Real-time measurement device and method for shore-based ice thickness, ice-water gap and under-ice water level

Abstract

The invention provides a shore-based ice thickness, ice-water gap and under-ice water level real-time measuring device and method, and relates to the technical field of hydrographic survey, and the shore-based ice thickness, ice-water gap and under-ice water level real-time measuring device comprises an electromagnetic pulse transmitter, a wave guide line, a displacement distance sensor, a slide rail module, a buoy and a control module. The sliding rail module is installed on the wall face of a wading building through the fixed rail and the tackle, the buoy is fixed to the tackle and floats along with the water level, the electromagnetic pulse transmitter is installed on the buoy, the wave guide line vertically stretches into water, and the displacement distance sensor selects a non-contact type or a contact type installation mode according to the type. The control module integrates power management and data communication functions, identifies a medium interface through an electromagnetic pulse transmitter, measures data in combination with a displacement distance sensor, and calculates ice thickness, ice-water gap and under-ice water level elevation in real time, so that automatic continuous monitoring is realized, the risk of manual ice digging operation is avoided, and the working efficiency is improved. And the safety and the precision of hydrographic survey in the cold region are obviously improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of hydrological measurement technology, and in particular to a device and method for real-time measurement of shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and subglacial water level. Background Technology

[0002] In hydrological monitoring and ice-period water conveyance projects in cold regions, ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level are key parameters that significantly impact ice condition forecasting, water conservancy scheduling, and safe production. Currently, these parameters are mostly measured manually by ice chiseling or using handheld radar equipment, which suffers from low efficiency, high risk, and inability to monitor continuously. Especially in extremely cold environments, the safety hazards of personnel working on ice are prominent, and existing equipment struggles to achieve real-time, stepless measurement of sub-ice water levels. Although early attempts included electronic water gauges, their application was limited by installation complexity, discontinuous measurement, and inability to obtain water level elevations.

[0003] Therefore, there is an urgent need for an integrated shore-based device that can measure ice thickness, ice-water gap and subglacial water level in real time, continuously and automatically, in order to improve measurement safety, accuracy and efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned problems in the existing technology, the first aspect of this invention proposes a real-time measurement device for shore-based ice thickness, ice-water gap, and subglacial water level, comprising an electromagnetic pulse transmitter, waveguide wire, displacement distance sensor, slide rail module, float, and control module. The slide rail module includes a vertically set fixed rail and a trolley that can move up and down along the fixed rail. The fixed rail is fixed to the vertical wall of the water-related structure by a mounting plate on its back side. The float is fixedly mounted on the outer wall of the pulley on the side facing the water via a connector at its bottom; The electromagnetic pulse transmitter is bolted to the center of the upper surface of the float; The waveguide is a metal conductor. The top of the waveguide is equipped with a connector that is threaded to the waveguide interface at the bottom of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter. The bottom of the waveguide extends vertically downward and passes through the through hole in the center of the float into the water. The installation location of displacement distance sensors is selected according to their type: non-contact sensors are installed on sensor brackets on the wall of water-related buildings, with their sensing direction horizontally aligned with the reflective area on the float or pulley; contact sensors are installed on the float or pulley, and their measuring end is fixed to the measuring point seat on the building wall by a connecting rod. The control module is encapsulated in a waterproof enclosure, which is fixed to a float or trolley. The control module is electrically connected to the signal output terminal of the displacement distance sensor and the data communication port of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter via internal cables.

[0005] In some implementations, the electromagnetic pulse transmitter includes an electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit, a reflected wave receiving circuit, a control and analysis circuit, and a signal separation circuit; The output of the electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit is connected to the input of the signal separation circuit; One output of the signal separation circuit is connected to the waveguide interface; The input terminal of the reflected wave receiving circuit is connected to the other output terminal of the signal separation circuit; The control and analysis circuit is bidirectionally connected to the input terminal of the electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit and the output terminal of the reflected wave receiving circuit via a data bus.

[0006] In some implementations, the waveguide uses a flexible multi-core metal cable structure or a rigid metal rod structure; the top of the waveguide is equipped with a threaded connector or quick plug that matches the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter, and the bottom end of the waveguide is an open end that extends vertically into the water.

[0007] In some implementations, the trolley includes a rectangular chassis and multiple sets of pulleys installed at the four corners of the chassis; each set of pulleys includes two first pulleys with their axes parallel to the chassis and one second pulley with its axis perpendicular to the chassis; the two first pulleys respectively clamp and roll against the upper and lower surfaces of the fixed I-shaped track from the upper and lower sides, and the second pulley rolls against the side of the beam in the I-shaped track from the side.

