Bruce M Shawver

Title: Bruce M Shawver: Innovator in Nuclear Reactor Technology

Introduction

Bruce M Shawver is a notable inventor based in San Jose, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of nuclear reactor technology, holding 2 patents that enhance safety and efficiency in reactor operations. His work is particularly focused on mechanisms that facilitate rapid reactor shutdowns, which are critical for safety in nuclear energy production.

Latest Patents

Shawver's latest patents include the "Quick Release Latch for Reactor Scram" and the "Control Rod Drive for Reactor Shutdown." The Quick Release Latch provides a simple, reliable, and fast-acting means for releasing a control element, allowing it to be inserted rapidly into the core region of a nuclear reactor for scram purposes. This latch mechanism grips a coupling head on a nuclear control element, connecting it to the control drive assembly. The mechanism is closed by tensioning a cable or rod with an actuator, and it is released by de-energizing the actuator, ensuring a fail-safe, rapid release of the control element for reactor shutdown. A sensing rod indicates that the control element is properly positioned in the latch, with two embodiments illustrated: one involving a collet-type latch mechanism and the other a pliers-type latch mechanism with the actuator located inside the reactor vessel.

The Control Rod Drive serves as a means for rapidly shutting down or scramming a nuclear reactor, such as a liquid metal-cooled fast breeder reactor, and acts as a backup to the primary shutdown system. This drive consists of an in-core assembly, a drive shaft and seal assembly, and a control drive mechanism. The control rod is driven into the core region of the reactor by gravity and hydraulic pressure forces supplied by the reactor coolant, ensuring that common mode failures will not interfere with or prohibit scramming the reactor when necessary.

Career Highlights

Shawver's career is marked by his dedication to improving nuclear reactor safety and efficiency. He works for the United States of America as represented by the United States Energy, where he continues to innovate and develop technologies that enhance reactor operations.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Shawver has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Ernest R McKeehan and Donald J Schiro. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of nuclear technology and safety measures.

Conclusion

Bruce M Shawver is a prominent figure in