Ballast tank control system and method

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of ballast tanks, in particular to a ballast tank control system and method.The ballast tank control system comprises a ballast tank, a water inlet and outlet unit, a sensor module and a control module, a diving platform is controlled to dive and float upwards through the ballast tank, and the water amount in the tank is adjusted through the water inlet and outlet unit; the sensor module collects parameter information of the liquid level, the pressure, the dip angle, the flow and the wave height to generate characteristic parameter factors, the control module recognizes the risk state and switches the operation mode according to parameter variance, the diving platform is kept horizontal in the steady-state mode, rapid diving is started in the early-warning defense mode, and the diving platform does not dive in the early-warning defense mode. In the energy consumption optimization mode, external power generation is started to reduce energy consumption. Therefore, buoyancy adjustment, automatic diving and floating and self-recovery control of the diving platform are achieved, energy consumption is effectively reduced, control precision is improved, and the device is suitable for offshore floating photovoltaic, floating wind power, mariculture and monitoring platforms.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of ballast tank technology, and more particularly to a ballast tank control system and method. Background Technology

[0002] Ballast tank systems, as a key component of ships and offshore engineering platforms, primarily perform the important functions of regulating buoyancy, maintaining stability, and controlling draft and center of gravity. These systems typically consist of ballast water pumps, piping networks, valve assemblies, and level detection devices, achieving platform balance through the injection and drainage of water into each compartment. With the diversification of offshore engineering equipment, the application scope of ballast tank systems has expanded from traditional ships to floating wind power platforms, photovoltaic power generation platforms, and marine aquaculture platforms. These new marine structures place higher demands on ballast tank systems, requiring them to maintain platform stability and ensure normal equipment operation in complex marine environments. Their technological development directly relates to the depth and breadth of marine resource development and utilization, becoming a crucial technological support for advancing offshore engineering. Therefore, intelligent control of ballast tank systems is a core element in ensuring the safety and stability of offshore platforms and a pressing technical challenge that needs to be addressed.

[0003] Chinese Patent Publication No. CN112660295A discloses a pontoon liquid level measurement and valve control system. The pontoon includes ballast tanks and a ballast pump tank. Ballast pumps are installed in the ballast pump tank, and each ballast tank is connected to a ballast pump via a piping system. A liquid level transmitter is installed in each ballast tank. The pontoon is equipped with four corner draft sensors and a hull flooding alarm sensor. Clamp-type electric remote-controlled butterfly valves are installed in the piping system corresponding to each ballast tank. The ballast pump tank has hull water suction ports and liquid level transmitters on both port and starboard sides. This invention has monitoring, remote sensing, alarm, and recording functions. Communication is via wired or wireless means. When the pontoon's draft needs to be adjusted, the data processing console issues a draft adjustment command to control the working status of the butterfly valves and ballast pumps, controlling the pontoon's draft to reach a predetermined position.

[0004] However, the following problems still exist in the existing technology: In existing technologies, ballast tank systems mainly rely on manual valve operation or preset timed pumping, which suffers from slow response and low automation. This results in a severe lag in system response, making it impossible for the diving platform to quickly complete its descent or attitude adjustment when encountering sudden changes in wind and waves, posing a safety hazard. Furthermore, existing devices generally adopt a single pump or single valve structure design, which lacks redundancy and has poor system fault tolerance. Once a critical component fails, the entire system will lose its function. In addition, existing designs are mainly designed for traditional ships and cannot meet the needs of offshore new energy platforms. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides a ballast tank control system and method to overcome the problems of existing ballast tank systems, such as not considering the single control mode, slow response speed, inability to adapt to sudden wind and waves, insufficient system redundancy due to manual valves or timed pumping, and low system operating efficiency and low accuracy caused by single point of failure.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a ballast tank control system, comprising: Several ballast tanks are used to control the diving and surfacing states of the diving platform; The water inlet and outlet unit includes several water pumps, several air pumps or valve devices, and several standby pumps connected to the ballast tank to control the water volume in the ballast tank. The sensor module is used to collect characteristic parameter information of liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate and wave height data, and analyze characteristic parameter factors based on the characteristic parameter information; A control module, connected to the sensor module, is used to determine whether the diving platform is in a risky state tendency based on the variance of characteristic parameter factors within a time period. When a risky state tendency is determined, the operating mode is determined based on the characteristic parameter factors. The risk state is determined based on the variance of the characteristic parameter factors or other time window volatility indicators, including: If in steady-state mode, then ensure the diving platform remains level; If in early warning and defense mode, the ballast tank is activated for rapid descent; the pump speed is extracted, and the difference between the pump speed and the predetermined pump speed threshold is used to determine whether to activate the backup pump. If in energy optimization mode, the ballast tank will activate an external power generation device to reduce pump energy consumption. The feature parameter factor is calculated by a linear or nonlinear fusion model after normalizing the five feature parameters; the rapid descent state includes increasing the pump speed, turning on multiple pumps, or adjusting the valve opening to enable the platform to complete the descent attitude adjustment within a preset time threshold.

[0007] Furthermore, the sensor module includes: a level sensor, a pressure sensor, an attitude sensor, a flow sensor, and a wave sensor.

[0008] Furthermore, the water pump is connected to the standby pump via a redundant drive system, which is used to start the standby water pump when the difference between the water pump speed and a predetermined water pump speed threshold is greater than or equal to the difference threshold, or when an abnormality is determined based on environmental characteristic parameters, wherein the environmental characteristic parameters include the current, voltage and pump outlet flow of the ballast tank.