[0008] In some implementations, when the displacement distance sensor is a non-contact sensor, the non-contact sensor is fixed to the embedded part on the side wall of the water-related building by an L-shaped mounting plate, and the central axis of its sensing head is horizontally aligned with the metal reflector plate or the measuring target protruding laterally from the trolley on the outer surface of the float. When the displacement distance sensor is a contact sensor, the sensor body is fixed to the side wall of the float or the chassis of the trolley by clamps. The telescopic rod at its measuring end is connected to the ball joint of the measuring point seat fixed on the wall of the building through a directional joint, and the axis of the telescopic rod is parallel to the extension direction of the fixed track.

[0009] In some implementations, the non-contact displacement distance sensor is specifically a radar ranging sensor, in which the millimeter-wave beam emitted by the antenna of the radar ranging sensor is aimed at a corner reflector or a metal plate target protruding laterally from the trolley on the outer surface of the float.

[0010] In some implementations, the control module includes a circuit board that integrates a wide-voltage input power interface, a multi-channel controllable DC output power interface, a data communication interface, and a timer unit. The wide-voltage input power interface is connected to an external power supply system via a waterproof cable. The multi-channel controllable DC output power interface is connected to the power input ports of the displacement distance sensor and the electromagnetic pulse transmitter via ribbon cables. The data communication interface is connected to the data interfaces of the displacement distance sensor and the electromagnetic pulse transmitter via twisted-pair cables.

[0011] In some implementations, the data communication interface is a serial communication interface, which is connected to the communication terminals of the displacement distance sensor and the electromagnetic pulse transmitter respectively via twisted-pair cables, and the twisted-pair cables are protected by corrugated tubing.

[0012] In some implementations, the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter is located on the mounting base on the upper surface of the float, the axis of the waveguide interface is coaxial with the through hole on the float, and there is a preset vertical distance between the lower end face of the waveguide interface and the upper surface of the float.

[0013] Secondly, the present invention provides a method for real-time measurement of shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and subglacial water level. The method is applied to the apparatus provided in any of the above embodiments, and includes: S1: Determine the elevation H of the reference point for the displacement distance sensor through leveling. S2: Measure and record the vertical distance D from the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter to the reference point of the displacement distance sensor; S3: Install the device on a water-related structure and measure the exposed length L1 of the waveguide above the water surface; S4: Power on the control module, displacement distance sensor and electromagnetic pulse transmitter, and set the timing acquisition period T of the control module; S5: When the acquisition time is reached, the control module sends the first acquisition command to the displacement distance sensor and the second acquisition command to the electromagnetic pulse transmitter. S6: The control module receives distance measurement value S1 from the displacement distance sensor, as well as multiple interface distance measurement values ​​from the electromagnetic pulse transmitter, including gas-ice interface distance Sqb, ice-gas interface distance Sbq and gas-water interface distance Sqs. S7: The control module calculates the elevation Hb of the lower surface of the ice sheet according to the formula Hb=H-(S1+D+Sqb); S8: The control module calculates the ice sheet thickness Lb according to the formula Lb=Sbq-Sqb; S9: The control module calculates the subglacial water level Hbs according to the formula Hbs=H-(S1+D+Sqs); S10: The control module calculates the ice-water gap height Hq according to the formula Hq=Sqs-Sbq; S11: After a measurement is completed, the control module resets the timer and sends the ice cover lower surface elevation Hb, ice cover thickness Lb, subglacial water level elevation Hbs, and ice-water gap height Hq to the remote data center through its communication interface. S12: Wait for the next acquisition cycle and repeat steps S5 to S11.

[0014] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: the real-time measurement device for shore ice thickness, ice-water gap and sub-ice water level, through the coordinated operation of an electromagnetic pulse transmitter, waveguide, displacement distance sensor, slide rail module, float and control module, effectively solves the problems of low measurement efficiency, poor safety and inability to monitor continuously in real time mentioned in the background art. The electromagnetic pulse transmitter accurately identifies multiphase interfaces such as air-ice-water by emitting and receiving electromagnetic waves propagating along the waveguide, enabling stepless measurement of ice thickness and sub-ice water level. The waveguide serves as the electromagnetic wave transmission medium, ensuring stable signal transmission and interface reflection identification. A displacement sensor monitors the buoy's position changes in real time, providing a benchmark for water level calculations when combined with installation elevation data. The sliding rail module, through the cooperation of a fixed track and a trolley, allows the buoy to rise and fall freely with the water level, ensuring the waveguide remains vertically suspended in the water, avoiding interference from ice movement or water level fluctuations. The buoy, acting as a platform, integrates the electromagnetic pulse transmitter and control module, ensuring the equipment moves synchronously with water level changes. The control module manages power and data acquisition, triggering sensors and radar at regular intervals to achieve fully automatic, continuous data acquisition and remote transmission. The coordinated operation of these components enables high-precision, unmanned, real-time continuous monitoring of ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level, significantly improving the safety and efficiency of hydrological measurements in cold regions. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in 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 the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0016] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the installation layout of a real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 The figure shown is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a slide rail module provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3The diagram shown is a flowchart illustrating a method for real-time measurement of shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and subglacial water level according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure reference numerals: 1. Electromagnetic pulse transmitter; 2. Waveguide wire; 3. Displacement distance sensor; 4. Slide rail module; 5. Float; 6. Control module; 401. Fixed track; 402. Trolley. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this invention, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0021] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described below.

