An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box

Abstract

This invention relates to an integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box. The invention includes a box body; a box cover, sealed and installed at a first open end of the box body; a valve block, including a mounting end face sealed and installed at the first open end of the box body, wherein a hydraulic cavity is formed between the box cover, the box body, and the mounting end face, and the hydraulic cavity is filled with hydraulic oil; an integrated valve assembly, installed on the valve block; the integrated valve assembly includes multiple electromagnetic control valves located inside the hydraulic cavity, and the coil housings of the electromagnetic control valves are provided with pressure balancing ports; and a differential pressure compensator, including a compensator housing, a compensation diaphragm, a base, and seals. This integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box effectively integrates the differential pressure compensator and the integrated valve assembly, enabling it to adapt to changes in underwater environmental pressure, achieve real-time pressure compensation, improve the performance and safety of the underwater valve box, and reduce the weight of the underwater valve box, thereby reducing the weight and power consumption of the underwater submersible and saving overall space in the underwater submersible.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of deep-sea exploration and deep-sea operation tools, and in particular to an integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box. Background Technology

[0002] The research and development of deep-sea technology is undergoing a leapfrog development, with various deep-sea technologies and weaponry showing a steady growth trend. As human exploration of the ocean gradually intensifies, seabed mineral and oil and gas resources, deep-sea biological resources, and deep-sea water resources have been identified as having development value or potential.

[0003] The use of deep-sea exploration and development equipment is currently the primary means of investigating and acquiring deep-sea resources. Global deep-sea equipment technology is booming, with continuous technological innovations and operations reaching increasingly deeper depths. Deep-sea equipment is developing towards automation, greening, integration, and intelligence. In recent years, humanity's ability to conduct deep-sea exploration and operations has significantly improved. Deep-sea equipment of different depths, functions, sizes, and high levels of intelligence will achieve modular and systematic development, highlighting technical characteristics such as autonomous environmental perception, autonomous navigation planning, autonomous operation, group collaboration, precise positioning and navigation, and long-term underwater presence. Its application in underwater reconnaissance, scientific research, resource exploration and development operations in the deep sea (including the abyss) and polar regions has become largely mature, making it the main equipment for deep-sea operations. Ultra-large manned equipment is organically integrated with cutting-edge intelligent unmanned technologies, and various general-purpose deep-sea equipment possesses efficient collaborative operation capabilities for manned and unmanned, small and large, and point-line and area-based operations.

[0004] In the field of deep-sea operations, hydraulic tools with high torque and rapid response capabilities are essential. To drive these underwater hydraulic actuators, deep-sea submersibles are equipped with hydraulic valve boxes. A typical underwater hydraulic system mainly includes a pressure compensation device, a control valve box, an underwater power source, and actuators. The underwater valve box is a key component connecting the hydraulic system and the hydraulic actuators. The valve box acts as a relay station for hydraulic power and control signals, isolating the components within the valve box from seawater while ensuring reliable connections. Typically, underwater valve boxes use a valve box cover to protect all hydraulic valves and seawater-sensitive components, forming a large, pressure-resistant, enclosed space. This method is easy to implement, but as deep-sea submersibles operate at increasingly deeper depths, the environmental pressure on the underwater valve box increases. To ensure the pressure resistance of the valve box shell, its volume and weight have increased exponentially, placing a huge power consumption burden on the deep-sea submersible while still posing a risk of water leakage. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address this issue, the present invention provides an integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box, which solves the problem of the impact of seawater pressure on the operational reliability and feasibility of underwater valve boxes in the prior art. This integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box effectively integrates the differential pressure compensator and the integrated valve group, enabling it to adapt to changes in underwater environmental pressure, achieve real-time pressure compensation, improve the performance and safety of the underwater valve box, and reduce its weight, thereby reducing the power consumption of the underwater submersible and saving the overall space of the underwater submersible.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides an integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box, comprising:

[0007] The housing includes a first open end and a second open end that are disposed opposite to each other, and a differential pressure compensation hole is provided on the side of the housing.