[0009] Furthermore, the feature parameter factor is determined based on the sum of the first feature parameter, the second feature parameter, the third feature parameter, the fourth feature parameter, and the fifth feature parameter, wherein, The first feature parameter is determined based on the ratio of the liquid level to a predetermined liquid level threshold; The second characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of pressure to a predetermined pressure threshold; The third characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of the tilt angle to a predetermined tilt angle threshold; The fourth characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of traffic flow to a predetermined traffic flow threshold; The fifth characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of wave height to a predetermined height threshold.

[0010] Furthermore, the risk state tendency is the period in which the variance of the characteristic parameter factor is greater than the variance threshold within a single time period; The control module is also connected to a meteorological early warning system and a remote monitoring system to enable switching between automatic control mode and remote monitoring mode.

[0011] Furthermore, the control module also includes a manual emergency mode, used to determine whether to initiate manual operation recovery based on the difference between the feature parameter factor and a predetermined feature parameter factor threshold. The condition for initiating manual operation to recover potential is that the difference between the feature parameter factor and the predetermined feature parameter factor threshold is greater than the predetermined difference threshold.

[0012] Furthermore, the operating mode includes: If the characteristic parameter factor within a single time period is greater than or equal to the predetermined first characteristic parameter factor threshold, then the energy consumption optimization mode is activated. If the feature parameter factor within a single time period is less than the predetermined first feature parameter factor threshold and greater than the predetermined second feature parameter factor threshold, then the early warning defense mode is activated. If the characteristic parameter factor within a single time period is less than or equal to the predetermined second characteristic parameter factor threshold, then the steady-state mode is activated.

[0013] Furthermore, it also includes a warning signaler, which is used to send a warning signal to the mobile terminal when it is determined that the manual emergency mode is in effect.

[0014] Furthermore, the remote monitoring system includes a dual-redundant bus combined with wireless signals to ensure uninterrupted remote monitoring.

[0015] Furthermore, the external power generation device includes a photovoltaic power generation device and a wave power generation device to reduce pump energy consumption.

[0016] Furthermore, the present invention also provides a method for controlling a ballast tank, comprising: Collect characteristic parameter information of liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate and wave height data; Analyze the feature parameter factors based on the aforementioned feature parameter information; The variance of the characteristic parameter factors within a single time period is calculated based on the aforementioned characteristic parameter factors. Based on the variance, determine whether the diving platform is in a risky state; In response to a risk state tendency, the operating mode is determined based on the characteristic parameter factors, wherein, If in steady-state mode, then ensure the diving platform remains level; If in early warning and defense mode, the ballast tank is set to start rapid descent; the water pump speed is extracted, and the difference between the water pump speed and the predetermined water pump speed threshold is used to determine whether to start the backup pump. If necessary, manual emergency operation is performed to complete the control. If in energy optimization mode, the ballast tank will activate an external power generation device to reduce pump energy consumption. The system's characteristic parameters and current operating mode are transmitted to the remote monitoring system in real time, and the corresponding alarm of the remote monitoring system is triggered synchronously when the system is in early warning defense mode or manual emergency mode.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: The present invention provides a ballast tank control system and method, including several ballast tanks, an inlet / outlet unit, a sensor module, and a control module. The ballast tanks control the diving and surfacing states of the submersible platform; the inlet / outlet unit controls the water volume in the ballast tanks; the sensor module collects characteristic parameter information such as liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate, and wave height data; characteristic parameter factors are analyzed based on the characteristic parameter information; and the control module determines the risk state tendency period of the submersible platform based on the variance of the characteristic parameter factors over a time period. When the submersible platform exhibits a risk state tendency, the operating mode is determined based on the characteristic parameter factors. In steady-state mode, the submersible platform is kept level; in early warning and defense mode, the ballast tank is initiated into a rapid diving state; and the pump speed is extracted. Based on the difference between the pump speed and a predetermined pump speed threshold, it is determined whether to activate the standby pump; in energy consumption optimization mode, the ballast tank is activated by an external power generation device to reduce pump energy consumption. This enables buoyancy adjustment, automatic descent or ascent, and self-recovery control of the diving platform. The system also features redundant drives, self-recovery capabilities, and remote integration functions, making it widely applicable to offshore floating photovoltaic, floating wind power, marine aquaculture, and monitoring platforms. This reduces energy consumption and improves the accuracy of the ballast tank control system.

[0018] In particular, in terms of response performance, the system has achieved the ability to complete attitude adjustment within 30 seconds. This breakthrough indicator far exceeds the 2 to 10 minutes required by traditional systems. Therefore, the diving platform can react quickly when encountering sudden wind and waves, effectively avoiding stability problems caused by response delays. This provides key protection for the safety of the diving platform in harsh sea conditions and greatly improves its survivability in harsh sea conditions.

[0019] In particular, in terms of control precision, the system achieves high precision standards of liquid level control error less than or equal to 2% and submersible platform tilt angle less than or equal to 3°. Therefore, the system can ensure that the submersible platform maintains a stable attitude under various operating conditions, providing reliable protection for application scenarios such as offshore photovoltaic power generation and wind power generation that have extremely high requirements for the levelness of the submersible platform, and significantly improving equipment operating efficiency and energy output quality.

