Devices, systems, and methods for configuring the layout of unit cell of a reactor core

[0001] This invention was made with government support under Contract DE-NE0008853 awarded by the Department of Energy. The government has certain rights in the invention.

[0002] The present disclosure is generally related to nuclear power generation and, more particularly, is directed to a configurable unit cell of a nuclear reactor core.

[0003] The following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the aspects disclosed herein, and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the various aspects can be gained by taking the entire specification, claims, and abstract as a whole.

[0004] In various aspects, a configurable unit cell of a core of a nuclear reactor is disclosed. The configurable unit cell including a core block material, a plurality of interchangeable components configured to effect a performance parameter of the core of the nuclear reactor, and a plurality of channels defined within the core block material. Each channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage an interchangeable component of the plurality of interchangeable components in an operating configuration. Each channel of the plurality of channels is separated from an adjacent channel of the plurality of channels by a predetermined pitch.

[0005] In various aspects, a core of a nuclear reactor is disclosed. The core includes a plurality of interchangeable components configured to effect a performance parameter of the core of the nuclear reactor and a plurality of configurable unit cells formed of a core block material. The plurality of configurable unit cells include a standard unit cell including a plurality of channels defined within the core block material, wherein each channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage an interchangeable component of the plurality of interchangeable components in an operating configuration. The plurality of configurable unit cells also includes a reactivity control cell including a plurality of channels defined within the core block material, wherein each channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage an interchangeable component of the plurality of interchangeable components in the operating configuration, and wherein at least one channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage a reactivity control rod.

[0006] In various aspects, a method of configuring a unit cell of a core of a nuclear reactor is disclosed. The unit cell includes a plurality of channels defined within a core block of the core of the nuclear reactor, and each channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage an interchangeable component of a plurality of interchangeable components. The method includes determining an operating condition of the core of the nuclear reactor, wherein the operating condition corresponds to an intended application of the nuclear reactor; determining a performance parameter of the unit cell, wherein the performance parameter includes an aspect of the determined operating condition of the core of the nuclear reactor; selecting an interchangeable component from the plurality of interchangeable components, wherein the selected interchangeable component corresponds to the determined performance parameter of the unit cell; and installing the selected interchangeable component into a channel of the plurality of channels.

[0007] These and other objects, features, and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention.

[0026] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate various aspects of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

[0027] Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the aspects as described in the disclosure and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the aspects described in the specification. The reader will understand that the aspects described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative. Variations and changes thereto may be made without departing from the scope of the claims. Furthermore, it is to be understood that such terms as “forward”, “rearward”, “left”, “right”, “upwardly”, “downwardly”, and the like are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[0028] In the following description, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. Also, in the following description, it is to be understood that such terms as “forward”, “rearward”, “left”, “right”, “upwardly”, “downwardly”, and the like are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[0029] Before explaining various aspects of the articulated manipulator in detail, it should be noted that the illustrative examples are not limited in application or use to the details of construction and arrangement of parts illustrated in the accompanying drawings and description. The illustrative examples may be implemented or incorporated in other aspects, variations, and modifications, and may be practiced or carried out in various ways. Further, unless otherwise indicated, the terms and expressions employed herein have been chosen for the purpose of describing the illustrative examples for the convenience of the reader and are not for the purpose of limitation thereof. Also, it will be appreciated that one or more of the following-described aspects, expressions of aspects, and/or examples, can be combined with any one or more of the other following-described aspects, expressions of aspects, and/or examples.

[0030] The present disclosure is directed to devices, systems, and methods to adjust the output of a reactor core. Nuclear reactors are typically manufactured to produce a specific power output for the intended application. Aside from application specific power requirements, the design and production of a nuclear reactor must also comply with a wide variety of internal and/or governmental safety regulations. For example, nuclear reactors must be designed and manufactured in compliance with a number of different criteria, such as: (i) the ability to accommodate a number of different fuels and/or moderators (e.g. graphite, Beryllium Oxide, Yttrium Hydride, Zirconium Hydride); (ii) the ability to be thermo-mechanically self-sufficient during a failure; (iii) the ability to support available manufacturing capabilities; (iv) the ability to integrate with existing core components (e.g. radial reflector); and (v) the ability to be scalable for use with both transportable and stationary mobile reactors. Conventional nuclear reactors are large and therefore limits the number of applications. However, both size constraints and limited applications made it is easier for manufacturers to converge on a small number of conventional designs that could be commercialized in compliance with the applicable requirements and/or regulations.

[0031] As nuclear reactors decrease in size they increase in versatility. New nuclear reactors, including micro-reactors, can be effectively implemented in a growing number of emerging and unprecedented applications. However, the reliability of a nuclear reactor's design and performance—as well as its compliance with applicable requirements and/or regulations—is more important than ever. For example, as nuclear reactors become more versatile, they become more prevalent. No single reactor design is suitable for the expanded number of applications. It is commercially impractical to create a new design for each new application. For example, infinite development of new reactor designs can implicate increased costs and risks associated with production and operation. In other words “one size” nuclear reactor does not fit all. Accordingly, there is a need for improved devices, systems, and methods to adjust the output of a reactor core design, while retaining compliance with applicable requirements and/or regulations. Such devices, systems, and methods would enable the reactor to be easily modified for each new application, while preserving the stability of the reactor's manufacture and operation.

[0032] Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of a core 100 that can be modified to adjust the output of a nuclear reactor is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 1, the core 100 includes a plurality of unit cells 102, which collectively form a hexagonal core plate. Each unit cell 102 can be configured to accommodate a heat pipe and fuel in any configuration (e.g. stacks and/or rods), which can collectively generate nuclear power and manage thermal energy throughout the core 100. According to some non-limiting embodiments, one or more unit cells 102 can further include a moderator configuration, which can slow down neutrons emitted from the fuel rod configuration. As depicted in the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 1, the unit cells 102 can be arranged such that the core 100 includes an overall hexagonal geometry, However, in other non-limiting aspects, the unit cells 102 can be arranged such that the core 100 includes any of a number of different geometrical configurations, depending on intended application and/or user preference.

