Remote control system for roll-on and roll-off equipment of double-head ro-ro passenger ship

Abstract

The invention discloses a remote control system for roll-on and roll-off equipment of a double-head ro-ro passenger ship. The remote control system comprises a roll-on and roll-off equipment system and a monitoring system, the roll-on and roll-off equipment system comprises at least two remote control panels, at least two PLC comprehensive control boxes, at least two power unit control boxes and at least two local control box sets. The PLC comprehensive control box is used for collecting operation parameters which are from the local control box group and the power unit control box and are used for representing the operation condition of the roll-on and roll-off equipment and collecting state information of the roll-on and roll-off equipment; the power unit control box is used for responding to an instruction of the PLC comprehensive control box so as to control start and stop of the roll-on and roll-off equipment power unit; the monitoring system comprises a plurality of cameras and at least two bridge video monitoring monitors; and the bridge video monitoring monitor is used for displaying image information acquired by the camera, so that an operator can observe the state of the roll-on and roll-off equipment to assist remote operation. According to the invention, the problems of low efficiency, insufficient safety and limited operation in the prior art can be solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of marine technology, and in particular to a remote control system for a double-headed roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) passenger ship. Background Technology

[0002] Ro-Ro equipment, as a core component of passenger ro-ro ships, is widely used in various types of ro-ro vessels, and its control method directly affects the ship's operational efficiency and safety. Currently, the control methods for ro-ro equipment are mainly divided into two categories: local control and local limited-area remote control.

[0003] Local control involves installing a local control box near the roll-on / roll-off equipment (such as inner and outer doors, ramp covers, and lifting platforms), requiring operators to operate from a location where they can directly observe the equipment's status. This method necessitates on-site operation, resulting in low efficiency in opening and closing the roll-on / roll-off equipment after the ship docks. This is especially problematic in busy ports, making it difficult to meet the demands for rapid passenger and vehicle boarding and alighting. Furthermore, the operation requires dedicated supervision, leading to high labor costs.

[0004] Local limited-area remote control includes wired and wireless remote control. Wired remote control connects a portable remote control button box to the local control box via a flexible cable, with a typical range of only 10-20 meters. During operation, the cable is easily blocked or tangled by the ship's structure and mechanical equipment, posing a tripping hazard. Furthermore, the cable is prone to aging and damage over long-term use, requiring dedicated storage space. Wireless remote control relies on a signal transceiver. Due to the severe signal shielding provided by the ship's steel plates, the transceiver installation location must be verified on-site to ensure coverage. It is also susceptible to signal interference, leading to connection drops and posing a safety hazard. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a remote control system for roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) equipment on double-headed passenger Ro-Ro ships to address the problems of low efficiency, insufficient safety, and limited operation in existing technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a remote control system for a double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) ship, to solve the problems of low efficiency, insufficient safety, and limited operation in the prior art.

[0006] This invention provides a remote control system for a roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) device on a twin-head passenger Ro-Ro ship, comprising a Ro-Ro device system and a monitoring system. The Ro-Ro device system includes at least two remote control panels, at least two PLC integrated control boxes, at least two power unit control boxes, and at least two local control box groups. Each local control box group is connected to a corresponding PLC integrated control box, and each local control box group includes local control boxes for controlling different functional units of the Ro-Ro device. The remote control panels are respectively located in the two bridges of the twin-head passenger Ro-Ro ship. The remote control panels are used to receive Ro-Ro device status information from the PLC integrated control boxes and send operation commands to the PLC integrated control boxes. Each PLC integrated control box is connected to a corresponding… A remote control panel communication connection is established. The PLC integrated control box is used to collect operating parameters from the local control box group and the power unit control box to characterize the operating status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment and to collect status information of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. Each power unit control box is connected to a corresponding PLC integrated control box, and the power unit control box is used to respond to the instructions of the PLC integrated control box to control the start and stop of the power unit of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. The monitoring system includes multiple cameras and at least two bridge tower video monitoring monitors. The cameras are configured on the roll-on / roll-off equipment and its surrounding environment. The bridge tower video monitoring monitors are connected to the cameras to display the image information collected by the cameras, allowing operators to observe the status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment to assist in remote operation.

[0007] Optionally, the local control box includes at least one of a water pilot electrical control box, a gas station door electrical control box, and electrical control boxes for the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment; the water pilot electrical control box is connected to the corresponding PLC integrated control box to collect status signals of the water pilot facility and execute local or remote control commands; the gas station door electrical control box is connected to the corresponding PLC integrated control box to control the opening and closing operation of the gas station door and provide feedback status signals; the electrical control boxes for the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment are connected to the corresponding PLC integrated control box to perform local control of the roll-on / roll-off door equipment and monitor the status of the roll-on / roll-off door equipment.