[0022] Example 1 like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the present invention proposes a real-time measurement device for shore-based ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level, including an electromagnetic pulse transmitter 1, a waveguide 2, a displacement distance sensor 3, a sliding rail module 4, a float 5, and a control module 6. The slide rail module includes a vertically set fixed rail 401 and a trolley 402 that can move up and down along the fixed rail. The fixed rail is fixed to the vertical wall of the water-contacting structure by a mounting plate on its back side. The float is fixedly mounted on the outer wall of the pulley on the side facing the water via a connector at its bottom; The electromagnetic pulse transmitter is bolted to the center of the upper surface of the float; The waveguide is a metal conductor. The top of the waveguide is equipped with a connector that is threaded to the waveguide interface at the bottom of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter. The bottom of the waveguide extends vertically downward and passes through the through hole in the center of the float into the water. The installation location of displacement distance sensors is selected according to their type: non-contact sensors are installed on sensor brackets on the wall of water-related buildings, with their sensing direction horizontally aligned with the reflective area on the float or pulley; contact sensors are installed on the float or pulley, and their measuring end is fixed to the measuring point seat on the building wall by a connecting rod. The control module is encapsulated in a waterproof enclosure, which is fixed to a float or trolley. The control module is electrically connected to the signal output terminal of the displacement distance sensor and the data communication port of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter via internal cables.

[0023] Specifically, the core of a real-time measurement device for shore-based ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level lies in achieving automated monitoring through the collaborative operation of multiple components. An electromagnetic pulse transmitter emits high-frequency electromagnetic pulse signals via a waveguide. When the signal encounters interfaces such as ice-air or ice-water, it is reflected. The reflected waves are received by the electromagnetic pulse transmitter and processed by a control and analysis circuit to identify the locations of different interfaces. The waveguide, serving as the electromagnetic wave transmission carrier, can be a flexible metal cable or a rigid metal rod structure. Its top end connects to the electromagnetic pulse transmitter interface, while its bottom end extends vertically into the water, ensuring a stable signal transmission path. The sliding rail module consists of a fixed track and a trolley. The fixed track is fixed to the wall of the water-contacting structure via a mounting plate, maintaining a vertical installation. The trolley, through multiple sets of pulleys, works in conjunction with the track to achieve smooth sliding along the track. A float is fixed to the side of the trolley facing the water and can move the entire trolley according to changes in water level, thus adapting to different water level conditions. The installation method for displacement distance sensors is selected according to their type: non-contact sensors are installed on the building wall, aligned with the reflective area on the float or trolley; contact sensors are directly installed on the float or trolley, with the measuring end fixed to the building wall. The control module integrates power management, data acquisition, and communication functions. It is installed on the float or trolley in a waterproof enclosure and connected to the displacement distance sensor and electromagnetic pulse transmitter via cables to achieve power supply and data transmission.

[0024] The entire device identifies the interface position via an electromagnetic pulse transmitter and, combined with the changes in the float position measured by a displacement distance sensor, calculates ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level elevation in real time. This structure avoids the safety risks of manual ice-breaking measurements and achieves continuous, stepless, and high-precision automated monitoring, making it particularly suitable for winter hydrological monitoring in high-altitude and cold regions and for managing water conveyance projects during the ice season. The components are tightly integrated through mechanical structures and electrical connections, forming a stable and reliable shore-based monitoring system.

[0025] In some implementations, the electromagnetic pulse transmitter includes an electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit, a reflected wave receiving circuit, a control and analysis circuit, and a signal separation circuit; The output of the electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit is connected to the input of the signal separation circuit; One output of the signal separation circuit is connected to the waveguide interface; The input terminal of the reflected wave receiving circuit is connected to the other output terminal of the signal separation circuit; The control and analysis circuit is bidirectionally connected to the input terminal of the electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit and the output terminal of the reflected wave receiving circuit via a data bus.

