Visual marine engine monitoring system and operation monitoring method

Abstract

The invention relates to a visual marine engine monitoring system and an operation monitoring method, and belongs to the technical field of marine low-speed machines. The system comprises a scavenging port camera used for collecting the state of a scavenging port area, a piston lower camera used for collecting the motion state of a piston, a crankcase camera used for monitoring the state in a crankcase, a drip separator camera used for observing the state of a drip separator, and a scavenging box camera used for monitoring the state in the scavenging box. The air cooler camera is used for observing the internal structure condition of the air cooler, the control box is used for receiving and primarily processing data collected by the camera, and the computer is used for monitoring and analyzing and is connected with a display screen used for displaying an analysis result. According to the invention, the running state of the internal space of the engine can be dynamically captured in real time, meanwhile, the human input and time cost required by manual inspection are remarkably reduced, and the working intensity is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of marine low-speed engines, and in particular relates to a visual marine engine monitoring system and an operation monitoring method. Background Art

[0002] Currently, key marine engine components, including the scavenge air box, crankcase, air cooler, piston lower section, and piston surface, are generally inspected using traditional manual inspection methods. Specifically, inspectors must frequently open various engine inspection doors and covers, accessing the interior of the equipment or approaching critical areas, and visually inspect each component using simple measuring tools. However, this traditional inspection method has several significant drawbacks.

[0003] On the one hand, frequent opening of inspection doors is not only cumbersome but also time-consuming and labor-intensive. Inspectors must devote considerable effort to disassembling and reassembling the doors and related components. This significantly impacts inspection efficiency during extended periods of sailing and engine operation, making it difficult to meet the requirements of modern shipbuilding for rapid and convenient engine inspections, which are essential for efficient ship operations.

[0004] Furthermore, the internal environment of marine engines is often harsh, with numerous adverse factors, including high temperatures, high pressures, oil pollution, and vibration, creating significant challenges for inspectors. Manual inspections often require extended periods of time in these harsh environments, exposing them to significant safety risks, such as burns, mechanical damage, and inhalation of hazardous gases, posing a serious threat to their health and safety.

[0005] More importantly, traditional manual inspection methods struggle to achieve real-time, continuous monitoring of engine operating status, resulting in delayed and uncertain results. Because inspections can only be performed when the equipment is down or at specific intervals, they are unable to detect transient faults or potential hazards that may arise during actual engine operation. Consequently, they are unable to effectively ensure stable engine operation, potentially leading to serious ship safety accidents. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a visual marine engine monitoring system and operation monitoring method to solve the limitations of traditional marine engine key component operation status detection methods and reduce the workload and safety risks of manual inspection.

[0007] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the technical solution of the present invention provides a visual marine engine monitoring system, including a scavenging port camera for collecting the status of the scavenging port area, a lower piston camera for collecting the piston movement status, a crankcase camera for monitoring the status inside the crankcase, the drip separator camera for observing the status of the drip separator, a scavenging box camera for monitoring the condition inside the scavenging box, an air cooler camera for observing the internal structure of the air cooler, a control box for receiving and preliminarily processing the data collected by each camera, and a computer for monitoring and analysis, wherein the computer is connected to a display screen for displaying the analysis results.

[0008] Preferably, the scavenging port camera, the piston lower camera, the crankcase camera, the drip separator camera, the scavenging box camera, and the air cooler camera are all provided with a protective casing adapted to the harsh environment of the marine engine to ensure the normal operation of the camera.

[0009] Preferably, the control box is integrated with a signal receiving module, a data processing chip and a power management module to integrate, filter and encode the data signals transmitted by each camera, improve data quality and ensure data transmission.

[0010] Preferably, the computer is installed with marine engine operating status monitoring and analysis software.

[0011] Preferably, the computer and the control box, and the computer and the display screen are connected via highly shielded, electromagnetic interference-resistant network cables to ensure the stability of data transmission.

[0012] Preferably, the display screen uses a liquid crystal display screen with good viewing angle and color reproduction, so as to clearly and intuitively display the camera images of key parts of the engine and the analysis results of operating parameters.

[0013] The technical solution of the present invention also provides an operation monitoring method of a visual marine engine monitoring system, comprising the following steps:

[0014] Step 1: Install the scavenge port camera, the piston lower camera, the crankcase camera, the drip separator camera, the scavenge box camera, and the air cooler camera at corresponding key positions of the marine engine, and connect them to the control box. Then, connect the control box to the computer via a network cable, and connect the computer to the display screen to complete the system hardware installation.