[0008] Optionally, both the power unit control box and the local control box are equipped with a switch; when the switch of the power unit control box or any local control box is in the remote position, the remote control panel activates the operation permission, allowing the operator to send the roll-on / roll-off equipment start / stop operation command to the PLC integrated control box through the remote control panel.

[0009] Optionally, each remote control panel is equipped with a control position selection module; the control position selection module is used to dynamically allocate operating permissions between the remote control panels of the two cabs. In response to the activation of the remote control panel of either cab as the operating terminal, the remote control panel of the other cab is automatically switched to the monitoring terminal, wherein the monitoring terminal only retains the functions of receiving and displaying status information and prohibits the output of operating commands.

[0010] Optionally, the control location selection module includes an inquiry unit and a switching unit; the inquiry unit is used to generate a location switching request when the operation location changes; the switching unit is used to perform a switching operation of operation permissions in response to the location switching request.

[0011] Optionally, the remote control panel is equipped with a physical key switch, which is electrically connected to the power unit control box and is used to directly cut off the power supply to the power unit control box and shut down the hydraulic power unit of the roll-on / roll-off equipment in an emergency.

[0012] Optionally, the roll-on / roll-off equipment system also includes at least two leakage sensors and at least two limit switches; the leakage sensors are connected one-to-one with the electrical control boxes of the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment to detect the leakage status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment area and send alarm signals to the PLC integrated control box; the limit switches are connected one-to-one with the local control box and the power unit control box to detect the switch position status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment components and feed back the status signals to the PLC integrated control box.

[0013] Optionally, an emergency stop button is provided on the power unit control box. The emergency stop button is connected to the local control box through a safety circuit independent of the PLC integrated control box. It is used to receive an emergency stop signal and control the corresponding roll-on / roll-off equipment to stop running when the equipment fails.

[0014] Optionally, the roll-on / roll-off equipment system also includes an indicator panel, which is connected to any PLC integrated control box to receive and display the operating status and alarm information of the roll-on / roll-off equipment from the PLC integrated control box. The indicator panel does not have an operation command input function.

[0015] Optionally, the remote control panel is an LCD touchscreen, and is equipped with a navigation mode selection module and a berthing mode selection module. The navigation mode selection module is used to disable the remote control panel's output of operation commands to the roll-on / roll-off equipment in the navigation mode, while maintaining real-time monitoring of the roll-on / roll-off equipment's status information and emergency braking function. The berthing mode selection module is used to enable the remote control panel's output of operation commands to the roll-on / roll-off equipment in the berthing mode, and activate the equipment control logic and safety interlocking strategy matched with the loading and unloading operation.

[0016] The remote control system provided in this invention includes a roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) equipment system and a monitoring system. It eliminates the reliance on on-site personnel for traditional local control, utilizing bidirectional communication between the remote control panel and the PLC integrated control box to achieve remote control of Ro-Ro equipment across the bridge and the entire ship area. This allows operators to start, stop, and adjust the status of the Ro-Ro equipment without being physically present at the equipment site, improving the efficiency of Ro-Ro operations after the ship docks and meeting the needs of busy ports for rapid passenger and vehicle loading and unloading. Addressing the characteristics of long, wide-distributed equipment on twin-ended Ro-Ro passenger ships, a dual-bridge collaborative control logic is designed, supporting dynamic switching of permissions and status synchronization between the two bridges. This deeply adapts the Ro-Ro equipment control to the advantages of the twin-ended Ro-Ro passenger ship's bidirectional navigation and dual-bridge operation, filling the functional gaps in existing technologies for special ship types and promoting the upgrading of Ro-Ro passenger ship operational efficiency and intelligence.

[0017] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a remote control system for a double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a roll-on / roll-off equipment system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a monitoring system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a remote control panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another roll-on / roll-off equipment system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another roll-on / roll-off equipment system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of another remote control panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0027] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a remote control system for a double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 As shown, the remote control system 10 includes a roll-on / roll-off equipment system 1 and a monitoring system 2.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of a roll-on / roll-off equipment system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 As shown, the roll-on / roll-off equipment system 1 includes at least two remote control panels 11, at least two PLC integrated control boxes 12, at least two power unit control boxes 13, and at least two local control box groups 14.

