A device for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model

Abstract

This invention discloses a device for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model, comprising: multiple water pumps, an outlet, a conduit, a self-tightening flexible water barrier, a frequency converter, a water flow buffer module, a model site, and an industrial control computer. Each water pump is connected to a frequency converter, and all frequency converters are connected to the industrial control computer. Each water pump is connected to an outlet through a conduit. The water flow buffer module is installed in the inner section of the outlet. The self-tightening flexible water barrier is connected to both sides of the outlet and fixed to the model site.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of marine physical model simulation, and in particular to a device for realizing complex water flow conditions in marine physical models. Background Technology

[0002] Marine physical model tests utilize fluid dynamics knowledge and the principle of similarity between water flow and sediment movement to simulate boundary and dynamic conditions similar to the prototype. These tests are used to study the water flow structure, seabed evolution process, and engineering effects of marine topography under the influence of structures.

[0003] Traditional marine physical models use topography to shape water flow, utilizing gravity and changes in terrain to alter the direction of the flow and adjusting velocity using water level differences. After exiting the control gate, water needs to traverse an area of ​​tens of meters or longer to even out its direction and magnitude, ensuring that the flow direction and distribution in the test area meet experimental requirements. This approach has long been used for large-scale integrated physical models developed by major research institutions in China. While this method effectively meets flow conditions and is visually more intuitive, it has a significant drawback: it requires an enormous area. For example, in a green petrochemical integrated physical model in Zhejiang, the effective test area is approximately 70 square meters, but the entire model construction area exceeds 700 square meters—nearly ten times the area. This extra area is primarily used for stabilizing and regulating the water flow to meet experimental requirements within the effective test area. The construction of this extra area, like the test area, requires scaling down to the actual terrain, necessitating civil engineering work, consuming substantial manpower and resources, and resulting in a lengthy model-making cycle.

[0004] Furthermore, using water level as a boundary control variable works well for single-gate or two-gate systems with a considerable distance between them. However, it becomes extremely difficult to implement with multiple gates or gates that are close together. It requires creating a water boundary for each gate, with an independent water level gauge at each boundary serving as a control station. Due to limitations in the control system and water flow characteristics, the water flow is easily deflected to one side, creating a seesaw effect and leading to control failure. Under existing control conditions, debugging such multi-gate models is exceptionally cumbersome; single-flow field calibration alone can take more than a month, and repeatability is poor.

[0005] In particular, if there are rotating flows or other complex water flows in the sensitive areas of the model that need to be simulated, such as creating rotating flows or jet effects in a local area of ​​the flow field, it is difficult to achieve this with existing water level simulation methods or other flow control methods. Generally, complex flow fields are achieved by placing guide walls or other obstacles in the model. Even so, the effect is very poor and comes at the cost of the loss of other non-sensitive flow field morphologies. There is currently no good way to achieve this.

[0006] Therefore, traditional marine model simulation technology has three significant limitations: large footprint, difficulty in implementing multi-gate models, and difficulty in simulating complex water flow conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a device for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model, so as to at least solve the problems of large footprint, difficulty in implementing multiple gates, and difficulty in realizing complex water flow conditions in related technologies.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0009] A device for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model includes: multiple water pumps, an outlet, a conduit, a self-tightening flexible water barrier, a frequency converter, a water flow buffer module, a model site, and an industrial control computer. Each water pump is connected to a frequency converter, and all frequency converters are connected to the industrial control computer. Each water pump is connected to an outlet through a conduit. The water flow buffer module is installed in the inner section of the outlet. The self-tightening flexible water barrier is connected to both sides of the outlet and fixed to the model site.

[0010] Furthermore, the water pump is a variable frequency submersible pump, used to provide water flow power for the physical model.

[0011] Furthermore, the outlet is a square or circular tubular outlet.

[0012] Furthermore, it also includes a steering bracket, on which the outlet is mounted.

[0013] Furthermore, the steering bracket has screw holes at the bottom, which are used to fix it to the model field with expansion screws.

[0014] Furthermore, waterproof zippers are attached to the outer sides of the front end of the outlet for splicing with the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall.

[0015] Furthermore, the conduit is a flexible steel-supported hose.

[0016] Furthermore, the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall has an overall L-shaped structure.

[0017] Furthermore, it also includes a weight, which is fixed at the horizontal edge of the water-blocking wall to apply pressure.