[0015] Step 2: After checking that the system hardware is connected correctly, power on the system and install the operation monitoring and analysis software on the computer;

[0016] Step 3: Run the system. Each camera collects the operating status data of the key components of the engine in real time. After preliminary processing by the control box, it is transmitted to the computer. The computer intelligently compares and analyzes the collected data with the standard operating status of the same model engine. The analysis results are displayed on the display screen to achieve accurate monitoring and early warning of the engine operating status.

[0017] Preferably, in step one, when installing each camera, ensure that it is accurately installed in the corresponding key position, can fully cover the area to be monitored, and is firmly installed and well protected to prevent the camera from loosening or being damaged due to factors such as engine vibration.

[0018] Preferably, in step three, the computer uses a preset algorithm to perform intelligent comparative analysis on the collected data, identifies abnormal engine operating conditions through the established data model, and generates early warning signals in real time to remind operators to deal with them in a timely manner.

[0019] Preferably, in step three, the analysis results displayed on the display screen include real-time images of cameras at key locations, engine operating parameter comparison charts, early warning information prompts, etc. The operator can fully and intuitively understand the engine operating status based on the displayed information.

[0020] In summary, the present invention has the following beneficial technical effects:

[0021] By installing high-precision cameras at key locations on the engine and combining them with intelligent data processing and analysis technology, the present invention can dynamically capture the operating status of the engine's internal space in real time, providing reliable data support and timely fault warnings for the engine's stable operation. This effectively avoids potential fault omissions caused by the lag and uncertainty of traditional manual detection methods, greatly improving the safety and reliability of marine engine operation.

[0022] Compared to traditional manual inspections, this system eliminates the need for operators to frequently enter the harsh engine interior or perform tedious equipment disassembly, significantly reducing the manpower and time required for manual inspections and lowering workload. It also significantly reduces safety risks associated with manual inspections, such as burns, mechanical damage, and inhalation of hazardous gases, providing a safer working environment for operators. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 It is a structural diagram of a marine engine;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of cameras in a visual marine engine monitoring system;

[0025] Figure 3A diagram showing the electrical connections of the components in a visual marine engine monitoring system.

[0026] Figure numerals: 1. Scavenging port camera; 2. Piston lower part camera; 3. Crankcase camera; 4. Drip separator camera; 5. Scavenging box camera; 6. Air cooler camera; 7. Control box; 8. Computer; 9. Display screen; 10. Piston surface; 11. Scavenging port; 12. Piston lower part; 13. Crankcase; 14. Air cooler; 15. Scavenging box; 16. Drip separator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0028] The present invention discloses a visual marine engine monitoring system and operation monitoring method, designed to address the difficulties, inefficiencies, and potential safety hazards associated with detecting the operating status of key marine engine components. The system innovatively installs high-precision cameras at multiple key engine locations and employs an intelligent data processing and display architecture to capture and record the operating status of each component in real time. This data is then intelligently compared and analyzed with the standard operating status of similar engines, enabling precise monitoring and early warning of engine operation, meeting the efficiency and safety requirements of modern intelligent engine control.

[0029] The scavenge port camera 1 is installed above the marine engine's scavenge port. It comprises a high-precision image sensor and a protective housing designed to withstand the harsh environment of the scavenge port, including high temperatures, high pressures, and potential presence of oil and gas, ensuring proper operation. Located at the scavenge port, the camera's primary function is to capture real-time status information, such as the presence of impurities or abnormal accumulation in the scavenge port area. This provides critical visual data for monitoring the smoothness of the scavenge process. It is connected to the control box 7 via a dedicated high-temperature and high-pressure-resistant cable, ensuring stable and reliable data transmission even under harsh operating conditions.

[0030] The under-piston camera 2 is mounted above the lower piston area and is similarly equipped with a high-precision image sensor and a robust protective structure to withstand the mechanical vibrations caused by piston movement, as well as ambient conditions such as high temperatures and oil contamination. As the lower piston area is a critical area for mechanical movement within the engine, this camera can clearly record the trajectory of the piston's motion, the fit between the piston and the cylinder liner, and any signs of abnormal wear or oil leaks, providing a visual basis for assessing the health of the engine's mechanical components. It is connected to the control box 7 using a cable with excellent anti-interference capabilities to ensure high-quality data transmission even in strong electromagnetic environments.