[0008] A lid is sealed and installed at the first opening end of the box body;

[0009] The valve block includes a mounting end face that is sealed and installed at the first open end of the housing, wherein a hydraulic cavity is formed between the housing cover, the housing and the mounting end face, and the hydraulic cavity is filled with hydraulic oil;

[0010] An integrated valve assembly is mounted on the valve block; wherein the integrated valve assembly includes multiple electromagnetic control valves located inside the hydraulic cavity, each electromagnetic control valve including a coil housing and an electromagnet coil located inside the coil housing, the coil housing being provided with a pressure balance port, so that the hydraulic oil of the hydraulic cavity enters the coil housing through the pressure balance port to balance the pressure inside and outside the coil housing, thereby ensuring the electromagnetic control valve can operate safely and reliably under external high pressure environments;

[0011] A differential pressure compensator includes a compensator housing, a compensating diaphragm, a base, and a seal. The compensating diaphragm is installed between the compensator housing and the base. The base includes a connecting portion connected to the differential pressure compensation port. The seal is disposed between the differential pressure compensation port and the connecting portion. The compensating diaphragm includes a compensation cavity with a first opening facing the connecting portion and communicating with the interior of the housing through the connecting portion. The compensator housing is provided with a second opening that allows the compensating diaphragm to communicate with the external environment, so that the external environmental pressure compresses the compensating diaphragm, maintaining the oil pressure in the hydraulic cavity equal to the external environmental pressure.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the compensation cavity includes a cylindrical segment and a convex spherical segment extending axially from the cylindrical segment. The convex spherical segment has a circular chamfered surface coaxially disposed in the middle of the cylindrical segment. One end of the cylindrical segment forms the first opening, and an mounting edge extends radially along the cylindrical segment.

[0013] The base includes a connecting plate, and an annular platform extends axially along the periphery of the inner end of the connecting plate. A first thread is provided on the outer circle of the annular platform, and a limiting boss extends from the inner annular edge of the annular platform.

[0014] The compensator housing includes a cylindrical body, a radially outwardly extending radial annular plate, and an axial annular plate extending perpendicularly to the radial annular plate. The compensating cavity is disposed inside the cylindrical body. A second opening is formed at one end of the cylindrical body to expose the convex spherical section. A second thread that mates with the first thread is provided on the inner circle of the axial annular plate. A convex pressing edge extends from the mounting edge toward the radial annular plate.

[0015] The mounting edge extends between the radial annular plate and the annular platform, and the mounting edge is radially limited by the limiting boss, while the convex pressing edge is pressed tightly onto the annular platform by the radial annular plate.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, an annular relief groove is provided on the axial annular plate adjacent to the radial annular plate, and a step structure is formed between the annular relief groove and the second thread.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, the annular platform is provided with a first annular mounting groove, and the annular mounting groove is fitted with a first sealing ring located between the annular platform and the radial annular plate.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, the connecting portion is configured as a hollow threaded column extending axially to the middle of the outer end of the connecting disc, and the hollow threaded column is threadedly connected to the differential pressure compensation hole.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, a notch is provided on the outer circle of the bottom of the hollow threaded column, and an abutting boss extends from the inner end of the connecting disc near the notch. The abutting boss is used to limit the hollow threaded column when it is threadedly connected to the differential pressure compensation hole. The sealing element is configured as a second sealing ring located between the notch and the abutting boss.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, the number and size of the differential pressure compensators are determined according to the external environment, wherein the formula for calculating the compensation volume V0 of the differential pressure compensator is:

[0021] V0 = V1 + V2

[0022] Wherein, V1 is the volume compression of the oil inside the hydraulic cavity;

[0023] V1=β W ×V×(P-P0)

[0024] Where, βW The coefficient of hydraulic compressibility is given in MPa. -1 The ambient temperature is 20℃, and β is taken as... W =0.0006MPa -1 V is the initial volume of the oil, in meters. 3 P is the maximum external environmental pressure, in MPa; P0 is atmospheric pressure, with a value of P0 = 0.1 MPa.

[0025] V2 is the volume change caused by the change in oil temperature inside the hydraulic cavity;

[0026] V2 = V × β × (T2 - T1)

[0027] Where β is the average volumetric expansion coefficient as the temperature increases from T1 to T2, and is taken as 0.00065 / ℃.

[0028] In one embodiment of the present invention, the valve block further includes a mounting side located beside the mounting end face, and the mounting side of the valve block is also provided with an internal thread interface and an output hydraulic oil circuit interface for the electromagnetic control valve. The integrated valve group further includes a regulating valve threadedly connected to the internal thread interface, and the regulating valve includes a speed regulating valve and / or a pressure regulating valve.

[0029] The valve block is also equipped with an oil filling valve for filling the hydraulic cavity with oil, and the tank cover is equipped with an air vent valve for venting the hydraulic cavity when filling it with oil.

[0030] The cover of the enclosure is also equipped with an explosion-proof valve. The explosion-proof valve is designed to open at a pressure of 0.6 bar. When the oil pressure inside the enclosure changes due to changes in the ambient temperature or the oil volume caused by leakage from the hydraulic valves on the integrated valve assembly, which affects the structural safety of the enclosure, the explosion-proof valve will automatically open to release pressure, effectively protecting the safety and reliability of the integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box in the deep-sea environment.

