Modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device and underwater vehicle

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of underwater vehicles, in particular to a modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device and an underwater vehicle. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device comprises a plurality of power unit groups, a plurality of pressure reduction units and a flow guide assembly. Each power unit group comprises a plurality of power units, each of which has a first storage chamber for storing liquid carbon dioxide. The plurality of pressure reduction units correspond to the plurality of power unit groups one by one. Each pressure reduction unit has a pressure reduction chamber, the pressure reduction chambers are selectively communicated with the corresponding first storage chambers, and the pressure reduction chambers of the plurality of pressure reduction units are communicated with each other. The flow guide assembly has a first air inlet and a first air outlet. The first air inlet is communicated with at least one of the plurality of pressure reduction chambers, and the first air outlet is communicated with a ballast water tank. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device has the advantages of small space occupation, high safety and efficiency and strong drainage capacity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of underwater vehicle technology, and in particular to a modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device and an underwater vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, when underwater vehicles experience unexpected situations such as rudder jamming, water ingress, or depth loss, it is necessary to quickly expel some of the stored seawater to provide positive buoyancy and enable the underwater vehicle to safely surface. At present, medium and large-sized underwater vehicles mainly use compressed air drainage systems or high-temperature gas drainage systems. However, as the operating depth of underwater vehicles gradually increases, compressed air drainage is significantly affected by back pressure, resulting in a significant decrease in drainage capacity; high-temperature gas drainage produces gases such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen, which pose a risk of secondary combustion and are also detrimental to safety. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device and an underwater vehicle, which solves the technical problem of large space occupation of drainage devices. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device occupies little space, is safe and efficient, and has strong drainage capacity.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the main technical solutions adopted in this application include:

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device, comprising multiple power unit groups, multiple pressure reducing units, and a flow guiding assembly. Each power unit group includes multiple power units, and each power unit has a first storage chamber for storing liquid carbon dioxide. The multiple pressure reducing units correspond one-to-one with the multiple power unit groups, and each pressure reducing unit has a pressure reducing chamber, which can be selectively connected to the corresponding first storage chamber. The pressure reducing chambers of the multiple pressure reducing units are interconnected. The flow guiding assembly has a first air inlet and a first air outlet. The first air inlet is connected to at least one of the multiple pressure reducing chambers, and the first air outlet is connected to a ballast water tank.

[0006] The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device proposed in this application has multiple power unit groups and multiple pressure reduction units corresponding one-to-one, forming a modular design. Each module occupies little space and is suitable for narrow spaces. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device can be set in places with limited space as needed, saving the space occupied by the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device.

[0007] Furthermore, the drainage capacity of the device can be adjusted by changing the working time interval between each power unit group, thus achieving the goal of adjusting the drainage capacity according to the operating conditions. The liquid carbon dioxide working fluid used in this application is inherently very low-cost, can be reused after refilling, and has low maintenance costs.

[0008] Optionally, the plurality of pressure reducing units include a first pressure reducing unit, the first pressure reducing unit being connected to the flow guiding assembly via a flow guiding pipe; in the direction from the first pressure reducing unit to the flow guiding assembly, the flow guiding pipe includes a first segment and a second segment connected in sequence, the end of the first segment away from the second segment communicating with the pressure reducing chamber of the first pressure reducing unit, the end of the second segment away from the first segment communicating with the first air inlet, and the inner diameter of the first segment being larger than the inner diameter of the second segment.

[0009] In the above scheme, since the inner diameter of the second section is smaller than that of the first section, the carbon dioxide that has been depressurized in the depressurization chamber enters the second section through the first section. The flow resistance of the carbon dioxide increases and the flow rate of the carbon dioxide decreases, which helps to reduce heat transfer and thus improve the drainage efficiency of supercritical carbon dioxide.

[0010] Optionally, the second segment defines a first flow channel, and a partition is provided in the second segment to divide the first flow channel into two first sub-flow channels. The partition has a plurality of spaced through holes that connect the two first sub-flow channels.

[0011] In the above scheme, the through holes on the baffle reduce the flow rate of carbon dioxide, which is beneficial to further improve the drainage efficiency of supercritical carbon dioxide.

[0012] Optionally, the diameter of the through hole is d, which satisfies: 3mm≤d≤5mm.

[0013] In the above scheme, carbon dioxide can pass through quickly, and it can also play a certain role in blocking impurities or substances generated by incomplete combustion of the reagent.

