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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.
Li-Xian Fang, Sheng-Yan Lin, Fu Zeng, Chi-Hu Wang, Yong-Cheng Xie
Nuclear Technology | Volume 195 | Number 1 | July 2016 | Pages 71-78
Technical Paper | doi.org/10.13182/NT15-62
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
In this paper, we study the relationship between correlation dimension and signal structure based on nonlinear fractal theory. It shows that when the signal structure is more complex, the correlation dimension is higher. By analyzing background noise, the impact signals of loose parts, and the correlation dimensions of impact signals from background signals, we find that the change of correlation dimensions can reflect the situation of loose parts in reactor operation greatly, and the nonlinear feature of loose parts is consistent at some point. This method can be used to test the initial loosening of parts and to provide an effective way to improve the stability of loose-part monitoring systems.