[0031] In one embodiment of the present invention, a watertight socket is also installed on the side of the housing, and an electrical signal cable is provided on the watertight socket. The electrical signal cable connects the control line of the electromagnetic control valve and is connected to the watertight socket through an external watertight cable to control the operation of the electromagnetic control valve.

[0032] The valve block is also equipped with a water leakage alarm on its mounting end face to issue an alarm signal when external seawater leaks into the hydraulic cavity.

[0033] In one embodiment of the present invention, the box cover is made of transparent material, a first sealing ring is installed between the box cover and the box body, and a second sealing ring is installed between the box body and the mounting end face of the valve block.

[0034] The technical solution of the present invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0035] This invention discloses an integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box. By incorporating a differential pressure compensator (comprising a differential pressure compensation orifice, a compensation diaphragm, a compensator housing, and a base) on the box body, the oil pressure within the internal hydraulic chamber can be synchronously adjusted according to changes in the external deep-sea environmental pressure. The compensation diaphragm's compensation chamber is connected to the external environment; when the deep-sea environmental pressure increases, the compensation diaphragm is compressed, synchronously transmitting pressure to the hydraulic oil inside the box, achieving pressure balance between the internal and external environments. Under extremely high water pressure conditions in the deep sea, this invention eliminates the need for thickening the box walls to resist external forces. Instead, it utilizes a compensation diaphragm for flexible compensation, maintaining equal internal hydraulic oil pressure with the external environment. This significantly reduces the pressure requirements of the box, effectively decreasing its structural dimensions and overall weight, and improving the long-term reliability and safety of the underwater valve box mounted on an underwater submersible in deep-sea environments.

[0036] In this invention, the coil housing of the electromagnetic control valve is connected to the hydraulic cavity inside the valve housing via a pressure balancing port, allowing hydraulic oil to fill the coil housing and eliminating the pressure differential problem caused by the vacuum cavity in conventional electromagnetic valves. Under the high pressure conditions of deep sea, if there is a vacuum or low pressure environment inside the coil cavity, the external high pressure can easily crush the housing, affecting the normal operation and lifespan of the valve assembly. By connecting the coil housing to the hydraulic oil and automatically balancing the internal and external pressures, this invention significantly improves the electromagnetic control valve's resistance to high external environmental pressures and its service life, ensuring long-term stable operation of the valve box in deep sea environments.

[0037] This invention employs an integrated design, organically integrating multiple electromagnetic control valves, regulating valves, filling valves, venting valves, explosion-proof valves, water leakage alarms, and other hydraulic components into a compact valve block and housing. Simultaneously, through the flexible arrangement and optimized design of the differential pressure compensator, the overall structure significantly reduces size and weight while maintaining high reliability. Compared to conventional valve boxes requiring heavy, pressure-resistant shells, this invention's lightweight design effectively reduces the overall weight and power consumption load of equipment in applications such as deep-sea submersibles and unmanned underwater robots, thereby improving operational efficiency and deep-sea mobility.

[0038] The integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box of this invention allows for flexible adjustment of the number and size of differential pressure compensators based on external environmental pressure, application scenarios, and operational requirements. By adjusting the regulating valves (speed regulating valves, pressure regulating valves) and internal threaded interfaces mounted on the valve block, precise control of the output pressure and flow rate of different actuators can be achieved. Furthermore, other functional hydraulic valves and pressure sensors can be integrated onto the valve block to meet diverse deep-sea operational needs. Attached Figure Description

[0039] To make the content of this invention easier to understand, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of one side of the integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the other side of the integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box of the present invention after the cover is hidden.

[0043] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the electromagnetic control valve of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the differential pressure compensator of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 6 This is an exploded structural diagram of the differential pressure compensator of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 7 This is a half-section axial side view of the differential pressure compensator of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A partially enlarged structural diagram.

[0048] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the compensation membrane of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the housing of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of one side of the valve block of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the other side of the valve block of the present invention.

[0052] Explanation of reference numerals on the accompanying drawings:

[0053] 1. Enclosure; 11. Hydraulic chamber; 12. Differential pressure compensation hole; 13. Watertight socket;

[0054] 2. Box lid; 21. Vent valve; 22. Explosion-proof valve; 23. First sealing ring; 24. Second sealing ring;

[0055] 3. Valve block; 31. Mounting end face; 32. Mounting side; 33. Internal thread interface; 34. Output hydraulic oil circuit interface; 35. Leakage alarm;

[0056] 4. Integrated valve assembly; 41. Solenoid control valve; 411. Pressure balance port; 42. Regulating valve; 43. Oil filling valve;

