Full-rotation rudder propeller clutch frequency measurement method and device and tug

Abstract

The embodiment of the application provides a kind of full rotation rudder propeller clutch frequency measurement method, device and tug, the method comprises: collecting the power-on signal number of full rotation rudder propeller clutch combined row electromagnetic valve in preset time length, and determining clutch use number according to power-on signal number;In preset time length, the speed signal of diesel engine is collected by flywheel speed probe, and the running time of diesel engine is determined according to speed signal;Finally, the quotient of clutch use number and diesel engine running time is determined as the clutch use frequency in preset time length, the measurement of the full rotation rudder propeller clutch frequency is realized, and it is convenient for management personnel to master the operation of driver and formulate effective maintenance overhaul plan.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of marine technology, specifically to a method, device, and tugboat for measuring the frequency of use of an azimuth propeller clutch. Background Technology

[0002] The azimuth thruster is the core power output device of a tugboat, used to convert the rotational energy generated by the diesel engine into propulsion. The azimuth thruster and diesel engine are typically connected and driven by an intermediate shaft, universal joint, and clutch. The clutch is a crucial transmission component; when engaged, it ensures a stable and continuous transmission of the diesel engine's torque; when disengaged, it completely separates the thruster from the diesel engine, preventing it from rotating with it. During tugboat operations, the operator engages and disengages the clutch as needed, and the frequency of clutch use significantly impacts its lifespan.

[0003] Good operating habits by the driver, minimizing clutch engagement and disengagement, can significantly extend the clutch's lifespan. Conversely, frequent engagement and disengagement will drastically shorten the clutch's lifespan and may even cause clutch malfunction and damage, wasting considerable time, manpower, and resources. The frequency of azimuth propeller clutch usage effectively reflects the driver's operating habits, facilitating management's understanding of driver performance. Therefore, a method for measuring the frequency of azimuth propeller clutch usage is urgently needed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a method, device, and tugboat for measuring the usage frequency of an azimuth propeller clutch, in order to solve the problem that the prior art cannot measure the usage frequency of an azimuth propeller clutch.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for measuring the usage frequency of a full-radius propeller clutch, comprising:

[0006] Collect the number of times the solenoid valve of the azimuth propeller clutch engagement and disengagement is energized within a preset time period, and determine the number of times the clutch is used based on the number of energized signals.

[0007] Within a preset time period, the diesel engine speed signal is collected by the flywheel speed probe, and the diesel engine running time is determined based on the speed signal.

[0008] The ratio of the number of times the clutch is used to the diesel engine running time is determined as the clutch usage frequency within the preset duration.

[0009] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0010] Obtain the number of times the clutch is used and the frequency of clutch use within multiple consecutive preset time periods;

[0011] Linear fitting was performed on the number of times the clutch was used and the clutch usage frequency within multiple consecutive preset time periods.

[0012] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0013] An alarm will be triggered when the frequency of clutch use exceeds a preset threshold.

[0014] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0015] The score for the operator of the azimuth propeller clutch is determined based on the frequency of clutch use, and the score is negatively correlated with the frequency of clutch use.

[0016] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention provide a device for measuring the usage frequency of a full-radius rudder propeller clutch, comprising:

[0017] The first acquisition module is used to acquire the number of times the solenoid valve of the azimuth propeller clutch is engaged or disengaged within a preset time period, and to determine the number of times the clutch is used based on the number of times the solenoid valve is engaged or disengaged.

[0018] The second acquisition module is used to acquire the diesel engine speed signal through the flywheel speed probe within a preset time period, and determine the diesel engine running time based on the speed signal;

[0019] The processing module is used to determine the clutch usage frequency within a preset time period by the quotient of the number of clutch uses and the diesel engine running time.

[0020] In one embodiment, the system further includes a fitting module for obtaining the number of times the clutch is used and the clutch usage frequency within a plurality of consecutive preset time periods; and performing linear fitting on the number of times the clutch is used and the clutch usage frequency within the plurality of consecutive preset time periods.