[0014] Optionally, the guide tube further includes a third section, one end of which is connected to the second section in the length direction, and the other end of which is connected to the first air inlet of the guide assembly. The inner diameter of the third section is larger than the inner diameter of the second section.

[0015] In the above scheme, since the inner diameter of the third section is larger than that of the second section, carbon dioxide enters the third section from the second section, its volume expands further, and its flow rate decreases further, thereby further reducing the rate of heat exchange between carbon dioxide and water and improving the drainage efficiency of carbon dioxide gas.

[0016] Optionally, the inner diameter of the third segment is d1, and the inner diameter of the second segment is d2, satisfying: 1 ≤ d1 / d2 ≤ 1.5. This allows the carbon dioxide to expand sufficiently within the third segment, thereby further reducing the rate of heat exchange between carbon dioxide and water and improving the drainage efficiency of the carbon dioxide gas.

[0017] Optionally, the outer periphery of the cross-section of each power unit is constructed as a regular hexagon.

[0018] In the above scheme, the outer peripheral walls of any two adjacent regular hexagonal power units are in contact, which reduces the gap between two adjacent power units and reduces the space occupied by the power unit group.

[0019] Optionally, each of the power unit groups further includes a connecting plate, the connecting plate having a plurality of mounting holes, each mounting hole corresponding to a plurality of the power units, one end of each power unit being connected to the pressure reducing unit, and the other end being connected to the mounting hole, the mounting hole being a regular hexagonal hole.

[0020] In the above scheme, the hexagonal mounting holes can reduce the rotation of the power unit, thereby reducing the leakage of liquid carbon dioxide inside the power unit.

[0021] Optionally, the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device further includes an exciter, which is disposed in the first storage chamber. The exciter is configured to receive a control signal and generate heat so that the liquid carbon dioxide absorbs heat and is converted into high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide.

[0022] In the above scheme, the activating agent can communicate with an external control unit. After receiving the activation signal from the control unit, the activating agent undergoes a chemical reaction, thereby generating heat, causing the liquid carbon dioxide to absorb heat and undergo a phase change to transform into high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide.

[0023] Optionally, the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device further includes a first mounting base and a second mounting base. The first mounting base includes a plurality of first mounting components, and the second mounting base includes a plurality of second mounting components. Each pressure reducing unit is mounted on a corresponding first mounting component, and each power unit group is mounted on a corresponding second mounting component. The first mounting component includes a first part and a second part, and a first mounting hole is defined between the first part and the second part. The pressure reducing unit is fixed to the first mounting hole, and the first part and the second part are detachably connected. The second mounting component includes a third part and a fourth part, and a second mounting hole is defined between the third part and the fourth part. The power unit group is fixed to the second mounting hole, and the third part and the fourth part are detachably connected.

[0024] In the above scheme, the first mounting component and the second mounting component fix the pressure reducing unit and the power unit group respectively, thereby improving the structural stability of the pressure reducing unit and the power unit group.

[0025] Secondly, this application also provides an underwater vehicle, including the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device described in any of the above embodiments.

[0026] In the above scheme, the drainage capacity can be adjusted by changing the amount of liquid carbon dioxide emitted as needed, achieving the goal of adjusting the drainage capacity according to operating conditions, thus enabling the underwater vehicle to adapt to more scenarios. Furthermore, because the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device adopts a modular design, it can be installed in any narrow space within the underwater vehicle as needed, thereby reducing the space occupied by the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device of this application.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device of this application.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting plate in this application;

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the partition structure of this application;

[0032] Figure 5 This is the carbon dioxide recovery device for this application.

[0033] [Explanation of Labels in the Attached Image]

[0034] 1: Power unit group; 11: Power unit;

[0035] 2: Pressure Reduction Unit;

[0036] 3: Airflow guide assembly; 31: First air inlet; 32: First air outlet;

[0037] 4: Guide tube; 41: First section; 42: Second section; 43: Third section; 44: Baffle plate; 441: Through hole;

[0038] 5: Connecting plate; 50: Mounting hole;

[0039] 6: First mounting component; 61: First part; 62: Second part;

[0040] 7: Second mounting component; 71: Third part; 72: Fourth part;

[0041] 8: Carbon dioxide recovery unit; 81: Gas-liquid separation assembly; 82: Gas capture assembly; 83: Recovery chamber; 84: Cooling assembly; 85: Compression assembly;

[0042] 9: Ballast water tank. Detailed Implementation

[0043] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0044] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0045] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a mutually exclusive, independent, or alternative embodiment. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this application can be combined with other embodiments.