[0033] In further reference to FIG. 1, the core 100 can further include a plurality of reactivity control cells 104. Each cell 104 can be configured to accommodate a reactivity control rod configuration, which can collectively work to control the fission occurring within the core 100 and therefore, prevent the core 100 from achieving a critical temperature in the event of a reactor and/or power failure or criticality accident. According to various non-limiting aspects, the amount of fission can be reduced or completely eliminated within the core 100, the latter of which can shut the core down. The reactivity control rods contemplated by the present disclosure can include a neutron absorbing material and be configured to be inserted into the reactivity control cells 104 to slow and/or stop the nuclear reactions in the case of an emergency. The reactivity control configuration of the core 100 of FIG. 1 represents a valuable feature of the modern micro-reactors, which are transportable and have a broader range of commercial applications. Accordingly, the emergence of micro-reactor can increase the prevalence of nuclear technology, making safety a higher priority.

[0034] According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 1, the core 100 can further include a reflector 106 shield. For example, the reflector 106 can include one or more plates composed of a thick, neutron-shielding material and configured to substantially surround the core 100. The reflector 106 can further include a plurality of control drums 108 configured to house a neutron absorptive material. In the event of a reactor and/or power failure, the control drums 108 can turn inward towards the core 100 such that the absorptive material can mitigate radiation and control the temperature of the core 100. According to some non-limiting aspects, the reflector 106 can additionally and/or alternatively include a gamma shield configured to further mitigate radiation in the event of a failure. As depicted in the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 1, the reflector 106 can be arranged in a circular configuration that surrounds the hexagonally arranged plurality of unit cells 102. However, in other non-limiting aspects, the reflector 106 can be arranged to form any of a number of different geometrical configurations about the plurality of unit cells 102, depending on intended application and/or user preference.

[0035] Still referring to FIG. 1, the reflector 106 can be sectioned to ensure that a gap exists between the unit cells 102 and the reflector 106 as a means of controlling and promoting a desired amount of heat transfer. For example, the reflector 106 can be formed from a plurality of modular plates integrated to create the aforementioned gap. However in other non-limiting aspects, the reflector 106 can be integrally formed. Additionally, the reflector 106 can be further configured to extend along an axial direction D1, which defines a length L of the core 100. The plurality of unit cells 102 can also be configured to span the length L of the core 100. Since the unit cells are configured to accommodate fuel, the magnitude of the length L of the core 100 can correspond to a desired output of the nuclear reactor. Additionally and/or alternatively, the increased versatility of micro-reactors mean the core 100 must be configurable for a wide variety of applications, many of which might have size and/or weight constraints. Therefore, the design of core 100 allows for the length L to be specifically configurable to accommodate for the output, size, and/or weight requirements of the nuclear reactor.

[0036] Referring now to FIG. 2, a top view of the core design of FIG. 1 is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates how the plurality of unit cells 102 and the plurality of reactivity control cells 104 can be particularly arranged to establish the hexagonal configuration of the non-limiting aspect of the core 100. It is also evident that each unit cell 102 of the plurality of unit cells 102 and each reactivity control cell 104 of the plurality of reactivity control cells 104 include a hexagonal configuration as well. However, it shall be appreciated that the hexagonal configuration is exclusively depicted for illustrative purposes. Accordingly, the present disclosure contemplates other non-limiting aspects in which the unit cells 102 include any number of geometrical configurations (e.g. square, circular, triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, octagonal) and arranged such that the core 100 can include any number of geometrical configurations.

[0037] In further reference of FIG. 2, the plurality of unit cells 102 and the plurality of reactivity control cells 104 can be arranged along a radial direction D2, thereby defining a radial dimension R of the core 100. Specifically, the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 2 depicts a core 100 with 61 unit cells 102. However, the present disclosure contemplates other non-limiting aspects wherein the core 102 includes any number of unit cells 102. In fact, the ability to easily add or subtract the number of unit cells 102 to the core 100 without dramatically altering its design allow the core 100 to be easily scaled depending on the intended application and/or user preference. As such, the output of the core 100 design can also be easily adjusted for a multitude of applications and requirements. For example, a user can change the radial dimension of the core 100 by adding or subtracting unit cells 102 to the core 100 design in the radial direction. Since the unit cells are configured to accommodate fuel including radioactive isotopes, increasing or decreasing the magnitude of the radial dimension R can alter the output of the core 100. Accordingly, the radial dimension R of the core 100 can correspond to a desired output of the nuclear reactor depending on the intended application and/or user preference. Additionally and/or alternatively, the radial dimension R of the core 100 can be specifically configured to comply with a multitude of size and/or weight requirements, which can vary by application.

[0038] It shall be appreciated that the term “radial”, as used in the present disclosure, describes any direction extending from the center of the core 100 when viewed from the top. Accordingly, the use of the term “radial” shall not be limited to circular or circular-like configurations and shall not be construed to imply that the core 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 is limited to circular, or circular-like, configurations. For example, the present disclosure contemplates non-limiting aspects in which the core 100 includes a rectangular configuration. According to such aspects, the core 100 can include one or more radial dimensions of varying lengths.

[0039] Still referring to FIG. 2, the plurality of unit cells 102 and the plurality of reactivity control cells 104 can be integrally formed from a solid block of material (e.g. graphite). Thus, the internal features of each of the unit cells 102, such as heat pipe channels, fuel rod channels, moderator channels, and/or the like, can be bored out of—and integrally formed from—the solid block of material. However, according to other non-limiting aspects, each unit cell 102 of the plurality of unit cells 102 and each reactivity control cell 104 of the plurality of reactivity control cells 104 can be modularly formed and integrated into the core block to promote the adjustability of the core design. Regardless, the core 100 can be easily manufactured to include any number of unit cells 102 and/or reactivity control cells 104. This can allow the core 100 design to be easily scalable. For example, altering the number of unit cells 102 and reactivity control cells 104 allows the user to alter the radial dimension R and length L (FIG. 1) of the core 100, thereby altering its output and flexibility for applications with unique output and/or space constraints. However, the core 100 design essentially remains the same, which allows for predictability in production and performance regardless of the difference in output and size. These features also reduce the amount of non-recurring engineering required to design for a new application and facilitates manufacturing consistency and the standardization of parts. Although the core 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 can be scaled as a means of adjusting its output, the scaling should further consider the power rating of the implemented heat pipes, the appropriate number of reactivity control rods required for the adjusted output, and the effectiveness of the control drums.

