An intelligent tow umbrella for a marine vessel and a method of using the same

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of ship equipment, and discloses a ship intelligent towing umbrella and a use method thereof. A front edge folding umbrella mechanism (9) is arranged in a front edge device (2), a rear edge folding umbrella mechanism (10) is arranged in a rear edge device (6), an umbrella surface (11) is arranged at the lower part of the front edge device (2) and the rear edge device (6), one end of the umbrella surface (11) is connected with the front edge folding umbrella mechanism (9), the other end of the umbrella surface (11) is connected with the rear edge folding umbrella mechanism (10), an engine (17) is arranged on the side of the umbrella body, the engine is connected with a rotating mechanism (19), and a photoelectric reconnaissance device (24) is arranged on the umbrella body. The ship intelligent towing umbrella and the use method thereof can realize long-term suspension in the air by using wind power or an aero-engine or a ship towing force, the umbrella and the attached load are lifted to a suitable height by the aero-engine, manpower is saved, the anti-gust wind capability is improved, and the rapid reconnaissance requirement is met.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of marine equipment technology, and more specifically, relates to a smart towing parachute for ships. This invention also relates to a method of using a smart towing parachute for ships. Background Technology

[0002] Maritime areas with high risks of military conflict are often accompanied by rapid and sudden changes in the situation and emergency situations. To effectively respond to or detect emergencies in advance, it is necessary to have real-time and accurate knowledge of the activities of key target areas. Relying on existing reconnaissance methods may have blind spots in time and space, necessitating the addition of reliable new reconnaissance methods to provide information redundancy and auxiliary verification. Timely detection, accurate identification, and continuous monitoring of low-altitude targets over the sea are essential for advance and foundational decision-making by military forces, and are a top priority for improving battlefield reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, aiming to quickly establish an intelligent battlefield situation. Therefore, currently, there is a lack of equipment both domestically and internationally that offers low operational costs, low life-cycle costs, the ability to carry mission payloads, long loiter times, low implementation difficulty, and full aerial autonomy.

[0003] With the rapid development of stealth technology in aircraft, missiles, and ships, the radar cross-section (RCS) of targets has decreased dramatically, reducing the detection capability of shipborne radar against stealth targets. Currently, the main equipment for enhancing reconnaissance capabilities includes early warning aircraft, multi-rotor UAVs, and tethered balloons. Early warning aircraft have the advantage of rapid arrival at designated areas, but they cannot sustain long-term aerial reconnaissance, making it difficult to obtain real-time dynamics of activities in key target areas. Furthermore, each flight is expensive, and pilots face significant risks when performing forward reconnaissance missions. Early warning aircraft are expensive to build, and single-aircraft sorties carry high risks, making pilot safety uncertain. Carrying onboard personnel and sophisticated equipment puts early warning aircraft in a high-risk state, making them unsuitable for long-term patrol missions in areas prone to emergencies. Tethered balloons offer the advantage of long-term aerial reconnaissance, but their deployment and retrieval processes are complex, requiring extensive preparation time and multiple operators to coordinate launch and recovery procedures. They also have poor environmental adaptability, are highly dependent on sea and weather conditions, and are only suitable for good weather, low wind speeds, few clouds, and calm seas. Additionally, their long service life limits their applicability. Multi-rotor drones have advantages such as flexible take-off and landing and high flight speed, but maintaining a stable state in the air mainly relies on adjusting the propeller speed to change the pitch moment / roll moment / yaw moment, which is difficult to adapt to sea conditions above level three. They cannot withstand sudden winds and gusts at sea, and the landing process is extremely challenging for drone pilots.

[0004] Existing technology includes a system titled "An Unmanned Surface Vessel-borne Towed Communication System for Maritime Kites," with publication number "116605360A." This system discloses a towed communication system based on an unmanned surface vessel (USV), comprising a composite cable, a cable winding and unwinding frame, a motor, a drum, pulleys, synchronous pulleys, bearings, bearing seats, and a parachute. The motor, mounted on the cable winding and unwinding frame, drives the system, and is connected to two synchronous pulleys and belts for transmission. The rotating drum, connected to bearings, bearing seats, and the connected synchronous pulleys, allows the motor to drive its rotation. The wireless communication radio is secured to the parachute via connecting ropes at its eight corners, ensuring stability during gliding. The composite cable connects the two parts and supplies power to the radio. After connecting the power source via slip rings, the USV moves rapidly forward and launches the kite with the help of the wind. This invention not only significantly improves communication capabilities by increasing the flight altitude but also ensures the stability of the relay communication node.

