Self-falling type saturation device for sounding and saturation method

Abstract

This invention discloses a saturation device and method for a free-falling penetration test, belonging to the field of geotechnical engineering exploration technology. The saturation device includes a saturation tank, a sealing structure, a vacuum assembly, and a positioning plate. The saturation tank has a saturation cavity inside, with an insertion port at one end. The end of the saturation cavity furthest from the insertion port is closed and forms a positioning cone groove. The inner diameter of the saturation cavity gradually increases from the insertion port to the closed end. A liquid passage interface and an exhaust port are located on the outer peripheral wall of the saturation tank corresponding to the closed end. The sealing structure is located on the inner wall of the insertion port. In the vacuum assembly, the exhaust port is connected to a storage tank via a first pipeline, and the storage tank is connected to a vacuum pump via a second pipeline. A vacuum pressure gauge is located on the second pipeline, and a switching valve is located between the vacuum pressure gauge and the vacuum pump. The positioning hole on the positioning plate allows the probe to pass through. The saturation method for a free-falling penetration test uses the above-described saturation device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of geotechnical engineering exploration technology, and in particular to a saturation device and saturation method for a free-falling penetration test. Background Technology

[0002] In geotechnical engineering investigations, static cone penetration testing (CPPT) can sensitively identify soil layers and assess soil strength and deformation parameters by measuring the excess pore water pressure generated during penetration. The accuracy and response speed of the pore pressure measurement data depend entirely on the initial saturation state of the pore pressure sensor inside the probe. If there are trace amounts of residual gas between the pore pressure sensor and the permeable rock, it will lead to severe distortion of the test data and a delayed response, greatly affecting the reliability of the test results.

[0003] Vacuum saturation is the standard method to ensure sufficient saturation of pore pressure sensors. Existing saturation devices require the probe to remain vertical throughout the saturation process, suitable for static cone penetrometers equipped with propellers. However, marine free-falling cone penetrometers typically need to be placed horizontally during deck preparation, storage, and transportation for stability and safety reasons. The horizontal operation requirements of marine free-falling cone penetrometers conflict with the vertical operation requirements of existing saturation devices, necessitating the disassembly, individual saturation, and reassembly of the probe during field operations. This process is not only cumbersome but may also introduce disturbances during reassembly, causing micro-air bubbles to re-enter the measurement system. Furthermore, frequent probe disassembly can affect its watertightness, increasing the risk of pore pressure data distortion. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a saturation device and saturation method for a self-falling penetrometer, to solve the technical problems that existing saturation devices cannot meet the horizontal operation requirements of marine self-falling penetrometers and are complex to operate and prone to damage to sealing.

[0005] As conceived above, the technical solution adopted by this invention is: a saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer, comprising: a saturation tank, wherein a saturation cavity is provided inside the saturation tank, and an insertion interface communicating with the saturation cavity is provided at one end of the saturation tank. The saturation tank can be horizontally fitted onto the probe of a self-falling penetrometer through the insertion interface. The end of the saturation cavity away from the insertion interface is a closed end and forms a positioning conical groove, which is used to accommodate the cone tip of the probe. Along the direction from the insertion interface to the closed end, the inner diameter of the saturation cavity gradually increases. A liquid passage interface and an exhaust port communicating with the saturation cavity are provided on the outer peripheral wall of the saturation tank corresponding to the position of the closed end; a sealing structure is provided on the inner wall of the insertion interface, the sealing structure comprising multiple layers of sealing rings, the multiple sealing rings being arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the insertion interface; and a vacuum assembly, including... The system includes a vacuum pump, a vacuum gauge, and a storage tank. The storage tank has an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is located on the side of the storage tank and is connected to the outlet via a first pipe. The outlet is located on the top of the storage tank and is connected to the vacuum pump via a second pipe. The vacuum gauge is located on the second pipe, and a switching valve is provided on the second pipe between the vacuum gauge and the vacuum pump. At least a portion of the first pipe is a flexible pipe to allow the saturation tank to move relative to the vacuum assembly. A positioning plate is located within the saturation chamber and divides the saturation chamber into a flow stabilization chamber and a convergence chamber. A positioning hole for the probe is provided in the center of the positioning plate. Multiple connecting holes are distributed around the positioning hole on the positioning plate, and the connecting holes connect the flow stabilization chamber and the convergence chamber.