[0030] Each local control box group 14 is connected to a corresponding PLC integrated control box 13. The local control box group 14 contains local control boxes for controlling different functional units of the roll-on / roll-off equipment.

[0031] The remote control panel 11 is located in the two wheelhouses of the double-headed passenger ro-ro ship. The remote control panel 11 is used to receive the status information of the ro-ro equipment from the PLC integrated control box 12 and send operation commands to the PLC integrated control box 12.

[0032] Each PLC integrated control box 12 is communicatively connected to a corresponding remote control panel 11. The PLC integrated control box 12 is used to collect operating parameters from the local control box group 14 and the power unit control box to characterize the operating status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment, as well as to collect the status information of the roll-on / roll-off equipment.

[0033] Each power unit control box 13 is connected to a corresponding PLC integrated control box 12. The power unit control box 13 is used to respond to the instructions of the PLC integrated control box 12 to control the start and stop of the power unit of the roll-on / roll-off equipment.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a monitoring system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 As shown, the monitoring system 2 includes multiple cameras 21 and at least two bridge tower video surveillance monitors 22. The cameras 21 are configured in and around the roll-on / roll-off equipment; the bridge tower video surveillance monitors 22 are connected to the cameras 21 and are used to display the image information captured by the cameras, allowing operators to observe the status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment to assist in remote operation.

[0035] Specifically, the remote control panel 11 is a human-machine interface device located in the two cockpits of the double-headed ro-ro ship. Operators use it to send operation commands to the ro-ro equipment to the PLC integrated control box 12, and at the same time receive the status information of the ro-ro equipment from the PLC integrated control box 12, so as to realize remote control and status monitoring of the ro-ro equipment.

[0036] The PLC integrated control box 12 is one of the core control units of the entire roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) equipment system. It has communication connections with the remote control panel, the local control box group, and the power unit control box. On the one hand, it collects various operating parameters characterizing the operating status of the Ro-Ro equipment from the local control box group 14 and the power unit control box 13, such as the equipment's position, speed, pressure, and status information. On the other hand, it receives operation commands sent by the remote control panel 11, and according to its internal preset control logic, it parses and processes these commands, and then sends control signals to the power unit control box 13 to realize the start and stop control of the Ro-Ro equipment's power unit and the operation guidance of the local control box group, ensuring that the Ro-Ro equipment operates according to the expected commands.

[0037] The power unit control box 13 is mainly used to control the start and stop of the power unit of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. It connects to the corresponding PLC integrated control box 12, receives command signals from the PLC integrated control box 12, and controls the start, stop, and adjustment of power output of the power unit according to these commands, providing power support for the operation of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. For example, when the roll-on / roll-off equipment needs to open or close the hatch, extend or retract the ramp, the power unit control box controls the power unit to output the corresponding power to drive these actions.

[0038] The local control box group 14 consists of multiple local control boxes used to control different functional units of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. Each local control box group 14 is connected to a corresponding PLC integrated control box 12, responsible for local control and status acquisition of specific functional units of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. These local control boxes can control different functional units such as water pilot facilities, gas station doors, inner doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment, and outer doors. They can receive operating instructions from operators locally, execute corresponding control actions, and simultaneously feed back the status information of the functional units to the PLC integrated control box 12. Under the unified coordination of the PLC integrated control box 12, they can interact with the remote control panel 11 to ensure consistency and coordination between remote and local control.

[0039] The monitoring system 2 consists of multiple cameras 21 and at least two bridge tower video surveillance monitors 22. The cameras are positioned around the roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) equipment and its surrounding environment to capture real-time images of the equipment's operation and the surrounding environment, such as the equipment's running status and whether any personnel or objects are abnormally approaching. The bridge tower video surveillance monitors 22 are connected to the cameras 21, receiving and displaying the images captured by the cameras, allowing operators to visually observe the status of the Ro-Ro equipment and assisting in remote operation. By observing the images on the monitors, operators can promptly detect abnormalities during the Ro-Ro equipment's operation. Combined with the operating commands from the remote control panel, this allows for more accurate and secure remote control of the Ro-Ro equipment, enhancing the visualization and security of the entire remote control system.

[0040] Roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) equipment refers to a mechanical-electrical integrated system installed at the bow and stern of a ship to create a continuous rolling passage for wheeled cargo (vehicles, container trailers, etc.) between the dock and the ship. It includes, but is not limited to: passage opening and closing devices such as Ro-Ro doors (inner and outer doors), ramps and ramps; and displacement actuators such as hydraulic cylinders, electric actuators and winch systems.