[0046] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0047] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0048] In this application, "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), and similarly, "multiple groups" refers to two or more (including two), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two).

[0049] Currently, when underwater vehicles encounter unexpected situations such as rudder jamming, water ingress, or depth loss, it is necessary to quickly discharge some of the stored seawater in a short period of time to provide positive buoyancy and enable the underwater vehicle to safely surface.

[0050] Currently, medium and large underwater vehicles mainly employ either compressed air drainage systems or high-temperature gas drainage systems. Compressed air drainage systems pre-compress and store air in high-pressure air cylinders. When needed, the valve on the pipeline connecting the air cylinder and the water tank is opened to introduce high-pressure air into the water tank, thereby draining the internal seawater. High-temperature gas drainage systems seal solid agents in a gas generator. When needed, an electrical signal ignites the agent, causing a chemical reaction that generates high-temperature gas, which is then injected into the water tank to drain the internal seawater.

[0051] As underwater vehicles operate at increasing depths, compressed air drainage becomes significantly affected by back pressure, resulting in a marked decrease in drainage capacity. Furthermore, the carbon monoxide and hydrogen produced during high-temperature exhaust gas drainage pose a risk of secondary combustion and compromise safety. Additionally, current drainage systems occupy considerable space, leading to insufficient internal space within the vehicle.

[0052] Therefore, this application proposes a modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device that occupies little space, is safe and efficient, and has a strong drainage capacity, which can provide new protection for the navigation safety of underwater vehicles.

[0053] Firstly, reference Figure 1 and Figure 2This application provides a modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device, including multiple power unit groups 1, multiple pressure reducing units 2, and a flow guiding assembly 3. Each power unit group 1 includes multiple power units 11, each power unit 11 having a first storage chamber for storing liquid carbon dioxide. The multiple pressure reducing units 2 correspond one-to-one with the multiple power unit groups 1, each pressure reducing unit 2 having a pressure reducing chamber, which can be selectively connected to the corresponding first storage chamber. The pressure reducing chambers of the multiple pressure reducing units 2 are interconnected. The flow guiding assembly 3 has a first air inlet 31 and a first air outlet 32. The first air inlet 31 is connected to at least one of the multiple pressure reducing chambers, and the first air outlet 32 ​​is connected to the ballast water tank 9.

[0054] Multiple power unit groups 1 and multiple pressure reducing units 2 are corresponding one-to-one. Each power unit group 1 includes multiple power units 11, and the chambers within the multiple power units 11 are configured to form a first storage chamber. The first storage chamber and the corresponding pressure reducing chamber can be selectively connected. That is, one power unit group 1 and one pressure reducing unit 2 constitute a power module. This modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device includes multiple power modules, and the pressure reducing chambers of the multiple power modules are interconnected to improve the drainage capacity of the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device.

[0055] Carbon dioxide is liquid under certain pressure and temperature, has a high density, and is easy to store. Liquid carbon dioxide can be rapidly transformed into a supercritical state by increasing temperature and pressure, expanding its volume several times. It has a strong instantaneous work capacity and is non-toxic and pollution-free, making it a novel drainage technology. In the first storage chamber, the liquid carbon dioxide transforms into supercritical carbon dioxide, resulting in a huge volume expansion. This expansion is utilized to perform work and drain water, employing the heat absorption of liquid carbon dioxide to convert it into high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide. This method offers strong drainage capacity and is safe and reliable.

[0056] The decompression chamber in decompression unit 2 can depressurize the carbon dioxide discharged into it. The supercritical carbon dioxide discharged from the first storage chamber has a very high pressure. This high-pressure carbon dioxide enters the decompression chamber, where it can further expand. After decompression, the carbon dioxide enters the flow guiding assembly 3 through the first inlet 31. The flow guiding assembly 3 can rectify and slow down the carbon dioxide flow, allowing it to be discharged into the ballast water tank 9 at a relatively gentle pressure. Furthermore, the flow guiding assembly 3 can further agitate the gaseous carbon dioxide, thereby improving the decompression efficiency.

[0057] The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device proposed in this application has multiple power unit groups 1 and multiple pressure reducing units 2 corresponding one-to-one, forming a modular design. Each module occupies little space and is suitable for narrow spaces. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device can be set in places with limited space as needed, saving the space occupied by the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device.