[0040] In further reference to FIG. 2, each of the cells 102 can be configured to be self-sufficient. As used in this disclosure, “self-sufficient” shall be construed as the ability of each unit cell 102 to independently dissipate heat generated by the fuel oriented within the unit cell 102 via heat rods. However, as a safety measure, the unit cells 102 are specifically arranged such that the gap G between any two adjacent unit cells 102 is less than or equal to 2 millimeters. As such, in the event one or more heat pipes fail within any given unit cell 102, the adjacent unit cells 102 can be positioned close enough to unit cell 102 with the failed heat pipe such that it will transfer the excess heat away from the core 100. Thus, the unit cells 102 can be configured to ensure that the core 100 can operate at an acceptable temperature, even when a unit cell is no longer self-sufficient due to heat pipe failure.

[0041] Additionally, the unit cells 102 of FIG. 2 can be geometrically configured and oriented relative to one another in a triangular pattern, which includes a predetermined pitch calculated to achieve a desired output. For example, the core 100 of FIG. 2 can include a pitch that is greater or equal to fifteen centimeters and less than or equal to twenty centimeters. However, the present disclosure contemplates other non-limiting aspects including any number of different pitches based on any number of desired outputs, as required by the intended application and/or user preference. Hence, the plurality of unit cells 102 can include a variety of geometrical variables, which can be attenuated to further adjust the output of the core 100. In fact, it is the particular geometry and the relative locations of unit cells 102, as well as the configuration and geometry of the reflector 106, that can be carefully selected to adjust the output of the core 100 to satisfy the demand of a particular application while complying with additional requirements.

[0042] Referring now to FIG. 3, a top view of a unit cell 102 of the core 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 3, the unit cell 102 can include a plurality of fuel channels 110 configured to accommodate fuel of the core 100 and a plurality of heat pipe channels 112 configured to accommodate a heat pipe of the core 100. Specifically, the unit cell 102 of FIG. 3 includes twenty-four fuel channels 110 and seven heat pipe channels 112. However, it shall be appreciated that the unit cell 102 can include any number of fuel channels 110 and heat pipe channels 112 to optimize the generation of nuclear energy and enhance the efficiency by which thermal energy is removed from the core 100. As previously discussed, each unit cell 102 is configured to be self-sufficient. Accordingly, each heat pipe channel 112 can be surrounded by several fuel channels 110 of the core, such that thermal energy generated by fuel inserted within the fuel channels 110 can be effectively transferred away from the core 100. For example, the fuel can include neutron emitting materials (e.g. Uranium Oxide, Tri-structural Isotropic Particle Fuels with Uranium Nitride or Uranium Oxycarbide kernels).

[0043] According to other non-limiting aspects, the unit cell 102 of FIG. 3 can further include a moderator channel configured to accommodate a moderator (e.g. a hydride-based moderator, BeO, etc.) of the core 100, wherein the moderator can be configured to retard and suppress the propagation of neutrons emitted by fuel inserted in the plurality of fuel channels 110. Alternatively and/or additionally, the unit cell 102 can include additional features, configured to accommodate other instrumentation of the core 100.

[0044] In further reference to FIG. 3, the plurality of fuel rod channels 110 can be configured to have a first diameter D1 and the plurality of heat pipe channels 112 can be configured to have a second diameter D2. According to some non-limiting embodiments, the first diameter D1 and the second diameter D2 are selected to assist the unit cell 102 in being self-sufficient, such that the heat pipes inserted into the heat pipe channels 112 have ability to transfer heat away from the core 100. Similar to the gaps G between unit cells 102, the first diameter D1 of the fuel channels 110 and the second diameter D2 of the heat pipe channels 112 can be configured such that a desired gap exists between fuel and the internal walls of a fuel channel 110, as well as between a heat pipe and the internal walls of a heat pipe channel 112, when are properly inserted into the unit cell 102. Again, such gaps can be geometrically configured to optimize energy generations and heat transfer throughout the unit cells 102 and throughout the core 100 as a whole. Although the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 3 includes channels 110, 112 with a circular configuration, it shall be appreciated that the present disclosure contemplates other non-limiting aspects wherein the channels 110, 112 with any number of geometric configurations to optimize heat transfer for the intended application and user preference. Accordingly, the term “diameter”, as used by the present disclosure, shall not include any dimension that extends away from a center point of the channel 110, 112. As such, it shall be appreciated that the term “diameter” is not intended to limit the channels 110, 112 to a circular configuration.

[0045] Still referring to FIG. 3, the unit cell 102 can also include features configured to accommodate a neutron absorbing materials that can slow the nuclear reactions occurring in the fuel rod channels 110 of the unit cells 102. Accordingly, the power distribution and radial power peaking of the unit cells 102—and consequentially, the core 100 itself—can be further adjusted via the influence of neutron absorbers. According to some non-limiting aspects, the core 100 can be designed for an application that does not impose a strict transportation requirement on the core 100. Alternatively and/or additionally, the core 100 can use of a high-density fuel. According to such aspects, the axial power peaking factor and axial power distribution of the unit cells 102 and core 100 can be otherwise managed by varying the fuel enrichment level within the fuel channels 110 of the unit cells 102.

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 4A, a perspective view of the unit cell of FIG. 3 is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 4A, a plurality of unit cells 102 are configured to extend along at least a portion of the length L of the core 100. For example, each unit cell 102 of the plurality of unit cells 102 can be modularly formed and integrated into the core block to promote the adjustability of the core design, which represents one aspect of adjustability offered by the design of core 100. This can assist the core 100 in compliance with the output and/or size requirements associated with the intended application. In other non-limiting aspects contemplated by the present disclosure, the unit cells 102 can be integrally formed along at least a portion of the length of the core 100, but similarly configured to achieve the desired output.

[0047] Similarly, the reflector 106 configuration depicted in FIG. 4B includes a plurality of reflectors 106 including control drums 108, wherein the reflectors 106 are configured to extend along at least a portion of the length L of the core 100, similar to the configuration previously depicted and discussed in reference to FIG. 1. Of course, according to some non-limiting aspects, the reflectors too can be integrally formed. Again, the reflectors can be specifically configured to create advantageous gaps to promote and enhance heat transfer throughout the core 100.