[0041] Roll-on / roll-off equipment status information refers to the logical status that characterizes the overall or key component working condition of the equipment, based on operating parameters, limit switch signals, sensor signals (such as water leakage sensors), and internal logic judgments of the control system. This includes, but is not limited to: equipment ready / running / stopped status, hatch open / closed / intermediate position / fault status, ramp raised / lowered / locked status, hydraulic power unit running / stopped / overheated / low pressure fault status, water leakage alarm status, emergency stop triggered status, etc.

[0042] The operating parameters of roll-on / roll-off equipment include, but are not limited to, real-time physical quantities such as hydraulic system pressure, hydraulic oil temperature, motor operating current, motor speed, equipment running speed, and equipment stroke position (feedback via encoder or potentiometer).

[0043] Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 3The working process of the remote control system provided in this embodiment of the invention is as follows:

[0044] When an operator issues an operation command for the roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) equipment, such as an instruction to open the outer door of the Ro-Ro equipment, from the remote control panel 11 in any cab, the command is transmitted to the corresponding PLC integrated control box 12 via the communication line. Upon receiving the command, the PLC integrated control box 12 first parses the command and simultaneously collects the Ro-Ro equipment status information fed back by the local control box group 14 and the power unit operating status information fed back by the power unit control box 13. It then determines whether the current equipment status meets the conditions for executing the opening command, such as whether the door is locked and whether the power unit is operating normally. If the conditions are met, the PLC integrated control box 12 sends a start command to the power unit control box 13. Upon receiving the command, the power unit control box starts the power unit, providing power for opening the outer door. At the same time, the PLC integrated control box 12 transmits the command to the local control box controlling the Ro-Ro equipment, which then controls the outer door to perform the opening action according to the command. Throughout the process, the local control box monitors the door's opening status in real time and feeds back the status information to the PLC integrated control box 12. The PLC integrated control box 12 then transmits this information to the remote control panel 11, enabling operators to understand the execution status of operation commands in real time.

[0045] The monitoring system 2 also plays a crucial role throughout the process. Camera 21 continuously collects image information of the roll-on / roll-off equipment and its surrounding environment, transmitting it to the bridge tower video monitoring monitor 22. During the opening of the roll-on / roll-off equipment door, operators can visually observe through the bridge tower video monitoring monitor 22 whether the outer door opens smoothly and whether there are any obstructions, allowing for timely adjustments to operating instructions. If any abnormality is detected, the operator can immediately issue a stop command on the remote control panel 11. This command, through the same communication and control path, causes the PLC integrated control box 12 to control the power unit to stop operating, and the local control box to stop the outer door opening action, ensuring the safety of equipment and personnel.

[0046] The remote control system provided in this invention includes a roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) equipment system and a monitoring system. It eliminates the reliance on on-site personnel for traditional local control, utilizing bidirectional communication between the remote control panel and the PLC integrated control box to achieve remote control of Ro-Ro equipment across the bridge and the entire ship area. This allows operators to start, stop, and adjust the status of the Ro-Ro equipment without being physically present at the equipment site, improving the efficiency of Ro-Ro operations after the ship docks and meeting the needs of busy ports for rapid passenger and vehicle loading and unloading. Addressing the characteristics of long, wide-distributed equipment on twin-ended Ro-Ro passenger ships, a dual-bridge collaborative control logic is designed, supporting dynamic switching of permissions and status synchronization between the two bridges. This deeply adapts the Ro-Ro equipment control to the advantages of the twin-ended Ro-Ro passenger ship's bidirectional navigation and dual-bridge operation, filling the functional gaps in existing technologies for special ship types and promoting the upgrading of Ro-Ro passenger ship operational efficiency and intelligence.

[0047] Continue to refer to Figure 2 Optionally, the local control box includes at least one of the following: a pilot electrical control box 141, a gas station door electrical control box 142, and an inner and outer door electrical control box 143 for the roll-on / roll-off equipment.

[0048] The water diversion operator's electrical control box 141 is connected to the corresponding PLC integrated control box 12, and is used to collect the status signals of the water diversion facility and execute local or remote control commands.

[0049] The gas station door electrical control box 142 is connected to the corresponding PLC integrated control box 12, and is used to control the opening and closing operation of the gas station door and the feedback status signal.

[0050] The electrical control boxes 143 for the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment are connected to the corresponding PLC integrated control box 12 to perform local control of the roll-on / roll-off equipment and monitor the status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment.