[0058] Furthermore, the drainage capacity of the device can be adjusted by changing the working time interval between each power unit group 1, thus achieving the goal of adjusting the drainage capacity according to the working conditions. The liquid carbon dioxide working fluid used in this application has extremely low cost, can be reused after filling, and has low maintenance and support costs.

[0059] The flow guiding component 3 in this application is disposed inside the ballast water tank 9. The flow guiding component 3 can prevent seawater from entering its interior, and the interior of the flow guiding component 3 has multiple layers of annular holes. Liquid carbon dioxide in the power unit 11 enters the flow guiding component 3 after being depressurized by the depressurization unit 2. The flow guiding component 3 further depressurizes the carbon dioxide, thereby realizing the drainage of the ballast water tank 9.

[0060] It should be understood that the modular design and manufacturing of power unit group 1 and pressure reducing unit 2 are convenient, cost-effective, and economical. Furthermore, several power modules consisting of power unit group 1 and pressure reducing unit 2 can be connected in series to meet different usage requirements.

[0061] Optionally, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Multiple pressure reducing units 2 include a first pressure reducing unit 2, which is connected to the flow guiding assembly 3 via a flow guiding pipe 4. From the first pressure reducing unit 2 to the flow guiding assembly 3, the flow guiding pipe 4 includes a first section 41 and a second section 42 connected in sequence. The end of the first section 41 away from the second section 42 is connected to the pressure reducing chamber of the first pressure reducing unit 2, and the end of the second section 42 away from the first section 41 is connected to the first air inlet 31. The inner diameter of the first section 41 is larger than the inner diameter of the second section 42.

[0062] The first segment 41 is connected to the first pressure-reducing unit 2, and the space within the first segment 41 communicates with the pressure-reducing chamber of the first pressure-reducing unit 2. The first segment 41 is also connected to the second segment 42, and the second segment 42 is connected to the flow guiding assembly 3. Because the inner diameter of the second segment 42 is smaller than that of the first segment 41, the carbon dioxide that has undergone pressure reduction in the pressure-reducing chamber enters the second segment 42 via the first segment 41. This increases the flow resistance of the carbon dioxide and reduces its flow velocity, which helps to reduce heat transfer and thus improves the drainage efficiency of supercritical carbon dioxide gas.

[0063] Optionally, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4The second section 42 defines the first flow channel. The second section 42 is provided with a partition 44 to divide the first flow channel into two first sub-flow channels. The partition 44 has a plurality of spaced through holes 441 that connect the two first sub-flow channels.

[0064] A baffle 44 is installed within the second section 42, and multiple through holes 441 are spaced apart on the baffle 44. The baffle 44 divides the second section 42 into two first sub-flow channels. Carbon dioxide flows through the through holes 441 on the baffle 44 between the first sub-flow channel connected to the first section 41 and the first sub-flow channel connected to the flow guiding assembly 3. The through holes 441 on the baffle 44 reduce the flow rate of carbon dioxide, which is beneficial to further improving the drainage efficiency of supercritical carbon dioxide.

[0065] Optionally, refer to Figure 4 The diameter of the through-hole 441 is d, which satisfies the condition: 3mm ≤ d ≤ 5mm. This allows carbon dioxide to pass through quickly and also provides some barrier against impurities or substances produced by incomplete combustion of the reagent.

[0066] The through-hole 441 allows for secondary diffusion of high-pressure carbon dioxide, resulting in a better and more uniform mixing of the medium. The diameter of the through-hole 441 should not be too small or too large. If the diameter of the through-hole 441 is too small, it will affect the passage of gas; if the diameter of the through-hole 441 is too large, the number of through-holes 441 set on the partition plate 44 of the same area will be reduced, which is not conducive to the uniform diffusion of carbon dioxide medium.

[0067] The diameter d of the through hole 441 can be 3mm, 3.2mm, 3.4mm, 3.5mm, 3.6mm, 3.8mm, 4.0mm, 4.2mm, 4.5mm, 4.6mm, 4.8mm, 4.9mm or 5mm.

[0068] In another specific embodiment, a through-hole dynamic adjustment part is provided on the partition 44, and the dynamic adjustment part corresponds one-to-one with each through-hole 441. The control unit dynamically adjusts the diameter of the through-hole 441 according to the pressure difference on both sides of the partition 44 to achieve precise pressure reduction. At the same time, by optimizing the diameter of the through-hole 441, the energy loss of fluid when passing through the partition 44 is reduced, and the pressure reduction efficiency is improved.

