Neutrino detection sphere ejection mechanism and design method

By designing a neutrino probe ball release mechanism and using components such as a clamping mechanism and a fan-shaped side plate, the problem of unstable fixation of the probe ball on the deployment device was solved, achieving stable release and protection of the probe ball and improving the safety and reliability of the deployment process.

CN118977831BActive Publication Date: 2025-10-21SHANGHAI JIAOTONG UNIV
View PDF 2 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
CN202411019275.X
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-07-26
Publication Date
2025-10-21
Estimated Expiration
2044-07-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing technologies, the neutrino detector sphere is not securely fixed on the deployment device. Excessive rigidity may cause damage, while insufficient rigidity may prevent it from maintaining its position, resulting in unstable release.

Method used

A neutrino detector ball release mechanism is designed, including a clamping mechanism, a side plate, a spring lock, a cable clamping assembly, and a fixing plate. Through a semi-enclosed structure and a fan-shaped side plate design, the detector ball is stably fixed on the turntable and smoothly released during release.

Benefits of technology

This improves the stability and safety of the probe sphere during deployment, reduces the risk of damage, and ensures the reliability and stability of the release process.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN118977831B_ABST
    Figure CN118977831B_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical fields of neutrino detector, and discloses a neutrino detection ball release mechanism, which comprises a hoop mechanism, a side plate, a spring lock, a cable holding assembly, a fixed plate and a rubber cushion. The hoop mechanism is a semi-enclosed structure, and both ends are connected with the fixed plate through the spring lock. The fixed plate is arranged at the end of the side plate, the cable holding assembly is connected with the fixed plate on the outside, one side is provided with a latch structure, and the latch structure is used for inserting into the inside of the detection ball and completing sealing together with the detection ball. The neutrino detection ball release mechanism provided by the present application provides a stable and reliable means for the connection between each detection ball and the two side cables in the neutrino detector string through the semi-circular hoop mechanism and the design scheme that connects the cable and the detection ball through the cable holding assembly, which can reduce the damage risk of the detection ball caused by collision and increase the reliability and stability of the release process.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of neutrino detectors, and in particular to a neutrino detection ball escape mechanism and a design method thereof. Background Art

[0002] The "Sea Bell" neutrino telescope project requires a dense detector array consisting of 1,200 detector strings. Each string contains 20 neutrino detector spheres. During the deployment process, the strings are assembled and packaged using a waterwheel-like deployment device, which is then transported to the seabed. Once the device is stable, an ROV activates the deployment device's release mechanism, and the deployment device rises from the seabed using the buoyancy provided by its own buoyant material. During the ascent, the deployment device's turntable, equipped with 20 neutrino detector spheres, rotates, releasing each sphere in turn.

[0003] However, if the device securing the probe balls to the deployment system's turntable is too rigid, it could cause serious damage to the ball's outer shell and even the internal instruments. If it's too rigid, the balls can't be securely held in their designated positions. To ensure the probe balls are fixed to their designated positions on the turntable during the deployment system's descent, and then released from their designated positions as the cascade cables unwind during the ascent, a probe ball release mechanism with appropriate rigidity is needed to deploy the cascade of neutrino buoys. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is how to design a disengagement mechanism with appropriate rigidity that can stably unlock the detection ball as the turntable rotates, so that the detection ball is fixed at the corresponding position of the turntable during the sinking of the laying device, and is disengaged from the corresponding position in sequence as the serial cable is unfolded when the laying device rises.

[0005] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, the present invention provides a neutrino detection ball escape mechanism and design method, including a clamping mechanism, a side panel, a spring lock, a cable clamping assembly, a fixed plate and a rubber cushion; the clamping mechanism is a semi-enclosed structure, and both ends are connected to the fixed plate through the spring lock; the fixed plate is arranged at the end of the side panel, the outer side of the cable clamping assembly is engaged with the fixed plate, and a pin structure is provided on one side, and the pin structure is used to be inserted into the interior of the detection ball and complete the seal together with the detection ball.