[0006] Preferably, a first anti-collision pad is provided on the inner wall of the positioning hole, and the first anti-collision pad at least covers the edge of the positioning hole near the plug interface.

[0007] Preferably, a first anti-collision pad is provided on the inner wall of the positioning hole, and the first anti-collision pad covers the edges on both sides of the positioning hole.

[0008] Preferably, at least a portion of the connecting hole extends to the outer peripheral edge of the positioning plate.

[0009] Preferably, the taper of the positioning cone groove is 60°; a second anti-collision pad is provided on the inner wall of the positioning cone groove.

[0010] Preferably, the multilayer sealing rings are, from the outside to the inside, a dust scraper ring, an O-ring, and a plug ring, wherein the inner diameter of the dust scraper ring is smaller than the inner diameter of the plug ring, and the inner diameter of the plug ring is smaller than or equal to the inner diameter of the O-ring.

[0011] Preferably, the vacuum assembly further includes a container, in which the vacuum pump, the liquid storage tank, and the second pipeline are all located, and part of the first pipeline is located outside the container.

[0012] Preferably, the first pipeline is a flexible hose and passes through the container.

[0013] Preferably, at least a portion of the saturation tank is made of a transparent material, and the vent is located in the transparent portion of the saturation tank.

[0014] A saturation method for a self-falling penetrometer, employing the aforementioned saturation device, includes: horizontally fitting a saturation tank onto the probe of the self-falling penetrometer via an insertion interface until the probe's cone tip abuts against a positioning cone groove; sealing the saturation tank and probe with a sealing structure; rotating the saturation tank so that the exhaust port faces upwards; opening a switch valve on a second pipeline, starting a vacuum pump, recording the pressure value detected by a vacuum pressure gauge as a first pressure value; gradually decreasing the first pressure value; closing the vacuum pump and switch valve when the first pressure value is less than or equal to a first set pressure value; determining that the airtightness meets the standard if the first pressure value fluctuates within a first time period without exceeding a first set range; opening a liquid interface, injecting saturation liquid into the saturation chamber through the liquid interface; the saturation liquid overflows the positioning plate and the permeable stone on the probe, leaving a gas collection space at the top of the saturation chamber; and closing the liquid interface. Open the switch valve on the second pipeline, turn on the vacuum pump, and record the pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge as the second pressure value. Bubbles are released from the saturated liquid, and the gas flows along the inner wall of the saturation chamber towards the exhaust port, and flows through the exhaust port, the first pipeline, the storage tank, and the second pipeline to the vacuum pump. The second pressure value gradually decreases. When the second pressure value is less than or equal to the second set pressure value, turn off the vacuum pump and the switch valve. If the fluctuation of the second pressure value within the second time period does not exceed the second set range, it is determined that saturation has ended, and the switch valve is opened. With the vacuum pump in the off state and the switch valve in the open state, the pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge is recorded as the third pressure value. The third pressure value gradually increases. When the third pressure value is greater than or equal to the third set pressure value, rotate the saturation tank so that the liquid inlet faces downward, open the liquid inlet to drain the saturated liquid, and remove the saturation tank horizontally.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: The saturation device for a free-fall penetrometer proposed in this invention allows the saturation tank to be horizontally fitted onto the probe of the free-fall penetrometer via an insertion interface. This saturates the probe when it is horizontally positioned, matching the horizontal position of the free-fall penetrometer on the deck. This eliminates the need to disassemble the probe, preserving the sealing performance of the free-fall penetrometer and avoiding damage from repeated disassembly, thus significantly improving saturation efficiency and reliability. The sealing structure not only achieves a seal between the saturation tank and the probe but also provides radial support for the probe, enabling its positioning. The positioning conical groove accommodates the probe's tip, providing both positioning and axial support. The positioning hole in the positioning plate allows the probe to pass through, providing radial support. Therefore, the sealing structure, positioning conical groove, and positioning plate work together to stably support the probe both axially and radially, ensuring stable positioning of the probe within the saturation chamber and preventing displacement and leakage under gravity.