[0021] In one embodiment, an alarm module is also included, which is used to issue an alarm when the frequency of clutch use exceeds a preset threshold.

[0022] In one embodiment, an evaluation module is also included to determine a score for the operator of the azimuth propeller clutch based on the clutch usage frequency, wherein the score is negatively correlated with the clutch usage frequency.

[0023] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention provide a tugboat including an azimuth propeller, wherein the frequency of use of the azimuth propeller clutch is determined by a method for measuring the frequency of use of the azimuth propeller clutch as described in any of the first aspects.

[0024] Fourthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, are used to implement the method for measuring the frequency of use of the azimuth propeller clutch as described in any of the first aspects.

[0025] The method, device, and tugboat for measuring the usage frequency of the azimuth propeller clutch provided in this invention collect the number of times the azimuth propeller clutch engagement / disengagement solenoid valve is energized within a preset time period, and determine the number of times the clutch is used based on the number of energized signals. Simultaneously, the diesel engine speed signal is collected through a flywheel speed probe within the preset time period, and the diesel engine running time is determined based on the speed signal. Finally, the quotient of the number of clutch uses and the diesel engine running time is determined as the clutch usage frequency within the preset time period. This achieves the measurement of the usage frequency of the azimuth propeller clutch, which facilitates management personnel to understand the driver's operation and formulate effective maintenance and inspection plans. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0027] Figure 1 A flowchart of a method for measuring the usage frequency of a full-rotation propeller clutch according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a frequency metering device for a full-rotation propeller clutch provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] The accompanying drawings have illustrated specific embodiments of the invention, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. Similar elements in different embodiments are referred to by associated similar element reference numerals. In the following embodiments, many details are described to facilitate a better understanding of this application. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that some features may be omitted in different situations, or may be replaced by other elements, materials, or methods. In some cases, certain operations related to this application are not shown or described in the specification. This is to avoid obscuring the core parts of this application with excessive description. For those skilled in the art, detailed description of these related operations is not necessary; they can fully understand the related operations based on the description in the specification and general technical knowledge in the art.

[0031] Furthermore, the features, operations, or characteristics described in the specification can be combined in any suitable manner to form various embodiments. At the same time, the steps or actions in the method description can be rearranged or adjusted in a manner obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the various orders in the specification and drawings are only for the clear description of a particular embodiment and do not imply a necessary order, unless otherwise stated that a particular order must be followed.

[0032] The serial numbers assigned to components in this document, such as "first" and "second," are used only to distinguish the described objects and have no sequential or technical meaning. The terms "connection" and "linkage" used in this application, unless otherwise specified, include both direct and indirect connections (linkages).

[0033] The frequency of engagement and disengagement of the azimuth propeller clutch is closely related to its service life. However, currently, azimuth propeller clutches on tugboats typically lack a frequency measurement function, making it impossible for managers to analyze the clutch's usage frequency or monitor the operator's actions. To address this issue, this application proposes a method for measuring the usage frequency of an azimuth propeller clutch, capable of measuring the number of times and frequency of use. Detailed explanations are provided below through specific embodiments.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for measuring the usage frequency of a full-rotation propeller clutch according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 As shown, the method for measuring the usage frequency of the azimuth propeller clutch provided in this embodiment may include:

[0035] S101. Collect the number of times the solenoid valve of the azimuth propeller clutch engages and disengages within a preset time period, and determine the number of times the clutch is used based on the number of times the solenoid valve is engaged and disengaged.

[0036] In this embodiment, the process of completing one clutch engagement and disengagement operation is referred to as one clutch use. The clutch engagement and disengagement actions are controlled separately by the engagement / disengagement solenoid valve and the disengagement solenoid valve, which are controlled by commands from the control panel (i.e., a DC 24V electrical signal). During clutch engagement and disengagement, the engagement / disengagement solenoid valve is always energized and in a working state. Therefore, in this embodiment, the number of times the clutch engagement / disengagement solenoid valve receives energization signals can be collected as the number of clutch uses.

