Mary W Johnson

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Mary W. Johnson

Introduction

Mary W. Johnson, an accomplished inventor based in Amherst, VA, has made significant strides in the field of nuclear reactor technology. With a total of five patents to her name, her work has proven to be influential in enhancing the safety and efficiency of nuclear fuel assemblies.

Latest Patents

Johnson's latest patents showcase her innovative approach to the design and functionality of nuclear reactor components. One of her notable patents involves a design for lower end fitting locating pins. This invention features a nuclear reactor core installed on a lower core plate that comprises multiple fuel assemblies. Each fuel assembly in this design includes a structural cage assembly, which is equipped with an upper end fitting, mid grids, and a lower end fitting (LEF). The LEF is cleverly designed to use four locating pins positioned at each corner, allowing the fuel assembly to be securely located laterally by mating with corresponding holes in the lower core plate. The innovative chamfered tip of these pins enables greater positioning margins during installation, while the flat tip provides additional strength and stability, thus enhancing overall reliability.

Another significant patent by Johnson focuses on the locking mechanism of a nut threaded onto a guide tube end plug to secure it to the lower end fitting of a nuclear reactor fuel assembly. This apparatus integrates a lower end fitting with a complex design, including a counterbore and a visible lock recess. The guide tube is equipped with a threaded shaft that ensures a secure and stable connection, while the deformable lock nut is designed to be swaged into the recess of the lower end fitting, ensuring durability and efficiency in operation.

Career Highlights

Throughout her career, Mary W. Johnson has demonstrated a commitment to advancing nuclear technology and safety. As an inventor at BWXT MPower, Inc., she has utilized her expertise to contribute to critical developments in reactor design and functionality. Her innovative patents reflect her understanding of the complexities involved in nuclear engineering and her ability to create practical solutions that address industry needs.

Collaborations

Mary W. Johnson has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Julius M. Ullmann and Lewis A. Walton. These partnerships exemplify the collaborative spirit within the engineering and invention community, as working alongside fellow inventors often leads to groundbreaking advancements and shared knowledge that drive innovation forward.

Conclusion

In summary, Mary W. Johnson's contributions to the field of nuclear reactor technology are remarkable. With her five patents, she has showcased her ability to innovate and solve complex engineering challenges. Her work not only improves the workings of nuclear reactors but also highlights the critical role that female inventors play in shaping future technologies. As innovations continue to evolve, the contributions of inventors like Johnson will remain pivotal in guiding the industry toward enhanced safety and efficiency.