[0031] Crankcase cameras 3 are installed within the crankcase, specifically in multiple corners. Considering the complex mechanical motion and oil mist environment within the crankcase, the cameras are designed to be highly airtight and oil-resistant. They are positioned to fully cover the active areas of key components within the crankcase, such as the crankshaft and connecting rod. They monitor these components for smooth operation, abnormal friction, looseness, and other issues, as well as checking the crankcase oil level and quality. They are connected to the control box 7 via a robust, oil-resistant cable, ensuring data transmission is unaffected by impurities such as oil mist.

[0032] The drip separator camera 4 is mounted on the top wall of the drip separator. Its design is adapted to the relatively humid environment within the drip separator. This camera monitors the separation of water and oil in the drip separator in real time, checking for issues such as excessive water accumulation or damage to the separation mechanism, thereby ensuring the proper functioning of the engine lubrication system. A specially treated waterproof cable connects it to the control box 7, ensuring stable data transmission even in humid environments.

[0033] The scavenge air box camera 5, located on the top wall of the scavenge air box, is equipped with a high-resolution image sensor and a high-temperature, corrosion-resistant housing. It primarily monitors the inner wall of the box for abnormalities such as corrosion and scaling, ensuring the effectiveness of the scavenge process. It is connected to the control box 7 using a dedicated, high-temperature, corrosion-resistant cable to ensure continuous data transmission even under the harsh operating conditions of the scavenge air box.

[0034] The air cooler camera 6 is mounted on the top wall of the air cooler housing. Considering the airflow impact and potential temperature fluctuations during operation, the camera has excellent wind and heat resistance. Its position allows for comprehensive monitoring of the cleanliness, blockage, and damage of the air cooler's fins and airflow channels, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. It is connected to the control box 7 via a wind- and temperature-resistant cable, ensuring reliable data transmission in complex airflow environments.

[0035] Control box 7 is the core data aggregation and preliminary processing unit of the entire monitoring system. It integrates multiple signal receiving modules, data processing chips, and a power management module. Control box 7 is responsible for receiving data signals transmitted from the aforementioned scavenge port camera 1, piston lower camera 2, crankcase camera 3, drip separator camera 4, scavenge box camera 5, and air cooler camera 6. It then performs preliminary integration, filtering, and encoding of these signals to improve data quality and ensure efficient data transmission. Control box 7 is connected to computer 8 via a highly shielded, electromagnetically resistant network cable, capable of adapting to the complex electromagnetic environment surrounding marine engines. This cable provides a stable channel for long-distance data transmission, quickly and accurately transmitting processed data to computer 8 for further intelligent analysis and comparison.

[0036] Computer 8, serving as the system's intelligent analysis center, is equipped with specially developed marine engine operating status monitoring and analysis software. Its internal configuration includes a high-performance processor, large-capacity storage devices, and high-speed memory, ensuring rapid processing of large amounts of real-time data. After receiving data from control box 7, computer 8 uses advanced algorithms to intelligently compare and analyze this real-time data with pre-stored standard operating status parameters for the same engine model. Using established data models, computer 8 identifies potential anomalies and generates timely warning signals. Computer 8 is also connected to display screen 9 via a network cable, which also features excellent anti-interference performance. This ensures that analysis results are quickly presented on display screen 9 in the form of clear, intuitive images, charts, or text, enabling operators to observe and judge the engine's operating status in real time, ensuring accurate monitoring and timely warnings.

[0037] Display screen 9 utilizes high-resolution, large-size liquid crystal display technology, offering excellent viewing angles and color reproduction, providing operators with clear and accurate visual information under various lighting conditions. Its installation location facilitates real-time monitoring within the control room. Through a stable connection to computer 8, it displays camera images of key engine components, along with various operating parameters, comparison results, and warning information analyzed by computer 8. This allows operators to comprehensively and in real time understand the engine's operating status and take timely measures to address potential malfunctions. This effectively ensures the safe and efficient operation of marine engines, reduces the intensity of manual inspections and safety risks, saves labor costs, and provides reliable technical support for the power systems of modern intelligent ships.

