Transport module for elongated articles partic. nuclear fuel rods - holds these clamped during transport but releases them at the reception point automatically

摘要

The module comprises a series of superimposed horizontal supports fixed to vertical columns, each support having a large number of parallel storage positions each designed to receive one of the articles to be transported. The module is provided with a series of flexible retaining elements, each designed to press against an article with one of its ends and connected to a vertical fixed support. The retaining elements are free to pivot in a vertical plane and are fixed to a vertical metal sheet which can be displaced against the action of return devices, from a position corresponding to the low position of elements to a high position of these, whereby the articles are then liberated. Displacement from the metal sheet can only be obtained by cooperation of means connected to the sheet and suitable devices provided at the article reception point. Enables the fuel rods to be securely held during transfer from storage to a reception point, without human intervention and for the rods to be released at the reception point for subsequent removal from the transport module.