Remote Vacuum Joint Concept for Fusion Reactors

A remotely operable vacuum duct joint has been designed by GA Technologies, Inc. The concept is applicable to large rectangular vacuum ducts, many of which are required on advanced fusion devices. The duct size chosen for this design is 1m × .4m although it may be scaled up or down for other applications. Shaft driven mechanical linkages provide a large axial force against one flange which is reacted by latch mechanisms that engage the mating flange. Drive shafts are actuated by an impact wrench handled by a remote manipulator. Remote disassembly time is about 3 hours.