[0026] Specifically, optimizing the internal circuit structure of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter is key to achieving high-precision interface recognition. The electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit receives instructions from the control and analysis circuit, generates high-frequency pulsed electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency and waveform, and transmits them to the signal separation circuit. The signal separation circuit couples the transmitted signal to the waveguide interface and guides the reflected wave signal into the reflected wave receiving circuit, achieving isolation between the transmitted and received signals and avoiding mutual interference. The reflected wave receiving circuit acquires the reflected signal from the waveguide and performs preliminary amplification and filtering to improve the signal-to-noise ratio. The control and analysis circuit, as the core processing unit, uses an embedded microcomputer system to control the parameter settings of the electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit via a data bus and receives the waveform data processed by the reflected wave receiving circuit. The control and analysis circuit performs multiple superpositions and digital filtering on the waveform data, identifies the interface type and location through the time-domain reflection principle, and calculates the distance between each interface.

[0027] This circuit-based collaborative approach improves the accuracy and stability of signal processing, ensuring accurate differentiation of ice-water and ice-air interfaces even in complex hydrological environments. The electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit can adjust its transmission power and frequency to adapt to different ice thicknesses and water quality conditions; the reflected wave receiving circuit employs a high-sensitivity design to capture weak reflected signals; and the control and analysis circuit features an adaptive algorithm that can adjust signal processing parameters according to environmental changes.

[0028] In alternative solutions, the signal separation circuit can employ a circulator or directional coupler structure to achieve more efficient signal separation; the control and analysis circuit can also integrate a temperature compensation module to reduce the impact of ambient temperature on the measurement results. This circuit design not only improves measurement accuracy but also enhances the system's adaptability and reliability, providing technical support for long-term unattended monitoring.

[0029] In some implementations, the waveguide uses a flexible multi-core metal cable structure or a rigid metal rod structure; the top of the waveguide is equipped with a threaded connector or quick plug that matches the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter, and the bottom end of the waveguide is an open end that extends vertically into the water.

[0030] Specifically, as an electromagnetic wave transmission medium, the structural design of the waveguide directly affects signal transmission efficiency and interface reflection recognition accuracy. Waveguides can employ a flexible multi-core metal cable structure, with an internal copper core conductor and an outer wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant sheath. This structure offers good flexibility and tensile strength, making it suitable for environments with significant water level fluctuations. Alternatively, waveguides can utilize a rigid metal rod structure made of stainless steel or aluminum alloy. This structure provides higher mechanical strength and is suitable for applications with thick ice layers or strong water currents. The top of the waveguide is equipped with a threaded connector or quick-connect plug that matches the interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter, ensuring reliable connection and facilitating installation and maintenance. The bottom of the waveguide has an open end, vertically suspended in the water, allowing the electromagnetic waves to fully interact with the surrounding medium.

[0031] In alternative solutions, the waveguide can also employ a twisted-pair structure to balance signal transmission loss and mechanical performance; a weight can be added to the bottom of the waveguide to maintain its verticality and prevent swaying. This design ensures stable transmission of electromagnetic waves along the waveguide, generating clear reflected signals at the dielectric interface, providing high-quality raw data for the electromagnetic pulse transmitter.

[0032] In some implementations, the trolley includes a rectangular chassis and multiple sets of pulleys installed at the four corners of the chassis; each set of pulleys includes two first pulleys with their axes parallel to the chassis and one second pulley with its axis perpendicular to the chassis; the two first pulleys respectively clamp and roll against the upper and lower surfaces of the fixed I-shaped track from the upper and lower sides, and the second pulley rolls against the side of the beam in the I-shaped track from the side.

[0033] Specifically, the mechanical structure design of the slide rail module ensures the smooth movement and long-term reliability of the float as the water level changes. The trolley chassis is a rectangular steel plate structure with four sets of pulleys installed at the four corners. Each pulley set includes two first pulleys with their axes parallel to the chassis and one second pulley with its axis perpendicular to the chassis. The first pulleys are made of nylon or polyurethane and roll in contact with the upper and lower surfaces of the I-shaped track of the fixed rail, forming a clamping structure to prevent the trolley from detaching from the track. The second pulleys are made of the same material and roll in contact with the side of the beam of the I-shaped track, providing lateral positioning. The pulley sets are connected to the chassis via bearings, ensuring flexible rotation and low frictional resistance. The fixed rail is made of I-beams or aluminum alloy profiles and is fixed to the wall of the water-contaminated structure via a back-side mounting plate, ensuring the verticality of the rail during installation. The bottom of the rail is located a certain distance below the dead water level, and the top is above the highest water level, ensuring that the trolley can move normally throughout the entire water level range. A limit pin is provided at the end of the rail to prevent the trolley from detaching.

