reactor core
or the route taken is such as to place the coolant into a pattern
or network which serves to exert a particular effect upon the reactor
or reaction.
(1)
Note. The recitation of a coolant flowing or circulating
through the reactor core is not by itself enough to place a patent
in this or indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Subject matter wherein coolant is caused to traverse the
reactor core through separate and independent routes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Subject matter wherein the coolant is caused to traverse
the reactor core a plurality of times prior to its being sent to
a heat exchanger or other utilization means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 387. Subject matter wherein in the plural coolant passes, the
coolant flows first along one flow path in a fuel element structure
in one direction and then flows through a different flow path in the
same fuel element structure in the reverse direction.
(1)
Note. The flow, for example, may first be along the inner
surface of the outer wall of the fuel assembly and then reverse
its direction and flow back through a center portion of the fuel assembly.
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Subject matter wherein structure is provided solely for
the specific purpose of altering the direction of coolant flow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 389. Subject matter wherein the flow path or pattern of the altered
coolant flow includes a path which bypasses the fuel assemblies
in the core.
This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Subject matter wherein the fluid circulating within the
reactor core area is a coolant which has energy (e.g., thermal or
kinetic) added to or removed therefrom (e.g., by a heat exchanger, pump,
or turbine) exterior of the reactor core.
This subclass is indented under subclass 391. Subject matter wherein the coolant exterior of the core
is caused to flow through a concentric pipe arrangement such that
the coolant will flow in one direction through the inner pipe and
(generally) in the opposite direction through the annulus between
the inner and outer pipes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 391. Subject matter wherein components of the nuclear reactor
system are placed within bores of monolithic structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 361. Subject matter wherein the coolant is made to traverse a
specified or predetermined route or channel within the reactor core
or the route taken is such as to place the coolant into a pattern
or network which serves to exert a particular effect upon the reactor
or reaction.
(1)
Note. The recitation of a coolant flowing or circulating
through the reactor core is not itself enough to place a patent in
this or indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 395. Subject matter wherein the coolant is caused to traverse
the reactor core through separate and independent routes.
(1)
Note. The coolant loops can be joined to a common conduit
outside of the reactor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 395. Subject matter wherein the coolant is caused to traverse
the reactor core a plurality of times prior to its being sent to
a heat exchanger or other utilization means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 397. Subject matter wherein the plural coolant passes, the coolant
flows first along one flow path in a fuel element structure in one
direction and then flows through a different flow path in the same
fuel element structure in the reverse direction.
(1)
Note. The flow, for example, may first be along the inner
surface of the outer wall of the fuel assembly and then reverses
its direction and flow back through a center portion of the fuel assembly.
This subclass is indented under subclass 395. Subject matter wherein structure is provided solely for
the specific purpose of altering the direction of coolant flow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 399. Subject matter wherein the flow path or pattern of the altered
coolant flow includes a path which bypasses the fuel assemblies
in the core.
This subclass is indented under subclass 395. Subject matter wherein the flow channels in the reactor
are formed by a plurality of spaced tubes or conduits, the interiors
of which are each at pressure substantially higher than the pressure
of the adjacent medium.
This subclass is indented under subclass 361. Subject matter wherein the fluid circulating within the
reactor core area is a coolant which has energy (e.g., thermal or
kinetic) added to or removed therefrom (e.g., by a heat exchanger, pump,
or turbine) exterior of the reactor core.
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter wherein a relatively large mass of fluid
is maintained within a vessel which serves as a tank, pool, or reservoir.
(1)
Note. Tank-type reactors, i.e., wherein the reactor core,
pumps, and heat exchanger are all immersed in the same fluid, are
proper subject matter for this and indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 403. Subject matter having one vessel in which is situated the
reactor core, primary heat exchangers, or pump, all of which are immersed
in the liquid coolant.
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter wherein the components of the reactor circuit,
e.g., heat exchanger, core, pumps, are all contained with a common
vessel.
(1)
Note. The vessel may be partitioned with the reactor core
in one part, heat exchanger in another and separate part, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter wherein the coolant is caused to abruptly
change to the vapor phase, e.g., by sudden pressure reduction.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising an integral structure the constituent
material of which includes, at least in part, a nuclear fuel*.
(1)
Note. A patent to be placed as an original into this and
indented subclasses may be associated with another reactor component
when the other component is so associated with the fuel component
that the plural components are treated or handled as one, as when
within the fuel component structure there is included some other
component structure such as a coolant, moderator, insulator, thermocouple,
or other structure.