[0048] Additionally and/or alternatively, according to some non-limiting aspects, it can be advantageous for a row of unit cells 102 to overlap with an adjacent row of unit cells 102. For example, according to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 4C, a side view of the unit cell of FIG. 3 is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. As can be seen in FIG. 4C, the unit cells 102 are offset relative to one another. Such overlapping can enhance energy production and/or heat transfer throughout the core 100 and provide the user with one more geometric variable to attenuate to optimize core 100 performance without dramatically altering core 100 design.

[0049] Referring now to FIG. 5, a perspective view of the core 100 of FIGS. 1-4 is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 5, the core 100 can be assembled to include fuel 111, heat pipes 113, and reactivity control rods 115 dispositioned throughout the plurality of unit cells 102 and reactivity control cells 108. Specifically, the fuel 111 can be dispositioned throughout the fuel channels 110 (FIG. 3) of one or more unit cells 102, the heat pipes 113 can be dispositioned throughout the heat pipe channels 112 (FIG. 3) of one or more unit cells 102, and the reactivity control rods 115 can be dispositioned through a reactivity control channel (not shown) of one or more reactivity control cells 104. According to some non-limiting aspects, the fuel 111 and heat pipes 113 are configured to extend the predetermined length L of the core 100. In other non-limiting aspects, the heat pipes 113 are configured to extend an additional length L′ beyond the predetermined length L of the core, to facilitate downstream ex-core connections and/or equipment (e.g. power systems, condensers, structural supports). This design allows the core 100 to be customized for any intended application and/or user preference, which enables it to be versatile in response to customer needs. However, none of these alterations can dramatically affect the underlying nuclear physics and/or manufacturability of the core 100 design, which preserves reliability and predictability in core 100 production and operation. In other words, the assembled core 100 design of FIG. 5 allows the fuel 111 and heat pipes 113 to be specifically configured to accommodate for any specific power requirement and/or structural configuration without having to reinvent the basic core 100 design and assume the inherent development risks.

[0050] In further reference to FIG. 5, the reflector 106 can further include a plurality of control drums 108 configured to house a neutron absorbing and reflective materials. In the event of a reactor and/or power failure or reactor shut down, the control drums 108 can turn inward towards the core 100 such that the absorbing material can shut down the core 100. According to non-limiting aspect of FIG. 5, the reflector 106 can further include a gamma shield 109 configured to substantially surround a neutron shield, the core 100, and its internal components 102, 104, 111, 113, 115 to further mitigate radiation.

[0051] Still referring to FIG. 5, the core 100 can further include a plurality of reactivity control rods 115 configured to be dispositioned through one or more reactivity control cell 104 of the plurality of reactivity control cells 104. For example, the reactivity control cells 104 can include a reactivity control rod channel similar to the fuel channels 110 and/or heat pipe channels 112, but specifically configured to accommodate a reactivity control rod 115. As previously discussed, each reactivity control rod 115 can include a neutron absorbing material configured to slow and/or stop the nuclear reactions within the core 100 in the case of an emergency. The reactivity control rods 115 can collectively work to prevent the core 100 from achieving a critical temperature in the event of a reactor and/or power failure. Accordingly, the emergence of micro-reactor can increase the prevalence of nuclear technology, making safety a higher priority.

[0052] Referring now to FIG. 6, a sectioned perspective view of the core 100 of FIGS. 1-5 is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 6, the core 100 including the reflector 106 can be configured to be positioned within an external shroud 117, which can imbue the core 100 with additional structural, shielding, and heat transfer properties depending on the intended application and/or user preference. Notably, FIG. 6 illustrates how the unit cells 102 and reactivity control cells 104 can be arranged relative to one another to form a plurality of fuel channels 110 (FIG. 3), heat pipe channels 112 (FIG. 3), and reactivity control rod channels (not shown) that traverse through a block of the core 100. The sectioned view depicts the fuel 111, heat pipes 113, and reactivity control rods 115 dispositioned within the channels 110, 112, thereby forming the functional crux of the core 100. Accordingly, it shall be appreciated that the number of unit cells 102 and/or reactivity control cells 104 can be varied to adjust the output and/or geometrical configuration of the core 100 without significantly altering its design.

[0053] It shall be appreciated that, for at least the foregoing reasons, the core 100 design disclosed herein includes an adjustable output with a high manufacturability readiness level. In other words, existing manufacturing techniques can be used to make one unit cell or a cluster of unit cells, the reflector, and/or the overall assembly disclosed herein. Accordingly, the core 100 can be assembled for in-process control of individual core components (e.g. unit-cells, reflector segments) and can include components that are easy to replace and/or modify as needed. These features facilitate the scalability of the core 100 and are especially valuable when compared to monolithic core configurations.

[0054] Referring now to FIGS. 7A-9C, several stress distributions of the core 100 of FIGS. 1-6 are depicted in accordance with at least one-aspect of the present disclosure. For example, FIGS. 7A and 7B, FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a temperature distributions of at least a portion of the core of FIGS. 1-6. As previously discussed, the unit cells 102 can be arranged such that no greater than a predetermined gap G (FIG. 3) exists between any two adjacent cells 102. The gap G (FIG. 3) enables excess heat to be dissipated by neighboring heat pipes of neighboring unit cells 102 in the event of a heat pipe failure. For example, in FIG. 7A, a typical temperature distribution is depicted without heat removal degradation. However, in FIG. 7B, a heat pipe has failed, as is represented by the temperature concentration at point A. Because the neighboring unit cells 102 are positioned no more than a predetermined gap G from the unit cell 102 with the failed heat pipe, the excess heat can be dissipated by neighboring heat pipes. This is evident in the dissipation of the thermal gradient depicted in FIG. 7B. In other words, the core 100 can be specifically configured such that neighboring unit cells 102 can help to remove heat in case of the heat pipe failure.