[0005] However, this technology does not address the technical issues and solutions of this application. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by this invention is to provide a method for using a smart towed parachute for ships that can achieve long-term aerial loitering by utilizing wind power, aircraft engines, or ship towing force. The aircraft engine lifts the towed parachute and its associated payload to a suitable altitude. By carrying optical, reconnaissance, and communication payloads, it can achieve routine long-range reconnaissance and surveillance, target designation, relay communication, and other functions, saving manpower, improving the ability to resist gusts and sudden winds, and meeting the needs of rapid reconnaissance.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0008] This invention relates to a method for using a smart towed parachute for ships. The towed parachute body has a leading edge deployment and recovery mechanism in its leading edge device and a trailing edge deployment and recovery mechanism in its trailing edge device. A canopy is provided at the lower part of the leading edge device and the trailing edge device. One end of the canopy is connected to the leading edge deployment and recovery mechanism, and the other end of the canopy is connected to the trailing edge deployment and recovery mechanism. An engine is provided on the side of the towed parachute body, and the engine is connected to a rotating mechanism. An optoelectronic reconnaissance device is provided on the towed parachute body. The towed parachute body is connected to the ship's hull via a traction power supply rope.

[0009] The aforementioned intelligent towed parachute for ships includes five flight modes: powered takeoff mode, powered forward flight mode, gliding mode, towing mode, and powered landing mode.

[0010] S1. Powered takeoff mode: Vertical takeoff is achieved entirely by using the engine to provide vertical upward power. In this mode, the canopy of the intelligent towed parachute is closed.

[0011] S2. Powered forward flight mode: The forward flight is powered entirely by the engine. The canopy of the intelligent towed parachute provides upward lift when the canopy is closed.

[0012] S3. Gliding mode: The canopy of the intelligent paraglider provides upward lift when the canopy is closed, and the engine only provides steering torque for assisted steering.

[0013] S4. Towing mode: When the canopy of the smart towing umbrella is open, it tilts backward to collect gas and provide lift to the upper right. The engine only provides steering torque for power steering.

[0014] S5. Powered landing mode: The intelligent parachute relies entirely on the engine to provide vertical upward power. When the parachute is open, the canopy itself provides some upward lift, allowing for a slow descent until landing is complete.

[0015] In the powered takeoff mode, the intelligent towed parachute for ships is powered by an engine. The power is supplied from the ship's hull to the power battery in the power box, and then from the power box to the engine. The engine, with the help of the engine rotation mechanism, is perpendicular to the sea surface. After starting, it provides upward lift. When the lift is greater than its own weight, vertical takeoff is achieved.

[0016] In the powered landing mode, the intelligent towed parachute for ships is powered by the engine. The power is supplied from the hull to the power battery in the power box, and then from the power box to the engine. The engine, with the help of the engine rotation mechanism, makes both engines perpendicular to the sea surface, providing upward lift. The upward lift is gradually reduced, and the intelligent towed parachute descends slowly.

[0017] In the powered forward flight mode, the intelligent towed parachute for ships is powered by the engine. The power is supplied from the ship's hull to the power battery in the power box, and then from the power box to the engine. The engine, with the help of the engine rotation mechanism, keeps the engine parallel to the sea surface, providing forward power. As the forward flight speed of the intelligent towed parachute increases, the intelligent towed parachute can provide greater lift when the parachute is closed, thus increasing the overall flight altitude.

[0018] In gliding mode, once the intelligent paraglider has achieved forward speed and the wind speed and direction at sea are stable, it enters gliding mode. At this time, the intelligent paraglider is in a closed state and relies entirely on its own lift to maintain a certain altitude range. The engines on both sides of the paraglider body achieve yaw through differential operation. The left engine has a lower speed and the right engine has a higher speed, resulting in an overall yaw to the left. Conversely, the left engine has a higher speed and the right engine has a lower speed, resulting in an overall yaw to the right.

[0019] In towing mode, when the power battery in the power box is low, the intelligent towed parachute for ships selects towing mode. The power battery continues to receive charging from the hull, and the intelligent towed parachute remains in the open state. The traction power cable is continuously stressed, and the pitch angle is adjusted to pull the intelligent towed parachute forward in a backward tilted posture. Under the control of the control device, the rotation angle of the leading edge and trailing edge parachute deployment mechanisms is adjusted to control the opening size of the parachute surface and adjust the lift of the intelligent towed parachute.

[0020] This invention also relates to a smart towed parachute for ships that can achieve long-term aerial loitering by utilizing wind power, aircraft engines, or ship towing force. The aircraft engine lifts the towed parachute and its associated payload to a suitable altitude. By carrying optical, reconnaissance, and communication payloads, it can achieve routine long-range reconnaissance and surveillance, target designation, relay communication, and other functions, saving manpower, improving resistance to gusts and sudden winds, and meeting the needs of rapid reconnaissance.

