A marine buoy cleaning device and method

Abstract

This invention provides a cleaning device and method for marine buoys, belonging to the fields of marine engineering equipment and marine navigation marks. It is used to clean attached marine organisms and dirt near the waterline and underwater parts of the buoy, and to collect wastewater and debris. It includes a base, a splash guard, a bonding section, and a rinsing section. The base includes an outer ring base, an inner ring base, and a bottom plate, with a filter screen on top. The splash guard includes a top frame and sliding doors, with multiple sliding doors slidably disposed between the outer ring base and the top frame. The bonding section is located on the inner ring base and includes a shrink film and a retraction mechanism. The outer circle of the shrink film is fixed to the upper side of the filter screen area, and the inner circle of the shrink film is connected to the retraction mechanism. When the retraction mechanism operates, it adheres the shrink film to the buoy shell. The rinsing section includes a spray gun to rinse the buoy surface. This device, combined with this method, achieves adaptation and cleaning of the buoy shell, separates wastewater and waste without damaging the coating, improves the convenience and efficiency of buoy cleaning, and is also environmentally friendly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of marine engineering equipment and marine navigation marks, and in particular relates to a cleaning device and method for marine buoys on board. Background Technology

[0002] Maritime buoys / navigation marks are markers used to indicate the direction, boundaries, and obstructions of a shipping lane, contributing to safe, economical, and convenient navigation for vessels. They include visual navigation marks (such as light buoys), audible navigation marks, and radio navigation marks, which transmit navigational information through light, color, and shape, and are widely used in key maritime routes.

[0003] Marine organisms and hard grime can easily grow near the waterline and underwater. These organisms can damage the protective coating on the surface, leading to accelerated corrosion, which threatens the stability of the navigation mark and affects its structural integrity and service life. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain the safety and effectiveness of the navigation mark.

[0004] In existing technologies, when dealing with marine life proliferating near the waterline and underwater sections of navigation marks, they are typically hoisted onto a work vessel and then washed with high-pressure water jets. This process generates a large amount of wastewater and biological residue, and direct discharge would pollute the marine environment. Therefore, effective wastewater and residue collection measures must be implemented during the cleaning process to ensure that the cleaning operation is both efficient and environmentally friendly, avoiding adverse impacts on the ship's environment and the marine environment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art described above, the purpose of this invention is to provide a cleaning device and method for marine buoys, which solves the problem of how to effectively collect sewage and residual waste when cleaning marine organisms that breed near the waterline and underwater part of the buoy.

[0006] To achieve the above and other related objectives, the present invention provides a cleaning device and method for marine buoys on board.

[0007] One type of cleaning device for marine buoys, installed around the navigation well on the ship, includes:

[0008] Base, splash guard, fitting part, and rinsing part;

[0009] The base includes an outer ring base, an inner ring base, and a bottom plate. The bottom plate is connected to the bottom between the outer ring base and the inner ring base. A filter screen is also provided at the top between the outer ring base and the inner ring base. During operation, the outer ring base and the inner ring base are concentric with the navigation mark well.

[0010] The splash-proof part includes a top frame and sliding doors. The top frame is located directly above the outer ring base, and multiple sliding doors are slidably disposed between the outer ring base and the top frame.

[0011] The bonding part is provided on the inner ring base. The bonding part includes a shrink film and a tensioning mechanism. The shrink film is annular. The outer circle of the shrink film is fixed to the upper side of the filter area. The inner circle of the shrink film is connected to the tensioning mechanism. When the tensioning mechanism is activated, it attaches the inner circle of the shrink film to the buoy shell.

[0012] The rinsing unit includes a spray gun for rinsing the surface of the buoy.

[0013] Optionally, the shrink film includes an inner ring elastic ring on the inner circle side, an outer ring elastic ring on the outer circle side, and a connecting elastic film;

[0014] The connecting elastic membrane is connected between the inner ring elastic ring and the outer ring elastic ring;

[0015] The outer elastic ring is fixed to the upper side of the filter area, and the inner elastic ring is fixed to the tension rod of the tensioning mechanism.

[0016] Optionally, multiple sets of the tensioning mechanism are provided along the inner ring base, and the tensioning mechanism includes a first rod, a tensioning rod, and a tensioning power source;

[0017] The first rod points towards the center of the navigation mark well along the radius of the inner ring base. The tension rod is rotatably connected to the end of the first rod, and the rotation angle is controlled by the tension power source. The inner ring elastic ring is fixedly connected to the other end of the tension rod.

[0018] Optionally, the tensioning mechanism is provided in multiple sets along the inner ring base, and the tensioning mechanism includes a first rod, a tensioning rod, a first elastic element, a second elastic element, and a support base;

[0019] The first rod points towards the center of the navigation mark well along the radius of the inner ring base. The tension rod is rotatably connected to the end of the first rod. The inner ring elastic ring is fixedly connected to the other end of the tension rod. The support seat is fixedly set on the inner ring base and the support seat slidably supports the tension rod.

[0020] The first rod is slidably engaged with the inner ring base, the first elastic element is disposed between the inner ring base and the end of the first rod, and the second elastic element is disposed between the inner ring base and the tensioning rod.