[0034] This structure allows the float to rise and fall freely with water level changes while maintaining the waveguide line vertical, avoiding measurement errors. In an alternative solution, the pulley system can employ a V-shaped wheel structure matched with a dovetail track; the chassis can be equipped with an anti-tipping device to improve stability under high wind and wave conditions. The precision mechanical design of the slide rail module ensures wear resistance and reliability during long-term use, providing fundamental support for continuous monitoring.

[0035] In some implementations, when the displacement distance sensor is a non-contact sensor, the non-contact sensor is fixed to the embedded part on the side wall of the water-related building by an L-shaped mounting plate, and the central axis of its sensing head is horizontally aligned with the metal reflector plate or the measuring target protruding laterally from the trolley on the outer surface of the float. When the displacement distance sensor is a contact sensor, the sensor body is fixed to the side wall of the float or the chassis of the trolley by clamps. The telescopic rod at its measuring end is connected to the ball joint of the measuring point seat fixed on the wall of the building through a directional joint, and the axis of the telescopic rod is parallel to the extension direction of the fixed track.

[0036] Specifically, the installation method of displacement distance sensors is optimized according to different types to ensure the accuracy and continuity of distance measurement. Non-contact sensors use radar ranging principles and are fixed to embedded parts on the side wall of the water-related structure via an L-shaped mounting plate. The central axis of the sensor head is horizontally aligned with a metal reflector or a laterally protruding measurement target on the outer surface of the float. The metal reflector can be a stainless steel mirror panel or a corner reflector structure to improve signal reflection intensity; the measurement target is a flat metal plate with rust-proof treatment. Contact sensors are fixed to the side wall of the float or the chassis of the trolley using clamps. The telescopic rod at the measuring end is connected to the measuring point seat on the building wall via a universal joint, ensuring that the axis of the telescopic rod is parallel to the extension direction of the fixed track, avoiding lateral forces affecting measurement accuracy. The measuring point seat is made of stainless steel and is embedded in the building wall, providing a stable measurement reference.

[0037] This installation method ensures accurate measurement of float position changes under varying water level conditions, providing reliable data for water level calculations. Alternative solutions include non-contact sensors using laser rangefinders with high-reflectivity targets; and contact sensors employing magnetostrictive or potentiometer-type structures, using linkage mechanisms to adapt to a wider range of water level changes. The optimized sensor mounting structure improves system adaptability and measurement accuracy, ensuring stable operation under diverse environmental conditions.

[0038] In some implementations, the non-contact displacement distance sensor is specifically a radar ranging sensor, in which the millimeter-wave beam emitted by the antenna of the radar ranging sensor is aimed at a corner reflector or a metal plate target protruding laterally from the trolley on the outer surface of the float.

[0039] Specifically, non-contact displacement distance sensors preferably employ radar ranging sensors. Their working principle involves emitting a millimeter-wave beam through an antenna and receiving the reflected echo from the target, calculating the time difference to determine the distance. Millimeter waves, with their short wavelength and high directionality, enable high-precision distance detection. The radar ranging sensor's antenna is aligned with a corner reflector or a lateral protruding metal plate target on the outer surface of the buoy. The corner reflector consists of three mutually perpendicular metal planes, reflecting the incident wave back along its original direction, significantly enhancing the echo signal strength. The metal plate target is made of stainless steel or aluminum, with a mirror finish to improve reflectivity. During installation, the antenna angle must be precisely adjusted to ensure the beam center is perpendicularly aligned with the center of the reflecting target, avoiding measurement errors.

[0040] This non-contact measurement method avoids the friction loss and jamming problems caused by mechanical contact, making it suitable for low-temperature and freezing environments. As an alternative, the radar ranging sensor can employ a frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) system, improving measurement accuracy and anti-interference capabilities through frequency modulation; the reflecting target can also utilize a specially designed microwave reflective film to reduce the weight of the installation structure. The radar ranging sensor also features strong penetration capabilities, enabling it to operate normally under light snow or condensation conditions, ensuring reliable monitoring in winter. The sensor housing is waterproof and freeze-proof, and the internal circuitry incorporates temperature compensation to guarantee measurement stability over a wide temperature range. This design achieves high-precision, non-contact, continuous monitoring of the buoy's position, providing accurate reference data for water level calculations.