[0021] The towed parachute body has a leading edge deployment and take-off mechanism in its leading edge device and a trailing edge deployment and take-off mechanism in its trailing edge device. The lower part of the leading edge device and the trailing edge device has a canopy. One end of the canopy is connected to the leading edge deployment and take-off mechanism, and the other end of the canopy is connected to the trailing edge deployment and take-off mechanism. An engine is installed on the side of the towed parachute body. The engine is connected to a rotating mechanism. An optoelectronic reconnaissance device is installed on the towed parachute body. The towed parachute body is connected to the ship's hull via a traction power supply rope.

[0022] The parachute body includes a longitudinal T-beam and a transverse T-beam, and a solar panel is installed on the parachute body, which is connected to a power battery.

[0023] The leading edge umbrella unfolding mechanism includes a drive motor and a rotating rod. The drive motor is fixedly connected to the side of the leading edge device, and the rotating rod is movably mounted on the leading edge device. The trailing edge umbrella unfolding mechanism includes a drive motor and a rotating rod. The drive motor is fixedly connected to the side of the trailing edge device, and the rotating rod is movably mounted on the trailing edge device.

[0024] The parachute body is connected to the power box via a power supply rope. The power box contains a power battery and a control device. The parachute body is also equipped with a rope retraction and extension device, which is connected to the traction power supply rope.

[0025] The working principle and beneficial effects of the technical solution adopted in this invention are as follows:

[0026] The intelligent towed parachute for ships and its usage method described in this invention include five modes, with the following operational flow for each mode: 1. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - powered landing mode; 2. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - gliding mode - powered landing mode; 3. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - towing mode - powered landing mode; 4. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - gliding mode - towing mode - powered landing mode; 5. Powered takeoff mode - towing mode - powered landing mode. The different modes are intelligently switched. The switching process is as follows: the control device receives meteorological information from the ship (manned / unmanned), combines it with its own wind speed and barometric pressure sensors to intelligently sense wind speed and direction, improve flight endurance, and significantly reduce energy consumption. Mode switching is initiated by the control device outputting commands, which are then executed by the respective actuators. Only after achieving a high forward flight speed during powered forward flight mode can the system consider switching to gliding mode. When the aircraft is in gliding mode, if it encounters a change in wind speed and direction, it will veer towards an area with stable wind direction and thermal flow until it reaches the ideal area. When the aircraft is in towed mode, if it encounters a situation where the headwind changes to a tailwind, the control device will send a request to the hull to sail against the wind and actively request a change in the hull's course. During the release and retraction control of the canopy, the leading edge retraction mechanism rotates clockwise to release the canopy; it then rotates counterclockwise to retract the canopy. Similarly, the trailing edge retraction mechanism rotates counterclockwise to release the canopy and clockwise to retract it. The simultaneous clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the leading and trailing edge mechanisms releases the canopy, ensuring it fully conforms to the lower surfaces of the longitudinal and transverse T-beams. The counterclockwise and clockwise rotation of the leading and trailing edge mechanisms retracts the canopy, making it almost flush with the leading and trailing edge devices, minimizing eddy currents in the airflow. When the intelligent towed parachute is closed, it flies forward. During forward flight, the airflow is faster and has lower pressure over the upper surface, while the airflow is slower and has higher pressure over the lower surface, creating upward lift. The longer the leading and trailing edge devices (in the cross-sectional direction), the greater the lift generated. When the intelligent towed parachute is in the deployed state, it selects tow. During forward flight, the airflow is faster and has lower pressure when flowing over the upper surface, while the airflow is slower and has higher pressure when flowing over the lower surface, creating upward lift. The longer the leading and trailing edge devices (in the cross-sectional direction), the greater the lift generated. In this way, an intelligent towed parachute for ships reduces the manpower and material resources required for continuous reconnaissance / watchkeeping in key areas; reduces casualties in high-risk areas; allows for 24-hour uninterrupted reconnaissance; has low energy consumption and can utilize green energy sources such as wind and solar power; autonomously senses the environmental situation and autonomously seeks wind. It can autonomously switch flight modes according to environmental wind direction and speed, its own altitude, and flight speed to meet mission requirements. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The following is a brief explanation of the contents depicted in the accompanying drawings and the markings therein:

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the intelligent towed parachute for ships described in this invention;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the intelligent towing parachute for ships described in this invention;

[0030] Figure 3 This is a side view of the intelligent towing parachute for ships described in this invention.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent tow parachute for ships described in the present invention in the open parachute state.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of the power mechanism of the intelligent towed parachute for ships according to the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a bottom view structural diagram of the intelligent towing parachute for ships carrying a load according to the present invention.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the intelligent towed parachute for ships and its coordination with the ship hull as described in this invention;

[0035] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the power box of the intelligent towed parachute for ships described in this invention;

[0036] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent towed parachute for ships described in the present invention when it is in the closed parachute forward flight mode.