[0055] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a comparison of stress distributions in at least a portion of the core of FIGS. 1-6 with stress distributions in a conventional, monolithic core, in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. As is evident from FIGS. 8A and 8B, the equivalent stress in the improved core 100 configuration of FIGS. 1-6 is reduced when compared to stresses in a monolithic core. Although the stress distribution pattern is similar, the magnitude of the stresses experienced is significantly less. FIGS. 9A-C illustrate simulated temperature and stress distributions for a maximum expected power level of the core of FIGS. 1-6, in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. Accordingly, FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate that the overall stresses experienced by the core 100 and its components are below the conventional limits for operating conditions of a nuclear reactor. Accordingly, FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate that, even as the output of the core is adjusted, the core 100 design can facilitate sufficient thermal management capabilities such that the stresses experienced by the core 100 remain in compliance with other customer requirements and/or internal and governmental regulations.

[0056] Referring now to FIG. 10, a method 200 of adjusting the power output of a core of a nuclear reactor is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 10, the method 200 can include adjusting the power output of a core that includes a plurality of unit cells. Each unit cell of the plurality of unit cells is configured to accommodate a fuel configured to generate energy. Furthermore, each unit cell of the plurality of unit cells is configured to accommodate a heat pipe configured to transfer thermal energy away from the core. An initial number of unit cells in the plurality of unit cells corresponds to an initial power output of the core. For example, the initial power output could be a standardized output of the core product line, which takes into account an average output desired by customers of the product line. This can minimize the amount of adjustment required and thus, reduce the amount of development and risk required to adjust the output of the core.

[0057] In further reference of FIG. 10, the method 200 can include determining an amount of fuel based on a desired power output of the core 202. For example, the desired power output of the core can correspond to an intended application of the nuclear reactor. If the nuclear reactor is going to be powering more equipment than the standard, initial product can provide, then the desired power output would be higher than the initial power output. Alternatively, the application could require less power but also afford the core less space or real estate. Accordingly, the output and thus, footprint of the core should be reduced. Next, the method includes determining a number of heat pipes based on a predetermined requirement of the core 204. For example, the nuclear reactor might have to comply with contractual, internal, or governmental thermal requirements or factors of safety. This could affect the number of heat pipes required to maintain the desired output in compliance with the requirements imposed on the nuclear reactor.

[0058] Still referring to FIG. 10, the method 200 further includes determining a number of unit cells based on the determined amount of fuel and the determined number of heat pipes 206. In other words, the method calls for the optimization of power and compliance requirements. This optimization is then integrated into the modular core design. Subsequently, the method includes mechanically altering the plurality of unit cells such that the initial number of unit cells becomes the determined number of unit cells 208. Accordingly, the scalable core is modified to conform with the configuration determined based on the desired power output and compliance to requirements.

[0059] Referring now to FIG. 11A, a top view of a unit cell 1100a including a configurable layout is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 11A, the unit cell 1100a can include a plurality of channels 1104, 1106 defined within a core block material 1102. For example, the unit cell 1100a can include a plurality of fuel channels 1104 and/or a plurality of heat pipe channels 1106. The channels 1104, 1106 of the unit cell 1100a can be configured to accommodate various interchangeable components required by a nuclear reactor core and can be arranged in a configurable pattern to achieve criticality and/or a desired output of the nuclear reactor. According to some non-limiting aspects, each channel 1104, 1106 can be simultaneously configured to accommodate any of the interchangeable components, including fuel sources and/or heat pipes. As such, the unit cell 1100a of FIG. 11A can be an integral component of a plurality of integrated unit cells 1100a forming a core of a nuclear reactor that relies on fuel and heat pipes to generate electricity and remove the resulting thermal energy. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 11A, the layout of the unit cell 1100a can be configurable—that is, the number and/or location of channels 1104, 1106 can be rearranged to alter the performance of the core—as long as the unit cell 1100a ultimately remains in compliance with nuclear and/or physical and thermal requirements.

[0060] According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 11A, the core block material 1102 of the unit cell 1100a can be specifically configured to supplement and/or replace moderators typically required by other core designs. For example, the core block material 1102 can be specifically selected to include properties that can decrease the speed of neutrons emitted by fuel sources installed within the fuel channels 1104 of the unit cell 1100a. As such, the core block material 1102 itself can control the rate of fission occurring within fuel channel 1104 of the unit cell 1100a. Accordingly, the unit cell 1100a can reduce and/or eliminate the need to incorporate additional moderators that can otherwise diminish the unit cell's 1100a capacity to accommodate fuel and/or heat pipes. Without the need for moderator channels, the unit cell 1100a can make more efficient use of its layout and ultimately decrease the size of the core while improving the output performance of the nuclear reactor. It shall also be appreciated that the core block material 1102 can be further configured to include a number of desirable physical properties (e.g. elastic modulus, thermal conductivity, strength, web-thickness, and/or thermal expansion) to withstand the nuclear, structural, and/or thermal stresses of the unit cell 1100a.

[0061] In further reference to FIG. 11A, the unit cell 1100a can further include a plurality of fuel channels 1104 configured to accommodate a variety of fuel types (e.g. Uranium Dioxide, Tri-structural Isotropic Particle Fuels with Uranium Nitride or Uranium Oxicarbide kernels). The unit cell 1100a layout of FIG. 11A can be specifically configured for a particular fuel type, or the unit cell 1100a layout can be universally configured to accommodate any number of fuel types in a standard configuration. Additionally, the unit cell 1100a can be accommodate a variety of fuel configurations based on a desired fuel utilization and/or moderation requirement. According to the non-limiting aspect in which the core block material 1102 of the unit cell 1100a can be specifically configured to supplement and/or replace moderators, the fuel 1104 can also be configured to accommodate a variety of fuel sources and/or secondary moderators to optimize reactor performance variables and ensure compliance with a variety of requirements and/or regulations, which vary by application. Accordingly, the single unit cell 1100a layout of FIG. 11A can be configured and re-configured as desired.

[0062] The configurable cell block 1100a layout of FIG. 11A provides numerous advantages, such as applicability to various reactor designs that require varying moderator configurations. For example, the unit cell 1100a layout of FIG. 11A can include a Uranium Nitride and/or a Tri-structural Isotropic Particle fuel source installed within a subset of the plurality of fuel channels 1104. According to such aspects, the unit cell 1100a might comply with a nuclear reactor transportation requirement but suffer in terms of fuel utilization. Accordingly, the user may decide to insert secondary moderators (e.g. hydride-based material, Beryllium Oxide) into a subset of the plurality of fuel channels 1104 to attenuate reactor performance and thus, improve fuel utilization.