[0021] Optionally, the tensioning rod includes a rotatable connecting end and a tensioning end, the rotatable connecting end being rotatably connected to the first rod, and the tensioning end being fixedly connected to the inner ring elastic ring.

[0022] Optionally, the rotating connection end is circular, and a friction layer is provided on the outer periphery of the circular rotating connection end.

[0023] Optionally, the retracting end is provided with a hook-shaped limiting area, and a limiting protrusion is provided at the opening of the hook-shaped limiting area. A gap is left between the hook-shaped limiting area and the limiting protrusion. The inner ring elastic ring is locked in the hook-shaped limiting area, and the connecting elastic membrane connecting the inner ring elastic ring is led out from the gap.

[0024] Optionally, the support base is provided with a through hole at the end of the outer ring base, and the outer ring elastic ring is engaged in the through hole.

[0025] Optionally, the flushing unit further includes a support rod, a sliding seat, and a rotating sleeve;

[0026] The two ends of the support rod are respectively circumferentially slidably connected between the outer ring base and the top frame. The sliding seat is slidably connected to the support rod. The rotating sleeve is connected to the sliding seat through a ball joint. The spray gun is fixedly installed inside the rotating sleeve.

[0027] One method for cleaning a marine buoy on a ship, employing a marine buoy cleaning device as described above, includes the following steps:

[0028] The aforementioned cleaning device for a marine buoy is moved to the navigation well and aligned with the navigation well. The buoy is then lifted from the seawater and moved above the navigation well and the cleaning device.

[0029] Slowly lower the buoy. When the bottom of the buoy contacts the retracting rod, the bottom of the buoy exerts pressure on the retracting rod, pushing the first rod to retract against the elastic force of the elastic element until it retracts until the rotating connection end of the retracting rod contacts the buoy. As the buoy continues to be lowered, under the action of friction, the retracting rod will flip towards the buoy, and at the same time, the other end of the retracting rod will stick to the buoy, and the inner ring elastic ring of the inner circle side of the shrink film will stick to the buoy.

[0030] After the buoy is fully placed into the navigation well, the surface of the buoy is rinsed with a spray gun. Water and debris fall off, and the debris is trapped on the upper side of the filter screen. The water enters the base on the lower side of the filter screen. The base is equipped with a water pipe to lead out the rinsing water. After filtration, the rinsing water is pumped back into the spray gun.

[0031] As described above, the marine buoy cleaning device and method of the present invention have at least the following beneficial effects:

[0032] This device, through its base, splash guard, bonding section, and rinsing section, achieves flexible adaptation and efficient cleaning of buoy hulls. The shrink-fit membrane in the bonding section, working in conjunction with the retraction mechanism, can tightly adhere to the bottom of buoy hulls of different sizes, effectively collecting wastewater and waste residue generated during cleaning and preventing environmental pollution. Simultaneously, the filter screen in the base allows for preliminary separation of wastewater and waste residue, improving wastewater treatment efficiency. Overall, this device not only enhances the convenience and efficiency of buoy cleaning but also emphasizes environmental performance. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 The diagram shows the overall working state of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 2 This diagram shows the cleaning device without any buoys installed.

[0035] Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the framework of this invention.

[0036] Figure 4 The diagram shown is a partial cross-sectional view of the base of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic of the tensioning mechanism on the base of this invention.

[0038] Figure 6 This invention is shown as Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the diagram.

[0039] Figure 7 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the cleaning unit of this invention.

[0040] Figure 8 This diagram shows the initial state of the buoy being lowered into the cleaning section.

[0041] Figure 9 The diagram shows the status of the buoy during its insertion into the cleaning section.

[0042] Figure 10 The diagram shows the state of the buoy after it has been fully lowered into the cleaning section.

[0043] Figure 11 The diagram shows a simplified working scenario of this invention.

[0044] Figure 12 The image shown is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the filter of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 13 The diagram shown is an internal schematic of the filter of this invention.

[0046] Figure 14 The diagram shows the assembly of the flat screen and the main shaft of the present invention.

[0047] The components include: outer ring base 1, inner ring base 2, base plate 3, filter screen 4, top frame 5, sliding door 6, shrink film 7, inner ring elastic ring 70, outer ring elastic ring 71, connecting elastic film 72, tensioning mechanism 8, first rod 80, tensioning rod 81, rotating connecting end 811, friction layer 8111, tensioning end 812, hook-shaped limiting area 8121, limiting protrusion 8122, gap 8123, first elastic element 82, second elastic element 83, support base 84, and through hole 84. 1. Spray gun 85, support rod 86, sliding seat 87, rotating sleeve 88, navigation mark well 9, water inlet 921, water outlet 922, slag outlet 923, main shaft 924, groove structure 9241, lock head 9240, flat screen 925, frame 9251, protruding structure 92511, filter surface 9252, arc screen 926, power source 927, conductivity sensor 928, reversing valve 929, first output port 9291, second output port 9292. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification.