[0051] Specifically, the water diverter electrical control box 141 collects the position signal (such as fully open, fully closed, or half open) and locking mechanism status (such as locked or unlocked) of the water diverter door in real time, and transmits it to the corresponding PLC integrated control box 12 through a hard wire or fiber optic network to ensure that the remote control panel 11 can display the status of the water diversion facility in real time.

[0052] The gas station door electrical control box 142 obtains the opening and closing status of the gas station door through the door position detection sensor and detects the locking status through the door lock sensor. It feeds back status signals such as "not closed and not locked" and "closed and locked" to the PLC integrated control box 12 to trigger an abnormal status alarm (such as the alarm information displayed on the remote control panel when the door is not closed).

[0053] The electrical control box 143 for the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment detects the extreme positions of the door (such as fully open or fully closed) through limit switches, monitors the leakage status of the door's sealing area through a leakage sensor, and uploads the status data to the PLC integrated control box 12 to provide a safety judgment basis for remote operation (such as remote control commands being prohibited when the door is leaking).

[0054] Continue to refer to Figure 2 Optionally, both the power unit control box 13 and the local control box are equipped with a switch; when the switch of the power unit control box or any local control box is in the remote position, the remote control panel 11 activates the operation permission, allowing the operator to send the roll-on / roll-off equipment opening and closing operation command to the PLC integrated control box 12 through the remote control panel 11. The local control box also includes an end door electrical control box and a ramp door electrical control box.

[0055] Specifically, the switching switches on the power unit control box 13 and each local control box are mode selection components, which can mechanically or electrically switch between "local" and "remote" modes:

[0056] When set to "Local": the corresponding control box only responds to local operation commands (such as field buttons, portable remote control), and blocks remote commands from PLC integrated control box 12 to ensure the priority of local operations (such as emergency maintenance scenarios).

[0057] When set to the "remote" position: the corresponding control box stops responding to local operations, sends a "remote control allowed" signal to the PLC integrated control box 12, and waits to receive operation instructions forwarded by the PLC from the remote control panel 11.

[0058] When the switch of the power unit control box or any local control box is in the "remote" position, the PLC integrated control box 12 determines that the remote control activation condition is met: the control box in the "remote" position sends a remote ready signal to the PLC integrated control box 12; after receiving the remote ready signal, the PLC integrated control box 12 immediately sends a "permission activation" command to the remote control panel 11 to unlock the operation interface of the remote panel (such as the roll-on / roll-off equipment start / stop button); after the remote control panel 11 obtains permission, the commands sent by the operator are parsed by the PLC integrated control box 12 and forwarded only to the control boxes in the "remote" position to drive the corresponding roll-on / roll-off equipment to perform actions, while the control boxes not in the "remote" position still maintain the local control mode.

[0059] In some embodiments, the switching switches for the power unit control box 13 and the local control box are integrated into the PLC integrated control box 12. That is, the PLC integrated control box 12 is provided with multiple switching switches corresponding one-to-one with the power unit control box 12 and the local control box. Each switching switch is connected to a power unit control box or a local control box and is used to independently control the corresponding power unit control box or local control box to switch between remote and local locations.

[0060] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a remote control panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 As shown, optionally, each remote control panel 11 is provided with a control location selection module 110;

[0061] The control position selection module 110 is used to dynamically allocate operating permissions between the remote control panels 11 in the two driver's cabs. In response to the activation of the remote control panel 11 in either driver's cab as the operating terminal, the remote control panel 11 in the other driver's cab is automatically switched to the monitoring terminal. The monitoring terminal only retains the functions of receiving and displaying status information and prohibits the output of operating commands.

[0062] Specifically, both remote control panels 11 in the driver's cabs are in a "pending activation" state by default, possessing only status information reception and display functions but no operation command output permissions. When an operator in either driver's cab activates the local remote control panel 11 through physical interaction (such as pressing the permission acquisition button), the control position selection module 110 sends an "operation permission request" signal to the corresponding PLC integrated control box 12, and simultaneously sends a "permission lock notification" to the control position selection module 110 of the remote control panel 11 at the other end via the fiber optic link. After receiving the "permission lock notification," the control position selection module 110 of the remote control panel 11 at the other end automatically switches the local remote control panel to "monitoring end"—cutting off the operation command output channel through a hardware interlock circuit, retaining only the real-time reception and display functions of the roll-on / roll-off equipment status information (such as door position, power unit operating status, and alarm signals), ensuring that no operation commands can be sent to the PLC integrated control box 12. If it is necessary to switch from the current operating terminal to the other end's cab, the control position selection module 110 of the current operating terminal sends a "position switching request" to the other end. After the operator at the other end confirms, the current operating terminal switches to the monitoring terminal, and the other end is activated from the monitoring terminal to the operating terminal. The entire process is synchronized through the PLC integrated control box 12 to ensure seamless and conflict-free permission switching.