[0063] According to another non-limiting aspect, the unit cell 1100a can include a Uranium Dioxide and/or a Uranium Nitride fuel source within a subset of the plurality of fuel channels 1104 to optimize fuel utilization, but will likely require the use of a secondary moderator in other fuel channels 1104 to comply with reactor transportation requirements. None of the foregoing examples are intended to be limiting but rather, are exclusively presented to illustrate how the unit cell 1100a layout of FIG. 11A can be configurable to optimize reactor performance for compliance to a number of different requirements and/or regulations. Accordingly, a single unit cell layout 1100a can be applicable and specifically configured for a wide array of nuclear reactor applications (e.g. mobile reactors, transportable reactors, stationary reactors). Streamlining the production of unit cells 1100a, 1100b to include a single, configurable layout—such as those depicted in FIGS. 11A and 11B—can promote manufacturing readiness and facilitate the use of existing manufacturing techniques.

[0064] Referring now to FIG. 11B, another unit cell including a configurable layout is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. The unit cell 1100b is similarly configured to the unit cell 1100a of FIG. 11A. However, according to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 11B, the unit cell 1100b can further include one or more reactivity control channels 1108 configured to accommodate a reactivity control rod, which can work to prevent the core 100 from achieving a critical temperature in the event of a reactor and/or power failure. For example, the reactivity control channels 1108 of the unit cell 1100b of FIG. 11B can accommodate reactivity control rods that include a neutron absorbing material configured to slow and/or stop the nuclear reactions occurring within the fuel channels 1104 in the case of an emergency.

[0065] In further reference to FIG. 11B, the reactivity control channel 1108 can be larger than the fuel channels 1104 and heat pipe channels 1106 of the unit cell 1100b. However, the present disclosure contemplates other non-limiting aspects wherein the reactivity control channels 1108 can include a variety of different sizes and/or geometric configurations relative to the fuel channels 1104 and heat pipe channels 1106 of the unit cell 1100b. Additionally and/or alternatively, the unit cell 1100b of FIG. 11B can be configured to be coupled to the unit cell 1108a of FIG. 11A, thereby establishing a core with a reactivity control configuration in further compliance with application specific requirements and/or regulations. Accordingly, the unit cells 1100a, 1100b of FIGS. 11A and 11B can collectively provide an additional benefit to modern micro-reactors. As previously discussed, such micro-reactors are compact and thus, increasing the prevalence of nuclear technology. Therefore, safety remains a high priority when designing the core of a nuclear reactor. The configurable layout of unit cell 1100b can allows for the core design to be customized and thus, can assist in mitigating the risks that are inherent to the use nuclear technology.

[0066] Although the unit cells 1100a, 1100b of FIGS. 11A and 11B can include a hexagonal configuration, it shall be appreciated that the hexagonal configuration is exclusively depicted for illustrative purposes. Accordingly, the present disclosure contemplates other non-limiting aspects in which the unit cells 1100a, 1100b can include any number of geometrical configurations (e.g. square, circular, triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, octagonal) and thus, can be arranged to form cores of many different geometrical configurations. Additionally and/or alternatively, the channels 1104, 1106, 1108 can include any geometrical configuration and are not intended to be limited to the circular geometries depicted in FIGS. 11A and 11B. It shall be appreciated that the modular and re-configurable features of unit cells 1100a, 1100b can be equally applied to channels of varying geometrical cross-sections (e.g. square, circular, triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, octagonal).

[0067] It shall be appreciated that the layout of the unit cells 1100a, 1100b can be specifically configured based on the intended application and/or user preference. This enables any core constructed from the unit cells 1100a, 1100b to be flexibly designed to accommodate the versatility expected of modern, micro-reactors. For example, the arrangement of channels 1104, 1106, 1108 can include a predetermined pitch P between channels. The pitch P can be specifically configured based on the particular fuel type intended for the core. For example, the pitch P of FIGS. 11A and 11B can include a dimensional magnitude greater than or equal to 20 millimeters and less than or equal to 40 millimeters. However, the present disclosure contemplates other non-limiting aspects including pitches of varying dimensional magnitudes based on any other nuclear and/or thermal characteristic of the core, depending on the intended application and/or user preference.

[0068] Likewise, each channel 1104, 1106, 1108 of the unit cells 1100a, 1100b of FIGS. 11A and 11B can include a predetermined channel diameter Do which can be designed to establish a desired gap to accommodate fuel, heat pipe, and/or reactivity control rod, respectfully. Accordingly, the channel diameter Dc can be specifically configured for a desired amount of nuclear generation, heat removal, and/or reactivity control capability, depending on intended application and/or user presence. It shall be appreciated that, as the channel diameter Dc is adjusted to accommodate varying fuel sources (e.g. rods, stacks, pellets, and/or compacts), subsequent re-adjustments to the pitch P may be needed, especially if the channel diameter Dc is increased to accommodate broader fuel sources to achieve higher power ratings. Additionally and/or alternatively, each channel 1104, 1106, 1108 of the unit cells 1100a, 1100b can be arranged such that a predetermined radial gap G_R exists between channels 1104, 1106, 1108. The radial gap G_R can be selected to ensure a certain proximity between channels 1104, 1106, 1108 is maintained. Accordingly, the channels 1104, 1106, 1108 are arranged to collectively achieve a performance expectation of the unit cell 1100a, 1100b. For example, if a first heat pipe fails, a heat pipe in a neighboring channel can accommodate for the failure by transferring excess heat away from the unit cell 1100a, 1100b and thus, the core itself. This ensures that the unit cell 1100a, 1100b can comply with applicable performance requirements and/or safety regulations in the event of a failure.

[0069] In other words, the channels 1104, 1106, 1108 of the unit cells 1100a, 1100b of FIGS. 11A and 11B can be easily configured to accommodate any nuclear, thermal, and/or safety design constraints. The typical radial gap between elements of the design will vary depending on the interface type, fuel and heat pipe dimensions, required heat generation rate, and cover (filling) gas used. However, modifying any of the aforementioned dimensions (e.g. pitch P, channel diameter Dc, radial gap G_R, web-thickness) to alter the geometrical configuration of the unit cell 1100a, 1100b, channels 1104, 1106, 1108 will not disrupt the aforementioned manufacturing readiness, standards, or limits.