[0049] Please see Figures 1 to 14 It should be understood that the structures, proportions, sizes, etc., depicted in the accompanying drawings are merely for illustrative purposes to aid those skilled in the art and to facilitate understanding. They are not intended to limit the scope of the invention and therefore have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in proportions, or adjustments to size, without affecting the effectiveness and purpose of the invention, should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed herein. Furthermore, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "middle," and "one" used in this specification are merely for clarity and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Changes or adjustments to their relative relationships, without substantially altering the technical content, should also be considered within the scope of the invention.

[0050] The following embodiments are for illustrative purposes only. These embodiments can be combined and are not limited to the content shown in any single embodiment below.

[0051] Please see Figures 1-12 This invention provides an embodiment of a marine buoy cleaning device and method on board.

[0052] Navigational buoys often face the problem of marine life growth near the waterline and underwater, including algae and shellfish. These organisms tend to adhere tightly to the surface of the buoy, gradually accumulating to form a thick biological cover over time. This biological cover consists not only of the organisms themselves but also includes various organic substances secreted by them.

[0053] The formation of this biofilm poses a significant threat to the coating on the surface of the navigational aid. The chemical components in the organisms and their secretions may be corrosive, directly affecting the protective coating and causing defects such as damage and peeling. Once these defects appear, the previously effectively insulated seawater will directly contact the exposed steel structure of the navigational aid.

[0054] Without the protection of its coating, direct contact with seawater significantly accelerates the corrosion process of steel navigation marks. The salt, dissolved oxygen, and other corrosive substances in seawater make it easier for the metal of the navigation mark to erode, leading to a series of problems such as rust and perforation, which seriously affect the durability, reliability, and service life of the navigation mark.

[0055] Therefore, regular cleaning is crucial to address the marine life that thrives near and underwater around navigation aids and the potential corrosion threat it poses to coatings and steel structures. Current operational practices typically involve first hoisting the navigation aid onto the work vessel, then securing it firmly in place via a deck-mounted navigation aid well to ensure stability and safety during operation. Next, a high-pressure water jet is used for thorough cleaning to effectively remove the biofilm and its secretions adhering to the navigation aid's surface.

[0056] However, considering the high salt concentration in seawater, which has a strong corrosive effect on metals, the water pressure system of the high-pressure water gun cannot directly use seawater as a water source. To avoid equipment damage and accelerated corrosion caused by salt, only fresh water carried on board can be used for cleaning during the operation. It is worth noting, however, that the freshwater resources carried by the vessel on each voyage are very limited, while the number of navigation marks to be cleaned may be considerable. This places high demands on the rational allocation and efficient utilization of freshwater resources.

[0057] Furthermore, wastewater and biological residue generated during the cleaning process cannot be directly discharged into the marine environment to avoid secondary pollution of the marine ecosystem. Therefore, it is essential to establish a comprehensive wastewater recycling system to recover the freshwater after cleaning and treat it appropriately before reusing it for subsequent cleaning operations. This not only helps conserve freshwater resources but also effectively avoids negative impacts on the ship and the marine environment.

[0058] To address the above issues, this invention provides a shipboard cleaning device for marine buoys, installed around a navigation well 91 on the ship. The navigation well is located on the ship's deck and has an insertion hole that matches the buoy's tailpipe for receiving and securing the buoy. The buoy's tailpipe can be inserted into the navigation well to ensure the buoy's stability during the cleaning process. (See also...) Figure 1 The diameter of the buoy's tailpipe is smaller than that of the buoy itself. During operation, the buoy is lifted from the seawater by a ship's crane, moved to the deck of the ship, and then lowered so that the tailpipe at the bottom of the buoy is inserted into the buoy well.

[0059] The cleaning device provided by the present invention includes: a base, a splash-proof part, a fitting part, and a rinsing part;

[0060] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 12 The base includes an outer ring base 1, an inner ring base 2, and a bottom plate 3. The bottom plate 3 is connected to the bottom between the outer ring base 1 and the inner ring base 2, forming a flushing water receiving area. A filter screen 4 is also provided at the top between the outer ring base 1 and the inner ring base 2 to separate the regenerated biological residue and flushing water. Figure 3 Filter 4 is not shown in the image. For instructions on setting up filter 4, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 The filter screen 4 can be tilted, with the side closer to the outer ring base 1 lower than the side closer to the inner ring base 2. During high-pressure washing, large biological debris such as shellfish that detach from the buoy falls onto the filter screen 4. The washing water then passes through the filter screen into the lower washing water receiving area. A water pipe can be installed in the lower washing water receiving area to lead out the washing water for subsequent filtration, etc. The water pipe installation method can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5 Meanwhile, the two sides of the filter screen 4 can be connected to the outer ring base 1 and the inner ring base 2 respectively through a sliding structure, so that the filter screen 4 can rotate around the inner ring base 2, which facilitates the collection of biological residues on the filter screen in subsequent work after the buoy cleaning is completed.

[0061] During operation, the outer ring base 1 and the inner ring base 2 are concentric with the navigation mark well 91. This device can be configured to be movable, for example, by installing rollers at the bottom to push it to the navigation mark well; alternatively, it can be moved to the navigation mark well using a ship's crane. Once in place, the navigation mark is lifted from the water and lowered into the navigation mark well from top to bottom. After placement, the device surrounds the navigation mark.