[0069] The through-hole dynamic adjustment unit can be a mechanical adjustment device, such as an adjustment ring driven by a micro motor installed on the partition 44. The adjustment ring changes the diameter of the through-hole 441 through mechanical movement. When the pressure sensors on both sides of the partition 44 detect an increase in the pressure difference between the two sides of the partition 44, the control unit drives the motor to move the adjustment ring outward, increasing the diameter of the through-hole 441 and reducing the pressure difference between the two sides of the partition 44. When the pressure difference is too small, the drive motor moves the adjustment ring inward, decreasing the diameter of the through-hole 441 and maintaining the system pressure.

[0070] The through-hole dynamic adjustment section can also be a shape memory alloy. When the pressure sensors on both sides of the partition 44 detect an increase in the pressure difference between the two sides of the partition 44, the control unit heats the alloy sheet to expand it, increasing the diameter of the through-hole 441 and reducing flow resistance. When the pressure difference decreases, heating stops, the alloy sheet cools and contracts, and the diameter of the through-hole 441 decreases, maintaining system stability.

[0071] The through-hole dynamic adjustment unit can also be a piezoelectric ceramic regulator, with a piezoelectric ceramic plate embedded at the edge of each through-hole 441 in the partition 44. The ceramic plate is connected to a power source. When the flow sensor detects that the flow rate through the through-hole 441 is too high, the control unit applies voltage to expand the ceramic plate, reducing the diameter of the through-hole 441 and limiting the flow rate. When the flow rate is too low, the voltage is reduced to contract the ceramic plate, increasing the diameter of the through-hole 441 and increasing the flow rate.

[0072] In another specific embodiment, a self-cleaning structure, such as an ultrasonic cleaner, a microbrush, or a scraper, is provided around the through-hole 441 of the partition 44.

[0073] Specifically, multiple ultrasonic transducers are installed on the surface of the partition 44, and the ultrasonic transducers are connected to an ultrasonic generator. When the pressure sensors on both sides of the partition 44 detect an increase in the pressure difference between the two sides of the partition 44, the control unit starts the ultrasonic generator. The ultrasonic generator generates an ultrasonic signal and transmits the ultrasonic signal to the ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic transducer converts the ultrasonic signal into mechanical vibration energy, thereby removing impurities around the through hole 441.

[0074] Alternatively, an annular microbrush or scraper can be provided around each through-hole 441 of the partition 44, with the microbrush driven by a motor. When the flow sensors on both sides of the partition 44 detect a decrease in the flow through the through-hole 441, the control unit starts the motor, and the microbrush or scraper rotates to remove the deposits.

[0075] By setting a self-cleaning structure to clean the partition 44, the blockage of the through hole 441 by impurities is reduced, thereby improving the decompression efficiency.

[0076] Optionally, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The guide tube 4 also includes a third section 43, one end of which is connected to the second section 42 in the length direction, and the other end is connected to the first air inlet 31 of the guide assembly 3. The inner diameter of the third section 43 is larger than the inner diameter of the second section 42.

[0077] The third section 43 connects to the second section 42 and the flow guide component 3. Since the inner diameter of the third section 43 is larger than that of the second section 42, carbon dioxide enters the third section 43 from the second section 42, further expands in volume, and further reduces the flow rate, thereby further reducing the rate of heat exchange between carbon dioxide and water and improving the drainage efficiency of carbon dioxide gas.

[0078] Optionally, the inner diameter of the third segment 43 is d1, and the inner diameter of the second segment 42 is d2, satisfying: 1≤d1 / d2≤1.5.

[0079] This allows carbon dioxide to expand fully within the third section 43, thereby further reducing the rate of heat exchange between carbon dioxide and water and improving the drainage efficiency of the carbon dioxide gas. If the ratio of the inner diameter of the third section 43 to the inner diameter of the second section 42 is less than 1, the overall flow rate of carbon dioxide will be restricted, preventing it from expanding fully and reducing its flow velocity. This will intensify heat exchange with water, thus reducing drainage efficiency. If the ratio of the inner diameter of the third section 43 to the inner diameter of the second section 42 is greater than 1.5, it may cause excessive expansion of carbon dioxide, resulting in an excessive decrease in carbon dioxide pressure and reducing drainage capacity.

[0080] In an alternative embodiment, the ratio of the inner diameter of the third segment 43 to the inner diameter of the second segment 42 is 1.

[0081] Optionally, the outer periphery of the cross-section of each power unit 11 is constructed as a regular hexagon.