[0070] Referring now to FIGS. 12A through 12C, a top view of another unit cell 1200 including a configurable layout is depicted in varying configurations in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIGS. 12A, a baseline unit cell 1200a configuration is depicted, wherein fuel 1206 is positioned in channels surrounding a central heat pipe 1204 in a hexagonal configuration. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 12A, the baseline unit cell 1200a configuration does not include secondary moderators installed within any of the channels. Alternatively, the baseline unit cell 1200a configuration can include a core block material 1202 that serves as the moderator (e.g. graphite).

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 12B, a second unit cell 1200b configuration is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 12B, the unit cell 1200b can include Beryllium-based moderators 1210 (e.g. Beryllium Carbide, Beryllium Oxide) interposed between the channels that include the fuel 1206, which are the same as the channels depicted in FIG. 12A. Referring now to FIG. 12C, a third unit cell 1200c configuration is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. Similar to the aspect of FIG. 12B, the unit cell 1200c configuration of FIG. 12C can include moderators 1212 interposed between the channels that house fuel sources 1206. However, according to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 12C, the moderators can include a hydride-based material (e.g. Yttrium Hydride, Zirconium Hydride).

[0072] Collectively, FIGS. 12A through 12C illustrate how a single unit cell 1200, or the unit cells 1100a, 1100b of FIGS. 11A and 11B, can include configurable layouts that can alter the output and/or performance of the core of a nuclear reactor in compliance with a wide variety of application-specific requirements and/or regulations, while preserving a desirable manufacturing readiness level. Although the non-limiting unit cell 1200a, 1200b, 1200c configurations illustrate the use of different moderators 1202, 1210, 1212 throughout the core of the nuclear reactor, it shall be appreciated that the unit cell 1200a, 1200b, 1200c configurations can apply similar modular principles to effect any number of core parameters, including the use of different fuel sources and/or reactivity control rods.

[0073] Referring now to FIG. 15, a method 1500 of configuring a unit cell of a core of a nuclear reactor is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. According to the non-limiting aspect of FIG. 15, the method 1500 can include determining an operating condition of the core, wherein the operating condition corresponds to an intended application and/or user preference of the nuclear reactor 1502. This step is indicative of the increased versatility offered by modern nuclear reactors. Next, the method 1500 determines a performance parameter of the unit cell that comprises an aspect of the operating condition 1504. For example, the specific application of the reactor might necessitate a particular power output, or moderator capability of the core. Accordingly, the user can dissect the operating condition into one or more performance parameters that can influence the design of the core and, more specifically, the design of the unit cell. Next, the method 1500 includes the selection of an interchangeable component that corresponds to the performance parameter 1506. Based on the selected performance parameter, the user might choose a fuel source of a particular type or composition, or a reactivity control rod, or a heat pipe for inclusion in the unit cell layout. Finally, the method includes the installation of the selected interchangeable component into a channel of the plurality of channels 1508. The method 1500 can be repeated until the channels of the unit cell are populated with the required interchangeable components such that the core can achieve the operating condition and be effective in the intended application.

[0074] Various aspects of the subject matter described herein are set out in the following numbered clauses:

• • [0075] Clause 1: A configurable unit cell of a core of a nuclear reactor, the configurable unit cell including a core block material; a plurality of interchangeable components, wherein each interchangeable component of the plurality of interchangeable components is configured to affect a performance parameter of the core of the nuclear reactor; and a plurality of channels defined within the core block material, wherein each channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage an interchangeable component of the plurality of interchangeable components in an operating configuration, and wherein each channel of the plurality of channels is separated from an adjacent channel of the plurality of channels by a predetermined pitch.
  • [0076] Clause 2: The configurable unit cell according to clause 1, wherein the plurality of interchangeable components include at least one of a fuel source, a heat pipe, a reactivity control rod, and a reactivity control rod, or combinations thereof.
  • [0077] Clause 3: The configurable unit cell according to clauses 1 or 2, wherein the core block material includes a moderator, and wherein the plurality of channels are specifically arranged such that the core block material can adequately moderate nuclear energy generated by the configurable unit cell in the operating configuration.
  • [0078] Clause 4: The adjustable core according to any of clauses 1-3, wherein the core block material includes graphite.
  • [0079] Clause 5: The configurable unit cell according to any of clauses 1-4, wherein the plurality of interchangeable components include at least one of a fuel source, a heat pipe, a moderator, a reactivity control rod, and a reactivity control rod, or combinations thereof.
  • [0080] Clause 6: The configurable unit cell according to any of clauses 1-5, wherein the configurable unit cell is modular and configured to be coupled to a second configurable unit cell, and wherein the configurable unit cell forms at least a portion of the core of the nuclear reactor when coupled to the second configurable unit cell.
  • [0081] Clause 7: The configurable unit cell according to any of clauses 1-6, further including an interface configured to couple the second unit cell to the configurable unit cell, wherein the interface defines a predetermined gap between the configurable unit cell and the second unit cell, and wherein the predetermined gap corresponds to a predetermined heat transfer parameter of the core in the event of a heat pipe failure.
  • [0082] Clause 8: The configurable unit cell according to any of clauses 1-7, wherein the predetermined pitch is greater than or equal to 20 millimeters and less than or equal to 40 millimeters.
  • [0083] Clause 9: A core of a nuclear reactor including a plurality of interchangeable components, wherein each interchangeable component of the plurality of interchangeable components is configured to effect a performance parameter of the core of the nuclear reactor; and a plurality of configurable unit cells, wherein each configurable unit cell of the plurality of configurable unit cells is formed of a core block material, and wherein the plurality of configurable unit cells include a standard unit cell including a plurality of channels defined within the core block material, wherein each channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage an interchangeable component of the plurality of interchangeable components in an operating configuration; and a reactivity control cell including a plurality of channels defined within the core block material, wherein each channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage an interchangeable component of the plurality of interchangeable components in the operating configuration, and wherein at least one channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage a reactivity control rod.
  • [0084] Clause 10: The core according to clause 9, wherein the plurality of interchangeable components include at least one of a fuel source, a heat pipe, a reactivity control rod, and a reactivity control rod, or combinations thereof.
  • [0085] Clause 11: The core according to clauses 9 or 10, wherein the core block material includes a moderator, and wherein the plurality of channels of each configurable unit cell in the plurality of configurable unit cells are specifically arranged such that the core block material can adequately moderate nuclear energy generated in the operating configuration.
  • [0086] Clause 12: The core according to any of clauses 9-11, wherein the core block material includes graphite.
  • [0087] Clause 13: The core according to any of clauses 9-12, wherein the plurality of interchangeable components include at least one of a fuel source, a heat pipe, a moderator, a reactivity control rod, and a reactivity control rod, or combinations thereof.
  • [0088] Clause 14: The core according to any of clauses 9-13, wherein each unit cell of the plurality of unit cells is modularly configured to be coupled to an adjacent unit cell of the plurality of unit cells, such that the number of unit cells in the plurality can be adjusted.
  • [0089] Clause 15: The core according to any of clauses 9-14, wherein each unit cell of the plurality of unit cells is arranged such that a predetermined gap exists between the configurable unit cell and the second unit cell, and wherein the predetermined gap corresponds to a predetermined heat transfer parameter of the core in the event of a heat pipe failure.
  • [0090] Clause 16: The core according to any of clauses 9-15, wherein the predetermined pitch is greater than or equal to 20 millimeters and less than or equal to 40 millimeters.
  • [0091] Clause 17: A method of configuring a unit cell of a core of a nuclear reactor, wherein the unit cell includes a plurality of channels defined within a core block of the core of the nuclear reactor, wherein each channel of the plurality of channels is configured to engage an interchangeable component of a plurality of interchangeable components, the method including determining an operating condition of the core of the nuclear reactor, wherein the operating condition corresponds to an intended application of the nuclear reactor; determining a performance parameter of the unit cell, wherein the performance parameter includes an aspect of the determined operating condition of the core of the nuclear reactor; selecting an interchangeable component from the plurality of interchangeable components, wherein the selected interchangeable component corresponds to the determined performance parameter of the unit cell; and installing the selected interchangeable component into a channel of the plurality of channels.
  • [0092] Clause 18: The method according to clause 17, further including: determining a second performance parameter of the unit cell, wherein the second performance parameter includes another aspect of the determined operating condition of the core of the nuclear reactor; selecting a second interchangeable component from the plurality of interchangeable components, wherein the selected interchangeable component corresponds to the determined second performance parameter of the unit cell; and installing the selected second interchangeable component into another channel of the plurality of channels.
  • [0093] Clause 19: The method according to clauses 17 or 18, wherein the plurality of interchangeable components include at least one of a fuel source, a heat pipe, a moderator, a reactivity control rod, and reactivity control rod, or combinations thereof.
  • [0094] Clause 20: The method according to any of clauses 17-19, wherein the core block material includes a moderator, and wherein the plurality of interchangeable components include at least one of a fuel source, a heat pipe, a reactivity control rod, and a reactivity control rod, or combinations thereof.

