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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
Chaung Lin, Tsung-Ming Lin
Nuclear Technology | Volume 127 | Number 1 | July 1999 | Pages 102-112
Technical Paper | Materials for Nuclear Systems | doi.org/10.13182/NT99-A2987
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Neural networks such as the radial basis function network, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems, and the multilayer feedforward neural network were adopted to model the steam generator water level, which was intended to be the analytic redundancy in the signal validation system. The training data were the simulation results of the small-demand turbine power variations around the steady state. The test data were from two small-load maneuvers: the load reduction from 100 to 50% of the rated power, and one feedwater pump trip event. The network training required only a short time, and the simulation results show that the neural networks are suitable for the modeling of steam generator water level.