Use of Virtual Reality Technology for CANDU 6 Reactor Fuel Channel Operation Training

Abstract

The CANDU (CANada Deuterium Uranium) 6 nuclear reactor core consists of 380 horizontal fuel channels that hold the fuel in the reactor core and allow for the expansion of the fuel channel components. Fuel channel assembly enables the heat transfer from the nuclear fuel to heavy water coolant. Heavy water coolant under elevated pressure (\(\sim \) 10 MPa), carries the heat generated from nuclear fission reaction to heat exchangers located outside the reactor core to generate steam that will turn the turbine to generate electricity. The fuel channel assembly also allows the fueling machine to perform online refueling of nuclear fuel and provide shielding protection to safeguard the nuclear workers while providing structural integrity during the regular operation of the nuclear reactor. The physical configuration and coolant flow path of the CANDU fuel channel assembly is very complex, and teaching and training associated with the fuel channel assembly employ pictures and computer simulations. However, these traditional approaches lack the immersion and interactivity that virtual reality can provide to realistically expose learners in a safe and controlled manner otherwise difficult to achieve in real life due to the dangers of radiation exposure. In this paper, we present the development of virtual reality (VR) fuel assembly prototype generated for teaching CANDU concepts. Our preliminary study focused on understanding face validity and usability perceptions regarding the virtual interactions. Preliminary feedback from content exports provided us with valuable insights on improvements regarding usability, fidelity, and gamification.