Resolve Optics was selected by Channel Systems to create a high performance ultraviolet transmitting zoom lens with a focal length of 80-200mm for use in its Digital Cerenkov Viewing Device (DCVD)
The DCVD is the newest generation of imaging devices for non-intrusive verification of spent nuclear fuel.
Inspectors for the nuclear industry are responsible in part for the regulation of nuclear materials to ensure that they are not being diverted for clandestine purposes.
Spent nuclear fuel emits a faint ultraviolet Cerenkov light when gamma rays from fuel assemblies interact with electrons in the cooling pond water.
The DCVD is a highly-effective instrument that captures the Cerenkov image of spent fuel for analysis and comparison.
This unique instrument provides inspectors with an effective tool to differentiate irradiated fuel items from non-fuel items.
Resolve Optics .
was selected to design and manufacture the UV-Zoom lens based on their strong reputation for specialist lens design within the nuclear industry.
The UV-Zoom lens was designed and wavelength-corrected to view a nuclear fuel assembly situated 13 metres away from the lens and through ten metres of water.
To meet the challenges of the application the UV-Zoom lens was designed to optimally operate from 10 to 55C.
Miniature motors allow accurate remote setting of both zoom and focus functions.
A filter slide was incorporated in the design enabling the lens to be switched between UV (270 to 350nm) and visible (400 to 700nm) without the need to refocus the lens.
By using a telescopic focus the lens is able to image objects from 3m to infinity.
The lens achieves high image resolution with low distortion throughout the zoom range without refocusing (image tracking).
Top-siding adjustment was provided on the lens so that the motor cables could be conveniently positioned.
A unique lockable C-mount ensures the lens cannot come loose during operation.
Channel Systems specialises in the design and development of unique instruments for a range of applications including hyperspectral imaging, nuclear fuel safeguard imaging and infrared chemical imaging.