[0041] In some implementations, the control module includes a circuit board that integrates a wide-voltage input power interface, a multi-channel controllable DC output power interface, a data communication interface, and a timer unit. The wide-voltage input power interface is connected to an external power supply system via a waterproof cable. The multi-channel controllable DC output power interface is connected to the power input ports of the displacement distance sensor and the electromagnetic pulse transmitter via ribbon cables. The data communication interface is connected to the data interfaces of the displacement distance sensor and the electromagnetic pulse transmitter via twisted-pair cables.

[0042] Specifically, the integrated circuit board design of the control module enables intelligent power management and data acquisition functions. The wide-voltage input power interface adopts a DC wide-voltage input circuit design, adaptable to external power supply systems of different voltage levels. Internally, it includes overvoltage protection, reverse connection protection, and surge protection circuits to ensure safe module operation. The multi-controllable DC output power interface uses a switching power supply design, with each output independently controllable, providing stable and efficient output voltage, and supplying clean power to the displacement distance sensor and electromagnetic pulse transmitter. The data communication interface uses the RS485 serial communication protocol, featuring strong anti-interference capabilities and long transmission distances, suitable for industrial applications. The timer unit uses a high-precision crystal oscillator to provide an accurate time base and control the data acquisition cycle.

[0043] The circuit board employs a four-layer design, with independent power and ground layers to reduce signal crosstalk; all interfaces use waterproof connectors to ensure reliability in humid environments. In alternative solutions, the wide-voltage input interface can be enhanced with photovoltaic input management functionality, allowing direct connection to a solar power system; the multi-output interface can be augmented with current monitoring capabilities to monitor the real-time operating status of each device; and the data communication interface can be upgraded with a wireless transmission module to enable 4G or LoRa wireless data transmission. This integrated design reduces external wiring, improves system reliability, and achieves unified management of power supply, data acquisition, and communication.

[0044] In some implementations, the data communication interface is a serial communication interface, which is connected to the communication terminals of the displacement distance sensor and the electromagnetic pulse transmitter respectively via twisted-pair cables, and the twisted-pair cables are protected by corrugated tubing.

[0045] Specifically, the data communication interface uses a serial communication interface, specifically an RS485 bus interface, connected to various devices via twisted-pair cables. The twisted-pair cables employ a wire-pair twisting method to reduce common-mode noise during differential signal transmission. The communication cable is protected by a corrugated sheath made of weather-resistant polyethylene material with internal nylon reinforcement, providing excellent mechanical protection and corrosion resistance. The communication interface circuit employs an isolation design, using optocouplers or magnetic coupling isolation devices to eliminate the influence of ground potential differences. A terminating resistor matching circuit ensures signal transmission integrity and prevents reflection interference. Alternatively, the communication interface can use the CAN bus protocol to improve communication reliability and real-time performance; the corrugated sheath can be replaced with a stainless steel flexible hose, providing stronger compression resistance. This communication design ensures data reliability over long distances and in harsh environments, providing a stable channel for remote system monitoring.

[0046] In some implementations, the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter is located on the mounting base on the upper surface of the float, the axis of the waveguide interface is coaxial with the through hole on the float, and there is a preset vertical distance between the lower end face of the waveguide interface and the upper surface of the float.

[0047] Specifically, the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter is mounted on a mounting base on the upper surface of the float. The mounting base is made of stainless steel and is connected to the float body via sealing bolts. The axis of the waveguide interface is strictly coaxial with the through-hole on the float, ensuring that the waveguide passes perpendicularly through the float without deviation. An appropriate vertical distance is maintained between the lower end face of the waveguide interface and the upper surface of the float. This distance avoids mechanical stress on the waveguide during float movement and prevents water splashing onto the interface. The mounting base has a sealing ring groove with a nitrile rubber or fluororubber sealing ring to ensure waterproof performance at the interface. The waveguide interface uses a stainless steel threaded connection structure with a nickel-plated surface to prevent corrosion. In alternative solutions, the mounting base can be equipped with a leveling mechanism, using three adjusting screws to achieve precise alignment of the interface; the waveguide interface can be replaced with a quick-plug structure for easy maintenance and replacement; and the sealing design can employ a double-seal structure, adding a lip seal for secondary protection. This installation method ensures that the waveguide remains vertical during operation, improving measurement accuracy and reliability.