[0016] Along the direction from the insertion interface to the closed end, the inner diameter of the saturation chamber gradually increases, and the exhaust port is located at the closed end. The inner wall of the saturation chamber can be used to collect gas. Since the saturation tank is fitted onto the probe horizontally through the insertion interface, when the vacuum pump evacuates the saturated liquid in the saturation chamber, the inner wall of the saturation chamber can guide the gas generated after the bubbles burst to rise along the inclined surface and be discharged from the exhaust port after being collected at the top of the saturation chamber. This avoids the accumulation of gas in the saturation chamber and improves the exhaust efficiency and vacuum effect.

[0017] By using a switching valve, vacuum gauge, and vacuum pump, the airtightness of the saturation chamber can be checked before injecting saturated liquid into it, further ensuring that the saturation effect meets the standards. A storage tank, acting as a buffer between the saturation tank and the vacuum pump, effectively prevents the saturated liquid from being accidentally drawn into the vacuum pump, thus protecting it. Even if some saturated liquid is drawn out of the saturation chamber under negative pressure, it flows out from the exhaust port and then enters the storage tank through the first pipeline. Because the inlet is located on the side of the storage tank and the outlet is located on the top, the drawn-out saturated liquid remains in the storage tank under gravity and does not enter the vacuum pump, thus preventing damage. The vacuum gauge is also protected by placing it in the second pipeline, downstream of the storage tank, preventing saturated liquid from entering it. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-falling saturation device for probing provided in an embodiment of the present invention from one perspective.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the saturation device and the self-falling penetrometer provided in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 3This is a structural schematic diagram of the self-falling saturation device for probing provided in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-falling saturation device for probing provided in an embodiment of the present invention, omitting the box cover.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the saturation tank provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the saturation tank provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning plate provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the saturation tank and the self-falling penetrometer provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged view of point A.

[0027] In the diagram: 10. Saturation tank; 11. Saturation chamber; 111. Flow stabilization chamber; 112. Convergence chamber; 12. Insertion interface; 13. Positioning cone groove; 14. Liquid circuit interface; 15. Exhaust port; 16. Sealing cover; 20. Sealing structure; 21. Dust scraper ring; 22. O-ring; 23. Plug ring; 30. Vacuum assembly; 31. Vacuum pump; 32. Vacuum pressure gauge; 33. Liquid storage tank; 331. Air inlet; 332. Air outlet; 34. First pipeline; 35. Second pipeline; 36. Container; 361. Box body; 362. Box cover; 363. Power interface; 364. Gas circuit interface; 37. Vacuum control switch; 38. Switch valve; 40. Positioning plate; 41. Positioning hole; 42. Connecting hole; 110. Probe; 120. Cone tip; 130. Permeable stone; 140. Probe rod. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0029] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0030] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0031] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0032] See Figures 1 to 9This embodiment provides a saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer, including a saturation tank 10, a sealing structure 20, a vacuum assembly 30, and a positioning plate 40. The saturation tank 10 has a saturation cavity 11 inside. One end of the saturation tank 10 has an insertion port 12 communicating with the saturation cavity 11. The saturation tank 10 can be horizontally fitted onto the probe 110 of the self-falling penetrometer via the insertion port 12. The end of the saturation cavity 11 away from the insertion port 12 is a closed end and forms a positioning conical groove 13, which is used to accommodate the cone tip 120 of the probe 110. The inner diameter of the saturation cavity 11 gradually increases from the insertion port 12 to the closed end. A liquid passage interface 14 and an exhaust port 15 communicating with the saturation cavity 11 are provided on the outer peripheral wall of the saturation tank 10 at the position corresponding to the closed end. The sealing structure 20 is disposed on the inner wall of the insertion port 12 and includes multiple sealing rings arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the insertion port 12. The vacuum assembly 30 includes a vacuum... The system includes an air pump 31, a vacuum gauge 32, and a liquid storage tank 33. The liquid storage tank 33 has an air inlet 331 and an air outlet 332. The air inlet 331 is located on the side of the liquid storage tank 33 and is connected to the exhaust port 15 via a first pipe 34. The air outlet 332 is located on the top of the liquid storage tank 33 and is connected to the vacuum pump 31 via a second pipe 35. The vacuum gauge 32 is located on the second pipe 35, and a switch is provided on the second pipe 35 between the vacuum gauge 32 and the vacuum pump 31. Valve 38, at least part of the first pipeline 34 is a flexible pipeline so that the saturation tank 10 can move relative to the vacuum assembly 30; positioning plate 40 is disposed in the saturation chamber 11 and divides the saturation chamber 11 into a flow stabilizing chamber 111 and a convergence chamber 112. Positioning plate 40 has a positioning hole 41 in the middle for inserting probe 110. Multiple connecting holes 42 are distributed around the positioning hole 41 on the positioning plate 40, and the connecting holes 42 connect the flow stabilizing chamber 111 and the convergence chamber 112.