[0062] For details on splash protection, please refer to the following: Figure 1 and Figure 2 It includes a top frame 5 and sliding doors 6. The top frame 5 is located directly above the outer ring base 1. Multiple sliding doors 6 are slidably arranged between the outer ring base 1 and the top frame 5. Multiple sliding doors 6 can completely surround the navigation mark to prevent the washing water from splashing, or expose the navigation mark in any angle area for high-pressure washing.

[0063] The bonding part is located on the inner ring base 2. The bonding part includes a shrink film 7 and a tensioning mechanism 8. The shrink film 7 is annular. (See reference...) Figure 2 and Figure 4 , Figure 5 ,but Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the diagram, only a portion of the annular segment of the shrink membrane 7 is shown. The outer circle of the shrink membrane 7 is fixed to the upper side of the filter area, and the inner circle of the shrink membrane 7 is connected to the retraction mechanism 8. When the retraction mechanism 8 operates, it attaches the inner circle of the shrink membrane 7 to the tail tube of the buoy 93 housing. (See reference...) Figures 8-10 When cleaning is performed, the retraction mechanism 8 moves to attach the inner circle of the shrink film 7 to the buoy 93 housing, while the outer circle of the shrink film 7 is fixed to the upper side of the filter screen area. The inner circle of the shrink film 7 is higher than the outer circle. When the rinsing water is sprayed onto the shrink film 7, it flows along the inclined surface of the shrink film 7 to the filter screen 4, and then flows into the receiving area at the bottom of the filter screen. The rinsing part includes a spray gun 85, and the high-pressure water from the spray gun 85 rinses the surface of the buoy 93.

[0064] In the above embodiments, the design of the cleaning device brings significant benefits. First, during the maintenance of navigation marks, the device can effectively collect and treat wastewater and waste residue generated during cleaning, such as shellfish and other biological debris. Through the close cooperation between the shrink membrane 7 and the filter screen 4, wastewater and waste residue are intercepted and filtered, preventing these pollutants from being directly discharged into the deck or the ocean. Second, the device also considers resource recycling. By collecting the wastewater used for cleaning, the freshwater originally used for cleaning can be recycled and reused, significantly reducing the consumption of freshwater resources when the vessel is out on mission, improving water resource utilization efficiency, and enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of navigation mark maintenance operations. Each time the vessel goes out on mission, it can clean more navigation marks, extending the operation cycle and reducing the need for frequent trips to replenish freshwater, thereby reducing maintenance costs and enhancing the continuity and economy of operations.

[0065] Please refer to this embodiment. Figures 4-6 The complete shrinkage membrane 7 is annular. For easier observation of the cross-section, Figures 4-6 Only one section of the annular shrink film 7 is shown. The shrink film 7 includes an inner ring elastic ring 70 on the inner circle side, an outer ring elastic ring 71 on the outer circle side, and a connecting elastic film 72.

[0066] The connecting elastic membrane 72 is connected between the inner ring elastic ring 70 and the outer ring elastic ring 71;

[0067] The outer ring elastic ring 71 is fixed to the upper side of the filter area, and the inner ring elastic ring 70 is fixed to the tension rod 81 of the tensioning mechanism 8.

[0068] Both the inner and outer elastic rings 70 and 71 are rubber rings with elastic contraction capabilities. The inner and outer elastic rings 70 and 71 have different annular diameters. The connecting elastic membrane 72 is an annular sheet, with its outer circular side fixedly connected to the outer elastic ring 71 and its inner circular side fixedly connected to the inner elastic ring 70. When the annular diameter of the inner elastic ring 70 changes, the connecting elastic membrane 72 can undergo corresponding elastic expansion and contraction deformation, ensuring no gaps appear between the inner and outer elastic rings 70 and maintaining the effective reception of flushing water. The connecting elastic membrane 72 of this device is located around the outer periphery of the ship's navigation buoy well. Under the action of the expansion and contraction mechanism 8, the inner elastic ring 70 can pull the connecting elastic membrane 72 tightly against the tailpipe at the bottom of the buoy (navigation buoy), automatically adapting to the size of the buoy's tailpipe. During the cleaning process, it receives flushing water, allowing the freshwater originally used for cleaning to be recycled and reused, significantly reducing the consumption of freshwater resources when the vessel is out of the water, and preventing direct discharge of flushing water into the deck or ocean, thus avoiding pollution of the ship or marine environment.

[0069] Please refer to this embodiment. Figures 4-6 Multiple sets of the retraction mechanism 8 are arranged along the inner ring base 2. The more sets there are, the better the adhesion of the shrink film 7 to the buoy tail tube. Since the outer ring elastic ring 71 is a rubber ring with elastic shrinkage capability, the shrinkage capability of the circumference is uniform, and the buoy tail tube is also a circular cross section, even when only a small number of sets of the retraction mechanism 8 are set, the adhesion of the shrink film 7 to the buoy tail tube can still be ensured.