[0020] In particular, the system's safety is comprehensively enhanced through redundant driving and self-recovery mechanisms. Therefore, the system effectively eliminates the risk of single point of failure. Even if some components fail, the system can still maintain basic operation. This design significantly reduces the system's total failure rate and provides a solid safety foundation for long-term offshore operations.

[0021] In particular, the intelligent system has the function of automatic switching between multiple modes. Therefore, through environmental perception and intelligent decision-making algorithms, the system can automatically trigger the diving command based on the real-time monitored sea state data, realize the autonomous conversion from normal working conditions to wind and wave resistant mode, greatly reduce the need for manual intervention, and improve the system's adaptability to complex marine environments and ease of operation.

[0022] In particular, the expanded applicability of the system allows it to fully cover diverse scenarios such as offshore photovoltaic, wind power, aquaculture, and monitoring. Therefore, through modular design and adjustable parameter mechanisms, the system can meet the differentiated needs of different types of marine platforms for ballast control. This feature makes it have broad application prospects in the fields of marine new energy development and marine economic construction. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of the ballast tank control system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the determination process for starting the standby water pump in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps for determining the feature parameter factors in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the logic for determining the risk state tendency cycle of a diving platform, as described in an embodiment of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To make the objectives and advantages of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described below with reference to embodiments; it should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely for explaining the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0025] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0026] It should be noted that, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the term "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0027] Please see Figure 1 The diagram shown is a structural block diagram of the ballast tank control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. An embodiment of the present invention provides a ballast tank control system, including: Several ballast tanks are used to control the diving and surfacing states of the diving platform; The water inlet and outlet unit includes several water pumps, several air pumps or valve devices, and several standby pumps connected to the ballast tank to control the water volume in the ballast tank. The sensor module is used to collect characteristic parameter information of liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate and wave height data, and analyze characteristic parameter factors based on the characteristic parameter information; A control module, connected to the sensor module, is used to determine whether the diving platform is in a risky state tendency based on the variance of characteristic parameter factors within a time period. When a risky state tendency is determined, the operating mode is determined based on the characteristic parameter factors. The risk state is determined based on the variance of the characteristic parameter factors or other time window volatility indicators, including: If in steady-state mode, then ensure the diving platform remains level; If in early warning and defense mode, the ballast tank is activated for rapid descent; the pump speed is extracted, and the difference between the pump speed and the predetermined pump speed threshold is used to determine whether to activate the backup pump. If in energy optimization mode, the ballast tank will activate an external power generation device to reduce pump energy consumption. The feature parameter factor is calculated by a linear or nonlinear fusion model after normalizing the five feature parameters; the rapid descent state includes increasing the pump speed, turning on multiple pumps, or adjusting the valve opening to enable the platform to complete the descent attitude adjustment within a preset time threshold.

[0028] As can be understood, the characteristic parameter factor refers to a comprehensive evaluation index obtained through weighted fusion calculation of multi-source sensor data. This process first performs spatiotemporal alignment and standardization on heterogeneous data from level, pressure, tilt, flow, and wave sensors. Then, using a weighted fusion algorithm or a nonlinear fusion method based on intelligent models such as Kalman filtering and neural networks, cross-dimensional state features are extracted, and a dimensionless comprehensive evaluation value is calculated. This factor aims to eliminate the locality and random errors of single-sensor data, comprehensively reflecting the overall stability and potential risk level of the submersible platform under current complex sea conditions, providing a high-confidence quantitative basis for subsequent intelligent model decision-making.

[0029] Understandably, based on the time interval identified by the variance analysis of characteristic parameter factors, when the variance exceeds a set threshold, it indicates that the diving platform is in a state with a high risk of instability. This period is called the diving platform risk state tendency period. That is, by analyzing the degree of fluctuation of characteristic parameter factors in a single time period, the time period when the variance exceeds the variance threshold is determined to be the platform risk state tendency period.

[0030] Understandably, the steady-state mode is an operating mode that maintains the horizontal attitude of the submersible platform under stable sea conditions, and maintains the optimal buoyancy by fine-tuning the ballast water distribution.

[0031] Understandably, the early warning and defense mode is an emergency mode that is automatically triggered before severe sea conditions or typhoons arrive. It reduces the impact of wind and waves by rapidly submerging the diving platform, thus ensuring structural safety.

[0032] It is understandable that the safe operating speed range set according to the pump performance is set as the pump speed threshold. When the deviation between the actual speed and the set value exceeds the allowable range, it indicates that the pump body may be malfunctioning.

[0033] Understandably, the energy optimization mode is an energy-saving operation mode activated under stable operating conditions, prioritizing the use of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic and wave energy to drive water pumps and reduce the overall energy consumption of the system.

[0034] It is understood that the ballast tank control system of the present invention can be preferably applied to the foldable submersible photovoltaic platform or integrated offshore power generation platform disclosed in other related patents of the applicant, for the purpose of achieving floating body attitude and submersion control under complex sea conditions.