[0006] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the clamp mechanism is a polygonal semi-enclosed structure.

[0007] Preferably, the clamp mechanism is made of steel.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the side panels are fan-shaped.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the upper end of the side panel exceeds the edge of the turntable.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cable holding assembly is formed by merging two halves of a block, and the block is made of stainless steel.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a rope threading hole is left at the center position after the two halves of the block are merged, and the cable is passed through the rope threading hole and is tightly held. After the cable is placed in the correct position, the two halves of the block are welded together.

[0012] The present invention also proposes a method for designing a neutrino detection ball escape mechanism, which is applied to the above-mentioned neutrino detection ball escape mechanism and includes the following steps:

[0013] Step 1: Obtain the overall design of the neutrino detection sphere escape mechanism;

[0014] Step 2: Developing a test model based on the overall design scheme to analyze the indicators of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism;

[0015] Step 3: Determine the specifications of the detection ball according to the indicators;

[0016] Step 4: further determining the specifications of the disengagement mechanism and its related components based on the specifications of the detection ball determined in step 3;

[0017] Step 5: Further determine the cable diameter and roughness, and accordingly determine the specifications of the cable clamping assembly;

[0018] Step 6: Determine the specifications of the clamp mechanism according to the adjusted specifications of the cable and the cable clamping assembly;

[0019] Step 7: Determine the side panel specifications based on the detection ball specifications;

[0020] Step 8: Conduct a hydrodynamic test on the release mechanism to determine the force applied to the detection ball during the release process.

[0021] Step 9: Based on numerical simulation and model tests, determine the maximum acceleration generated by the relevant components of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism during the process of escaping the detection ball and the time required for the entire escape process;

[0022] Step 10: Preliminarily determine the various parameters of the ejection mechanism that meet actual requirements through the above steps.

[0023] Step 11: Optimize the various parameters of the ejection mechanism based on the model test and numerical simulation results, iterate repeatedly, and continuously obtain better results.

[0024] Preferably, the specifications of the detection ball include the diameter and weight of the detection ball.

[0025] Preferably, the specifications of the cable clamping assembly include the diameter of the rope threading hole.

[0026] Technical effects of the present invention:

[0027] The neutrino detection ball release mechanism provided by this invention utilizes a semicircular clamp structure, ensuring that the neutrino buoys, when integrated in series with the deployment device, maintain excellent stability during their movement, reducing the probability of failure of the detection ball due to external forces. Furthermore, the clamp structure interacts with spring locks on both sides of the detection ball to prevent obstruction of the ball's release, reducing the risk of damage to the detection ball due to collisions while increasing the reliability and stability of the release process.

[0028] 2. The fan-shaped side panels of the neutrino detection ball release mechanism proposed in this invention extend beyond the edge of the turntable, providing protection for the detection ball during the descent and ascent of the deployment mechanism. This also reduces the friction caused by the turntable's rotation, ensuring a more stable and controllable release process. Furthermore, fixed plates at the ends of the side panels connect to the cable clamping devices on both sides of the detection ball, further enhancing the stability of the detection ball.

[0029] 3. The neutrino detection ball release mechanism provided by the present invention adopts a design scheme that connects the cable and the detection ball through a cable clamping assembly. Utilizing a purely mechanical device, it provides a stable and reliable means for connecting each detection ball in the neutrino detector series to the cables on both sides, which can ensure the stability and safety of the detection ball during release.

[0030] The concept, specific structure and technical effects of the present invention will be further described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings to fully understand the purpose, characteristics and effects of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism (with detection ball assembled) according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention (without the detection ball);

[0033] Figure 3 2. It is a schematic diagram of the partial structure of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 4 2. It is a schematic structural diagram of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism in the unlocked state according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] In the figure: 1. Clamp mechanism; 2. Side panel; 3. Detection ball; 4. Spring lock; 5. Rubber pad; 6. Cable clamp assembly; 7. Fixing plate; 8. Rope threading hole. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The following describes several preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings to make its technical content clearer and easier to understand. The present invention can be embodied in many different forms of embodiments, and the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments mentioned herein.