[0082] The outer peripheral walls of any two adjacent regular hexagonal power units 11 are in contact, which reduces the gap between two adjacent power units 11 and reduces the space occupied by the power unit group 1.

[0083] Optionally, refer to Figure 3 Each power unit group 1 also includes a connecting plate 5, which has multiple mounting holes 50. The multiple mounting holes 50 correspond one-to-one with multiple power units 11. One end of each power unit 11 is connected to the pressure reducing unit 2, and the other end is connected to the mounting hole. The mounting hole 50 is a regular hexagonal hole.

[0084] The power unit 11 is connected to the mounting hole 50, and multiple power units 11 are installed one-to-one with multiple mounting holes 50. One end of each power unit 11 is connected to the pressure reducing unit 2, and the other end is connected to the mounting hole 50. The regular hexagonal mounting hole 50 can reduce the rotation of the power unit 11, thereby reducing the leakage of liquid carbon dioxide inside the power unit 11 caused by the rotation of the power unit 11.

[0085] Optionally, the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device also includes an exciter, which is disposed in the first storage chamber. The exciter is configured to receive a control signal and generate heat so that the liquid carbon dioxide absorbs heat and is converted into high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide.

[0086] The activating agent can communicate with an external control unit. Upon receiving the activation signal from the control unit, the activating agent undergoes a chemical reaction, generating heat, which causes the liquid carbon dioxide to absorb heat and undergo a phase change, transforming it into high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide.

[0087] In one specific embodiment, each power unit 11 is equipped with an activating agent. The activating agent can communicate with an external control unit. After receiving the activating signal from the control unit, the activating agent undergoes a chemical reaction, thereby generating heat, causing the liquid carbon dioxide to absorb heat and undergo a phase change to transform into high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide.

[0088] Each power unit 11 is equipped with a pressure relief unit at the connection point with the pressure reduction unit 2. The pressure relief unit is designed to rupture when the pressure inside the power unit 11 exceeds a preset value, thereby connecting the power unit 11 and the pressure reduction chamber. The pressure relief unit can be a one-way valve with a defined pressure threshold. When the pressure inside the power unit 11 is sufficiently high and exceeds the aforementioned pressure threshold, the pressure relief unit opens, thus connecting the internal space of the power unit 11 with the pressure reduction chamber. High-pressure carbon dioxide can then enter the pressure reduction chamber for decompression and is subsequently discharged to the ballast water tank 9 for drainage.

[0089] In another specific embodiment, the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device also includes a control unit, which can control the operation and time interval of each power unit 11 according to the changes in drainage pressure in the ballast water tank 9, thereby adjusting the drainage capacity.

[0090] Optionally, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device also includes a first mounting base and a second mounting base. The first mounting base includes multiple first mounting parts 6, and the second mounting base includes multiple second mounting parts 7. Each pressure reducing unit 2 is mounted on a corresponding first mounting part 6, and each power unit group 1 is mounted on a corresponding second mounting part 7. The first mounting part 6 includes a first part 61 and a second part 62, and a first mounting hole is defined between the first part 61 and the second part 62. The pressure reducing unit 2 is fixed to the first mounting hole, and the first part 61 and the second part 62 are detachably connected. The second mounting part 7 includes a third part 71 and a fourth part 72, and a second mounting hole is defined between the third part 71 and the fourth part 72. The power unit group 1 is fixed to the second mounting hole, and the third part 71 and the fourth part 72 are detachably connected.

[0091] The first part 61 and the second part 62 are detachably connected. This connection can be achieved by bolts, or by hinges on one side and bolts on the other. Similarly, the third part 71 and the fourth part 72 are detachably connected. This connection can be achieved by bolts, or by hinges on one side and bolts on the other.

[0092] Multiple first mounting parts 6 correspond one-to-one with multiple second mounting parts 7. The pressure reduction unit 2 of each power module is installed in the first mounting hole of the first mounting part 6, and the power unit group 1 is installed in the second mounting hole of the second mounting part 7. The first mounting parts 6 and the second mounting parts 7 fix the pressure reduction unit 2 and the power unit group 1 respectively, thereby improving the structural stability of the pressure reduction unit 2 and the power unit group 1.

[0093] In one specific embodiment, a first anti-rotation washer is provided between the pressure reducing unit 2 and the corresponding first mounting hole, one end of the power unit group 1 is connected to the pressure reducing unit 2, and a second anti-rotation washer is provided between the other end of the power unit group 1 and the corresponding second mounting hole.

