Quick changer of multi purpose end effector for fusion application

Abstract

Since the theory of using tokamak to achieve controllable nuclear fusion was proposed in the 1950s, tokamak devices have been highly anticipated as the most likely device to achieve controllable nuclear fusion. In recent years, countries around the world have increased research on tokamak devices. There are more than 200 tokamak test devices around the world, including JET in Europe, EAST and CFETR in China, and ITER, which is being built by countries around the global. However, the core components of the tokamak are in a harsh environment, and the remote maintenance process of the fusion reactor is very complex and time-consuming. The aim of this thesis is to design a quick changer that can work in the harsh environment inside a tokamak device to meet the maintenance needs inside the device. The quick changer allows the maintenance manipulator to change many different tools and end-effectors more efficiently. Using SolidWorks for design and modelling, the manufacturing process of the quick changer was analysed using SolidWorks CAM. Addition of a protective film of titanium diboride to the quick changer using magnetron sputtering. ANSYS was used for static analysis and safety factor to verify the feasibility of the quick change structure.