Patent Number: 047566566
Section: summary

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION: 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to apparatus for handling an end effector device or tool from a remote location. The invention relates particularly to apparatus for handling tools in the irradiated underwater environment of a nuclear reactor from a remote location above the water level in the reactor vessel. 2. Description of the Prior Art: In the event of damage to a nuclear reactor core, it becomes necessary to remove the damaged elements. This operation can be particularly difficult and time consuming in the event that the reactor core has melted and refused. In such a case, it is necessary to remove loose debris from the reactor vessel and to cut away the fused material. To do this, tools such as hydraulic grippers, saws, chisels, and the like must be lowered into the reactor vessel from a remote position, so as to minimize man-rem exposure. Therefore, there must be provided means which will reach the work area from a level approximately 30 feet thereabove. Since work must also be done at various levels within the core, the device must be readily adjustable in length. Furthermore, in order to minimize man-rem exposure, the device must be remotely adjustable in length in the irradiated underwater environment of the reactor vessel, while providing a control line path between the end effector tool and associated remote control apparatus. In the event of hydraulically controlled end effectors, the handling apparatus must provide fluid-tight seals for all hydraulic connections. In summary, there is a need for an apparatus operable from a remote location which can be used to position, retrieve and operate various end effector tools at various depths in an irradiated underwater environment. Heretofore, no such apparatus has been available. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is a general object of the present invention to provide an improved apparatus for the remote handling of a device in an irradiated underwater environment, which apparatus affords unique structural and operating advantages. An important feature of the invention is the provision of apparatus of the type set forth which is readily adjustable in length. In connection with the foregoing feature, another feature of the invention is the provision of a sectional apparatus, the sections of which can be readily connected and disconnected remotely underwater. Another feature of the invention is the provision of apparatus of the type set forth, which both supports the device and provides control line connections between the device and an associated remote control unit. Another feature of the invention is the provision of apparatus of the type set forth, which is of relatively compact, simple and economical construction. These and other features of the invention are attained by providing sectional apparatus for remotely handling a device in an irradiated underwater environment, said apparatus comprising: an elongated structure including one or more elongated structural sections; each of said sections carrying a control line segment, each of said sections including first and second coupling means respectively disposed at opposite ends thereof, each of said first and second coupling means being respectively connectable to second and first coupling means of adjacent sections for interconnecting said sections and the control line segments thereof in end-to-end relationship to form said structure with said control line segments cooperating to form a control line, said second coupling means at one end of said structure being connectable to the associated device for support thereof and for connecting said control line thereto; and support means including a second coupling means connected to said first coupling means at the other end of said structure, said support means including means for connecting said control line to associated control means for controlling the operation of the device. The invention consists of certain novel features and a combination of parts hereinafter fully described, illustrated in the accompaying drawings, and particularly pointed out in the appended claims, it being understood that various changes in the details may be made without departing from the spririt, or sacrificing any of the advantages of the present invention.