[0037] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent towed parachute for ships described in the present invention in the pre-opening flight mode.

[0038] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent towed parachute for ships described in the present invention in the pre-flight mode when the parachute is deployed under ship towing conditions.

[0039] Figure 12 This is a structural diagram of the intelligent towed parachute for ships described in this invention during takeoff and landing.

[0040] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control principle of the intelligent towed parachute for ships described in this invention.

[0041] The labels in the attached diagram are as follows: 1. Solar panel; 2. Leading edge device; 3. Fixed end of leading edge parachute deployment mechanism; 4. Fixed surface of engine rotation mechanism; 5. Fixed end of trailing edge parachute deployment mechanism; 6. Trailing edge device; 7. Longitudinal T-beam; 8. Transverse T-beam; 9. Leading edge parachute deployment mechanism; 10. Trailing edge parachute deployment mechanism; 11. Closed parachute canopy; 12. Hull (manned / unmanned vessel); 13. Towing power cable; 14. Cable deployment device; 15. Power box; 16. Control device; 17. Engine; 18. Propeller; 19. Engine rotation mechanism; 21. Mooring power cable; 22. Power battery; 23. Payload interface; 24. Optical reconnaissance equipment. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, provides a more detailed explanation of the specific embodiments of the present invention, including the shape and structure of each component, the relative positions and connections between the parts, the functions and working principles of each part:

[0043] As attached Figure 1 - Appendix Figure 13As shown, this invention relates to a method for using a smart towed parachute for ships. The towed parachute body has a leading edge deployment / retraction mechanism 9 in its leading edge device 2 and a trailing edge deployment / retraction mechanism 10 in its trailing edge device 6. A canopy 11 is located at the lower part of the leading edge device 2 and the trailing edge device 6. One end of the canopy 11 is connected to the leading edge deployment / retraction mechanism 9, and the other end is connected to the trailing edge deployment / retraction mechanism 10. An engine 17 is located on the side of the towed parachute body, connected to a rotating mechanism 19. An optoelectronic reconnaissance device 24 is installed on the towed parachute body. The towed parachute body is connected to the ship's hull 12 via a traction power cable 13. The method for using the smart towed parachute for ships includes five flight modes: powered takeoff mode, powered forward flight mode, gliding mode, towing mode, and powered landing mode. S1. Powered Takeoff In the first stage of the parachute's vertical takeoff, the engine provides vertical upward power, and the parachute's canopy 11 is closed. The second stage is powered forward flight mode, where the engine provides forward propulsion, and the parachute's canopy 11 provides upward lift while closed. The third stage is gliding mode, where the parachute's canopy 11 provides upward lift while closed, and the engine only provides steering torque for assisted steering. The fourth stage is towed mode, where the parachute's canopy 11 tilts backward in the deployed state, collecting gas to provide upward and rightward lift, and the engine only provides steering torque for assisted steering. The fifth stage is powered descent mode, where the engine provides vertical upward power, and the parachute's canopy 11 provides some upward lift itself while deployed, allowing for a slow descent until landing is complete. These steps address the shortcomings of existing technologies and propose an improved technical solution. The intelligent towed parachute for ships includes five modes, and the operational flow of each mode is as follows: 1. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - powered landing mode; 2. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - gliding mode - powered landing mode; 3. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - towed mode - powered landing mode; 4. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - gliding mode - towed mode - powered landing mode; 5. Powered takeoff mode - towed mode - powered landing mode. The different modes are intelligently switched. The switching process is as follows: the control device 16 receives meteorological information from the hull (manned / unmanned vessel) 12, combines it with its own wind speed sensor and barometric pressure sensor to intelligently sense wind speed and direction, thereby improving flight endurance and significantly reducing energy consumption. Mode switching is initiated by the control device 16, which then executes the commands from each actuator. Only after achieving a high forward flight speed in powered forward flight mode can the system consider switching to gliding mode. When the aircraft is in gliding mode, if it encounters a change in wind speed and direction, it will control the aircraft to veer towards a space area where there may be stable wind direction and thermal airflow, until it reaches the ideal area.When the entire machine is in towing mode, if it encounters a situation such as the wind changing from headwind to tailwind, the control device 16 will send a request to the hull (manned / unmanned vessel) 12 to sail against the wind and actively request to change the sailing direction of the hull (manned / unmanned vessel) 12. During the release and retraction control of the canopy, the leading edge retraction mechanism 9 rotates clockwise to release the canopy; the leading edge retraction mechanism 9 rotates counterclockwise to retract the canopy; the trailing edge retraction mechanism 10 rotates counterclockwise to release the canopy; the trailing edge retraction mechanism 10 rotates clockwise to retract the canopy; the simultaneous clockwise rotation of the leading edge retraction mechanism 9 and the counterclockwise rotation of the trailing edge retraction mechanism 10 completes the release of the canopy, ensuring that the canopy completely conforms to the lower surface of the longitudinal T-beam 7 and the lower surface of the transverse T-beam 8; the simultaneous counterclockwise rotation of the leading edge retraction mechanism 9 and the clockwise rotation of the trailing edge retraction mechanism 10 completes the retraction of the canopy, making the canopy almost flush with the leading and trailing edge devices, minimizing the generation of eddies in the airflow; when the intelligent towed parachute is in the closed state, it selects to fly forward horizontally. Figure 9 As shown, during forward flight, the airflow is faster and has lower pressure when flowing over the upper surface, while the airflow is slower and has higher pressure when flowing over the lower surface, creating upward lift. The longer the leading and trailing edge devices (in the cross-sectional direction), the greater the lift generated; when the intelligent towed parachute is in the deployed state, towing is selected. Figure 10 As shown, during forward flight, the airflow is faster and has lower pressure when flowing over the upper surface, while it is slower and has higher pressure when flowing over the lower surface, creating upward lift. The longer the leading and trailing edge devices (in the cross-sectional direction), the greater the lift generated. Thus, a smart towed parachute for ships reduces the manpower and material resources required for continuous reconnaissance / duty in key areas; reduces casualties in high-risk areas; ensures 24-hour uninterrupted reconnaissance; has low energy consumption, utilizing green energy sources such as wind and solar power; and autonomously senses the environmental situation and seeks wind. It can autonomously switch flight modes based on environmental wind direction and speed, its own altitude, and flight speed to meet mission requirements. The smart towed parachute for ships and its usage method described in this invention can achieve long-term aerial loitering using wind power, aircraft engines, or ship towing force. The aircraft engine lifts the towed parachute and its payload to a suitable altitude. By carrying optical, reconnaissance, and communication payloads, it can achieve routine long-range reconnaissance and surveillance, target designation, and relay communication functions, saving manpower, improving resistance to gusts and sudden winds, and meeting rapid reconnaissance needs.