[0033] The saturation tank 10 can be horizontally fitted onto the probe 110 of the free-fall penetrometer via the insertion interface 12. This allows the saturation tank to saturate the probe 110 when it is horizontally positioned, thus matching the horizontal position of the free-fall penetrometer on the deck. This eliminates the need to disassemble the probe 110, preserving the sealing performance of the free-fall penetrometer and avoiding damage from repeated disassembly, significantly improving saturation efficiency and reliability. The sealing structure 20 not only seals the saturation tank 10 and the probe 110 but also provides radial support for the probe 110, enabling its positioning. The positioning conical groove 13 is used to accommodate the conical tip 120 of the probe 110, which plays a positioning role for the probe 110 and can also provide axial support; the positioning hole 41 of the positioning plate 40 can pass through the probe 110 and provide radial support for the probe 110; therefore, the sealing structure 20, the positioning conical groove 13 and the positioning plate 40 cooperate to ensure that the probe 110 can be stably supported in both the axial and radial directions, ensuring that the probe 110 is stably positioned in the saturation cavity 11, so as to prevent the probe 110 from shifting under the action of gravity and causing air leakage.

[0034] Along the direction from the insertion interface 12 to the closed end, the inner diameter of the saturation cavity 11 gradually increases, and the exhaust port 15 is located at the closed end. The inner wall of the saturation cavity 11 can be used to collect gas. Since the saturation tank 10 is fitted onto the probe 110 in the horizontal direction through the insertion interface 12, when the vacuum pump 31 pumps gas from the saturated liquid in the saturation cavity 11, the inner wall of the saturation cavity 11 can guide the gas generated after the bubble bursts to rise along the inclined surface and be discharged from the exhaust port 15 after being collected at the top of the saturation cavity 11. This avoids the accumulation of gas in the saturation cavity 11 and improves the exhaust efficiency and vacuum effect.

[0035] By using the switching valve 38, vacuum pressure gauge, and vacuum pump 31, the airtightness of the saturation chamber 11 can be detected before injecting saturated liquid into it, further ensuring that the saturation effect meets the standards. By setting up a storage tank 33 as a buffer container between the saturation tank 10 and the vacuum pump 31, the saturated liquid is effectively prevented from being accidentally drawn into the vacuum pump 31, thus protecting the vacuum pump 31. Even if some saturated liquid is drawn out of the saturation chamber 11 under negative pressure, the saturated liquid flows out from the exhaust port 15 and then enters the storage tank 33 through the first pipeline 34. Since the air inlet 331 is located on the side of the storage tank 33 and the air outlet 332 is located at the top of the storage tank 33, the drawn-out saturated liquid can remain in the storage tank 33 under gravity and will not enter the vacuum pump 31, thus avoiding damage to the vacuum pump 31. By setting the vacuum pressure gauge 32 in the second pipeline 35, i.e., downstream of the storage tank 33, the saturated liquid is prevented from entering the vacuum pressure gauge 32, thus protecting the vacuum pressure gauge 32.