[0037] In the drawings, components with identical structures are denoted by the same reference numerals, and components with similar structures or functions are denoted by similar reference numerals. The size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrary and are not limited by the present invention. For clarity, the thickness of components in some places in the drawings is appropriately exaggerated.

[0038] refer to Figures 1 to 4 One embodiment of the present invention discloses a neutrino detection ball release mechanism, comprising a clamping mechanism 1, side panels 2, a spring lock 4, a cable clamping assembly 6, a fixing plate 7, and a rubber cushion 5. The clamping mechanism 1 is a semi-enclosed structure, connected to the fixing plate 7 at both ends via the spring lock 4. The fixing plate 7 is disposed at the end of the side panels 2. The cable clamping assembly 6 engages with the fixing plate 7 on its outer side, and a latch structure is provided on one side. The latch structure is inserted into the interior of the detection ball and forms a seal with the detection ball. This ensures that the cable and the detection ball remain in constant contact without affecting the watertightness and strength of the detection ball.

[0039] The semi-enclosed clamp mechanism 1 proposed in the present invention preferably adopts a polygonal semi-enclosed steel structure, so that the neutrino buoys can be integrated in series on the deployment device and maintain good stability during movement with the deployment device, thereby reducing the probability of failure of the detection ball 3 due to external forces. In addition, the clamp mechanism 1 will be linked with the spring locks 4 on both sides of the detection ball. Figure 1 As shown, when the current detection ball 3 is released, the cable connected to the current detection ball is tightened, and the spring lock 4 rotates counterclockwise under the tension, causing the clamp mechanism 1 to rotate a certain angle counterclockwise in the figure and shift to a position outside the motion trajectory of the detection ball 3, releasing the fixation on the detection ball 3, allowing the detection ball 3 to escape vertically downward in the direction shown in the figure, and avoiding obstacles to the release of the detection ball 3. The end of the side panel 2 is provided with a fixing plate 7 connected to the cable clamping assembly 6 on both sides of the detection ball 3, further improving the stability of the detection ball 3.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, during the ascent or descent process, the turntable of the deployment device equipped with the neutrino detection ball rotates, and the side panel 2 is fan-shaped, with its upper end extending beyond the edge of the turntable. This can provide a certain degree of protection for the detection ball 3 during the descent and ascent of the deployment device, while reducing the impact of friction on the detection ball 3 during the rotation of the turntable, making the release process more stable and controllable.

[0041] The side plates 2 provided in the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism reduce the local water friction around the detection ball 3 and the disturbance effect caused by it as the turntable drives the detection ball to rotate and rise. In addition, in the event of an accident, the obstacle will first collide with the side plates and is not likely to directly contact the detection ball 3, thus significantly improving the safety of the neutrino buoy deployment process.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cable clamping assembly 6 is formed by merging two stainless steel halves. A cable threading hole 8 is left at the center of the two halves, through which the cable is inserted and clamped. Once the cable is properly positioned, the two halves are welded together, effectively ensuring a secure connection between the cable and the sensor ball 3.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a method for designing a neutrino detection ball escape mechanism is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0044] Step 1: Obtain the overall design of the neutrino detection sphere escape mechanism;

[0045] Step 2: Developing a test model based on the overall design scheme to analyze the indicators of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism;

[0046] Step 3: Determine the specifications of the detection ball according to the indicators, wherein the specifications of the detection ball include but are not limited to the diameter and weight of the detection ball.

[0047] Step 4: further determining the specifications of the disengagement mechanism and its related components based on the specifications of the detection ball determined in step 3;

[0048] Step 5: Further determine the cable diameter and roughness, and determine the specifications of the cable clamping assembly accordingly. The specifications of the cable clamping assembly include but are not limited to the diameter of the rope threading hole;

[0049] Step 6: Determine the specifications of the clamp mechanism according to the adjusted specifications of the cable and the cable clamping assembly;

[0050] Step 7: Determine the side panel specifications based on the detection ball specifications;

[0051] Step 8: Conduct a hydrodynamic test on the release mechanism to determine the force applied to the detection ball during the release process.