[0044] In powered takeoff mode, the intelligent paraglider for ships is powered by engine 17. Power is supplied from the hull 12 to the power battery in the power box 15, which in turn supplies power to engine 17. Engine 17, via engine rotation mechanism 19, is positioned perpendicular to the sea surface, providing upward lift upon startup. When the lift exceeds its own weight, vertical takeoff is achieved. This structure facilitates and reliably enables the intelligent paraglider for ships to enter powered takeoff mode. In powered takeoff mode, the intelligent paraglider relies entirely on the engine for vertical upward power to achieve vertical takeoff, and the paraglider is in a closed state at this time.

[0045] In powered descent mode, the intelligent towed parachute for ships is powered by engines 17. Power is supplied from the hull 12 to the power battery in the power box 15, which in turn supplies power to the engines 17. The engines 17, through an engine rotation mechanism 19, ensure that both engines are perpendicular to the sea surface, providing upward lift. As the upward lift gradually decreases, the intelligent towed parachute descends slowly. This structure facilitates a convenient and reliable entry of the intelligent towed parachute into powered descent mode. In powered descent mode, the engines provide vertical upward power, and the parachute itself provides some upward lift during deployment, allowing for a slow descent until landing is complete.

[0046] In the powered forward flight mode, the intelligent paraglider for ships is powered by engine 17. Power is supplied from the hull 12 to the power battery in the power box 15, and then from the power box 15 to engine 17. Engine 17, through engine rotation mechanism 19, is kept parallel to the sea surface, providing forward propulsion. As the forward speed of the intelligent paraglider increases, it can provide greater lift when closed, increasing the overall flight altitude. This structure facilitates and reliably enables the intelligent paraglider for ships to enter powered forward flight mode. In powered forward flight mode, the intelligent paraglider relies entirely on the engine for forward propulsion, and when closed, it provides its own upward lift.

[0047] In gliding mode, once the intelligent towed parachute has achieved forward speed and the sea wind speed and direction are stable, it enters gliding mode. In this mode, the parachute is in a closed state, relying entirely on its own lift to maintain a certain altitude. The engines 17 on both sides of the parachute operate differentially to achieve yaw; the left engine operates at a lower speed, and the right engine at a higher speed, resulting in a yaw to the left; conversely, the left engine operates at a higher speed, and the right engine at a lower speed, resulting in a yaw to the right. This structure facilitates and reliably enables the intelligent towed parachute to enter gliding mode. In gliding mode, the intelligent towed parachute provides its own lift while in a closed state, with the engines only providing steering torque for assisted steering.