[0035] The ballast tank control system of this embodiment includes several ballast tanks, an inlet / outlet unit, a sensor module, and a control module. The ballast tanks control the diving and surfacing states of the submersible platform, the inlet / outlet unit controls the water volume in the ballast tanks, and the sensor module collects characteristic parameter information such as liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate, and wave height. Based on this characteristic parameter information, characteristic parameter factors are analyzed. The control module determines the risk state tendency period of the submersible platform based on the variance of the characteristic parameter factors over a time period. When the submersible platform exhibits a risk state tendency, the operating mode is determined based on the characteristic parameter factors. In steady-state mode, the submersible platform maintains a horizontal position. In early warning and defense mode, the ballast tank initiates a rapid diving state. The system also extracts the pump speed and determines whether to activate the standby pump based on the difference between the pump speed and a predetermined pump speed threshold. In energy consumption optimization mode, the ballast tank activates an external power generation device to reduce pump energy consumption. This enables buoyancy adjustment, automatic diving or surfacing, and self-recovery control of the submersible platform. Furthermore, the system possesses redundant drive, self-recovery capability, and remote integration functions, making it widely applicable to offshore floating photovoltaic, floating wind power, marine aquaculture, and monitoring platforms. This reduces energy consumption and improves the accuracy of the ballast tank control system. This invention's ballast tank control system achieves a response speed of within 30 seconds to complete attitude adjustment. Control precision ensures a liquid level error of no more than 2%, and compartment control maintains the submersible platform's tilt angle at less than 3°. Safety is guaranteed through redundant drive and self-recovery mechanisms, eliminating single points of failure. Intelligent features enable automatic switching between multiple modes and predictive defense. Energy consumption is reduced by more than 30% under stable operating conditions, with energy efficiency optimized through priority use of new energy sources. The system is applicable to various scenarios including offshore photovoltaic, wind power, aquaculture, and monitoring, while establishing a comprehensive risk response system to ensure stable operation under various abnormal conditions.

[0036] Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide a ballast tank control system, wherein the sensor module includes: a liquid level sensor, a pressure sensor, an attitude sensor, a flow sensor, and a wave sensor.

[0037] Understandably, level sensors can be used to monitor the water level in ballast tanks in real time. By measuring the hydrostatic pressure of the liquid or using ultrasonic principles, accurate level data can be obtained, providing key parameters for buoyancy calculations.

[0038] Understandably, pressure sensors are pressure-measuring elements installed in ballast tanks and pipelines to detect water pressure and system operating pressure, and to determine the water volume status and pipeline operation status by measuring pressure changes.

[0039] Understandably, attitude sensors can dynamically measure data from gyroscopes and accelerometers, continuously collecting roll, pitch, and yaw angle data of the submersible platform, providing an attitude reference for the stability control of the submersible platform.

[0040] Understandably, a flow sensor is a metering device installed on the inlet and outlet pipelines. It uses electromagnetic or ultrasonic principles to accurately measure the instantaneous and cumulative flow of water when the pump is working, thereby achieving precise control of the inlet and outlet volume.

[0041] Understandably, wave sensors will be deployed around the diving platform to monitor the marine environment. They will acquire wave height, wave period, and wave direction data in real time through radar or buoy-type measurement units, providing environmental parameter support for early warning and defense.

[0042] This invention, through the configuration of multiple types of sensors, enhances the experimental performance of the ballast tank control system. Level sensors enable precise monitoring of water levels in each ballast tank, improving the accuracy of buoyancy control. Pressure sensors provide real-time feedback on the piping system's operating status, enhancing system reliability. Attitude sensors continuously collect three-axis angle data from the submersible platform, improving its stability control capabilities. Flow sensors accurately measure inflow and outflow rates, enabling precise adjustment of ballast water volume. Wave sensors promptly detect changes in the external marine environment, providing effective support for early warning and defense. The collaborative work of these sensors allows the system to exhibit higher overall performance in experiments. Multi-source data fusion improves the accuracy of status assessment, enhances the system's adaptability to different sea conditions, and ensures the stable operation of the submersible platform.

[0043] Please see Figure 2 As shown, it is a flowchart of the determination process for starting the standby water pump in an embodiment of the present invention. The water pump and the standby pump are connected to a redundant drive system, which is used to start the standby water pump when the difference between the water pump speed and the predetermined water pump speed threshold is greater than or equal to the difference threshold, or when an abnormality is determined based on environmental characteristic parameters. The environmental characteristic parameters include the current, voltage and pump outlet flow of the ballast tank.

[0044] The process for determining whether to start the standby water pump in the embodiment includes: Calculate the difference between the pump speed and the predetermined pump speed threshold; If the difference between the pump speed and the predetermined pump speed threshold is greater than or equal to the difference threshold, or if an abnormality is determined based on environmental characteristic parameters, then the standby pump will be started. If the difference between the pump speed and the predetermined pump speed threshold is less than the difference threshold, it is determined that the standby pump will not be started. Understandably, redundant drive systems use a combination of multiple backup drive units, which can automatically switch to the backup unit when the main drive unit fails, reducing the risk of the system being paralyzed due to a single point of failure.

[0045] It is understandable that the difference threshold refers to the pre-set allowable deviation limit. When the difference between the actual measured value and the standard value exceeds this limit, the system determines it to be an abnormal state and triggers corresponding protection measures.

[0046] This invention monitors the operating speed of the main water pump in real time and continuously compares it with a preset safe operating threshold. When the system detects an abnormal speed, including but not limited to a decrease in the main pump's speed, stagnation, or complete stoppage, the system can immediately start the backup pump, achieving seamless switching between the main and backup pumps. This ensures that the ballast tank's water intake and drainage operations are not affected, and that the ballast tank's water intake and drainage operations are not interrupted due to pump failure. This reduces the risk of system paralysis caused by a single pump failure, effectively maintains the continuity and stability of the ballast water regulation function, and improves the system's operational reliability.