[0037] It should be noted that the preset duration in this embodiment can be set according to actual needs, such as one day, one week, one month, one year, or one work cycle of the driver.

[0038] S102. Collect the diesel engine speed signal through the flywheel speed probe within a preset time period, and determine the diesel engine running time based on the speed signal.

[0039] The operating time of the diesel engine reflects the working duration of the tugboat, and whether the diesel engine is running can be determined by the speed signal collected by the flywheel speed probe. By collecting the diesel engine speed signal within a preset time period through the flywheel speed probe, the operating time of the diesel engine within the preset time period is calculated to determine the operating time of the diesel engine within the preset time period.

[0040] It should be noted that the number of times the clutch is used in step S101 and the diesel engine running time in step S102 correspond to the same preset duration. That is, it is necessary to count the number of times the clutch is used and the running time within the same time period. Therefore, steps S101 and S102 can be executed simultaneously.

[0041] S103. The ratio of the number of times the clutch is used to the diesel engine running time is determined as the clutch usage frequency within a preset time period.

[0042] In this embodiment, after obtaining the number of clutch uses and the diesel engine running time within a preset time period, the clutch usage frequency data can be obtained by processing and analyzing the number of clutch uses and the diesel engine running time. Specifically, the clutch usage frequency within the preset time period can be determined by the quotient of the number of clutch uses and the diesel engine running time. For example, the clutch usage frequency can be calculated using the following formula:

[0043] G(t) = F(t) / T(t);

[0044] Where F(t) represents the number of times the clutch is used within a preset time period (i.e., a certain time period t), T(t) represents the diesel engine running time within that time period, and G(t) represents the clutch usage frequency within that time period.

[0045] By monitoring clutch usage frequency within a preset timeframe, managers can accurately track not only clutch usage but also driver actions during that period. Furthermore, maintenance cycles can be automatically adjusted based on clutch usage frequency, which is inversely correlated with frequency. In other words, higher clutch usage frequency results in shorter maintenance cycles, and lower usage frequency results in longer maintenance cycles. This enables on-demand maintenance and improves overall efficiency.

[0046] It should be noted that neither acquiring the number of times the solenoid valve of the azimuth propeller clutch is energized nor acquiring the diesel engine speed signal requires additional hardware. The modification cost is low, and the solution is simple and easy to implement. It does not require much modification to the original equipment, making it easy to quickly promote and apply in tugboats. It has good economic practicality and can achieve good operating results.

[0047] The method for measuring the usage frequency of the azimuth propeller clutch provided in this embodiment collects the number of times the azimuth propeller clutch engagement / disengagement solenoid valve is energized within a preset time period, and determines the number of times the clutch is used based on the number of energized signals. At the same time, the diesel engine speed signal is collected through a flywheel speed probe within a preset time period, and the diesel engine running time is determined based on the speed signal. Finally, the quotient of the number of clutch uses and the diesel engine running time is determined as the clutch usage frequency within the preset time period. This method realizes the measurement of the usage frequency of the azimuth propeller clutch, which is convenient for managers to understand the driver's operation and formulate effective maintenance and disassembly plans.

[0048] Building upon the above embodiments, to fully leverage the guiding role of clutch usage frequency and frequency in maintenance, this embodiment further employs linear fitting to determine the variation pattern of clutch usage frequency. Specifically, the method for measuring the usage frequency of a full-radius propeller clutch provided in this embodiment, in addition to the above embodiments, may further include: acquiring the clutch usage frequency and clutch usage number over multiple consecutive preset time periods; and performing linear fitting on the clutch usage frequency and clutch usage number over multiple consecutive preset time periods.