[0048] Example 2 like Figure 3 As shown, in a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for real-time measurement of shore-based ice thickness, ice-water gap, and subglacial water level. The method is applied to the apparatus provided in any of the above embodiments, and includes: S1: Determine the elevation H of the reference point for the displacement distance sensor through leveling. S2: Measure and record the vertical distance D from the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter to the reference point of the displacement distance sensor; S3: Install the device on a water-related structure and measure the exposed length L1 of the waveguide above the water surface; S4: Power on the control module, displacement distance sensor and electromagnetic pulse transmitter, and set the timing acquisition period T of the control module; S5: When the acquisition time is reached, the control module sends the first acquisition command to the displacement distance sensor and the second acquisition command to the electromagnetic pulse transmitter. S6: The control module receives distance measurement value S1 from the displacement distance sensor, as well as multiple interface distance measurement values ​​from the electromagnetic pulse transmitter, including gas-ice interface distance Sqb, ice-gas interface distance Sbq and gas-water interface distance Sqs. S7: The control module calculates the elevation Hb of the lower surface of the ice sheet according to the formula Hb=H-(S1+D+Sqb); S8: The control module calculates the ice sheet thickness Lb according to the formula Lb=Sbq-Sqb; S9: The control module calculates the subglacial water level Hbs according to the formula Hbs=H-(S1+D+Sqs); S10: The control module calculates the ice-water gap height Hq according to the formula Hq=Sqs-Sbq; S11: After a measurement is completed, the control module resets the timer and sends the ice cover lower surface elevation Hb, ice cover thickness Lb, subglacial water level elevation Hbs, and ice-water gap height Hq to the remote data center through its communication interface. S12: Wait for the next acquisition cycle and repeat steps S5 to S11.

[0049] Specifically, the implementation of the real-time measurement method for shore-based ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level is based on the aforementioned device hardware platform, achieving automated monitoring through a systematic measurement process. The method first determines the elevation H of the measurement reference point for the displacement distance sensor through precise leveling; this reference point serves as the baseline elevation for the entire measurement system. Then, the vertical distance D from the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter to the measurement reference point of the displacement distance sensor is measured; this parameter is used for subsequent height conversion. During device installation, the waveguide is ensured to be vertically suspended, and the exposed length L1 of the waveguide above the water surface is measured as an initial parameter. After the system is powered on, the timing acquisition period T of the control module is set, and an appropriate sampling frequency is set according to the monitoring requirements. When the acquisition time is reached, the control module sends acquisition commands to the displacement distance sensor and the electromagnetic pulse transmitter in parallel, simultaneously acquiring the distance measurement value S1 and the interface distance measurement value. After receiving the data, the control module calculates the elevation of the lower surface of the ice sheet using the formula Hb=H-(S1+D+Sqb), where Sqb represents the air-ice interface distance. The ice cap thickness is calculated using Lb = Sbq - Sqb, where Sbq is the ice-air interface distance. The subglacial water level is calculated using Hbs = H - (S1 + D + Sqs), where Sqs is the air-water interface distance. The ice-water gap height is calculated using Hq = Sqs - Sbq. After completing the calculations, the control module sends the measurement results to the remote data center via the communication interface, then resets the timer to wait for the next cycle.

[0050] This method achieves fully automated continuous monitoring, avoiding manual intervention and improving measurement efficiency and safety. Alternative implementations can include data quality checks to filter out abnormal data and automatic calibration for periodic benchmark verification. The entire method, through multi-parameter fusion calculations, enables simultaneous monitoring of multiple elements of ice and water conditions, providing comprehensive data support for hydrological management in cold regions.

[0051] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level, characterized in that, Includes an electromagnetic pulse transmitter, waveguide, displacement distance sensor, slide rail module, float and control module; The slide rail module includes a vertically set fixed rail and a trolley that can move up and down along the fixed rail. The fixed rail is fixed to the vertical wall of the water-related building by a mounting plate on its back side. The float is fixedly mounted on the outer wall of the pulley on the side facing the water via a connector at its bottom; The electromagnetic pulse transmitter is bolted to the center of the upper surface of the float; The waveguide is a metal conductor. The top end of the waveguide is provided with a connector that is threaded to the waveguide interface at the bottom of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter. The bottom end of the waveguide extends vertically downward and passes through the through hole in the center of the float into the water. The displacement distance sensor is installed at different locations depending on its type: non-contact sensors are installed on sensor brackets on the wall of the water-related building, with their sensing direction horizontally aligned with the reflective area on the float or trolley; contact sensors are installed on the float or trolley, with their measuring end fixed to the measuring point seat on the building wall via a connecting rod. The control module is encapsulated in a waterproof enclosure, which is fixed to the float or trolley. The control module is electrically connected to the signal output terminal of the displacement distance sensor and the data communication port of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter via internal cables.

2. The real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electromagnetic pulse transmitter includes an electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit, a reflected wave receiving circuit, a control and analysis circuit, and a signal separation circuit. The output terminal of the electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit is connected to the input terminal of the signal separation circuit; One output terminal of the signal separation circuit is connected to the waveguide interface; The input terminal of the reflected wave receiving circuit is connected to the other output terminal of the signal separation circuit; The control and analysis circuit is bidirectionally connected to the input terminal of the electromagnetic wave transmitting circuit and the output terminal of the reflected wave receiving circuit via a data bus.