[0052] Step 9: Based on numerical simulation and model tests, determine the maximum acceleration generated by the relevant components of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism during the process of escaping the detection ball and the time required for the entire escape process;

[0053] Step 10: Preliminarily determine the various parameters of the ejection mechanism that meet actual requirements through the above steps.

[0054] Step 11: Optimize the various parameters of the ejection mechanism based on the model test and numerical simulation results, iterate repeatedly, and continuously obtain better results;

[0055] Finally, the performance indicators of the ejection mechanism after iterative optimization design were checked and verified through model tests and numerical simulations.

[0056] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. It should be understood that numerous modifications and variations based on the concepts of the present invention are possible without inventive effort by those skilled in the art. Therefore, any technical solution that can be derived by one skilled in the art through logical analysis, reasoning, or limited experimentation based on the concepts of the present invention and the prior art should be within the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A neutrino detection ball escape mechanism, characterized in that: It includes a clamping mechanism, side panels, spring locks, a cable clamping assembly, a fixing plate and a rubber cushion; the clamping mechanism is a semi-enclosed structure, and both ends are connected to the fixing plate through the spring locks; the fixing plate is arranged at the end of the side panel, the outer side of the cable clamping assembly is engaged with the fixing plate, and a pin structure is provided on one side, and the pin structure is used to be inserted into the interior of the detection ball and complete the seal together with the detection ball.

2. The neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The clamp mechanism is a polygonal semi-enclosed structure.

3. The neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that: The material of the clamp mechanism is steel.

4. The neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to claim 2, wherein: The side plate is in a fan shape.

5. The neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that: The upper ends of the side plates extend beyond the edge of the turntable.

6. The neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that: The cable holding assembly is formed by merging two halves of a block, and the block is made of stainless steel.

7. The neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that: After the two halves of the block are combined, a rope threading hole is left at the center position, and the cable is passed through the rope threading hole and is tightly held. After the cable is placed in the correct position, the two halves of the block are welded together.

8. A method for designing a neutrino detection ball escape mechanism, characterized in that: The neutrino detection ball escape mechanism as claimed in claim 7 comprises the following steps: Step 1: Obtain the overall design of the neutrino detection sphere escape mechanism; Step 2: Developing a test model based on the overall design scheme to analyze the indicators of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism; Step 3: Determine the specifications of the detection ball according to the indicators; Step 4: further determining the specifications of the disengagement mechanism and its related components based on the specifications of the detection ball determined in step 3; Step 5: Further determine the cable diameter and roughness, and accordingly determine the specifications of the cable clamping assembly; Step 6: Determine the specifications of the clamp mechanism according to the adjusted specifications of the cable and the cable clamping assembly; Step 7: Determine the side panel specifications based on the detection ball specifications; Step 8: Conduct a hydrodynamic test on the release mechanism to determine the force applied to the detection ball during the release process. Step 9: Based on numerical simulation and model tests, determine the maximum acceleration generated by the relevant components of the neutrino detection ball escape mechanism during the process of escaping the detection ball and the time required for the entire escape process; Step 10: Preliminarily determine the various parameters of the ejection mechanism that meet the actual requirements through the above steps; Step 11: Optimize the various parameters of the ejection mechanism based on the model test and numerical simulation results, iterate repeatedly, and continuously obtain better results.

9. The method for designing a neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to claim 8, wherein: The specifications of the probe ball include the diameter and weight of the probe ball.

10. The method for designing a neutrino detection ball escape mechanism according to claim 8, wherein: The specifications of the cable clamping assembly include the diameter of the rope threading hole.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Detector based on neutrino and used for detecting nuclear submarine

    CN203881957U

  • Measurement device for the spatially resolved detection of weak light sources using an imaging glass fiber optical system that allows detection of light sources over a full 4approximatelyp solid angle

    DE10153104A1