[0095] All patents, patent applications, publications, or other disclosure material mentioned herein, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if each individual reference was expressly incorporated by reference respectively. All references, and any material, or portion thereof, that are said to be incorporated by reference herein are incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference and the disclosure expressly set forth in the present application controls.

[0096] The present invention has been described with reference to various exemplary and illustrative aspects. The aspects described herein are understood as providing illustrative features of varying detail of various aspects of the disclosed invention; and therefore, unless otherwise specified, it is to be understood that, to the extent possible, one or more features, elements, components, constituents, ingredients, structures, modules, and/or aspects of the disclosed aspects may be combined, separated, interchanged, and/or rearranged with or relative to one or more other features, elements, components, constituents, ingredients, structures, modules, and/or aspects of the disclosed aspects without departing from the scope of the disclosed invention. Accordingly, it will be recognized by persons having ordinary skill in the art that various substitutions, modifications or combinations of any of the exemplary aspects may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, persons skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the various aspects of the invention described herein upon review of this specification. Thus, the invention is not limited by the description of the various aspects, but rather by the claims.

[0097] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to claims containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.

[0098] In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that typically a disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms unless context dictates otherwise. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be typically understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

[0099] With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art will appreciate that recited operations therein may generally be performed in any order. Also, although claim recitations are presented in a sequence(s), it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are described, or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternate orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplemental, simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context dictates otherwise. Furthermore, terms like “responsive to,” “related to,” or other past-tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variants, unless context dictates otherwise.

[0100] It is worthy to note that any reference to “one aspect,” “an aspect,” “an exemplification,” “one exemplification,” and the like means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the aspect is included in at least one aspect. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one aspect,” “in an aspect,” “in an exemplification,” and “in one exemplification” in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same aspect. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more aspects.

[0101] As used herein, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include the plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0102] Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example and without limitation, top, bottom, left, right, lower, upper, front, back, and variations thereof, shall relate to the orientation of the elements shown in the accompanying drawing and are not limiting upon the claims unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0103] The terms “about” or “approximately” as used in the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, means an acceptable error for a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which depends in part on how the value is measured or determined. In certain aspects, the term “about” or “approximately” means within 1, 2, 3, or 4 standard deviations. In certain aspects, the term “about” or “approximately” means within 50%, 200%, 105%, 100%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, or 0.05% of a given value or range.

[0104] In this specification, unless otherwise indicated, all numerical parameters are to be understood as being prefaced and modified in all instances by the term “about,” in which the numerical parameters possess the inherent variability characteristic of the underlying measurement techniques used to determine the numerical value of the parameter. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter described herein should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0105] Any numerical range recited herein includes all sub-ranges subsumed within the recited range. For example, a range of “1 to 100” includes all sub-ranges between (and including) the recited minimum value of 1 and the recited maximum value of 100, that is, having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value equal to or less than 100. Also, all ranges recited herein are inclusive of the end points of the recited ranges. For example, a range of “1 to 100” includes the end points 1 and 100. Any maximum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all lower numerical limitations subsumed therein, and any minimum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limitations subsumed therein. Accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly recite any sub-range subsumed within the ranges expressly recited. All such ranges are inherently described in this specification.

[0106] Any patent application, patent, non-patent publication, or other disclosure material referred to in this specification and/or listed in any Application Data Sheet is incorporated by reference herein, to the extent that the incorporated materials is not inconsistent herewith. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

[0107] The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a system that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features.