A simulator based on virtual reality to dismantle a research reactor assembly using master-slave manipulators

The use of simulation within the nuclear industry has been limited by the perceived cost and benefits that such tools offer. In this paper, we present the development of a simulator based on the use of master-slave-manipulators to dismantle a small research reactor core assembly. We discuss the design of the simulator hardware and the different software elements that make up the system. We show how this type of tool can be used to explore various options during the development of a nuclear decommissioning process. Finally, we discuss the benefits that have been observed from using the system to support the decommissioning of the CONSORT research reactor.