[0070] Specifically, the take-up mechanism 8 includes a first lever 80, a take-up lever 81, and a take-up power source;

[0071] The first rod 80 points towards the center of the navigation mark well 91 along the radius of the inner ring base 2. The tensioning rod 81 is rotatably connected to the end of the first rod 80, and the rotation angle is controlled by the tensioning power source. The inner ring elastic ring 70 is fixedly connected to the other end of the tensioning rod 81. Figure 6 , Figures 9-10 When the retraction power source controls the retraction lever 81 to rotate towards the center of the buoy well 91, i.e., the buoy tailpipe, it will pull the inner ring elastic ring 70 to adhere to the buoy tailpipe, thereby pulling the connecting elastic membrane 72 to expand. The connecting elastic membrane 72 is in an inclined state to receive the cleaning water and guide it into the filter screen. When the retraction power source controls the retraction lever 81 to rotate in the opposite direction towards the center of the buoy well 91, i.e., the buoy tailpipe, the elasticity of the inner ring elastic ring 70 and the connecting elastic membrane 72 causes the annular contraction membrane 7 to return to its initial shape.

[0072] Furthermore, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the tensioning mechanism 8 is provided with multiple sets along the inner ring base 2. The tensioning mechanism 8 includes a first rod 80, a tensioning rod 81, a first elastic element 82, a second elastic element 83, and a support base 84.

[0073] The first rod 80 points towards the center of the navigation mark well 91 along the radius of the inner ring base 2. The tension rod 81 is rotatably connected to the end of the first rod 80. The inner ring elastic ring 70 is fixedly connected to the other end of the tension rod 81. The support seat 84 is fixedly set on the inner ring base 2 and slides to support the tension rod 81.

[0074] The first rod 80 is slidably engaged with the inner ring base 2. The first elastic element 82 is disposed between the inner ring base 2 and the end of the first rod 80, and can be a spring. The second elastic element 83 is disposed between the inner ring base 2 and the tensioning rod 81, and can be an elastic rope or a spring.

[0075] The tensioning rod 81 includes a rotatable connecting end 811 and a tensioning end 812. The rotatable connecting end 811 is rotatably connected to the first rod 80, and the tensioning end 812 is fixedly connected to the inner ring elastic ring 70.

[0076] The rotating connection end 811 is circular, and a friction layer 8111 is provided on the outer circumference of the circular rotating connection end 811, which can be a rubber pad layer.

[0077] The retracting end 812 is provided with a hook-shaped limiting area 8121. A limiting protrusion 8122 is provided at the opening of the hook-shaped limiting area 8121. A gap 8123 is left between the hook-shaped limiting area 8121 and the limiting protrusion 8122. The inner ring elastic ring 70 is stuck in the hook-shaped limiting area 8121. The connecting elastic membrane 72 connecting the inner ring elastic ring 70 is led out from the gap 8123.

[0078] The support base 84 has a through hole 841 at its end after extending along the outer ring base 1, and the outer ring elastic ring 71 is locked in the through hole 841.

[0079] The hook-shaped limiting area 8121 and the through hole 841 can easily insert or remove the inner ring elastic ring 70 and the outer ring elastic ring 71, making the entire shrink film 7 easy to replace.

[0080] The cleaning device and cleaning method described in the above embodiments operate on the following main principle, including the following steps:

[0081] The work vessel was driven to the vicinity of the target buoy (navigation mark) to be cleaned;

[0082] Move the cleaning device to beacon well 91 and align it with beacon well 91. Initially, the tensioning mechanism 8 and the shrinking membrane 7 are in the following positions: Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, the ends of the retraction rods 81 of the multiple retraction mechanisms 8 are inserted into the range of the navigation mark well.

[0083] Then buoy 93 was lifted from the seawater and moved above navigation well 91 and the cleaning device;

[0084] like Figure 8As shown, the buoy 93 is slowly lowered. When the bottom tail tube of the buoy 93 contacts the upper side of the retracting rod 81, the bottom tail tube of the buoy 93 exerts pressure on the retracting rod 81. The retracting rod 81 pushes the first rod 80 to retract against the elastic force of the elastic element. At the same time, the retracting rod 81 slides along the support base 84 until it retracts until the rotating connection end 811 of the retracting rod 81 contacts the surface of the tail tube of the buoy 93. Figure 9 As shown, during the continued lowering of buoy 93, under the frictional force of friction layer 8111, the retraction rods 81 will flip towards buoy 93. Finally, the other ends of multiple retraction rods 81 simultaneously adhere to buoy 93, and the inner ring elastic ring 70 on the inner circle side of the shrinkage membrane 7 adheres to buoy 93, as shown. Figure 10 As shown. To improve the fit, the initial diameter of the inner elastic ring 70 can be designed to match the tailpipe of the navigation mark. That is, before the tension rod 81 moves the inner elastic ring 70 to fit against the navigation mark, the inner elastic ring 70 is in a state of being stretched and elastically deformed. When the tension rod 81 moves the inner elastic ring 70 to fit against the navigation mark, the inner elastic ring 70 returns to a state of no elasticity and low elasticity.

[0085] After buoy 93 is fully lowered into navigation well 91, the surface of buoy 93 is rinsed with spray gun 85. Figure 1 As shown, water and biological residue fall, the residue is trapped on the upper side of the filter screen, and the water enters the base on the lower side of the filter screen. The base is equipped with a water pipe to lead out the rinsing water, which is then filtered and pumped back into the spray gun 85.