[0036] The saturating solution can be existing degassed water, glycerol aqueous solution, or high-purity silicone oil. The free-fall penetrometer is an existing penetrometer device applicable to seabed probing. It is typically transported to a designated location by a ship and placed horizontally on the deck. The saturation device provided in this embodiment saturates the horizontally placed free-fall penetrometer on the deck, and then a release device is used to vertically release it into the seawater. The free-fall penetrometer falls under its own weight and penetrates the seabed sediment. The working principle of the free-fall penetrometer is existing technology and will not be described in detail here. The probe 110 and probe rod 140 are key components of the free-fall penetrometer. The probe 110 typically has a conical tip 120. A pressure sensor and a permeable bob 130 are installed on the probe 110. The pressure sensor is located inside the permeable bob 130 to measure pore water pressure during penetration into the seabed sediment.

[0037] A positioning conical groove 13 is provided at the end of the saturation cavity 11 away from the insertion interface 12, which facilitates engagement with the conical tip 120 of the probe 110 of the self-falling probe, thereby centering and positioning the probe 110. The taper of the positioning conical groove 13 can be set according to actual needs, preferably matching the taper of the conical tip 120 of the probe 110. For example, the taper of the positioning conical groove 13 is 60°. For example, a second anti-collision pad is provided on the inner wall of the positioning conical groove 13 to protect the conical tip 120 and prevent damage due to collision when the conical tip 120 is inserted into the positioning conical groove 13.

[0038] The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer provided in this embodiment, when saturating the self-falling penetrometer, involves horizontally fitting the saturation tank 10 onto the probe 110 of the self-falling penetrometer via the insertion interface 12 until the cone tip 120 of the probe 110 abuts against the positioning cone groove 13. The sealing structure 20 achieves a seal between the saturation tank 10 and the probe 110. By rotating the saturation tank 10, the exhaust port 15 is made to face upwards. An airtightness test is then performed. If the airtightness meets the standard, the liquid circuit interface 14 is then opened. Saturated liquid is injected into the saturation chamber 11 through the liquid inlet 14. The saturated liquid overflows the positioning plate 40 and the permeable stone 130, leaving a gas collection space at the top of the saturation chamber 11. The liquid inlet 14 is then closed. The switch valve 38 on the first pipeline 34 is opened, and the vacuum pump 31 is turned on. Bubbles in the saturated liquid are released, and the gas flows along the inner wall of the saturation chamber 11 toward the exhaust port 15. It then flows through the exhaust port 15, the first pipeline 34, the storage tank 33, and the second pipeline 35 to the vacuum pump 31. After saturation is complete, once the pressure in the saturation chamber 11 returns to normal, the saturation tank 10 is rotated so that the liquid inlet 14 faces downwards. The liquid inlet 14 is then opened to drain the saturated liquid, and the saturation tank 10 is removed horizontally.

[0039] Because the gravity of the self-falling penetrometer is relatively large, when saturated, the saturation tank 10 is fitted onto the probe 110 through the insertion interface 12 without moving the position of the self-falling penetrometer, reducing labor intensity and improving operational convenience. The flexible design of at least part of the first pipeline 34 facilitates the movement of the saturation tank 10 relative to the vacuum assembly 30, thus making it easy for the saturation tank 10 to be fitted onto the probe 110.

[0040] The saturation tank 10 is fitted onto the probe 110. The sealing structure 20 achieves a seal between the saturation tank 10 and the probe 110. The saturation tank 10 can rotate relative to the probe 110 so that the exhaust port 15 faces upward, facilitating upward exhaust. The switch valve 38 on the second pipeline 35 can be opened or closed. When performing airtightness testing, the switch valve 38 is opened first to draw a vacuum and then the switch valve 38 is closed to maintain pressure. If the pressure value fluctuates little within the set time, the airtightness is judged to meet the standard.