[0057] 5. Differential pressure compensator; 51. Compensator housing; 511. Cylinder; 511a. Second opening; 512. Radial annular plate; 512a. Convex pressing edge; 512b. Stepped structure; 513. Axial annular plate; 513a. Annular clearance groove; 52. Compensation membrane; 521. Compensation cavity; 521a. Cylindrical section; 521b. Convex spherical section; 521c. Mounting edge; 521d. First opening; 521e. Circular chamfered surface; 53. Base; 531. Connecting plate; 531a. Abutting boss; 532. Annular platform; 532a. Annular mounting groove; 532b. First sealing ring; 533. Limiting boss; 534. Connecting part; 534a. Hollow threaded column; 534b. Notch; 54. Seal. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, so that those skilled in the art can better understand and implement the present invention. However, the embodiments described are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0059] In this invention, when directions (up, down, left, right, front, and back) are described, it is only for the convenience of describing the technical solution of this invention, and does not indicate or imply that the technical features referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

[0060] In this invention, "several" means one or more, "multiple" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," "exceeding," etc., are understood to exclude the stated number; "above," "below," "within," etc., are understood to include the stated number. In the description of this invention, the terms "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.

[0061] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly defined, the terms "setting," "installing," and "connecting" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integrally formed connection; a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection capable of mutual communication; or the internal connection of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific content of the technical solution.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 As shown, an integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box of the present invention includes:

[0063] The housing 1 includes a first open end and a second open end that are arranged opposite to each other, and a differential pressure compensation hole 12 is provided on the side of the housing 1.

[0064] Box cover 2 is sealed and installed at the first opening end of the box body 1;

[0065] The valve block 3 includes a mounting end face 31 that is sealed and installed at the first open end of the housing 1, wherein a hydraulic cavity 11 is formed between the housing cover 2, the housing 1 and the mounting end face 31, and the hydraulic cavity 11 is filled with hydraulic oil.

[0066] An integrated valve assembly 4 is mounted on the valve block 3; wherein, the integrated valve assembly 4 includes a plurality of electromagnetic control valves 41 located inside the hydraulic chamber 11, each electromagnetic control valve 41 including a coil housing and an electromagnet coil located inside the coil housing, the coil housing being provided with a pressure balance port 411, so that the hydraulic oil of the hydraulic chamber 11 enters the coil housing through the pressure balance port 411 to balance the pressure inside and outside the coil housing;

[0067] The differential pressure compensator 5 includes a compensator housing 51, a compensating diaphragm 52, a base 53, and a sealing element 54. The compensating diaphragm 52 is installed between the compensator housing 51 and the base 53. The base 53 includes a connecting portion 534 connected to the differential pressure compensation hole 12. The sealing element 54 is disposed between the differential pressure compensation hole 12 and the connecting portion 534. The compensating diaphragm 52 includes a compensation cavity 521 with a first opening 521d. The first opening 521d faces the connecting portion 534 and communicates with the interior of the housing 1 through the connecting portion 534. The compensator housing 51 is provided with a second opening 511a that allows the compensating diaphragm 52 to communicate with the external environment, so that the external environmental pressure compresses the compensating diaphragm 52, maintaining the oil pressure inside the hydraulic cavity 11 (inside the housing 1) equal to the external environmental pressure.

[0068] Understandably, the hydraulic pressure in the hydraulic chamber 11 inside the housing 1 can be adjusted synchronously with changes in the external deep-sea environmental pressure. The compensation chamber 521 of the compensation membrane 52 is connected to the external environment. When the deep-sea environmental pressure increases, the compensation membrane 52 is compressed, synchronously transmitting the pressure to the hydraulic oil inside the housing 1, achieving pressure balance between the inside and outside environments of the housing 1. Under extremely high water pressure conditions in the deep sea, there is no need to thicken the walls of the housing 1 to resist external forces. Instead, the compensation membrane 52 provides flexible compensation, thereby maintaining the internal hydraulic oil pressure equal to the external pressure, significantly reducing the pressure-bearing requirements of the shell structure. This feature effectively reduces the structural size and overall weight of the valve box, improving the long-term reliability and safety of the valve box in the deep-sea environment.

[0069] Furthermore, to enable the solenoid control valve 41 to operate under external pressure environments, pressure balancing ports 411 (such as two) are provided on the solenoid control valve 41. Oil is introduced into the coil housing through these ports, ensuring that the oil pressure inside the coil housing remains consistent with the external deep-sea pressure in real time. At this time, the oil inside the housing 1 enters the coil housing through the pressure balancing ports 411 and comes into contact with the electromagnet coil. Compared to conventional standard solenoid valves, this avoids the vacuum environment inside the electromagnet coil being increased by the hydraulic oil inside the housing 1 due to environmental pressure compensation, thus preventing the electromagnet coil housing from bursting. This is because under deep-sea high-pressure conditions, if there is a vacuum or low-pressure environment inside the coil cavity, the external high pressure can easily crush the housing, affecting the normal operation and lifespan of the valve assembly. By connecting the coil housing to the hydraulic oil and automatically balancing the internal and external pressures, the high-pressure resistance and service life of the solenoid control valve 41 are significantly improved, ensuring long-term stable operation of the valve box in the deep-sea environment.