[0047] Please see Figure 3 The diagram shows a flowchart illustrating the steps for determining feature parameter factors according to an embodiment of the present invention. The feature parameter factors are determined based on the sum of a first feature parameter, a second feature parameter, a third feature parameter, a fourth feature parameter, and a fifth feature parameter. The first feature parameter is determined based on the ratio of the liquid level to a predetermined liquid level threshold; The second characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of pressure to a predetermined pressure threshold; The third characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of the tilt angle to a predetermined tilt angle threshold; The fourth characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of traffic flow to a predetermined traffic flow threshold; The fifth characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of wave height to a predetermined height threshold.

[0048] The process of determining the characteristic parameter factors in the embodiment includes: Extract characteristic parameter information from liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate, and wave height data; The first characteristic parameter is determined by calculating the ratio of the liquid level to a predetermined liquid level threshold. The second characteristic parameter is determined by calculating the ratio of the calculated pressure to a predetermined pressure threshold. The third characteristic parameter is determined by calculating the ratio of the tilt angle to a predetermined tilt angle threshold. The fourth characteristic parameter is determined by calculating the ratio of the flow rate to a predetermined flow rate threshold. The fifth characteristic parameter is determined by calculating the ratio of wave height to a predetermined wave height threshold; The sum of the first characteristic parameter, the second characteristic parameter, the third characteristic parameter, the fourth characteristic parameter, and the fifth characteristic parameter is determined as the characteristic parameter factor; In this embodiment, the liquid level threshold is a preset value, wherein the preset value is the average safe liquid level of the target submersible platform under typical operating conditions, and the preset liquid level threshold is the product of the average safe liquid level and the accuracy coefficient. The accuracy coefficient is selected in the range [0.95, 0.98]. The above value range is a preferred range, and those skilled in the art can adjust it appropriately according to different platform sizes and sea conditions.

[0049] In this embodiment, the pressure threshold is preset, wherein the average safe working pressure of the target diving platform under rated operating conditions is predetermined, and the pressure threshold is set as the product of the average safe working pressure and the accuracy coefficient. The accuracy coefficient is selected within the range [0.93, 0.96]. The above value range is a preferred range, and those skilled in the art can adjust it appropriately according to different platform sizes and sea conditions.

[0050] In this embodiment, the tilt angle threshold is a preset value. The average safe tilt angle of the target diving platform under standard sea conditions is predetermined. The tilt angle threshold is set as the product of the average safe tilt angle and the accuracy coefficient. The accuracy coefficient is selected within the range [0.90, 0.95]. The above value range is a preferred range. Those skilled in the art can adjust it appropriately according to different platform sizes and sea conditions.

[0051] In this embodiment, the flow threshold is a preset value, wherein the average safe flow rate of the target submersible platform under rated operating conditions is predetermined, and the flow threshold is set as the product of the average safe flow rate and the accuracy coefficient. The accuracy coefficient is selected within the range [0.92, 0.97]. The above value range is a preferred range, and those skilled in the art can adjust it appropriately according to different platform sizes and sea conditions.

[0052] Understandably, the characteristic parameter factor is a comprehensive evaluation index calculated by integrating data from multiple sensors, used to quantitatively reflect the overall stability and risk level of the submersible platform under the current sea conditions. The characteristic parameter factor is determined by the sum of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth characteristic parameters.

[0053] This invention, through normalization and weighted summation of five key parameters—liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate, and wave height—comprehensively reflects the operating status of the submersible platform. By comparing actual measurements with preset thresholds, the system can promptly detect anomalies and quantify the degree of deviation. The synergistic effect of these characteristic parameters enables the system to identify risk states under complex sea conditions. When a parameter becomes abnormal, the auxiliary judgment of other parameters effectively avoids false alarms while ensuring that no real risks are missed. This provides a scientific basis for the mode switching of the control module, enabling the system to make intelligent decisions between steady-state, early warning and defense, and energy consumption optimization modes, thereby optimizing system performance, improving energy utilization efficiency, and ensuring the safe and stable operation of the submersible platform under various sea conditions.

[0054] Please see Figure 4 The diagram shown is a logic block diagram for determining the risk state tendency period of a diving platform according to an embodiment of the invention. The risk state tendency is the period in which the variance of a characteristic parameter factor within a single time period is greater than a variance threshold. The control module is also connected to a meteorological early warning system and a remote monitoring system to realize the switching control between automatic control mode and remote monitoring mode.

[0055] The process for determining the risk profile of a diving platform, as illustrated in the example, includes: Calculate the variance of the characteristic parameter factors within a single time period; If the variance of the characteristic parameter factor within a single time period is greater than or equal to the variance threshold, it is determined to be a risk state tendency of the diving platform. If the variance of the characteristic parameter factor within a single time period is less than the variance threshold, it is determined to be a non-diving platform risk state tendency. Understandably, a "risk propensity" state for a diving platform refers to a state where the platform is in a potentially high-risk condition. During this period, the system's operating parameters exhibit significant instability, requiring appropriate early warning or protective measures.

[0056] Understandably, a single time period is a fixed observation period set by the system, serving as the basic unit for data acquisition and analysis.