[0041] The liquid inlet 14 is used to inject saturated liquid into the saturation chamber 11. The liquid inlet 14 and the exhaust port 15 can be arranged side by side, that is, the liquid inlet 14 is placed close to the exhaust port 15. When the exhaust port 15 is facing upward, the liquid inlet 14 is also located above the saturation chamber 11, which facilitates the saturated liquid to flow into the saturation chamber 11 from top to bottom. After saturation is completed, the saturation tank 10 is rotated so that the liquid inlet 14 faces downward, which facilitates the discharge of the saturated liquid.

[0042] The axial length of the saturation tank 10 can be set according to actual needs. For example, if the length of the saturation tank 10 is less than the length of the probe 110, the sealing structure 20 is located between the saturation tank 10 and the probe 110. Alternatively, if the length of the saturation tank 10 is greater than the length of the probe 110, the sealing structure 20 is located between the saturation tank 10 and the probe rod 140. Regardless of whether the sealing structure 20 is located at the probe 110 or the probe rod 140, a seal can be achieved between the saturation tank 10 and the self-falling penetrometer.

[0043] When saturated liquid is injected into the saturation chamber 11, the saturated liquid overflows the positioning plate 40 and the permeable stone 130, and a gas collection space is reserved at the top of the saturation chamber 11 to facilitate gas collection. Exemplarily, at least a portion of the saturation tank 10 is made of transparent material, and the exhaust port 15 is located in the transparent portion of the saturation tank 10 to facilitate observation of the gas in the gas collection space. Exemplarily, the saturation tank 10 is made of transparent material.

[0044] The saturation tank 10 also includes a sealing cover 16, which is detachably connected to the liquid interface 14. After the saturation liquid is injected, the sealing cover 16 is used to seal the liquid interface 14.

[0045] Along the direction from the insertion port 12 to the closed end, the inner diameter of the saturation cavity 11 gradually increases, making the inner wall of the saturation cavity 11 conical. This facilitates the use of inclined surfaces to guide gas flow and prevents gas from accumulating at the top of the saturation cavity 11. Existing saturation devices have a cylindrical cavity that allows the probe 110 to be inserted vertically into the cavity. If the existing saturation device is placed horizontally to saturate the probe 110, the cylindrical cavity is placed horizontally and fitted onto the probe 110. During gas extraction, gas will accumulate at the top of the cylindrical cavity. Because the cylindrical cavity is placed horizontally, its top extends horizontally, which can trap a large amount of gas, forming a "gas trap" phenomenon. This is not conducive to gas collection and discharge, resulting in incomplete saturation and low saturation efficiency.

[0046] Because the free-fall penetrometer is relatively long and heavy, when it is placed horizontally on the deck, its axis may extend horizontally or be tilted relative to the horizontal, for example, at an angle of 10° to 15°. This does not affect the saturation tank 10 being fitted onto the probe 110 of the free-fall penetrometer via the insertion interface 12. Along the direction from the insertion interface 12 to the closed end, the inner diameter of the saturation chamber 11 gradually increases. On the axial section of the saturation tank 10, as shown... Figure 6 As shown, the axial section of the saturation chamber 11 is frustoconical, with a taper ranging from 20° to 25°. Therefore, even if the self-falling penetrometer is tilted to a certain extent when placed horizontally, it does not affect the saturation liquid in the saturation chamber 11 from overflowing the positioning plate 40 and the permeable stone 130, thus not affecting the saturation process. Therefore, by setting the inner diameter of the saturation chamber 11 to gradually increase along the direction from the insertion port 12 to the closed end, saturation can be achieved for self-falling penetrometers with a certain tilt angle, improving its adaptability.