[0018] Furthermore, the water flow buffer module consists of two buffer layers. The first layer is a porous plastic plate used to dissipate energy from the first layer of fluid, and the second layer is a plastic blind drain structure used to further buffer and stabilize the fluid.

[0019] Based on the above technical solution, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows:

[0020] 1. The water pump draws water into the marine model. First, the frequency converter controls the output flow rate to ensure that the output water flow rate meets the boundary requirements. Then, the double-layer buffer inside the outlet is used to even out the flow. The evenly mixed water can be directly applied to the marine engineering area, eliminating the need for traditional models to use a large area of ​​redundant terrain to smooth the water flow, which can effectively reduce the experimental area.

[0021] 2. The output flow rate is controlled by the frequency converter, and the flow output curve is set separately for each outlet. The water level is no longer used as a control condition. The outlets are completely independent and do not interfere with each other, avoiding the common seesaw phenomenon of water flow. The multi-gate sea area model is simpler to implement.

[0022] 3. The design adopts a steerable outlet design, which allows for easy movement and placement of the outlets. When a complex flow field needs to be achieved, the flow boundary distribution around the complex flow field region is first given. One or more outlet gates are generalized according to actual needs. Then, the outlets are arranged around the complex flow field, the direction of each outlet is adjusted, and the flow output curve of the outlet is configured according to the flow boundary conditions. After simple debugging, the water flow conditions of the complex flow field can be achieved without placing guide walls or other obstacles in the model to achieve the complex flow field. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0024] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of a device for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model, provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the water pump, the conduit, and the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the outlet turning lock and waterproof zipper in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection of the water pump, frequency converter, and adjustable flow port in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the water flow buffer module's arrangement inside the outlet in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a porous plastic plate in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the plastic blind drain structure in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a front view schematic diagram of the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 9 This is a left-side schematic diagram of the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] In the diagram: 1. Water pump; 2. Outlet; 3. Pipe; 4. Steering bracket; 5. Self-tightening flexible water barrier; 6. Frequency converter; 7. Water flow buffer module; 8. Model site; 9. Industrial computer; 10. Waterproof zipper; 2-1. Screw; 7-1. Porous plastic sheet; 7-2. Plastic blind drain structure. Detailed Implementation

[0034] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0035] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0036] refer to Figures 1-9 As shown, this embodiment provides a device for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model, including: multiple water pumps 1, outlets 2, conduits 3, steering brackets 4, self-tightening flexible water-blocking walls 5, frequency converters 6, water flow buffer modules 7, model site 8, and industrial control computer 9. Each water pump 1 is connected to a frequency converter 6, and all frequency converters 6 are connected to the industrial control computer 9. Each water pump 1 is connected to one outlet 2 through a conduit 3. The water flow buffer module is installed in the inner section of the outlet 2. The self-tightening flexible water-blocking walls 5 are connected to both sides of the outlet 2 and fixed on the model site 8.

[0037] In this embodiment, the water pump 1 is a high-flow-rate, high-head water pump used to provide water flow power for the physical model. Water is injected into the physical model via the water pump 1. Under a given submersion depth, the output flow rate and frequency of this type of water pump 1 have a stable correlation. The key to selecting the water pump 1 is flow rate versus head. The pump flow rate is selected based on the required flow rate of the model, and the head is determined based on the head difference between the reservoir and the model. Considering pump pressure loss and the sealing performance of the water delivery pipeline, the pump head is approximately 30% greater than the head difference. This ensures that the pump output flow rate meets the flow requirements, while the initial water flow is relatively stable, and subsequent water flow buffering is well handled. The water pump is controlled by a frequency converter, with one frequency converter configured for each pump. The pump output flow rate is changed by adjusting the pump speed, effectively reducing the number of pumps required. One pump can output multiple flow rate curves. The output frequency of the frequency converter is controlled by an industrial control computer.

[0038] In this embodiment, the outlet 2 is a square or circular tubular outlet. The outlet can be easily replaced with either a circular or square shape depending on specific needs. It is made of stainless steel sheet, offering good rust resistance and simple shape shaping. The outlet contains two layers of water flow buffer modules, approximately 80cm in length, and is connected to the water pump via a conduit. Furthermore, a steering bracket 4 is included. The outlet 2 is mounted on the steering bracket 4, allowing the outlet to be adjusted left and right to change the water flow direction. Each outlet is equipped with a steering bracket to achieve the desired flow direction. Water is pumped to the outlet via conduit. The direction and flow rate of each outlet are adjustable, forming a velocity vector. By adjusting the velocity vector of each outlet, the required flow field on the test area surface is achieved.