[0049] For example, when it is necessary to obtain the changing pattern of clutch usage frequency over a year, the number of clutch uses and the clutch usage frequency can be obtained for each of the 12 months on a monthly basis. Then, a linear fit can be performed on the number of clutch uses and the clutch usage frequency over these 12 months to understand the distribution of clutch usage in each month and the changing trend of clutch usage frequency over a year. When it is necessary to obtain the changing pattern of clutch usage frequency over a month, the number of clutch uses and the clutch usage frequency can be obtained for each day of that month on a daily basis. Then, a linear fit can be performed on the number of clutch uses and the clutch usage frequency over the days of that month to understand the distribution of clutch usage in that month and the changing trend of clutch usage frequency over that month.

[0050] Understandably, a set of clutch usage frequency data can be divided into multiple segments, and linear fitting can be performed on the clutch usage frequency data and corresponding usage counts within these segments. For example, if a set of clutch usage frequency data includes data from one year, this data can be divided into 12 segments by month, obtaining the clutch usage counts and frequency data for each segment. Then, a linear fitting is performed on the data from each segment. This segmented data processing allows for understanding the data distribution at each stage, facilitates data planning, and ensures a certain level of accuracy. Based on the results of the segmented linear fitting, the number of clutch usages in the future can be calculated and predicted, thus revealing the changing patterns of clutch usage frequency. Based on the clutch usage frequency, managers can understand driver operation and clutch usage patterns, and rationally formulate maintenance and inspection plans.

[0051] Based on the above embodiments, in order to further improve safety, the method for measuring the usage frequency of the azimuth propeller clutch provided in this embodiment may further include: issuing an alarm when the clutch usage frequency is greater than a preset threshold.

[0052] The preset threshold in this embodiment can be set according to actual needs and is not limited here. The higher the frequency of clutch use, the greater the threat to its service life. When the clutch usage frequency exceeds the preset threshold, it is prone to clutch failure and damage. In this embodiment, an alarm is used to draw the attention of relevant personnel to improve the safety of tugboat operation. For example, an indicator light can be set for alarm. When the clutch usage frequency exceeds the preset threshold, the indicator light will turn red to draw attention; when the clutch usage frequency is less than or equal to the preset threshold, the indicator light will turn green, indicating a safe state. A buzzer can also be used for alarm. When the clutch usage frequency exceeds the preset threshold, the buzzer will sound to draw attention. To further improve the timeliness of the alarm, an alarm message can also be sent to the terminal devices of relevant personnel (such as administrators, drivers, etc.) when the clutch usage frequency exceeds the preset threshold.

[0053] Building upon the above embodiments, to fully utilize clutch usage frequency for effective management of the azimuth propeller clutch, the azimuth propeller clutch usage frequency measurement method provided in this embodiment may further include: determining a score for the operator of the azimuth propeller clutch based on the clutch usage frequency, with the score being negatively correlated with the clutch usage frequency. That is, the higher the clutch usage frequency, the lower the operator's score; conversely, the lower the clutch usage frequency, the higher the operator's score. By using clutch usage frequency to score the operator of the azimuth propeller clutch, it helps to encourage operators to develop good operating habits and minimize clutch engagement and disengagement operations.

[0054] In summary, the azimuth propeller clutch usage frequency measurement method provided in this application, based on the number of energized signals from the solenoid valve and the diesel engine speed signal, enables the measurement of the azimuth propeller clutch usage frequency. This facilitates management personnel in understanding the clutch usage status and driver operation. Furthermore, through linear fitting, the variation pattern of clutch usage frequency can be obtained, allowing for the development of reasonable and effective maintenance and inspection plans based on the trend of clutch usage frequency changes. This improves clutch management, extends clutch lifespan, and ultimately contributes to improving tugboat operation efficiency.

[0055] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a frequency metering device for a full-rotation propeller clutch provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 As shown, the azimuth propeller clutch usage frequency metering device 20 provided in this embodiment may include:

[0056] The first acquisition module 201 is used to acquire the number of times the solenoid valve of the azimuth propeller clutch engagement and disengagement is energized within a preset time period, and to determine the number of times the clutch is used based on the number of energized signals.