[0070] Reference Figure 9 As shown, the compensation cavity 521 includes a cylindrical segment 521a and a convex spherical segment 521b extending axially from the cylindrical segment 521a. The convex spherical segment 521b has a circular chamfered surface 521e coaxially arranged with the cylindrical segment 521a in its middle. One end of the cylindrical segment 521a forms the first opening 521d, and a mounting edge 521c extends radially along the cylindrical segment 521a. The circular chamfered surface 521e ensures that the external environmental pressure is uniformly applied to the compensation membrane 52. The convex spherical segment 521b can undergo flexible deformation when the external environmental pressure changes. When the deep-sea pressure increases, the convex spherical segment 521b will be compressed and deformed, and the volume of oil inside the cavity will change accordingly, thereby keeping the oil pressure inside the housing 1 consistent with the external pressure. This spherical protrusion structure, compared to a pure planar or single curved surface design, can more evenly distribute stress, reduce stress concentration, and improve the reliability and lifespan of the compensation membrane 52 under high-pressure conditions.

[0071] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 8As shown, the base 53 includes a connecting plate 531, and an annular platform 532 extends axially along the periphery of the inner end of the connecting plate 531. A first thread is provided on the outer circle of the annular platform 532, and a limiting boss 533 extends from the inner annular edge of the annular platform 532.

[0072] The compensator housing 51 includes a cylindrical body 511, a radially outwardly extending radial annular plate 512, and an axial annular plate 513 extending perpendicularly to the radial annular plate 512. The compensating cavity 521 is disposed inside the cylindrical body 511. A second opening 511a is formed at one end of the cylindrical body 511 to expose the convex spherical section 521b. A second thread that mates with the first thread is provided on the inner circle of the axial annular plate 513. A convex pressing edge 512a extends from the mounting edge 521c toward the radial annular plate 512.

[0073] The mounting edge 521c extends between the radial annular plate 512 and the annular platform 532. The mounting edge 521c is radially limited by the limiting boss 533, and the convex pressing edge 512a is pressed against the annular platform 532 by the radial annular plate 512.

[0074] With the above setup, during installation, the compensation membrane 52 is simply placed on the annular platform 532, and the compensator housing 51 is threadedly connected to the base 53. The radial annular plate 512 presses against the convex pressing edge 512a, thereby pressing and fixing the mounting edge 521c of the compensation membrane 52. The threaded connection, the limiting boss 533, and the pressing method eliminate the need for complex tools, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly of the compensator in the field.

[0075] Reference Figure 8 As shown, an annular relief groove 513a is provided on the axial annular plate 513 near the radial annular plate 512, and a step structure 512b is formed between the annular relief groove 513a and the second thread.

[0076] Specifically, the annular platform 532 is provided with a first annular mounting groove 532a, and the annular mounting groove 532a is fitted with a first sealing ring 532b located between the annular platform 532 and the radial annular plate 512.

[0077] Reference Figure 7 As shown, the connecting part 534 is constructed as a hollow threaded post 534a extending axially to the middle of the outer end of the connecting disk 531, and the hollow threaded post 534a is threadedly connected to the differential pressure compensation hole 12.

[0078] The base 53 is directly connected to the differential pressure compensation hole 12 via a hollow threaded post 534a, resulting in a compact and secure connection that allows for easy and quick docking with the valve box 1.

[0079] Specifically, refer to Figure 7 As shown, a notch 534b is provided on the outer circle of the bottom of the hollow threaded column 534a. An abutment boss 531a extends from the inner end of the connecting disc 531 near the notch 534b. The abutment boss 531a is used to limit the hollow threaded column 534a when it is threadedly connected to the differential pressure compensation hole 12. The sealing element 54 is configured as a second sealing ring located between the notch 534b and the abutment boss 531a. This ensures that the compensating hydraulic oil filled inside the housing 1 will not leak externally, and also ensures that water pressure from the external environment will not seep into the housing 1.

[0080] It should be noted that the compensation cavity 521 of the supplementary membrane is a combination of a cylindrical section 521a and a convex spherical section 521b, which enables a large oil compensation volume in a limited space. The cylindrical section 521a is used to provide a stable installation reference and circumferential support, so that the compensation membrane 52 can be reliably installed between the compensator housing 51 and the base 53, and ensures a tight fit with the connecting parts 534 (such as the annular platform 532, the radial annular plate 512, etc.) to form a stable sealing structure.