[0039] In this embodiment, the steering bracket 4 has screw holes at the bottom and is fixed to the model field 8 by expansion screws. After the direction of the steering bracket is adjusted, it is tightened by the screws 2-1 on the top of the steering bracket 4.

[0040] In this embodiment, waterproof zippers 10 are attached to the outer sides of both ends of the outlet 2 for splicing with the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall. Traditional models use cement walls at the water outlet boundary, while this invention uses reusable self-tightening flexible water-blocking walls. Multiple lightweight plastic baffles are spliced ​​together to construct the boundary, allowing for movable splicing as needed. The water-blocking walls are assembled using waterproof zippers.

[0041] In this embodiment, the conduit 3 is preferably a flexible steel-supported hose. The flexible steel-supported hose is a threaded tube with an internal steel ring, used to connect the water pump to the adjustable outlet. It can bend moderately without losing head pressure.

[0042] In this embodiment, the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall 5 has an overall L-shaped structure. It is spliced ​​with a steerable outflow port to form an outlet gate fixed to the model site. The main dimension is 1m wide, and other dimensions can be customized. It is easy to disassemble and move. Under the action of water pressure, it can be firmly adsorbed to the ground to form a water-blocking wall. If the water level is low and the adsorption force is insufficient, weights can be added to the horizontal edges of the water-blocking wall to increase pressure and fix it.

[0043] In this embodiment, the water flow buffer module 7 consists of two buffer layers. The first layer is a porous plastic plate 7-1 with a hole diameter of 0.8 cm and a hole spacing of 1 cm. The holes are evenly distributed and are used to dissipate energy of the first layer of fluid, thus initially slowing down and stabilizing the water flow. The second layer is a plastic blind drain structure 7-2, which is used to further buffer and stabilize the fluid, maximizing the buffering and stabilization of the water flow. After passing through the two buffer layers, the flow pattern tends to be stable and can be directly applied to the test area.

[0044] In this embodiment, the frequency converter 6 is a Mitsubishi F800 series product. One end is connected to the water pump 1, and the other end is connected to the industrial control computer 9. The industrial control computer can control and change the output frequency of the water pump in real time, thereby outputting water at different flow rates. The industrial control computer is an Advantech H610 series industrial control computer, which has good working stability and features a dustproof and moisture-proof design, allowing it to work stably for a long time under humid and dusty conditions at the test site.

[0045] The present invention will be further described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0046] Taking a multi-gate sea area model as an example, assuming that the entire model design requires three outlets or control boundaries, firstly, based on the actual engineering flow field conditions or numerical simulation calculations, the flow rate and water level process of the three outlets are given. This process is the actual data of the prototype. According to the scale of the model design, it is converted into the model flow rate and water level. After obtaining the outlet flow rate, according to the flow rate frequency curve of the water pump, the frequency control curve is roughly configured for each outlet.

[0047] Based on the layout and distribution of the experimental model, according to Figure 2 After determining the location of outlet 2, adjust its direction left or right according to the flow distribution. After adjustment, tighten screw 2-1. Connect outlet 2 to water pump 1 via conduit 3, and place water pump 1 vertically in the reservoir. Furthermore, the outlet position is adjustable and can be moved forward or backward as needed, depending on the actual conditions of the model site. Figure 5-7The outlet 2 is equipped with a water flow buffer module 7. The first layer is a porous plastic board 7-1, and the second layer is a bubble-noodle-like plastic blind drain structure 7-2. After determining the position of the outlet, a self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall 5 is connected to the outlet 2 to form the boundary of the model. The waterproof zippers 10 of the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall 5 and the outlet 2 are all fixed and locked. The connection between the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall 5 and the ground can be filled with oil-based modeling clay to enhance the waterproof performance and prevent water leakage during the experiment. This step can also be used to check for leaks and make up for deficiencies during the experiment.

[0048] The water pump 1 is placed in the reservoir and submerged at a suitable working depth. It is connected and fixed to the outlet through a conduit 3 with the same diameter as the water pump 1. The length of the conduit 3 of each outlet 2 should be roughly the same. The water pump 1 is powered by a frequency converter 6, and the frequency converter 6 is connected to the industrial control computer 9 for control through an Ethernet port.