(2)
Note. For processes of fabricating or manufacturing reactor
fuel component, search appropriate manufacturing class.
(3)
Note. Patents that claim some particular handling of the
fuel component are placed as originals in the appropriate subclasses
in this class and may be crossed to this and indented subclasses.
(4)
Note. The fuel material itself may be solid, liquid, or gaseous.
Metal Working,
subclasses 400.1+ for methods of assembly and disassembly of fuel
elements, and subclass 723 for apparatus for disassembly of fuel
elements. See subclass 906 for a cross-reference art collection
of documents reflecting to nuclear device making.
Metal Treatment,
subclass 401 for heat-treated metal stock which may be useful
in the production of fuel elements; and subclass 132 for heat-treated
actinide metals or alloys.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter wherein the fuel component structure contains
a material which serves to inhibit the thinning of the fuel covering
(i.e., cladding) by diffusion during reactor operation (i.e., "amoeba
effect").
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter wherein a material (e.g., fluid) or structural
element having a reactor function different from that of the fuel
(e.g., moderator, heat insulator, coolant) is encased, enclosed,
or sealed together with the fuel material within a single container
(i.e., a "cladding").
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter wherein a means is provided within the container
(i.e., cladding) for maintaining the pressure within the fuel component substantially
constant during or throughout its operating life, e.g., by releasing
a gas subsequent to fabrication of the fuel component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter including a preformed layer or part having
a coating thereon or an impregnate therein, or plural preformed
layers bonded together.
(1)
Note. The bonding may be either autogeneous or by means of
a bonding agent.
(2)
Note. When the preform is porous, the coating or impregnating
material may be located or concentrated upon the surface or may
penetrate substantially the entire layer or part.
This subclass is indented under subclass 416. Subject matter wherein at least one of the cladding layers
acts or functions as an absorber or barrier with respect to the
transport of fuel or nuclear reaction products between the fuel
and an outer cladding layer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter wherein the nonfuel component functions as
an absorber or complete or selective barrier with respect to the
transport of fuel or nuclear reaction products.
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter wherein the encased material is a nonfuel
material which is positioned between two separate fuel bodies, i.e.,
pellets.
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter wherein the encased material is intermixed,
more or less, homogeneously throughout the fuel material.
(1)
Note. The subject matter of this subclass type includes fuel
dissolved or dispersed in a fluid moderator; the fuel and encased
material may be a granulated mixture or in the form of a solid solution, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 421. Subject matter wherein the fuel or a part thereof is metallic
which is alloyed with the encased material which is also metallic.
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter wherein the encased material is not transmissive
of thermal energy, i.e., is a heat insulating material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter wherein the fuel component structure is comprised
of either (a) a plurality of fuel segments which are sealed, enclosed,
or contained within a single container, or (b) a plurality of elements
assembled together with each element itself consisting of an enclosed, sealed,
or contained integral mass of fuel or a plurality of fuel segments.
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Subject matter wherein the structure for attenuating neutron
energy takes the form of a given volume, usually a parallelepiped,
which contains nuclear fuel either as an admixture or discrete bodies,
positioned therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Subject matter wherein the plural segments are so constituted
and arranged within a container that the fissile* content
of the container varies radially or axially.
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Subject matter wherein a plurality of fuel segments are
included within a container with the segments being constructed
or shaped to complement or mate with each other.
(1)
Note. The mere use of a flat surface on the segments (which
would allow stacking) is not sufficient for placement in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Subject matter wherein the fuel segments are approximately
spherically shaped pellets and are randomly positioned within a
container.
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Subject matter wherein the fuel elements are in the form
of plates which are at least in part, spaced from and substantially
parallel to each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Subject matter wherein plural fuel segments, elements, or
components are assembled in a linear normally vertically relationship,
e.g., one above the other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Subject matter wherein the plural segments or elements are
held together in a pack or bundlelike relationship relative to each
other or to a container or to other structure, by a spacing, supporting,
or securing means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter wherein the amount or concentration of fissile* material
varies radially and/or axially across the pack or bundle.
(1)
Note. The variation of fissile isotope includes the use of
one fissile isotope, e.g., plutonium 239 in some fuel members, and
another fissile isotope, e.g., Uranium 235, in other fuel members.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter wherein the fuel elements have at least one
of their ends attached to or positioned on a bar (rail).