[0063] Continue to refer to Figure 4Optionally, the control location selection module 110 includes an inquiry unit 1101 and a switching unit 1102; the inquiry unit 1101 is used to generate a location switching request when the operation location changes; the switching unit 1102 is used to perform a switching operation of operation permissions in response to the location switching request.

[0064] The remote control panel 11 is equipped with a physical key switch 120, which is electrically connected to the power unit control box 13. It is used to directly cut off the power supply to the power unit control box 13 and shut down the hydraulic power unit of the roll-on / roll-off equipment in an emergency.

[0065] Specifically, the physical key switch 120 is a hardware safety device installed on the remote control panel of the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off equipment. Switching devices that use a physical key as the operating medium require inserting the key and rotating it to a specific position (such as "ON" or "OFF") to switch functions.

[0066] The physical key switch 120 is initially in the "ON" position. At this time, the power unit control box 13 can normally receive instructions from the PLC integrated control box 12, providing power support to the roll-on / roll-off equipment, which can operate normally. In case of an emergency (such as equipment failure or personnel distress), the operator can turn the physical key switch to the "OFF" position, instantly cutting off the power to the power unit control box 13. The hydraulic power unit stops working, and all actions of the roll-on / roll-off equipment (such as door opening and closing, ramp raising and lowering, etc.) immediately cease. Furthermore, during navigation, keeping the key switch in the "OFF" position prevents unauthorized personnel from opening the roll-on / roll-off equipment, avoiding potential dangers caused by misoperation and providing safety protection.

[0067] .like Figure 5 As shown, the roll-on / roll-off equipment system 1 also includes at least two leakage sensors 15 and at least two limit switches 16.

[0068] The water leakage sensor 15 is connected one-to-one with the electrical control box 143 of the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment, and is used to detect the water leakage status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment area and send an alarm signal to the PLC integrated control box 12.

[0069] Limit switches 16 are connected one-to-one with the local control box and the power unit control box 13, and are used to detect the switch position status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment components and feed back the status signal to the PLC integrated control box 12.

[0070] Specifically, the leakage sensor 15 is connected one-to-one with the electrical control boxes 143 of the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment, forming a dedicated detection circuit. It is used to detect leakage in areas of the roll-on / roll-off equipment (such as the sealing areas of the inner and outer doors). When leakage is detected, an alarm signal is immediately generated. The alarm signal is transmitted to the PLC integrated control box 13 through the corresponding inner and outer door electrical control boxes 143. After receiving the signal, the PLC integrated control box 12 feeds back the leakage status information to the remote control panel 11, triggering an audible and visual alarm to remind the operator to handle the situation promptly.

[0071] Limit switches 16 are connected one-to-one with the local control box and the power unit control box 13, and are used to detect different components of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. They are used to detect the open / closed status of roll-on / roll-off equipment components (such as roll-on / roll-off doors, ramps, and ramps), such as whether the door is fully open or fully closed, and whether the ramp is raised or lowered to the correct position.

[0072] Limit switch 16 feeds back the detected status signal to the corresponding local control box and power unit control box 13 in real time, and then these control boxes transmit it to PLC integrated control box 12. PLC integrated control box 12 determines whether the equipment has reached the preset position based on the signal, and then coordinates the execution of operation instructions of remote control panel 11 (such as the instruction to stop closing the door when the door is closed), to ensure that the equipment action is accurate and controllable and avoid damage caused by excessive operation.

[0073] Both the water leakage sensor 15 and the limit switch 16 are status detection elements of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. By collecting key status information in real time and feeding it back to the PLC integrated control box 12, they provide a reliable basis for safety judgment for remote control, ensuring that operators can accurately grasp the equipment status through the remote control panel and achieve safe and efficient operation of the roll-on / roll-off equipment.

[0074] Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of another roll-on / roll-off equipment system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the roll-on / roll-off equipment system 1 also includes an indicator panel 17, which is connected to any PLC integrated control box 12 to receive and display the operating status and alarm information of the roll-on / roll-off equipment from the PLC integrated control box 12. The indicator panel 17 does not have an operation command input function.