[0094] A first anti-rotation washer is provided between the pressure reducing unit 2 and the first mounting hole to reduce the relative rotation between the pressure reducing unit 2 and the first mounting hole, thereby improving the installation stability of the pressure reducing unit 2. A second anti-rotation washer is provided between the power unit assembly 1 and the second mounting hole to reduce the relative rotation between the power unit assembly 1 and the second mounting hole, further improving the installation stability of the power unit assembly 1.

[0095] In one alternative embodiment, reference Figure 5 The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device also includes a carbon dioxide recovery device 8. The carbon dioxide recovery device 8 includes a gas-liquid separation component 81, a gas capture component 82, a recovery chamber 83, a cooling component 84, a compression component 85, and a storage component. The gas-liquid separation component 81 is located between the ballast water tank 9 and the drain outlet. The gas capture component 82 communicates with the chamber of the gas-liquid separation component 81. The recovery chamber 83 communicates with the gas capture component 82. The cooling component 84 is located inside the recovery chamber 83. The compression component 85 is located at the outlet of the recovery chamber 83. The storage component can be a high-pressure storage tank for collecting and storing carbon dioxide.

[0096] Specifically, a gas-liquid separation assembly 81 is installed between the ballast water tank 9 and the drain outlet. The gas-liquid separation assembly 81 is connected to a gas capture assembly 82. The gas capture assembly 82 prevents gas from escaping through physical isolation (such as an elastic airbag) and collects the gas in the elastic airbag. During drainage, the gas-liquid mixture enters the chamber of the gas-liquid separation assembly 81. The liquid sinks due to gravity and is discharged from the bottom, while the gas is collected by the gas capture assembly 82.

[0097] The gas collected by the gas capture component 82 enters the recovery chamber 83. The cooling component 84 can be a cooling coil or a cooling fan to cool the high-temperature carbon dioxide. The compression component 85 can be a compression pump or a compressor to compress the gas drained from the recovery chamber 83, thereby collecting the compressed carbon dioxide in the storage component.

[0098] The storage component can be a power unit group 1, and the compression component 85 is connected to the power unit 11. A valve is set between the compression component 85 and the power unit 11. When the carbon dioxide in a certain power unit 11 is emptied, the control unit controls the valve to open, thereby collecting the carbon dioxide recovered in the carbon dioxide recovery device 8 into the power unit 11, thereby realizing the reuse of carbon dioxide, reducing operating costs, and reducing carbon dioxide emissions, thus reducing the impact of carbon dioxide on the marine ecosystem.

[0099] In another optional embodiment, considering energy recovery and utilization, a heat recovery component is provided inside the flow guiding assembly 3. The heat recovery component includes a shell-and-tube, plate, or finned heat exchanger, which is made of corrosion-resistant and high-pressure-resistant materials. The heat recovery component also includes a heat storage section and a heat conversion section. The heat transfer medium in the heat exchanger absorbs waste heat, its temperature rises, and the heat is transferred to the heat storage section. The heat storage section stores the recovered heat energy through a phase change material heat storage tank or a hot water storage tank. The heat conversion section can be a thermoelectric generator or a steam turbine to convert the heat energy into electrical energy, thereby increasing the endurance of the underwater vehicle.

[0100] Secondly, this application also provides an underwater vehicle, including the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device described in any of the above embodiments.

[0101] Since the underwater vehicle according to the embodiments of this application is equipped with the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device described in any of the above embodiments, the drainage capacity can be adjusted according to the amount of liquid carbon dioxide emitted, achieving the goal of adjusting the drainage capacity according to operating conditions, thereby enabling the underwater vehicle to adapt to more scenarios. Furthermore, because the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device adopts a modular design, it can be installed in any narrow space within the underwater vehicle as needed, thereby reducing the space occupied by the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device.

[0102] In this application, the power unit group 1 and the pressure reducing unit 2 correspond one-to-one, forming a power module. The power unit group 1 is installed in the second mounting hole, and the pressure reducing unit 2 is installed in the first mounting hole. The control unit controls the activation of the reagent in the power unit 11 to undergo a chemical reaction, thereby heating the liquid carbon dioxide. After absorbing heat, the carbon dioxide is converted into high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide. The high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide enters the pressure reducing chamber for decompression, and then flows out from the first section 41 of the guide pipe 4 to the second section 42. Since the inner diameter of the first section 41 is larger than that of the second section 42, the flow rate of the high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide decreases from the first section 41 to the second section 42. Since the second section 42 is provided with a baffle 44, which has multiple spaced through holes 441, the flow rate of the high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide is further reduced when it passes through the through holes 441. Next, the high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide enters the third section 43. Since the inner diameter of the third section 43 is larger than that of the second section 42, the high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide is further decelerated and depressurized in the third section 43, and then enters the guide assembly 3 for decompression and deceleration again. High-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide flows from the depressurization chamber to the flow guiding component 3, undergoing multiple depressurization and deceleration processes to improve the utilization rate of carbon dioxide capacity, thereby enhancing the drainage capacity of the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device.