[0048] In towing mode, when the power battery in the power box is low, the intelligent paraglider for ships selects towing mode. The power battery continuously receives charging from the hull 12, and the intelligent paraglider remains in the open state. The traction power rope 13 is continuously stressed, adjusting the pitch angle and pulling the intelligent paraglider forward in a backward-tilting posture. Under the control of the control device 16, the rotation angles of the leading edge deployment mechanism 9 and the trailing edge deployment mechanism 10 are adjusted, controlling the opening size of the opening canopy 20 and adjusting the lift of the intelligent paraglider. This structure facilitates and reliably enabling the intelligent paraglider for ships to enter towing mode. In towing mode, the intelligent paraglider tilts backward in the open state, collecting gas to provide lift to the upper right, while the engine only provides steering torque for assisted steering.

[0049] This invention also relates to a smart towed parachute for ships that can achieve long-term aerial loitering by utilizing wind power, aircraft engines, or ship towing force. The aircraft engine lifts the towed parachute and its associated payload to a suitable altitude. By carrying optical, reconnaissance, and communication payloads, it can achieve routine long-range reconnaissance and surveillance, target designation, relay communication, and other functions, saving manpower, improving resistance to gusts and sudden winds, and meeting the needs of rapid reconnaissance.

[0050] The towed parachute body has a leading edge deployment and take-up mechanism 9 in the leading edge device 2 and a trailing edge deployment and take-up mechanism 10 in the trailing edge device 6. The leading edge device 2 and the trailing edge device 6 have a canopy 11 at the bottom. One end of the canopy 11 is connected to the leading edge deployment and take-up mechanism 9, and the other end of the canopy 11 is connected to the trailing edge deployment and take-up mechanism 10. An engine 17 is provided on the side of the towed parachute body. The engine is connected to a rotating mechanism 19. An optoelectronic reconnaissance device 24 is provided on the towed parachute body. The towed parachute body is connected to the ship hull 12 via a traction power supply rope 13.

[0051] The parachute body includes a longitudinal T-beam 7 and a transverse T-beam 8. Solar panels are mounted on the parachute body and connected to a power battery. The longitudinal T-beam 7 and transverse T-beam 8 are evenly distributed to support the entire structure, ensuring overall structural strength while reducing weight. The solar panels generate electricity to supply the power battery and can operate independently. Simultaneously, when the electricity generated by the solar panels is insufficient to meet usage needs, power is supplied to the power battery via a traction power rope. This satisfies the requirements for parachute operation.

[0052] The leading edge umbrella unfolding mechanism 9 includes a drive motor and a rotating rod. The drive motor is fixedly connected to the side of the leading edge device 2, and the rotating rod is movably mounted on the leading edge device 2. The trailing edge umbrella unfolding mechanism 10 includes a drive motor and a rotating rod. The drive motor is fixedly connected to the side of the trailing edge device 6, and the rotating rod is movably mounted on the trailing edge device 6. This structure allows for control and switching between the umbrella surface in the unfolded and open states, satisfying the operational requirements of the intelligent towed umbrella in different modes.

[0053] The parachute body is connected to a power box 15 via a power supply cable 21. The power box 15 houses a power battery and a control device 16. The parachute body also features a cable retraction device 14, which is connected to a traction power supply cable 13. In this structure, the control device is used to control the intelligent parachute's switching between different modes and to achieve reliable control in each mode.