[0075] Specifically, the core function of the indicator panel 17 is to receive and display the operating status and alarm information of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. This information comes from the PLC integrated control box 12. As the core control unit of the system, the PLC integrated control box 12 collects operating parameters and status signals from multiple components such as the local control box group 14, the power unit control box 13, the water leakage sensor 15, and the limit switch 16. After processing, it forms a unified operating status (such as equipment ready, running, stopped, etc.) and alarm information (such as water leakage alarm, emergency stop trigger, etc.), and then transmits this information to the indicator panel 17.

[0076] The indicator panel 17 only has information display functions and does not have any operation command input functions. This means that operators cannot control the roll-on / roll-off equipment through the indicator panel, but can only use it to understand the real-time status of the equipment, avoiding safety risks caused by misoperation, and also clarifying its positioning as a status display terminal.

[0077] Optionally, the power unit control box 13 is equipped with an emergency stop button. The emergency stop button is connected to the local control box through a safety circuit independent of the PLC integrated control box 12. It is used to receive an emergency stop signal and control the corresponding roll-on / roll-off equipment to stop running when the equipment fails.

[0078] Specifically, when the roll-on / roll-off equipment malfunctions (such as mechanical jamming, abnormal operation, safety hazards, etc.), the operator can directly press the emergency stop button on the power unit control box. Once the button is triggered, an emergency stop signal will be immediately sent to the local control box through an independent safety circuit.

[0079] Upon receiving an emergency stop signal, the local control box will directly interrupt the power output of the corresponding roll-on / roll-off equipment, forcing the equipment to stop operating. This includes controlling the hydraulic power unit to shut down and cutting off the power to the drive motor, ensuring the equipment quickly ceases operation in a fault condition and preventing the danger from escalating.

[0080] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another remote control panel provided in an embodiment of the present invention. For example... Figure 7 As shown, optionally, the remote control panel 11 is an LCD touch screen, and the remote control panel 11 is provided with a navigation mode selection module 130 and a berthing mode selection module 140.

[0081] The navigation mode selection module 130 is used to disable the remote control panel 11's operation command output function for the roll-on / roll-off equipment in the navigation mode, and to maintain the real-time monitoring of the roll-on / roll-off equipment status information and the emergency braking function.

[0082] The berthing mode selection module 140 is used to enable the remote control panel 11 to output operation commands to the roll-on / roll-off equipment in the berthing mode, and to activate the equipment control logic and safety interlock strategy that match the loading and unloading operation.

[0083] Specifically, the remote control panel 11 adopts an LCD touch screen, providing an intuitive operating interface for selecting operating modes. Operators can switch between different operating modes through touch operation, realizing dynamic adjustment of control permissions and functions of the roll-on / roll-off equipment.

[0084] The navigation mode selection module 130 is suitable for ship navigation. In this state, the navigation mode selection module 130 disables the remote control panel 11's function of outputting operation commands to the roll-on / roll-off equipment. This means that operators cannot send start / stop commands to the roll-on / roll-off equipment through this panel, preventing potential safety hazards caused by accidental activation of the equipment during navigation (such as seawater rushing in due to accidental opening of hatches, equipment extending beyond the hull and colliding with obstacles). While disabling the output of operation commands, real-time monitoring of the roll-on / roll-off equipment status information (such as whether the equipment is locked, whether there are any abnormal alarms, etc.) and emergency braking functions (such as the emergency cut-off function of the physical key switch) are still maintained to ensure timely monitoring of the equipment status during navigation and rapid braking in case of emergencies.

[0085] The berthing mode selection module 140 is suitable for the ship's berthing state. In this state, the module 140 enables the remote control panel 11 to output operation commands to the roll-on / roll-off equipment, allowing operators to send commands such as opening and closing roll-on / roll-off doors and adjusting ramps via the panel to meet the needs of loading and unloading passengers and vehicles. Simultaneously, it activates the equipment control logic and safety interlocking strategies matched to the loading and unloading operations. For example, before opening the outer door, it automatically detects whether there are obstacles in the surrounding area and confirms the inner door is closed. Pre-set logical relationships ensure that the actions of each piece of equipment are coordinated and orderly, avoiding safety accidents caused by incorrect operating sequences (such as opening the hatch without confirming the ramp is in place).