[0081] Furthermore, the differential pressure compensator 5 is easy to disassemble and install. Users can choose to install one or more differential pressure compensators 5 according to the deep-sea working pressure environment, the internal oil capacity of the housing 1, and the required number of functional configurations. The overall size is relatively small, and 2-4 compensators can be installed on the side of the housing 1, allowing for flexible arrangement of the compensators within the limited valve box layout space. Through the structural design of the differential pressure compensator 5, the structural size and weight of the integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box are significantly reduced, facilitating its installation on deep-sea submersibles and underwater work tools.

[0082] The compensation membrane 52 is made of an elastomer material with high elasticity, high pressure resistance, corrosion resistance, and excellent anti-aging properties, such as special rubber, fluororubber, or polyurethane elastomer. It meets the requirements for long-term use in the high-pressure, low-temperature, and highly corrosive seawater environment of the deep sea, maintaining good elastic deformation capacity and sealing performance under extreme deep-sea conditions, and will not age rapidly or experience severe performance degradation due to changes in seawater, pressure, or temperature.

[0083] Specifically, the number and size of the differential pressure compensators 5 are determined according to the external environment, wherein the calculation formula for the compensation volume V0 of the differential pressure compensator 5 is as follows:

[0084] V0 = V1 + V2

[0085] Wherein, V1 is the volume compression of the oil inside the hydraulic cavity 11;

[0086] V1=βW ×V×(P-P0)

[0087] Where, β W The coefficient of hydraulic compressibility is given in MPa. -1 The ambient temperature is 20℃, and β is taken as... W =0.0006MPa -1 V is the initial volume of the oil, in meters. 3 P is the maximum external environmental pressure, in MPa; P0 is atmospheric pressure, with a value of P0 = 0.1 MPa.

[0088] V2 is the volume change caused by the change in oil temperature inside the hydraulic cavity 11;

[0089] V2 = V × β × (T2 - T1)

[0090] Where β is the average volumetric expansion coefficient as the temperature increases from T1 to T2, and is taken as 0.00065 / ℃.

[0091] When facing different deep-sea operating depths (corresponding to high environmental pressures) and different temperature differences, the required compensation volume can be accurately calculated using the above formula. This allows the number and size of the compensators to be flexibly determined based on measured or predicted pressure and temperature boundary conditions, avoiding both excessively large compensators and insufficient compensation capacity leading to system pressure imbalance.

[0092] In one embodiment, refer to Figure 11 As shown, the valve block 3 also includes a mounting side 32 located beside the mounting end face 31. The mounting side 32 of the valve block 3 is also provided with an internal thread interface 33 and an output hydraulic oil circuit interface 34 for the electromagnetic control valve 41. In order to adapt to long-term operation in the external deep seawater environment, the output hydraulic oil circuit interface 34 is designed to be made of stainless steel or titanium alloy.

[0093] The integrated valve assembly 4 also includes a regulating valve 42 that is threadedly connected to the internal thread interface 33. In order to facilitate the adjustment of the operating speed and working pressure of the external actuator driven by the control valve box, and to adapt to long-term operation in the external deep seawater environment, the regulating valve 42 is a speed regulating valve or pressure regulating valve made of stainless steel or titanium alloy.

[0094] To ensure that the inside of housing 1 is evenly filled with hydraulic oil, refer to Figure 11 As shown, the valve block 3 is also equipped with an oil filling valve 43 for filling the hydraulic chamber 11 with oil; see reference. Figure 1As shown, a vent valve 21 (exhaust port) is installed on the cover 2 for venting oil from the hydraulic chamber 11 during filling. The vent valve 21 is specifically located at the four corners of the cover 2. The filling valve 43, in conjunction with the vent valve 21, fills the chamber 1 with hydraulic oil. According to the pressure design of the differential pressure compensator 5, the pre-filled hydraulic oil pressure is between 0.3 and 0.5 bar.

[0095] To facilitate the adaptation of this integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box to the temperature variations of both onshore and deep-sea environments, referencing Figure 1 As shown, an explosion-proof valve 22 is also installed on the cover 2 (via threaded connection). The explosion-proof valve 22 is selected with an opening pressure of 0.6 bar. When the oil pressure in the hydraulic chamber 11 changes due to changes in the ambient temperature or the oil volume caused by leakage of the hydraulic valve on the integrated valve group 4, which affects the structural safety of the chamber 1, the explosion-proof valve 22 will automatically open to release pressure, so that the chamber 1 always maintains the preset filling pressure value, effectively protecting the safety and reliability of the integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box in the deep-sea environment.

[0096] It should be noted that other hydraulic valves, pressure sensors, and relief valves for regulating the input working oil pressure can also be integrated on valve block 3.