[0057] In this embodiment, the variance threshold is a pre-set critical value based on the safety operation requirements of the diving platform. When the actual calculated variance exceeds this threshold, it indicates that the fluctuation of the diving platform's state has exceeded the safe range, and corresponding risk response measures need to be initiated. Specifically, the mean variance of the characteristic parameter factors of the target diving platform under standard operating conditions is pre-determined, and the variance threshold is selected within the range [0.20, 1.30]. The above-mentioned value range is a preferred range, and those skilled in the art can adjust it appropriately according to different platform sizes and sea conditions.

[0058] This invention, by analyzing the fluctuation characteristics of characteristic parameter factors over time, can effectively distinguish between normal fluctuations and abnormal risk states, thereby reducing misjudgments caused by single-point data mutations. Simultaneously, by accurately identifying risk cycles, the system can reduce monitoring intensity during safe periods and strengthen monitoring during risky periods, achieving rational resource allocation and improving system operating efficiency. Continuous monitoring based on time cycles effectively avoids misjudgments caused by instantaneous interference, improves alarm accuracy, and reduces unnecessary system intervention.

[0059] Specifically, the control module in this embodiment of the invention further includes a manual emergency mode, used to determine whether to initiate manual operation for potential recovery based on the difference between the feature parameter factor and a predetermined feature parameter factor threshold. The condition for initiating manual operation for potential recovery is that the difference between the feature parameter factor and the predetermined feature parameter factor threshold is greater than a predetermined difference threshold.

[0060] Understandably, the manual emergency mode refers to a backup operating mode activated when the automatic control system is unable to effectively handle abnormal situations, allowing operators to directly intervene in system control and take necessary manual intervention measures.

[0061] Understandably, in the field of marine engineering, "submersion" specifically refers to the operation of controlling the ballast system to transition a diving platform or vessel from a floating state to a submerged state. Specifically, this operation involves injecting ballast water into the ballast tanks to increase the overall weight of the diving platform, allowing it to smoothly descend from its surface working position to a predetermined safe depth. This avoids the impact of harsh sea conditions on the diving platform's structure, ensuring the safety of the equipment and personnel.

[0062] In this embodiment, the predetermined feature parameter factor threshold is a predetermined threshold smaller than the feature parameter factor used for manual emergency triggering.

[0063] This invention establishes a scientific hierarchical response system by setting dual judgment criteria: characteristic parameter factor thresholds and difference thresholds. The system avoids frequent manual intervention due to instantaneous fluctuations and also avoids missing genuine dangerous situations, achieving a good balance between automation and manual control. Furthermore, based on clearly quantified activation conditions, operators do not need to continuously monitor all data; they only need to intervene when the system indicates the need for manual intervention, improving the efficiency of human resource utilization. The clear threshold settings provide operators with a clear decision-making basis, enabling them to quickly determine whether manual recovery is necessary in emergency situations, shortening emergency response time and buying valuable time for the safety of the diving platform.

[0064] Specifically, the operating modes described in the embodiments of the present invention include: If the characteristic parameter factor within a single time period is greater than or equal to the predetermined first characteristic parameter factor threshold, then the energy consumption optimization mode is activated. If the feature parameter factor within a single time period is less than the predetermined first feature parameter factor threshold and greater than the predetermined second feature parameter factor threshold, then the early warning defense mode is activated. If the characteristic parameter factor within a single time period is less than or equal to the predetermined second characteristic parameter factor threshold, then the steady-state mode is activated.

[0065] In this embodiment, the threshold value of the first characteristic parameter factor is predetermined. The mean value of the safety characteristic parameter factor of the target diving platform under standard operating conditions is predetermined, and the threshold value of the first characteristic parameter factor is set to be selected within the range [1.25, 1.35]. The above value range is a preferred range, and those skilled in the art can adjust it appropriately according to different platform sizes and sea conditions.

[0066] In this embodiment, the threshold value of the second characteristic parameter factor is preset. The mean value of the risk characteristic parameter factor of the target diving platform under standard operating conditions is predetermined, and the threshold value of the second characteristic parameter factor is set to be selected within the range [0.90, 0.98]. The above value range is a preferred range, and those skilled in the art can adjust it appropriately according to different platform sizes and sea conditions.

[0067] Understandably, the energy consumption optimization mode is a highly efficient and energy-saving operating mode that is activated when the submersible platform is operating under extremely stable and safe conditions. It reduces system energy consumption by optimizing pump operation strategies and adjusting equipment power.

[0068] Understandably, the early warning and defense mode refers to the safety protection mode that is activated when potential risks appear on the diving platform. The system automatically increases the monitoring frequency and prepares to perform protective operations such as rapid descent.

[0069] Understandably, steady-state mode is the basic operating mode when the diving platform is in a normal and safe working state. The system maintains routine monitoring and control strategies to ensure the stable operation of the diving platform.

[0070] This invention precisely divides the submersible platform's state into three distinct intervals by setting dual thresholds. The system can automatically select the optimal operating mode based on actual working conditions, avoiding instability caused by frequent mode switching. When the characteristic parameter factor reaches the first threshold, the energy consumption optimization mode is activated. The system can automatically reduce unnecessary energy consumption when the submersible platform's operating conditions are stable, achieving energy-saving operation. By setting an early warning and defense mode, defensive measures are taken in advance when the submersible platform's state shows a deteriorating trend but has not yet reached a dangerous level, realizing a shift from "post-event handling" to "pre-event prevention," enhancing the submersible platform's survivability in harsh sea conditions. This intelligent mode switching scheme, through the organic combination of precise state perception and control strategies, optimizes system performance while ensuring safety, achieving a balance between safety and economy.