[0038] During the actual installation process, follow the steps to accurately install the scavenge port camera 1, lower piston camera 2, crankcase camera 3, drip separator camera 4, scavenge box camera 5, and air cooler camera 6 to the corresponding key locations such as the scavenge port, lower piston, crankcase, drip separator, scavenge box, and air cooler, ensuring that they are securely installed and properly protected. Then, connect them to the corresponding ports in the control box 7 using their respective dedicated cables. Then, use a network cable to connect the control box 7 to the computer 8, and use another network cable to connect the computer 8 to the display screen 9. After completing all hardware connections, carefully check that each connection point is secure and whether the cables are damaged or excessively bent. After confirming that everything is correct, power on the system and install the corresponding operating software on the computer 8. Follow the software prompts to complete parameter settings and system initialization configuration. Then, start the system, achieving visual monitoring of marine engine components, and observe the system operating status and abnormal alarms at any time to ensure safe and stable operation of the engine during navigation.

[0039] Finally, it should be noted that the above is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features therein. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included in the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A visual marine engine monitoring system, characterized in that: The invention comprises a scavenging port camera (1) for collecting the state of the scavenging port area, a piston lower camera (2) for collecting the state of the piston movement, a crankcase camera (3) for monitoring the state inside the crankcase, a drip separator camera (4) for observing the state of the drip separator, a scavenging box camera (5) for monitoring the state inside the scavenging box, an air cooler camera (6) for observing the internal structure of the air cooler, a control box (7) for receiving and preliminarily processing the data collected by each camera, and a computer (8) for monitoring and analyzing, wherein the computer (8) is connected to a display screen (9) for displaying the analysis results.

2. A visual marine engine monitoring system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The scavenging port camera (1), the piston lower camera (2), the crankcase camera (3), the drip separator camera (4), the scavenging box camera (5), and the air cooler camera (6) are all provided with protective housings adapted to the harsh environment of marine engines to ensure normal operation of the cameras.

3. A visual marine engine monitoring system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The control box (7) is internally integrated with a signal receiving module, a data processing chip, and a power management module to integrate, filter, and encode the data signals transmitted by each camera, thereby improving data quality and ensuring data transmission.

4. A visual marine engine monitoring system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The computer (8) is installed with marine engine operation status monitoring and analysis software.

5. A visual marine engine monitoring system according to claim 4, characterized in that: The computer (8) and the control box (7), as well as the computer (8) and the display screen (9), are connected via highly shielded, electromagnetic interference-resistant network cables to ensure the stability of data transmission.

6. A visual marine engine monitoring system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The display screen (9) adopts a liquid crystal display screen with good viewing angle and color reproduction, so as to clearly and intuitively display camera images of key parts of the engine and operating parameter analysis results.

7. The operation monitoring method of a visual marine engine monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The following steps are involved: Step 1: Install the scavenging port camera (1), the piston lower camera (2), the crankcase camera (3), the drip separator camera (4), the scavenging box camera (5), and the air cooler camera (6) to corresponding key positions of the marine engine, and connect them to the control box (7), then connect the control box (7) to the computer (8) via a network cable, and connect the computer (8) to the display screen (9), thereby completing the system hardware installation; Step 2: After checking that the system hardware is correctly connected, power on the system and install the operation monitoring and analysis software on the computer (8); Step 3: The system is operated. Each camera collects the operating status data of the key components of the engine in real time. After preliminary processing by the control box (7), the data is transmitted to the computer (8). The computer (8) performs intelligent comparative analysis on the collected data with the standard operating status of the same type of engine. The analysis results are displayed on the display screen (9), thereby realizing accurate monitoring and early warning of the engine operating status.

8. The operation monitoring method of a visual marine engine monitoring system according to claim 7, characterized in that: In step one, when installing each camera, ensure that it is accurately installed in the corresponding key position, can fully cover the area to be monitored, and is firmly installed and properly protected to prevent the camera from loosening or being damaged due to factors such as engine vibration.

9. The operation monitoring method of a visual marine engine monitoring system according to claim 8, characterized in that: In step three, the computer (8) uses a preset algorithm to perform intelligent comparative analysis on the collected data, identifies abnormal engine operating conditions through the established data model, and generates early warning signals in real time to remind operators to deal with them in a timely manner.

10. The operation monitoring method of a visual marine engine monitoring system according to claim 9, characterized in that: In step three, the analysis results displayed on the display screen (9) include real-time images of cameras at key locations, engine operating parameter comparison charts, early warning information prompts, etc. The operator can fully and intuitively understand the engine operating status based on the displayed information.

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