3. The real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level according to claim 1, characterized in that, The waveguide adopts a flexible multi-core metal cable structure or a rigid metal rod structure; the top end of the waveguide is provided with a threaded connector or quick plug that matches the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter, and the bottom end of the waveguide is an open end that extends vertically into the water.

4. The real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level according to claim 1, characterized in that, The trolley includes a rectangular chassis and multiple sets of pulleys installed at the four corners of the chassis; each set of pulleys includes two first pulleys with their axes parallel to the chassis and one second pulley with its axis perpendicular to the chassis; the two first pulleys respectively clamp and roll in contact with the upper and lower surfaces of the I-shaped track of the fixed track from the upper and lower sides, and the second pulley rolls in contact with the side of the beam in the I-shaped track from the side.

5. The real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the displacement distance sensor is a non-contact sensor, the non-contact sensor is fixed to the embedded part on the side wall of the water-related building by an L-shaped mounting plate, and the central axis of its sensing head is horizontally aligned with the metal reflector plate set on the outer surface of the float or the measuring target protruding laterally from the trolley. When the displacement distance sensor is a contact sensor, the body of the contact sensor is fixed to the side wall of the float or the chassis of the trolley by a clamp, and the telescopic rod at its measuring end is connected to the ball joint of the measuring point seat fixed on the wall of the building by a directional joint, and the axis of the telescopic rod is parallel to the extension direction of the fixed track.

6. The real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level according to claim 5, characterized in that, The non-contact displacement distance sensor is specifically a radar ranging sensor. The millimeter-wave beam emitted by the antenna of the radar ranging sensor is aimed at the corner reflector set on the outer surface of the float or the metal plate target protruding from the side of the trolley.

7. The real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control module includes a circuit board that integrates a wide-voltage input power interface, a multi-channel controllable DC output power interface, a data communication interface, and a timer unit. The wide-voltage input power interface is connected to an external power supply system via a waterproof cable. The multi-channel controllable DC output power interface is connected to the power input ports of the displacement distance sensor and the electromagnetic pulse transmitter via ribbon cables. The data communication interface is connected to the data interfaces of the displacement distance sensor and the electromagnetic pulse transmitter via twisted-pair cables.

8. The real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level according to claim 7, characterized in that, The data communication interface is a serial communication interface, which is connected to the communication terminal of the displacement distance sensor and the communication terminal of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter respectively through a twisted pair cable, and the twisted pair cable is protected by a corrugated tube.

9. The real-time measuring device for shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and sub-ice water level according to claim 1, characterized in that, The waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter is located on the mounting base on the upper surface of the float. The axis of the waveguide interface is coaxial with the through hole on the float. The lower end face of the waveguide interface has a preset vertical distance from the upper surface of the float.

10. A method for real-time measurement of shoreline ice thickness, ice-water gap, and subglacial water level, characterized in that, The method is applied to the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the method comprising: S1: Determine the elevation H of the reference point for the displacement distance sensor through leveling. S2: Measure and record the vertical distance D from the waveguide interface of the electromagnetic pulse transmitter to the measurement reference point of the displacement distance sensor; S3: Install the device on a water-related structure and measure the exposed length L1 of the waveguide above the water surface; S4: Power on the control module, displacement distance sensor and electromagnetic pulse transmitter, and set the timing acquisition period T of the control module; S5: When the acquisition time is reached, the control module sends a first acquisition command to the displacement distance sensor and a second acquisition command to the electromagnetic pulse transmitter; S6: The control module receives a distance measurement value S1 from the displacement distance sensor, and multiple interface distance measurement values ​​from the electromagnetic pulse transmitter, including the gas-ice interface distance Sqb, the ice-gas interface distance Sbq, and the gas-water interface distance Sqs. S7: The control module calculates the elevation Hb of the lower surface of the ice sheet according to the formula Hb=H-(S1+D+Sqb); S8: The control module calculates the ice sheet thickness Lb according to the formula Lb=Sbq-Sqb; S9: The control module calculates the subglacial water level Hbs according to the formula Hbs=H-(S1+D+Sqs); S10: The control module calculates the ice-water gap height Hq according to the formula Hq=Sqs-Sbq; S11: After a measurement is completed, the control module resets the timer and sends the elevation of the lower surface of the ice cover Hb, the thickness of the ice cover Lb, the elevation of the water level under the ice Hbs, and the height of the ice-water gap Hq to the remote data center through its communication interface; S12: Wait for the next acquisition cycle and repeat steps S5 to S11.

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