[0071] Specifically, the ballast tank control system of this invention includes a warning signaler, which is used to send a warning signal to a mobile terminal when it is determined that the system is in manual emergency mode.

[0072] Understandably, an alarm signal device is a specialized device for generating and sending alarm signals. When the system detects an abnormal state or enters a specific operating mode, the device will actively trigger the alarm function, alerting relevant personnel through various means such as sound, light, and electronic information.

[0073] Understandably, the manual emergency mode is a backup control mode activated when the automated system is unable to effectively handle complex or hazardous operating conditions. In this mode, the system transfers control authority to the operator, who then makes manual judgments and interventions based on the actual situation to ensure equipment safety.

[0074] When the system enters manual emergency mode, the warning signal device can immediately send an alarm to designated mobile terminals, breaking geographical limitations and ensuring that relevant personnel, regardless of their location, are informed of the danger immediately, buying valuable time for emergency response. The warning signal can be sent to multiple relevant personnel simultaneously, facilitating teamwork. Even in extreme cases where the control room is unattended or the local monitoring system malfunctions, warning information sent via the mobile network ensures that no critical alarm is missed, significantly improving the overall system's fault tolerance.

[0075] Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide a ballast tank control system, wherein the remote monitoring system includes a dual redundant bus combined with a wireless signal to ensure uninterrupted remote monitoring.

[0076] Understandably, a remote monitoring system refers to a comprehensive system that monitors and controls the operating status of remote equipment through a network connection. It can collect data in real time, send commands, and provide a human-machine interface.

[0077] Understandably, a dual-redundant bus is an architecture design that employs two completely independent communication lines operating in parallel. When the primary bus fails, the backup bus immediately and automatically takes over the data transmission task, ensuring uninterrupted communication.

[0078] The dual-redundant bus design establishes two independent communication channels, a primary and a backup. When the primary bus fails, the system automatically switches to the backup bus within milliseconds, reducing the risk of single-point failures and ensuring uninterrupted monitoring data transmission. Through the complementary advantages of wired and wireless signals, a triple communication guarantee is formed, consisting of the primary bus, the backup bus, and the wireless link. Even in extreme cases where both buses fail simultaneously, the wireless link can still maintain basic monitoring functions. In emergencies, multiple communication channels jointly ensure the reliable transmission of alarm information and control commands, providing robust technical support for remote emergency response, minimizing accident risks, and ensuring the safety and reliability of the diving platform in complex operating environments.

[0079] Specifically, the external power generation device described in this embodiment of the invention includes a photovoltaic power generation device and a wave power generation device, which are used to reduce pump energy consumption.

[0080] As is understandable, a photovoltaic power generation device refers to a power generation system that uses the photovoltaic effect of semiconductor materials to directly convert solar energy into electrical energy. It is usually composed of solar panels, inverters, and support structures, and can provide green electricity for ballast water pumps.

[0081] It is understandable that wave energy generation devices are devices that capture the kinetic energy of ocean waves and convert it into electrical energy. They utilize components such as floats, hydraulic systems, or linear generators to convert the up-and-down motion of waves into electrical output.

[0082] It is understandable that pump energy consumption is the total electrical energy consumed by the ballast water pump during operation, including all electricity consumed during startup, normal operation, and adjustment.

[0083] This invention constructs a multi-energy complementary clean energy supply system by introducing an external power generation device composed of photovoltaic and wave energy. It fully utilizes solar and wave energy resources in the marine environment, reducing reliance on traditional power grids and diesel generators, thus optimizing and upgrading the energy structure. Utilizing renewable energy significantly reduces external electricity purchase costs and fuel consumption, while also reducing carbon emissions during power generation, which is beneficial to the environmental requirements of green marine equipment. Furthermore, the external power generation device forms multiple safeguards with the main power system, ensuring the basic operation of the ballast system even in the event of a main power failure, thereby improving power supply reliability.

[0084] Specifically, embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for a ballast tank control system, comprising: Collect characteristic parameter information of liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate and wave height data; Analyze the feature parameter factors based on the aforementioned feature parameter information; The variance of the characteristic parameter factors within a single time period is calculated based on the aforementioned characteristic parameter factors. Based on the variance, determine whether the diving platform is in a risky state; In response to a risk state tendency, the operating mode is determined based on the characteristic parameter factors, wherein, If in steady-state mode, then ensure the diving platform remains level; If in early warning and defense mode, the ballast tank is set to start rapid descent; the water pump speed is extracted, and the difference between the water pump speed and the predetermined water pump speed threshold is used to determine whether to start the backup pump. If necessary, manual emergency operation is performed to complete the control. If in energy optimization mode, the ballast tank will activate an external power generation device to reduce pump energy consumption. The system's characteristic parameters and current operating mode are transmitted to the remote monitoring system in real time, and the corresponding alarm of the remote monitoring system is triggered synchronously when the system is in early warning defense mode or manual emergency mode.