[0097] In one embodiment, refer to Figure 2 As shown, a watertight socket 13 is also installed on the side of the housing 1. An electrical signal cable is provided on the watertight socket 13. The electrical signal cable connects the control line of the electromagnetic control valve 41 and connects to the watertight socket 13 through an external watertight cable to control the operation of the electromagnetic control valve 41.

[0098] Reference Figure 11 As shown, the mounting end face 31 of the valve block 3 is also equipped with a water leakage alarm 35, which can detect water molecules. When the box 1 is leaking due to sealing damage, and external seawater leaks into the box 1, it can immediately issue an alarm signal.

[0099] In one embodiment, the cover 2 is made of a transparent material, such as a transparent PC board, allowing real-time observation of the working status of the integrated valve assembly 4 inside the enclosure 1; the cover 2 is installed on the top of the enclosure 1 using screws; see reference. Figure 3 As shown, a first sealing ring 23 is installed between the cover 2 and the body 1. The sealing ring groove for installing the first sealing ring 23 is designed for bidirectional sealing, ensuring that the compensating hydraulic oil filled inside the body 1 will not leak externally, and also preventing water pressure from the external environment from seeping into the body 1. Furthermore, the body 1 is designed as a single, integrally machined unit, mitigating the risk of structural instability in deep-sea environments caused by welded bodies. The bottom of the body 1 is mounted on the integrated valve assembly 4 with screws, as shown in the reference diagram. Figure 11 As shown, a second sealing ring 24 is installed between the housing 1 and the mounting end face 31 of the valve block 3. The sealing ring groove for installing the second sealing ring 24 is designed for bidirectional sealing, which can ensure that the compensation hydraulic oil filled inside the housing 1 will not leak externally, and also ensure that the water pressure of the external environment will not seep into the housing 1.

[0100] The above design fully considers ease of maintenance and use. The differential pressure compensator 5, the tank cover 2 and bottom mounting screws, the first sealing ring 23 and the second sealing ring 24, the transparent PC board tank cover 2, the vent valve 21, the oil filling valve 43, the explosion-proof valve 22, the watertight socket 13, and the water leakage alarm 35 are all rationally laid out and have optimized sealing structures to achieve rapid assembly and convenient disassembly. The bidirectional sealing design of the sealing ring groove, the explosion-proof valve 22, and the vent valve 21 not only ensures the long-term sealing and stability of the equipment in deep-sea environments.

[0101] Finally, it should be noted that the above specific embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and not to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to examples, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention, and all such modifications or substitutions should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box, characterized in that, include: The housing (1) includes a first opening end and a second opening end arranged opposite to each other, and a differential pressure compensation hole (12) is provided on the side of the housing (1); The lid (2) is sealed and installed at the first opening end of the box body (1); The valve block (3) includes a mounting end face (31) that is sealed and installed at the first open end of the housing (1), wherein a hydraulic cavity (11) is formed between the housing cover (2), the housing (1) and the mounting end face (31), and the hydraulic cavity (11) is filled with hydraulic oil. An integrated valve assembly (4) is installed on the valve block (3); wherein the integrated valve assembly (4) includes a plurality of electromagnetic control valves (41) located inside the hydraulic chamber (11), the electromagnetic control valve (41) includes a coil housing and an electromagnet coil located inside the coil housing, the coil housing is provided with a pressure balance port (411) so that the hydraulic oil of the hydraulic chamber (11) enters the coil housing through the pressure balance port (411) to balance the pressure inside and outside the coil housing; The differential pressure compensator (5) includes a compensator housing (51), a compensating diaphragm (52), a base (53), and a seal (54). The compensating diaphragm (52) is installed between the compensator housing (51) and the base (53). The base (53) includes a connecting portion (534) connected to the differential pressure compensation hole (12). The seal (54) is disposed between the differential pressure compensation hole (12) and the connecting portion (534). The compensating diaphragm (52) includes a compensation cavity (521) with a first opening (521d). The first opening (521d) faces the connecting portion (534) and communicates with the interior of the housing (1) through the connecting portion (534). The compensator housing (51) is provided with a second opening (511a) that allows the compensating diaphragm (52) to communicate with the external environment, so that the external environmental pressure compresses the compensating diaphragm (52) and maintains the oil pressure in the hydraulic cavity (11) equal to the external environmental pressure.