[0049] The industrial control computer 9 controls each frequency converter 6 to output different frequency curves, which are then converted into flow curves for each outlet 2.

[0050] Before formal calibration, initial run-out testing is required, mainly checking the following points:

[0051] Check if the conduit 3 connecting outlet 2 and water pump 1 is leaking. If it is leaking, reinforce its fixation.

[0052] Whether the self-tightening flexible water barrier 5 is securely fixed is important. Because the self-tightening flexible water barrier 5 is a pressure-bearing self-tightening design, local leakage may occur when the water level is low. This can be solved by adding counterweights to the horizontal side of the self-tightening flexible water barrier 5 and sealing the leak with putty inside the leak.

[0053] Whether the time delays of each outlet 2 are consistent is crucial. The time delay is the time lag between the water flow from pump 1 to outlet 2. This step is very important; if the time delays are inconsistent, the water flow sequence from each outlet 2 will be disordered. When time delays are different, the length of the connecting pipe 3 from pump 1 to outlet 2 can generally be adjusted to resolve the issue. If the time delay is small, it can also be resolved by increasing or decreasing the curvature of the pipe 3.

[0054] After the water pump 1, steerable outlet 2, conduit 3, steerable support for outlet 4, self-tightening flexible water barrier 5, frequency converter 6, water flow buffer module 7, industrial control computer 9, etc. are arranged, relevant measuring instruments need to be placed on the model site 8, generally including flow meter and water level gauge, to measure the water level and flow velocity at various key points of the model in real time.

[0055] At this point, the preliminary preparations are complete, and the formal process calibration begins. First, water is pumped into the model area 8 using pump 1. When the water level reaches a certain height and the flow velocity approaches zero, the program initiates automatic control. The industrial control computer 9 sends a control frequency curve to the frequency converter 6. Under the control of the frequency converter 6, pump 1 discharges water according to the pre-designed flow rate. Generally, the initial flow rate curve is not the optimal one. During the debugging process, the frequency curve needs to be continuously optimized based on the actual flow field requirements until the model's flow field meets the experimental requirements, and the water level and flow velocity at each key point match the numerical simulation verification results or correspond to the prototype.

[0056] After calibration is completed, the experiment can be carried out. The specific process is similar to that of calibration. First, water is injected into the water pump 1 until the flow rate is zero. Then, the experiment is carried out by the industrial control computer 9 and the frequency converter 6 controls the output flow rate curve of the water pump 1.

[0057] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A device for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model, characterized in that, include: The system includes multiple water pumps, outlets, conduits, self-tightening flexible water-blocking walls, frequency converters, water flow buffer modules, a model area, and an industrial control computer. Each water pump is connected to a frequency converter, and all frequency converters are connected to the industrial control computer. Each water pump is connected to an outlet through a conduit. The water flow buffer module is installed in the inner section of the outlet. The self-tightening flexible water-blocking walls are connected to both sides of the outlet and fixed to the model area. It also includes a steering bracket, on which the outlet is mounted, so that the outlet can be adjusted left and right with the help of the outlet steering bracket. The direction of the water flow can be changed by adjusting the direction. Each outlet is equipped with a steering bracket to achieve the required flow direction. The direction and flow rate of each outlet can be adjusted to form a velocity vector. The flow field requirements on the surface of the test area can be achieved by adjusting the velocity vector of each outlet. Waterproof zippers are attached to the outer sides of the front end of the outlet for splicing with the self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall; The water flow buffer module consists of two layers of buffer. The first layer is a porous plastic plate, which is used to dissipate energy from the first layer of fluid. The second layer is a plastic blind drain structure, which is used to further buffer and stabilize the fluid.

2. The apparatus for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water pump is a submersible pump used to provide water flow power for the physical model.

3. The apparatus for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outlet is a square or circular tubular outlet.

4. The device for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steering bracket has screw holes at the bottom and is fixed to the model site with expansion screws.

5. The apparatus for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conduit is a flexible steel-supported hose.

6. The apparatus for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model according to claim 1, characterized in that, The self-tightening flexible water-blocking wall has an overall L-shaped structure.

7. The apparatus for realizing complex water flow conditions in a marine physical model according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes weights, which are added to the horizontal edges of the water-blocking wall for pressure fixation.

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