[0085] This invention achieves comprehensive platform status awareness by real-time acquisition of multi-dimensional operating parameters and calculation of characteristic parameter factors. Time-series-based variance analysis accurately identifies platform risk tendencies, enabling the system to switch operating modes promptly at the initial stage of risk. This method makes platform control more precise and rational, automatically optimizing energy consumption under stable operating conditions and proactively defending against risks before they materialize. The entire control process reduces the need for manual intervention, lowers the possibility of misoperation, and avoids unnecessary energy consumption through intelligent decision-making. The system maintains suitable operating conditions under different sea states, ensuring the safety of the diving platform while improving energy efficiency, providing reliable support for the long-term stable operation of the diving platform.

[0086] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after these changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A ballast tank control system, characterized in that, include: Several ballast tanks are used to control the diving and surfacing states of the diving platform; The water inlet and outlet unit includes several water pumps, several air pumps or valve devices, and several standby pumps connected to the ballast tank to control the water volume in the ballast tank. The sensor module is used to collect data on liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate and wave height to obtain characteristic parameter information, and to analyze characteristic parameter factors based on the characteristic parameter information; A control module, connected to the sensor module, is used to determine whether the diving platform is in a risky state tendency based on the variance of characteristic parameter factors within a time period. When a risky state tendency is determined, the operating mode is determined based on the characteristic parameter factors. The risk state is determined based on the variance of the characteristic parameter factors or other time window volatility indicators, including: If in steady-state mode, then ensure the diving platform remains level; If in early warning and defense mode, the ballast tank is activated for rapid descent; the pump speed is extracted, and the difference between the pump speed and the predetermined pump speed threshold is used to determine whether to activate the backup pump. If in energy optimization mode, the ballast tank will activate an external power generation device to reduce pump energy consumption. The feature parameter factor is calculated by a linear or nonlinear fusion model after normalizing the five feature parameters; the rapid descent state includes increasing the pump speed, turning on multiple pumps, or adjusting the valve opening to enable the platform to complete the descent attitude adjustment within a preset time threshold.

2. The ballast tank control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor module includes: a level sensor, a pressure sensor, an attitude sensor, a flow sensor, and a wave sensor.

3. The ballast tank control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water pump is connected to the standby pump via a redundant drive system, which is used to start the standby water pump when the difference between the water pump speed and a predetermined water pump speed threshold is greater than or equal to the difference threshold, or when an abnormality is determined based on environmental characteristic parameters, wherein the environmental characteristic parameters include the current, voltage and pump outlet flow rate of the ballast tank.

4. The ballast tank control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feature parameter factor is determined based on the sum of the first feature parameter, the second feature parameter, the third feature parameter, the fourth feature parameter, and the fifth feature parameter, wherein, The first feature parameter is determined based on the ratio of the liquid level to a predetermined liquid level threshold; The second characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of pressure to a predetermined pressure threshold; The third characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of the tilt angle to a predetermined tilt angle threshold; The fourth characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of traffic flow to a predetermined traffic flow threshold; The fifth characteristic parameter is determined based on the ratio of wave height to a predetermined height threshold.

5. The ballast tank control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The risk state tendency is the period in which the variance of the characteristic parameter factor is greater than the variance threshold within a single time period. The control module is also connected to a meteorological early warning system and a remote monitoring system to enable switching between automatic control mode and remote monitoring mode.

6. The ballast tank control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control module also includes a manual emergency mode, which is used to determine whether to initiate manual operation to recover the potential based on the difference between the feature parameter factor and the predetermined feature parameter factor threshold. The condition for initiating manual operation to recover potential is that the difference between the feature parameter factor and the predetermined feature parameter factor threshold is greater than the predetermined difference threshold.

7. The ballast tank control system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The operating modes include: If the characteristic parameter factor within a single time period is greater than or equal to the predetermined first characteristic parameter factor threshold, then the energy consumption optimization mode is activated. If the feature parameter factor within a single time period is less than the predetermined first feature parameter factor threshold and greater than the predetermined second feature parameter factor threshold, then the early warning defense mode is activated. If the characteristic parameter factor within a single time period is less than or equal to the predetermined second characteristic parameter factor threshold, then the steady-state mode is activated.

8. The ballast tank control system according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes a warning signaler, which is used to send a warning signal to the mobile terminal when it is determined that the manual emergency mode is in effect.

9. The ballast tank control system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The remote monitoring system includes a dual-redundant bus combined with wireless signals to ensure uninterrupted remote monitoring.

10. The ballast tank control system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The external power generation device includes a photovoltaic power generation device and a wave power generation device, which are used to reduce pump energy consumption.

11. A method for using the ballast tank control system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, include: Collect characteristic parameter information of liquid level, pressure, tilt angle, flow rate and wave height data; Analyze the feature parameter factors based on the aforementioned feature parameter information; The variance of the characteristic parameter factors within a single time period is calculated based on the characteristic parameter factors. Based on the variance, determine whether the diving platform is in a risky state; In response to a risk state tendency, the operating mode is determined based on the characteristic parameter factors, wherein, If in steady-state mode, then ensure the diving platform remains level; If in early warning and defense mode, the ballast tank is set to start rapid descent; the water pump speed is extracted, and the difference between the water pump speed and the predetermined water pump speed threshold is used to determine whether to start the backup pump. If necessary, manual emergency operation is performed to complete the control. If in energy optimization mode, the ballast tank will activate an external power generation device to reduce pump energy consumption. The system's characteristic parameters and current operating mode are transmitted to the remote monitoring system in real time, and the corresponding alarm of the remote monitoring system is triggered synchronously when the system is in early warning defense mode or manual emergency mode.

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