[0086] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A remote control system for a double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off (Ro-Ro) ship loading and unloading equipment, characterized in that, This includes roll-on / roll-off equipment systems and monitoring systems; The roll-on / roll-off equipment system includes at least two remote control panels, at least two PLC integrated control boxes, at least two power unit control boxes, and at least two local control box groups. Each of the local control box groups is connected to a corresponding PLC integrated control box, and the local control box group includes local control boxes for controlling different functional units of the roll-on / roll-off equipment; The remote control panel is located in the two wheelhouses of the double-headed passenger ro-ro ship. The remote control panel is used to receive the status information of the ro-ro equipment from the PLC integrated control box and send operation instructions to the PLC integrated control box. Each of the PLC integrated control boxes is communicatively connected to a corresponding remote control panel. The PLC integrated control box is used to collect operating parameters from the local control box group and the power unit control box to characterize the operating status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment, and to collect the status information of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. Each of the power unit control boxes is connected to a corresponding PLC integrated control box. The power unit control box is used to respond to the instructions of the PLC integrated control box to control the start and stop of the power unit of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. The monitoring system includes multiple cameras and at least two bridge tower video surveillance monitors; The camera is configured in the roll-on / roll-off equipment and its surrounding environment; the bridge tower video surveillance monitor is connected to the camera and is used to display the image information captured by the camera, so that operators can observe the status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment to assist in remote operation.

2. The remote control system for the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The local control box includes at least one of the following: a pilot electrical control box, a gas station door electrical control box, and electrical control boxes for the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment. The water diverter's electrical control box is connected to the corresponding PLC integrated control box, and is used to collect the status signals of the water diversion facility and execute local or remote control commands; The gas station door electrical control box is connected to the corresponding PLC integrated control box and is used to control the opening and closing operation of the gas station door and to provide feedback status signals. The electrical control boxes for the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment are connected to the corresponding PLC integrated control boxes to perform local control of the roll-on / roll-off equipment and monitor its status.

3. The remote control system for the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the power unit control box and the local control box are equipped with a switching switch; When the switch of the power unit control box or any local control box is in the remote position, the remote control panel activates its operation permission, allowing the operator to send roll-on / roll-off equipment start / stop operation commands to the PLC integrated control box through the remote control panel.

4. The remote control system for the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the remote control panels is equipped with a control location selection module; The control position selection module is used to dynamically allocate operating permissions between the remote control panels of the two driver's cabs. In response to the activation of the remote control panel of either driver's cab as the operating terminal, the remote control panel of the other driver's cab is automatically switched to the monitoring terminal. The monitoring terminal only retains the functions of receiving and displaying status information and prohibits the output of operating commands.

5. The remote control system for the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control position selection module includes an inquiry unit and a switching unit; The query unit is used to generate a location switching request when the operation location changes; The switching unit is used to perform the operation permission switching operation in response to the location switching request.

6. The remote control system for the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The remote control panel is equipped with a physical key switch, which is electrically connected to the power unit control box. In an emergency, the power supply to the power unit control box can be directly cut off to shut down the hydraulic power unit of the roll-on / roll-off equipment.

7. The remote control system for the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The roll-on / roll-off equipment system also includes at least two leakage sensors and at least two limit switches; The water leakage sensor is connected to the electrical control box of the inner and outer doors of the roll-on / roll-off equipment, and is used to detect the water leakage status in the roll-on / roll-off equipment area and send an alarm signal to the PLC integrated control box. The limit switches are connected one-to-one with the local control box and the power unit control box, and are used to detect the switch position status of the roll-on / roll-off equipment components and feed back the status signal to the PLC integrated control box.

8. The remote control system for the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, An emergency stop button is provided on the power unit control box. The emergency stop button is connected to the local control box through a safety circuit independent of the PLC integrated control box. It is used to receive an emergency stop signal and control the corresponding roll-on / roll-off equipment to stop running when the equipment fails.

9. The remote control system for the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The roll-on / roll-off equipment system also includes an indicator panel, which is connected to any of the PLC integrated control boxes and is used to receive and display the operating status and alarm information of the roll-on / roll-off equipment from the PLC integrated control box. The indicator panel does not have an operation command input function.

10. The remote control system for the double-headed passenger roll-on / roll-off ship equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The remote control panel is an LCD touch screen, and the remote control panel is equipped with a navigation mode selection module and a berthing mode selection module. The navigation mode selection module is used to disable the remote control panel's output function for operating commands to the roll-on / roll-off equipment in the navigation mode, and to maintain the real-time monitoring of the roll-on / roll-off equipment's status information and emergency braking function. The berthing mode selection module is used to enable the remote control panel to output operation commands to the roll-on / roll-off equipment in the berthing mode, and to activate the equipment control logic and safety interlock strategy that match the loading and unloading operation.

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