[0057] The second acquisition module 202 is used to acquire the speed signal of the diesel engine through the flywheel speed probe within a preset time period, and determine the diesel engine running time based on the speed signal;

[0058] The processing module 203 is used to determine the clutch usage frequency within a preset time period by the quotient of the number of clutch uses and the diesel engine running time.

[0059] The apparatus of this embodiment can be used to perform Figure 1 The technical solutions of the method embodiments shown are similar in principle and in effect, and will not be described again here.

[0060] In one optional embodiment, the azimuth propeller clutch usage frequency metering device 20 may further include a fitting module (not shown in the figure) for acquiring the number of clutch uses and the clutch usage frequency within multiple consecutive preset time periods; and performing linear fitting on the number of clutch uses and the clutch usage frequency within multiple consecutive preset time periods.

[0061] In one optional embodiment, the azimuth propeller clutch usage frequency metering device 20 may further include an alarm module (not shown in the figure) for issuing an alarm when the clutch usage frequency exceeds a preset threshold.

[0062] In one alternative embodiment, the azimuth propeller clutch usage frequency metering device 20 may further include an evaluation module (not shown) for determining a score of the operator of the azimuth propeller clutch based on the clutch usage frequency, the score being negatively correlated with the clutch usage frequency.

[0063] This invention also provides a tugboat including an azimuth propeller, wherein the clutch usage frequency of the azimuth propeller is determined using the azimuth propeller clutch usage frequency measurement method as described in any of the preceding embodiments.

[0064] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which is executed by a processor to implement the technical solutions of any of the above method embodiments.

[0065] The various embodiments in this disclosure are described in a progressive manner. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments.

[0066] The scope of protection of this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this disclosure without departing from its scope and spirit. If such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this disclosure and their equivalents, then the intent of this disclosure also includes such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A method for measuring the frequency of use of a full-radius azimuth propeller clutch, characterized in that, include: Collect the number of times the solenoid valve of the azimuth propeller clutch engagement / disengagement is energized within a preset time period, and determine the number of times the clutch is used based on the number of energized signals. Within the preset time period, the speed signal of the diesel engine is collected by the flywheel speed probe, and the diesel engine running time is determined based on the speed signal; The ratio of the number of times the clutch is used to the diesel engine running time is determined as the clutch usage frequency within the preset time period; The method further includes: A score for the operator of the azimuth propeller clutch is determined based on the frequency of clutch use, and the score is negatively correlated with the frequency of clutch use.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the number of times the clutch is used and the frequency of clutch use within multiple consecutive preset time periods; Linear fitting is performed on the number of times the clutch is used and the clutch usage frequency within the multiple consecutive preset time periods.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: An alarm is triggered when the frequency of clutch use exceeds a preset threshold.

4. A device for measuring the usage frequency of a full-rotation propeller clutch, characterized in that, include: The first acquisition module is used to acquire the number of times the solenoid valve of the azimuth propeller clutch is energized within a preset time period, and to determine the number of times the clutch is used based on the number of energized signals. The second acquisition module is used to acquire the diesel engine speed signal through the flywheel speed probe within the preset time period, and determine the diesel engine running time based on the speed signal; The processing module is used to determine the clutch usage frequency within the preset time period by dividing the number of times the clutch is used by the diesel engine running time. The device also includes an evaluation module for determining a score for the operator of the azimuth propeller clutch based on the frequency of clutch use, the score being negatively correlated with the frequency of clutch use.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a fitting module for obtaining the number of times the clutch is used and the frequency of clutch use within multiple consecutive preset time periods; and performing linear fitting on the number of times the clutch is used and the frequency of clutch use within the multiple consecutive preset time periods.

6. The apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes an alarm module, which is used to issue an alarm when the frequency of use of the clutch exceeds a preset threshold.

7. A tugboat, characterized in that, Including an azimuth propeller, the clutch usage frequency of the azimuth propeller is determined using the azimuth propeller clutch usage frequency measurement method as described in any one of claims 1-3.

8. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, are used to implement the method for measuring the frequency of use of the azimuth propeller clutch as described in any one of claims 1-3.

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