[0103] It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0104] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments. In particular, the system embodiments are basically similar to the method embodiments, so the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions in the method embodiments.

[0105] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of the claims of this application.

[0106] Although embodiments of this application have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of this application, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device, characterized in that, include: Multiple power unit groups, each power unit group including multiple power units, each power unit having a first storage chamber for storing liquid carbon dioxide; Multiple pressure-reducing units correspond one-to-one with multiple power unit groups. Each pressure-reducing unit has a pressure-reducing chamber, and each pressure-reducing chamber can be selectively connected to the corresponding first storage chamber. The pressure-reducing chambers of the multiple pressure-reducing units are interconnected. A pressure-relieving unit is provided at the connection between each power unit and the pressure-reducing unit. The pressure-relieving unit is configured to rupture when the pressure in the power unit exceeds a preset value, so as to connect the power unit and the pressure-reducing chamber. The flow guiding assembly has a first air inlet and a first air outlet, the first air inlet being connected to at least one of the plurality of decompression chambers, and the first air outlet being connected to a ballast water tank. The control unit controls the operation and time interval of each power unit according to the changes in the drainage pressure in the ballast water tank, thereby adjusting the drainage capacity. An exciter is disposed in the first storage chamber. The exciter is configured to receive a control signal and generate heat so that liquid carbon dioxide absorbs heat and is converted into high-pressure supercritical carbon dioxide. The plurality of pressure-reducing units include a first pressure-reducing unit, which is connected to the flow-guiding assembly via a flow-guiding pipe; in the direction from the first pressure-reducing unit to the flow-guiding assembly, the flow-guiding pipe includes a first segment and a second segment connected in sequence, the end of the first segment away from the second segment is connected to the pressure-reducing chamber of the first pressure-reducing unit, the end of the second segment away from the first segment is connected to the first air inlet, and the inner diameter of the first segment is larger than the inner diameter of the second segment; The second segment defines a first flow channel. A partition is provided within the second segment to divide the first flow channel into two first sub-flow channels. The partition has multiple spaced through holes that connect the two first sub-flow channels. A through hole dynamic adjustment part is provided on the partition, and the dynamic adjustment part corresponds one-to-one with each through hole. The control unit dynamically adjusts the diameter of the through hole according to the pressure difference on both sides of the partition. A self-cleaning structure is provided around the through holes of the partition.

2. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The diameter of the through hole is d, which satisfies: 3mm≤d≤5mm.

3. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The flow guide tube also includes a third section, one end of which is connected to the second section in the length direction, and the other end is connected to the first air inlet of the flow guide assembly. The inner diameter of the third section is larger than the inner diameter of the second section.

4. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inner diameter of the third segment is d1, and the inner diameter of the second segment is d2, satisfying: 1≤d1 / d2≤1.

5.

5. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer periphery of the cross-section of each power unit is constructed as a regular hexagon.

6. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device according to claim 5, characterized in that, Each of the power unit groups also includes a connecting plate, which has multiple mounting holes, each corresponding to one of the power units. One end of each power unit is connected to the pressure reducing unit, and the other end is connected to the mounting hole, which is a regular hexagonal hole.

7. The modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a first mounting base and a second mounting base. The first mounting base includes a plurality of first mounting members, and the second mounting base includes a plurality of second mounting members. Each of the pressure reducing units is mounted on a corresponding first mounting member, and each of the power unit groups is mounted on a corresponding second mounting member. The first mounting component includes a first part and a second part, with a first mounting hole defined between the first part and the second part. The pressure reducing unit is fixed to the first mounting hole, and the first part and the second part are detachably connected. The second mounting component includes a third part and a fourth part, with a second mounting hole defined between the third part and the fourth part. The power unit assembly is fixed to the second mounting hole, and the third part and the fourth part are detachably connected.

8. An underwater vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the modular supercritical carbon dioxide phase change drainage device as described in any one of claims 1-7.

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