[0054] The intelligent towed parachute for ships and its method of use described in this invention include five flight modes: powered takeoff mode, powered forward flight mode, gliding mode, towing mode, and powered landing mode. S1. Powered takeoff mode: vertical takeoff is achieved entirely by the engine providing vertical upward power; the parachute canopy 11 is in a closed state. S2. Powered forward flight mode: forward flight is achieved entirely by the engine providing power; the parachute canopy 11 provides upward lift in the closed state. S3. Gliding mode: the parachute canopy 11 provides upward lift in the closed state; the engine only provides steering torque for assisted steering. S4. Towing mode: the parachute canopy 11 tilts backward in the open state, collecting gas to provide lift to the upper right; the engine only provides steering torque for assisted steering. S5. Powered landing mode: vertical upward power is achieved entirely by the engine; the parachute canopy 11 provides some upward lift itself in the open state, descending slowly until landing is complete. The above steps address the shortcomings of existing technologies by proposing improved technical solutions. The intelligent towed parachute for ships includes five modes, and the operational flow of each mode is as follows: 1. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - powered landing mode; 2. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - gliding mode - powered landing mode; 3. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - towed mode - powered landing mode; 4. Powered takeoff mode - powered forward flight mode - gliding mode - towed mode - powered landing mode; 5. Powered takeoff mode - towed mode - powered landing mode. The different modes are intelligently switched. The switching process is as follows: the control device 16 receives meteorological information from the hull (manned / unmanned vessel) 12, combines it with its own wind speed sensor and barometric pressure sensor to intelligently sense wind speed and direction, thereby improving flight endurance and significantly reducing energy consumption. Mode switching is initiated by the control device 16, which then executes the commands from each actuator. Only after achieving a high forward flight speed in powered forward flight mode can the system consider switching to gliding mode. When the aircraft is in gliding mode, if it encounters a change in wind speed and direction, it will control the aircraft to yaw towards an area where there may be stable wind direction and thermal flow, until it reaches the ideal area. When the aircraft is in towed mode, if it encounters a situation such as a change from headwind to tailwind, the control device 16 will send a request to the manned / unmanned vessel 12 to sail against the wind, actively requesting to change the sailing direction of the manned / unmanned vessel 12.During the release and retraction control of the canopy, the leading edge retraction mechanism 9 rotates clockwise to release the canopy; the leading edge retraction mechanism 9 rotates counterclockwise to retract the canopy; the trailing edge retraction mechanism 10 rotates counterclockwise to release the canopy; the trailing edge retraction mechanism 10 rotates clockwise to retract the canopy; the simultaneous clockwise rotation of the leading edge retraction mechanism 9 and the counterclockwise rotation of the trailing edge retraction mechanism 10 completes the release of the canopy, ensuring that the canopy completely conforms to the lower surface of the longitudinal T-beam 7 and the lower surface of the transverse T-beam 8; the simultaneous counterclockwise rotation of the leading edge retraction mechanism 9 and the clockwise rotation of the trailing edge retraction mechanism 10 completes the retraction of the canopy, making the canopy almost flush with the leading and trailing edge devices, minimizing the generation of eddies in the airflow; when the intelligent towed parachute is in the closed state, it selects to fly forward horizontally. Figure 9 As shown, during forward flight, the airflow is faster and has lower pressure when flowing over the upper surface, while the airflow is slower and has higher pressure when flowing over the lower surface, creating upward lift. The longer the leading and trailing edge devices (in the cross-sectional direction), the greater the lift generated; when the intelligent towed parachute is in the deployed state, towing is selected. Figure 10 As shown, during forward flight, the airflow is faster and has lower pressure when flowing over the upper surface, while it is slower and has higher pressure when flowing over the lower surface, creating upward lift. The longer the leading edge device 2 and trailing edge device 6 (in the cross-sectional direction), the greater the lift generated. Thus, the intelligent towed parachute for ships of this invention reduces the manpower and material resources required for continuous reconnaissance / watchkeeping in key areas; reduces casualties in high-risk areas; allows for 24-hour uninterrupted reconnaissance; has low energy consumption and can utilize green energy sources such as wind and solar power; and autonomously senses the environmental situation and seeks wind. It can autonomously switch flight modes according to environmental wind direction and speed, its own altitude, and flight speed to meet mission requirements.

[0055] The present invention has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the specific implementation of the present invention is not limited to the above-described manner. Any improvements made using the inventive concept and technical solution of the present invention, or the direct application of the inventive concept and technical solution to other situations without modification, are all within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method of using an intelligent tow umbrella for a marine vessel, characterized by: A leading edge umbrella retraction mechanism (9) is provided in the leading edge device (2) of the towed parachute body, and a trailing edge umbrella retraction mechanism (10) is provided in the trailing edge device (6) of the towed parachute body. A canopy (11) is provided at the lower part of the leading edge device (2) and the trailing edge device (6). One end of the canopy (11) is connected to the leading edge umbrella retraction mechanism (9), and the other end of the canopy (11) is connected to the trailing edge umbrella retraction mechanism (10). An engine (17) is provided on the side of the towed parachute body. The engine is connected to a rotating mechanism (19). An electro-optical reconnaissance device (24) is provided on the towed parachute body. The towed parachute body is connected to the ship hull (12) through a traction power supply rope (13). The aforementioned intelligent towed parachute for ships includes five flight modes: powered takeoff mode, powered forward flight mode, gliding mode, towing mode, and powered landing mode. S1. Powered takeoff mode, which relies entirely on the engine to provide vertical upward power to achieve vertical takeoff. At this time, the canopy (11) of the intelligent towed parachute is in the closed state. S2. Powered forward flight mode, which relies entirely on the engine to provide forward flight power, and the canopy (11) of the intelligent towed parachute provides upward lift when the parachute is closed; S3. Gliding mode, the canopy (11) of the smart parachute provides upward lift when the canopy is closed, and the engine only provides steering torque for steering assistance; S4. In towing mode, the canopy (11) of the smart towing umbrella tilts backward in the open state, collecting gas to provide lift to the upper right, and the engine only provides steering torque for power steering. S5. Powered landing mode: The engine provides vertical upward power. The canopy (11) of the smart parachute provides part of the upward force when the parachute is open, and it descends slowly until the landing is completed.