[0047] The saturation tank 10 can be 3D printed. The saturation tank 10 and the positioning plate 40 can be integrally formed, for example, by 3D printing. Alternatively, the saturation tank 10 can be a split structure, including a tank body and a tank cover. The positioning cone groove 13 is provided on the tank cover, and the saturation chamber 11 and the vent 15 are provided on the tank body. The tank body and the tank cover are detachably connected by threads, and a sealing ring can be provided between them to achieve a seal. By setting the saturation tank 10 as a split structure, it is convenient to install the positioning plate 40 inside the saturation chamber 11.

[0048] To ensure accurate positioning of the probe 110 by the positioning hole 41, a first anti-collision pad is provided on the inner wall of the positioning hole 41. The first anti-collision pad at least covers the edge of the positioning hole 41 near the insertion interface 12. By providing the first anti-collision pad, not only is the probe 110 protected from collision damage, but the elasticity of the first anti-collision pad also allows the probe 110 to abut against it, thus providing better positioning for the probe 110. The first anti-collision pad at least covers the edge of the positioning hole 41 near the insertion interface 12 to prevent the first anti-collision pad from warping during the insertion of the probe 110. The first anti-collision pad can be bonded and fixed to the positioning plate 40 to ensure a secure installation. The first anti-collision pad can be an existing flexible rubber pad. For example, the first anti-collision pad covers the edges on both sides of the positioning hole 41 for easy installation.

[0049] The number of connecting holes 42 on the positioning plate 40 can be set according to actual needs. The connecting holes 42 on the positioning plate 40 are used to connect the stabilizing cavity 111 and the converging cavity 112, so that the saturated liquid can flow in the stabilizing cavity 111 and the converging cavity 112, and the setting of the positioning plate 40 does not affect gas collection and liquid discharge. Exemplarily, at least some of the connecting holes 42 are circular, which facilitates manufacturing. Exemplarily, at least some of the connecting holes 42 are arc-shaped and extend around the axis of the positioning plate 40 to increase the flow area. Exemplarily, at least some of the connecting holes 42 extend to the outer peripheral edge of the positioning plate 40 so that the gas can flow smoothly through the connecting holes 42 towards the exhaust port 15.

[0050] Exemplarily, the flow stabilizing cavity 111 is located between the insertion port 12 and the positioning plate 40, and the converging cavity 112 is located between the positioning plate 40 and the closed end. The small end of the flow stabilizing cavity 111 has the same inner diameter as the insertion port 12, and the maximum diameter of the flow stabilizing cavity 111 is less than or equal to the minimum diameter of the converging cavity 112. Exemplarily, the maximum diameter of the flow stabilizing cavity 111 is equal to the minimum diameter of the converging cavity 112, and the flow stabilizing cavity 111 and the converging cavity 112 are smoothly transitioned by a conical surface, that is, the inner walls of the flow stabilizing cavity 111 and the converging cavity 112 are integral frustoconical cavities. Exemplarily, the maximum diameter of the flow stabilizing cavity 111 is less than the minimum diameter of the converging cavity 112, and the flow stabilizing cavity 111 and the converging cavity 112 are transitioned by a cylindrical surface, that is, the flow stabilizing cavity 111 is frustoconical, and a cylindrical cavity is formed between the flow stabilizing cavity 111 and the converging cavity 112 to accommodate the positioning plate 40, and the converging cavity 112 is frustoconical.

[0051] For example, the multi-layer sealing rings, from the outside in, consist of a dust scraper ring 21, an O-ring 22, and a plug ring 23. The inner diameter of the dust scraper ring 21 is smaller than the inner diameter of the plug ring 23, and the inner diameter of the plug ring 23 is less than or equal to the inner diameter of the O-ring 22. The cooperation of the dust scraper ring 21, O-ring 22, and plug ring 23 ensures a good seal between the probe 110 and the saturation tank 10, preventing leakage of the saturated liquid and preventing air leakage during vacuuming. The inner diameter of the dust scraper ring 21 is smaller than the inner diameter of the plug ring 23, and the inner diameter of the plug ring 23 is less than or equal to the inner diameter of the O-ring 22, so that the O-ring 22 can abut against the outer peripheral wall of the probe 110 using its own elasticity.

