Design and LEAN manufacturing of autonomous in-bore laser cutting and welding tool for water pipes in a fusion reactor environment

Abstract

Fusion reactors are demanded for sustainable nuclear fusion energy. However, one of their biggest challenges to grow in the society is performing remote maintenance due to their hazards from the extreme environment. Even more difficult, how to operate it in such small pipes of 100mm diameter? This bachelor’s thesis aims to address these limitations with an autonomous in-bore laser cutting and welding tool for remote maintenance in a fusion reactor environment using a 100mm-diameter pipe from ITER as a sample material. LEAN principles are integrated to plan a manufacturing workflow and material selection process. And Artificial Intelligence (AI) is utilized as a control system.

The study derives from critical requirements for a laser cutting and welding system through literature review, 3D modelling, and LEAN manufacturing integration, resulting in a novel concept designed laser cutting and welding tool. The results of 3D SolidWorks models and a LEAN integrated manufacturing workflow propose an innovative and sustainable design to support this clean renewable energy and utilization of future technology like AI.