[0086] The aforementioned cleaning device and method demonstrate outstanding beneficial effects. During the operation, the device automatically adapts to and fits buoy tailpipes of different specifications without manual intervention, greatly improving operational convenience and efficiency. Through the ingenious design of the retraction mechanism and shrink film, automatic fitting and secure fixing of the buoy during descent are achieved, ensuring the smooth progress of the cleaning work.

[0087] More importantly, the device can effectively collect and separate wastewater and waste residue generated during the cleaning process, preventing these pollutants from being directly discharged into the deck or the ocean, thus effectively protecting the ship's and marine environment. At the same time, the filtered wastewater can be recycled, significantly reducing the consumption of freshwater resources, extending the operating cycle of the work vessel at sea, and enhancing the sustainability of the operation.

[0088] In summary, this cleaning device and method not only improve operational efficiency but also take into account environmental protection and resource conservation, providing a more efficient and environmentally friendly solution for the maintenance and cleaning of navigation marks.

[0089] In this embodiment, the rinsing section of the cleaning device on the buoy 93 ship is as follows: Figure 7 As shown, it also includes a support rod 86, a sliding seat 87, and a rotating sleeve 88;

[0090] The two ends of the support rod 86 are circumferentially slidably connected between the outer ring base 1 and the top frame 5, respectively. The sliding seat 87 is slidably connected to the support rod 86, and can slide to adjust the height. It can be locked after sliding to a specific position. The rotating sleeve 88 is connected to the sliding seat 87 through a ball joint. The spray gun 85 is fixedly installed inside the rotating sleeve 88.

[0091] The flushing unit design of the marine buoy cleaning device in this embodiment significantly improves the efficiency and user-friendliness of the cleaning operation. Given the large size of the buoys and the high water pressure of the spray gun, the introduction of a combination structure of support rod, sliding seat, and rotating sleeve not only ensures that the spray gun can be flexibly adjusted to any desired position and angle, accurately targeting stubborn stains and marine life on the buoy's surface, but also greatly reduces the physical burden on operators. The height-adjustable and locking function of the sliding seat further enhances the flexibility and stability of the cleaning operation, making the flushing process more efficient and orderly. This design, while ensuring the flushing effect, replaces some manual operations with mechanical assistance, effectively reducing labor intensity and improving operational safety. Furthermore, the ingenious use of the rotating sleeve and ball joint allows the spray gun to easily handle complex and varied buoy shapes, ensuring thorough cleaning and comprehensively improving cleaning efficiency and quality.

[0092] In this embodiment, the cleaning wastewater collected from the base of the cleaning device flows through a water pipe into the filter device, and then through a pressure pump, it can re-enter the high-pressure spray gun. For example... Figures 12-14 The filtration device includes a housing and a filter screen assembly. The housing comprises upper and lower chambers. The filter screen assembly includes a flat screen 925 and an arc-shaped screen 926. The upper chamber of the housing includes an inlet 921, a filtration zone, and a slag outlet 923 connected in sequence. The inlet 921 is higher than the slag outlet 923. The filtration zone is a cylindrical space. The arc-shaped screen 926 is disposed between the filtration zone and the lower chamber of the housing. Multiple flat screens 925 are arranged in a ring array on a main shaft 924 to form blades and are then installed in the filtration zone. The edges of the flat screens 925 match the arc-shaped screens 926. During the rotation of the blades, the edges of the flat screens 925 just pass over the arc surface of the arc-shaped screens 926. An outlet 922 is also provided on the lower chamber of the housing.

[0093] In the above embodiments, the working process is mainly as follows: The marine organisms on the surface of the buoy include crustaceans such as mussels and barnacles, as well as plankton. During rinsing, after the buoy is hoisted onto the work vessel, it is rinsed using a high-pressure water gun. A receiving device is set at the bottom of the buoy placement area to collect the rinsing wastewater and waste residue (marine organism remains). After the wastewater and waste residue are initially separated by the receiving device, the original cleaning water is obtained.

[0094] The cleaning water is introduced into the aforementioned filter device through the inlet 921. As the cleaning water flows through the filtration zone, water and smaller dust particles leak from the arc-shaped screen 926 into the lower cavity of the housing, while larger impurities are trapped in the filtration zone by the arc-shaped screen 926. The water drop or external power allows the paddles formed by the flat screen 925 to rotate, thereby discharging the trapped impurities from the outlet 923. The rotation of the paddles not only removes impurities from the filtration zone but also prevents the arc-shaped screen 926 from clogging, ensuring filtration efficiency. The filtered rinsing water flows out from the outlet 922 and, after passing through a booster pump or other pressurization circuit, can be delivered again to the high-pressure water gun for rinsing.

[0095] This filtration device achieves highly efficient cleaning water filtration through its ingenious design. As the cleaning water flows through the arc-shaped screen, it effectively separates larger dust particles and impurities, ensuring that the rinsing water at the outlet meets the water quality requirements for repressurization. The rotating blades formed by the flat screen not only discharge impurities from the slag outlet but also effectively prevent clogging of the arc-shaped screen, cleaning its surface and improving filtration efficiency. The filtered rinsing water can be reused under pressure, achieving resource recycling. The device is compact, easy to operate, and contributes to improved work efficiency and environmental benefits. It ensures the recycling of freshwater resources while preventing pollution of the marine and shipboard environments by the rinsing water.