2. A method of using an intelligent tow umbrella for a marine vessel as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: In the powered takeoff mode, the intelligent towed parachute for ships is powered by the engine (17). The power is supplied from the hull (12) to the power battery (22) of the power box (15), and then from the power box (15) to the engine (17). The engine (17) is perpendicular to the sea surface by means of the engine rotation mechanism (19). After starting, it provides upward lift. When the lift is greater than its own weight, vertical takeoff is achieved.

3. A method of using an intelligent tow umbrella for a marine vessel according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: In the powered landing mode, the landing power of the intelligent towed parachute is generated by the engine (17). The power is supplied from the hull (12) to the power battery (22) of the power box (15), and then from the power box (15) to the engine (17). The engine (17) uses the engine rotation mechanism (19) to make both engines (17) perpendicular to the sea surface, providing upward lift. The upward lift is gradually reduced, and the intelligent towed parachute descends slowly.

4. A method of using an intelligent tow umbrella for a marine vessel as claimed in claim 3, characterised in that: In the powered forward flight mode, the intelligent towed parachute for ships is powered by the engine (17). The power is supplied from the hull (12) to the power battery (22) of the power box (15), and then from the power box (15) to the engine (17). The engine (17) is parallel to the sea surface by means of the engine rotation mechanism (19), providing forward power. As the forward flight speed of the intelligent towed parachute increases, the intelligent towed parachute can provide greater lift in the closed state, which drives the overall flight altitude to increase.

5. A method of using an intelligent tow umbrella for a marine vessel as claimed in claim 4, characterised in that: In gliding mode, the intelligent towed parachute for ships enters gliding mode after it has reached forward flight speed and the wind speed and direction at sea are stable. At this time, the intelligent towed parachute is in a closed state and relies entirely on its own lift to maintain a certain altitude range. The engines (17) on both sides of the towed parachute body achieve yaw by differential operation. The left engine has a low speed and the right engine has a high speed, so the whole yaws to the left. Conversely, the left engine has a high speed and the right engine has a low speed, so the whole yaws to the right.

6. A method of using an intelligent tow umbrella for a marine vessel as claimed in claim 5, characterised in that: In the towing mode, when the power battery (22) in the power box is too low, the towing mode is selected. The power battery (22) continuously receives charging from the hull (12). The intelligent towing parachute remains in the open state. The traction power supply rope (13) is continuously stressed. The pitch angle is adjusted, and the intelligent towing parachute is pulled to fly forward in a backward tilted posture. Under the control of the control device (16), the rotation angle of the leading edge umbrella retraction mechanism (9) and the trailing edge umbrella retraction mechanism (10) is adjusted to control the opening size of the opening canopy (20) and adjust the lift of the intelligent towing parachute.

7. The intelligent tow umbrella for a marine vessel of claim 1 to 6, wherein the method of use of the intelligent tow umbrella for a marine vessel is characterized by: A leading edge umbrella retraction mechanism (9) is provided in the leading edge device (2) of the towed parachute body, and a trailing edge umbrella retraction mechanism (10) is provided in the trailing edge device (6) of the towed parachute body. A canopy (11) is provided at the lower part of the leading edge device (2) and the trailing edge device (6). One end of the canopy (11) is connected to the leading edge umbrella retraction mechanism (9), and the other end of the canopy (11) is connected to the trailing edge umbrella retraction mechanism (10). An engine (17) is provided on the side of the towed parachute body. The engine is connected to a rotating mechanism (19). An optoelectronic reconnaissance device (24) is provided on the towed parachute body. The towed parachute body is connected to the ship hull (12) through a traction power supply rope (13).

8. The intelligent drag chute for marine vessels of claim 7, wherein: The parachute body includes a longitudinal T-beam (7) and a transverse T-beam (8), and a solar panel (1) is installed on the parachute body. The solar panel (1) is connected to a power battery (22).

9. The intelligent drag chute for marine vessels of claim 7, wherein: The leading edge umbrella retraction mechanism (9) includes a drive motor and a rotating rod. The drive motor is fixedly connected to the side of the leading edge device (2), and the rotating rod is movably installed on the leading edge device (2). The trailing edge umbrella retraction mechanism (10) includes a drive motor and a rotating rod. The drive motor is fixedly connected to the side of the trailing edge device (6), and the rotating rod is movably installed on the trailing edge device (6).

10. The intelligent drag chute for marine vessels of claim 7, wherein: The parachute body is connected to the power box (15) via a power supply rope (21). The power box (15) contains a power battery (22) and a control device (16). The parachute body is also equipped with a rope retraction device (14), which is connected to the traction power supply rope (13).

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