2. The integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The compensation cavity (521) includes a cylindrical section (521a) and a convex spherical section (521b) extending axially from the cylindrical section (521a). The convex spherical section (521b) has a circular chamfered surface (521e) coaxially arranged with the cylindrical section (521a) in the middle. One end of the cylindrical section (521a) forms the first opening (521d), and a mounting edge (521c) extends radially along the cylindrical section (521a). The base (53) includes a connecting plate (531), and an annular platform (532) extends axially along the periphery of the inner end of the connecting plate (531). A first thread is provided on the outer circle of the annular platform (532), and a limiting boss (533) extends from the inner annular edge of the annular platform (532). The compensator housing (51) includes a cylindrical body (511), a radially outwardly extending radial annular plate (512) and an axial annular plate (513) extending perpendicularly to the radial annular plate (512). The cylindrical body (511) contains the compensating cavity (521). One end of the cylindrical body (511) forms a second opening (511a) to expose the convex spherical segment (521b). The inner circle of the axial annular plate (513) is provided with a second thread that mates with the first thread. A convex pressing edge (512a) extends from the mounting edge (521c) toward the radial annular plate (512). The mounting edge (521c) extends between the radial annular plate (512) and the annular platform (532), the mounting edge (521c) is radially limited by the limiting boss (533), and the convex pressing edge (512a) is pressed against the annular platform (532) by the radial annular plate (512).

3. An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box according to claim 2, characterized in that, An annular relief groove (513a) is provided on the axial annular plate (513) adjacent to the radial annular plate (512), and a step structure (512b) is formed between the annular relief groove (513a) and the second thread.

4. An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box according to claim 2, characterized in that, The annular platform (532) is provided with an annular mounting groove (532a), and the annular mounting groove (532a) is fitted with a first sealing ring (532b) located between the annular platform (532) and the radial annular plate (512).

5. An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting part (534) is configured as a hollow threaded post (534a) extending axially at the middle of the outer end of the connecting disc (531), and the hollow threaded post (534a) is threaded to the differential pressure compensation hole (12).

6. An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box according to claim 5, characterized in that, A notch (534b) is provided on the outer circle of the bottom of the hollow threaded column (534a). An abutment boss (531a) extends from the inner end of the connecting disc (531) near the notch (534b). The abutment boss (531a) is used to limit the hollow threaded column (534a) when it is threadedly connected to the differential pressure compensation hole (12). The seal (54) is configured as a second sealing ring located between the notch (534b) and the abutment boss (531a).

7. An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number and size of the differential pressure compensators (5) are determined according to the external environment. The formula for calculating the compensation volume V0 of the differential pressure compensator (5) is as follows: V0 = V1 + V2 Wherein, V1 is the volume compression of the oil inside the hydraulic cavity (11); V1=β W ×V×(P-P0) Where, β W The coefficient of hydraulic compression is given in MPa⁻¹; the ambient temperature is 20℃, and β is taken as... W =0.0006MPa -1 V is the initial volume of the oil, in meters. 3 P is the maximum external environmental pressure, in MPa; P0 is atmospheric pressure, with a value of P0 = 0.1 MPa. V2 is the volume change caused by the change in oil temperature inside the hydraulic cavity (11); V2 = V × β × (T2 - T1) Where β is the average volumetric expansion coefficient as the temperature increases from T1 to T2, and is taken as 0.00065 / ℃.

8. An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve block (3) also includes a mounting side (32) located beside the mounting end face (31). The mounting side (32) of the valve block (3) is also provided with an internal thread interface (33) and an output hydraulic oil circuit interface (34) for the electromagnetic control valve (41). The integrated valve group (4) also includes a regulating valve (42) threadedly connected to the internal thread interface (33). The regulating valve (42) includes a speed regulating valve and / or a pressure regulating valve. The valve block (3) is also equipped with an oil filling valve (43) for filling the hydraulic cavity (11) with oil, and the cover (2) is equipped with an air vent valve (21) for venting the hydraulic cavity (11) when filling it with oil. An explosion-proof valve (22) is also installed on the cover (2). The explosion-proof valve is designed to open at a pressure of 0.6 bar. When the oil pressure in the box is affected by changes in the ambient temperature or the increase in the amount of oil caused by leakage of the hydraulic valve on the integrated valve group, the explosion-proof valve can automatically open to release pressure.

9. An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box according to claim 1, characterized in that, A watertight socket (13) is also installed on the side of the housing (1). An electrical signal cable is provided on the watertight socket (13). The electrical signal cable connects the control line of the electromagnetic control valve (41) and connects to the watertight socket (13) through an external watertight cable to control the operation of the electromagnetic control valve (41). The valve block (3) is also equipped with a water leakage alarm (35) on its mounting end face (31) to issue an alarm signal when external seawater leaks into the hydraulic cavity (11).

10. An integrated deep-sea hydraulic control valve box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lid (2) is made of transparent material. A first sealing ring (23) is installed between the lid (2) and the body (1). A second sealing ring (24) is installed between the body (1) and the mounting end face (31) of the valve block (3).

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