[0096] Furthermore, a conductivity sensor 928 for detecting the salt content of the cleaning water is installed at the outlet 922. A conductivity sensor is a device used to measure the conductivity of a liquid or solution, accurately reflecting the ion concentration in the liquid, thereby indicating the salt content of the cleaning water. The filtration device also includes a reversing valve 929, which includes an inlet, a first output port 9291, and a second output port 9292. The connection state between the inlet and the first output port 9291 or the second output port 9292 can be switched. The inlet is connected to the outlet 922, the first output port 9291 is connected to the pressurization circuit, and the second output port 9292 is connected to the water storage tank.

[0097] Although the flushing water is originally fresh water, the marine life on the bottom and surface of the buoy, which has long existed in seawater, carries saltwater, causing the recovered flushing water to also contain salt. However, the equipment for pressurizing the flushing water cannot operate in an environment with too high a salt concentration, so the salt concentration of the recovered flushing water must be monitored. When the salt concentration of the recovered flushing water exceeds the set value, the reversing valve 929 needs to switch the output path to direct the flushing water into a storage tank, where the salt concentration can be reduced by other means before it can be used. However, if the salt concentration of the recovered flushing water does not exceed the set value, the reversing valve 929 switches the output path to the pressurization circuit, pressurizes it through a pump or other device, and then delivers it back to the high-pressure spray gun.

[0098] By introducing a salt concentration monitoring system and linking it to the reversing valve 929, this system effectively protects the high-pressure equipment that pressurizes the flushing water. When the salt concentration in the recycled flushing water exceeds the standard, the system can automatically switch paths to prevent corrosion of the pressurizing equipment by the high-salt solution, thus extending the equipment's service life. Simultaneously, this mechanism ensures that only flushing water meeting the standards can enter the pressurization circuit and be reused for high-pressure flushing, guaranteeing work efficiency, maintaining stable equipment operation, and reducing maintenance and replacement costs due to equipment damage.

[0099] In this embodiment, the main shaft 924 is driven to rotate by a power source 927, which can be an electric motor. The flat screen 925 includes a frame 9251 and a filter surface 9252. The filter surface 9252 is woven from interlaced wires, with both ends of the wires fixed to the frame 9251. The frame 9251 is mounted on one side of the main shaft 924 and has a protruding structure 92511 perpendicular to the filter surface 9252. The main shaft 924 has a groove structure 9241 that matches the frame 9251 and the protruding structure 92511. The frame 9251 is slidably mounted from the main shaft 924 onto the main shaft 924 body along the groove structure 9241. The main shaft 924 includes a locking head 9240 and a body. The groove structure 9241 is located in the body section. The locking head 9240 and the body are connected by a threaded structure, and the locking head 9240 presses against the frame 9251. The protruding structure 92511 and the groove structure 9241 can have a "T" shaped cross-section.

[0100] The above embodiments significantly improve the flexibility and efficiency of equipment maintenance by designing a convenient disassembly and assembly structure for the main shaft 924 and the flat screen 925. When the filter screen becomes clogged or damaged due to long-term use, operators can easily disassemble and replace any flat screen using the protruding structure 92511 and the groove structure 9241 with a "T"-shaped cross-section, eliminating the need for a complicated disassembly process, effectively shortening maintenance time, ensuring the continuous and stable operation of the equipment, and the locking head 9240 ensures the secure installation. This design not only simplifies maintenance work but also reduces the risk of cleaning interruptions and vessel return trips due to filter screen problems, thus improving operational efficiency.

[0101] Furthermore, the filter surface 9252 of the flat screen 925 and / or the curved screen 926 is woven from interwoven filaments. The filaments are non-metallic materials, such as high-strength, abrasion-resistant nylon, polyester, or other synthetic fibers. These materials not only possess excellent corrosion resistance and chemical stability, maintaining stable performance over long periods in harsh environments, but also exhibit high strength and toughness, ensuring the filter screen is not easily damaged during rotation, salt solution immersion, and rinsing.

[0102] In summary, the present invention effectively overcomes the various shortcomings of the prior art, produces beneficial technical effects, and has made significant progress.