(1)
Note. The pack or bundle will normally have a plurality of
such rails with the rails being generally parallel to one another.
(2)
Note. The rails are not to be considered grids.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter wherein a multiaperture structure holds
or maintains the plural fuel segments or elements in a spaced array.
(1)
Note. The multiaperture structure may be a grating or egg
cratelike structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 438. Subject matter wherein the grid is provided with structure
for the specific purpose of altering (deflecting) the direction
of coolant flow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 438. Subject matter wherein the grid is provided with a separable
component and this component is utilized to contact and maintain
the fuel pins in the spaced apart array.
This subclass is indented under subclass 438. Subject matter wherein the grid comprises walls defining
fuel element compartments, at least one wall of which is provided
with means extending away from the wall into the compartment to
position the fuel element therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter wherein structure is provided for the specific
purpose of altering (deflecting) the direction of coolant flow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter wherein structure is provided such that a
portion of the coolant does not come into direct contact with the
nuclear fuel containing members.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter with means to compensate for changes in dimension
of at least a part of the pack or bundle due to thermal expansion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter wherein the pack or bundle includes a member
which is removable from the rest of the pack or bundle, e.g., a
fuel pin, moderator pin, poison pin, a grid, a sheath, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter wherein the pack or bundle contains burnable
poison* or moderator which is not encased together with
the fuel, that is, the burnable poison or moderator will be in its
own separate pin or element, in a grid, in the sheath, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter wherein the assemblies or bundles contain
structure which serves to maintain the outer surfaces of adjacent
packs or bundles spaced apart from one another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter wherein the pack or bundle has provision
or structure which allows control elements to be inserted therein.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter wherein the fuel component includes a structure
or material for sensing or indicating some condition of the fuel
component.
(1)
Note. Sensing structure includes, for example, thermocouples
and strain gages; indicating material may include a gas. The conditions
sensed or indicated may include the integrity of the cladding, temperature,
etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter including a particular or specific means
for closing the end(s) of a fuel element or component, e.g., weld,
cap, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 451. Subject matter wherein the fuel element end cap has a particular
distinguishing feature or structure associated therewith for discerning
its identity among other fuel elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter having means to contain, cover, or support
the fuel, which means is provided with internal or external projections,
protuberances, prongs, fins, or other similar structure.
(1)
Note. The fins, etc., may serve such diverse functions as
spacing members, support, dividers, aligning of or with heat exchange
and fluid flow passages, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 453. Subject matter wherein the fins, etc., are on the outer
surface of the fuel container, support, or covering.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter wherein at least the portion containing the
fuel material itself is in the form of a sheet or tube which may
be arranged or associated with itself concentrically or helically.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter wherein the fuel component includes a means
to release fission products therefrom during normal operation of
a nuclear reactor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter wherein the fuel is covered or clad by a
material other than the conventional cladding materials of Al, Zr,
steel, etc.
MODERATOR OR REFLECTOR COMPONENT STRUCTURE FOR A FISSION REACTOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising structure whose proximate function
is to attenuate the energy of an incident neutron (moderator) or
to alter the trajectory of an incident neutron (reflector) in a
nuclear fission reactor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 458. Subject matter wherein the material for reducing neutron
energy is formed into a given volume, usually a parallelepiped,
which is so shaped as to facilitate the interconnection of the given
volumes one with another.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising a closure for a fission reactor
vessel which closure is capable of rotary movement.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein load-bearing means are provided to
accommodate the weight of a fission reactor vessel in a fixed position.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein a multiaperature structure holds
or maintains reactor components in a spaced array.
PARTICULAR MATERIAL OR MATERIAL SHAPES FOR FISSION REACTORS.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Collections of patents that claim or disclose a specific
or particular reactor component by its material make-up (composition,
etc.) or when in some particular shape, and not amounting to structure
provided for in the main schedule above.
This subclass is indented under subclass 901. Subject matter wherein the outer surface of the fuel element
is provided with a material which facilitates assembly of the fuel
elements with their spacing, supporting, or scuring means by reducing
the friction on the fuel elements or is provided with an absorber
to facilitate handling during refueling.
This subclass is indented under subclass 900. Subject matter wherein a specific moderator or coolant material
is claimed or disclosed which goes beyond such normal materials
as graphite, Be, H2O, D2O,
etc.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Collection of patents that claim or disclose an uncontrolled
nuclear reaction structure, e.g., a bomb.
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