[0103] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and effects of the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention. Any person skilled in the art can modify or alter the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, all equivalent modifications or alterations made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and technical concept disclosed in the present invention should still be covered by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A shipboard cleaning device for a marine buoy (93), installed around a navigation well (91) on board, characterized in that, include: Base, splash guard, fitting part, and rinsing part; The base includes an outer ring base (1), an inner ring base (2) and a bottom plate (3). The bottom plate (3) is connected to the bottom between the outer ring base (1) and the inner ring base (2). A filter screen (4) is also provided on the top between the outer ring base (1) and the inner ring base (2). When working, the outer ring base (1) and the inner ring base (2) are concentric with the navigation mark well (91). The splash-proof part includes a top frame (5) and a sliding door (6). The top frame (5) is located directly above the outer ring base (1), and multiple sliding doors (6) are slidably disposed between the outer ring base (1) and the top frame (5). The bonding part is provided on the inner ring base (2). The bonding part includes a shrink film (7) and a tensioning mechanism (8). The shrink film (7) is annular. The outer circle side of the shrink film (7) is fixed to the upper side of the filter area. The inner circle side of the shrink film (7) is connected to the tensioning mechanism (8). When the tensioning mechanism (8) is activated, it attaches the inner circle side of the shrink film (7) to the buoy (93) shell. The shrink film (7) includes an inner ring elastic ring (70) on the inner circle side, an outer ring elastic ring (71) on the outer circle side, and a connecting elastic film (72). The connecting elastic membrane (72) is connected between the inner ring elastic ring (70) and the outer ring elastic ring (71); The outer ring elastic ring (71) is fixed to the upper side of the filter area, and the inner ring elastic ring (70) is fixed to the tension rod (81) of the tensioning mechanism (8). The tensioning mechanism (8) is provided in multiple sets along the inner ring base (2), and the tensioning mechanism (8) includes a first rod (80), a tensioning rod (81) and a tensioning power source; The first rod (80) points towards the center of the navigation mark well (91) along the radius of the inner ring base (2). The tension rod (81) is rotatably connected to the end of the first rod (80), and the rotation angle is controlled by the tension power source. The inner ring elastic ring (70) is fixedly connected to the other end of the tension rod (81). Alternatively, the tensioning mechanism (8) may be provided in multiple sets along the inner ring base (2), and the tensioning mechanism (8) may include a first rod (80), a tensioning rod (81), a first elastic element (82), a second elastic element (83), and a support base (84). The first rod (80) points towards the center of the navigation mark well (91) along the radius of the inner ring base (2). The tension rod (81) is rotatably connected to the end of the first rod (80). The inner ring elastic ring (70) is fixedly connected to the other end of the tension rod (81). The support seat (84) is fixedly set on the inner ring base (2). The support seat (84) slidably supports the tension rod (81). The first rod (80) is slidably engaged with the inner ring base (2), the first elastic element (82) is disposed between the inner ring base (2) and the end of the first rod (80), and the second elastic element (83) is disposed between the inner ring base (2) and the tensioning rod (81); The rinsing unit includes a spray gun (85) for rinsing the surface of the buoy (93); The tensioning rod (81) includes a rotating connecting end (811) and a tensioning end (812). The rotating connecting end (811) is rotatably connected to the first rod (80), and the tensioning end (812) is fixedly connected to the inner ring elastic ring (70). The rotating connection end (811) is circular, and a friction layer (8111) is provided on the outer circumference of the circular rotating connection end (811).

2. The shipboard cleaning device for a marine buoy (93) as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The retracting end (812) is provided with a hook-shaped limiting area (8121), and a limiting protrusion (8122) is provided at the opening of the hook-shaped limiting area (8121). A gap (8123) is left between the hook-shaped limiting area (8121) and the limiting protrusion (8122). The inner ring elastic ring (70) is stuck in the hook-shaped limiting area (8121), and the connecting elastic membrane (72) connecting the inner ring elastic ring (70) is led out from the gap (8123).

3. The shipboard cleaning device for a marine buoy (93) as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The support base (84) has a through hole (841) at the end of the extension of the outer ring base (1), and the outer ring elastic ring (71) is inserted into the through hole (841).

4. The shipboard cleaning device for a marine buoy (93) as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The flushing section also includes a support rod (86), a sliding seat (87), and a rotating sleeve (88). The two ends of the support rod (86) are circumferentially slidably connected between the outer ring base (1) and the top frame (5), respectively. The sliding seat (87) is slidably connected to the support rod (86). The rotating sleeve (88) is connected to the sliding seat (87) through a ball joint. The spray gun (85) is fixedly installed inside the rotating sleeve (88).

5. A method for cleaning a marine buoy (93) on a ship, characterized in that, The method of using a marine buoy (93) shipboard cleaning device as described in claim 1 includes the following steps: Move the cleaning device of the marine buoy (93) on board to the navigation well (91) and make it concentric with the navigation well (91). Lift the buoy (93) from the seawater and move it above the navigation well (91) and the cleaning device. Slowly lower the buoy (93). When the bottom of the buoy (93) contacts the retracting rod (81), the bottom of the buoy (93) exerts pressure on the retracting rod (81), pushing the first rod (80) to retract against the elastic force of the elastic element until it retracts to the point where the rotating connection end (811) of the retracting rod (81) contacts the buoy (93). During the process of continuing to lower the buoy (93), under the action of friction, the retracting rod (81) will flip towards the buoy (93), and at the same time, the other end of the retracting rod (81) will stick to the buoy (93) and stick the inner ring elastic ring (70) of the inner circle side of the shrink film (7) to the buoy (93). After the buoy (93) is completely placed into the navigation well (91), the surface of the buoy (93) is rinsed with a spray gun (85). Water and debris fall off, and the debris is trapped on the upper side of the filter screen. Water enters the base on the lower side of the filter screen. The base is equipped with a water pipe to lead out the rinsing water. After filtration, the rinsing water is pumped back into the spray gun (85).

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