[0052] For example, the scraper ring 21 is made of polyurethane and is embedded in the outermost groove on the inner wall of the connector 12. The scraper ring 21 first contacts the probe 110 and is used to scrape away contaminants adhering to the surface of the probe 110, protecting the internal sealing elements and extending the seal life. The sealing ring 23 is embedded in the innermost groove on the inner wall of the connector 12. The sealing ring 23 includes a metal spring and a sealing lip made of polymer. The sealing lip wraps around the metal spring, using the metal spring to provide continuous and stable elastic force to improve service life.

[0053] For example, two or more O-rings 22 are provided to provide multiple sealing functions. For example, two O-rings 22 are provided and are arranged side by side in two independent grooves on the inner wall of the insertion interface 12. The two O-rings 22 are spaced apart to form two independent sealing barriers.

[0054] The vacuum assembly 30 also includes a housing 36, in which the vacuum pump 31, liquid storage tank 33, and second pipeline 35 are all located, while part of the first pipeline 34 is located outside the housing 36. By setting up the housing 36, the vacuum pump 31, liquid storage tank 33, and pipeline are integrated into one unit, resulting in a compact structure, reduced space occupation, and easy carrying and transportation of the entire device, completely eliminating the dependence on a fixed laboratory.

[0055] The first conduit 34 can be entirely or partially a flexible hose. Exemplarily, the first conduit 34 is a flexible hose and passes through the containment box 36. Exemplarily, the first conduit 34 includes a first pipe and a second pipe. The containment box 36 is provided with an air passage interface 364. The first pipe is located inside the containment box 36 and connected to the air passage interface 364, and the second pipe is located outside the containment box 36 and connected to the air passage interface 364. The second pipe is a flexible hose. By providing the air passage interface 364, bending of the first conduit 34 is avoided, ensuring smooth exhaust.

[0056] The housing 36 includes a housing 361 and a cover 362. One end of the cover 362 is rotatably connected to the housing 361, facilitating opening and closing. The housing 361 and cover 362 facilitate the installation and maintenance of components inside the housing 361. An air inlet 364 is located on the side wall of the housing 361; the number and location of the air inlets 364 can be configured according to actual needs. A power inlet 363 is also provided on the side wall of the housing 361, used to connect an external power source to supply power to the vacuum pump 31, vacuum pressure gauge 32, etc.

[0057] The vacuum assembly 30 also includes a vacuum control switch 37, which is located on the cover 362. The vacuum control switch 37 is electrically connected to the vacuum pump 31. When the vacuum control switch 37 is in a first state, the vacuum pump 31 is turned on; when the vacuum control switch 37 is in a second state, the vacuum pump 31 is turned off. The vacuum control switch 37 can be pressed to switch between the first and second states. The switching valve 38 can be an existing manual valve, which can be manually opened or closed. The switching valve 38 can also be a solenoid valve; no limitation is made here.

[0058] A vacuum pressure gauge 32 is disposed in a second pipeline 35. For example, the second pipeline 35 has a branch, and the vacuum pressure gauge 32 is connected to the branch.

[0059] In this embodiment, the saturation tank 10 is cylindrical. After horizontally installing the saturation tank 10 onto the probe 110, the saturation tank 10 is rotated so that the vent 15 is at the top. At this time, the liquid inlet 14 is also basically located at the top of the saturation tank 10. After saturation, the saturation tank 10 is rotated so that the liquid inlet 14 faces downward, facilitating the discharge of the saturated liquid. To prevent the saturated liquid from entering the storage tank 33 through the vent 15, the storage tank 33 can be positioned higher than the saturation tank 10. Specifically, a bracket can be installed at the bottom of the housing 361 to prevent the saturated liquid from entering the storage tank 33 during discharge. In other embodiments, the saturation tank 10 can be rectangular, with the liquid inlet 14 and the vent 15 located on the same side of the saturation tank 10. After fitting the saturation tank 10 onto the probe 110, the saturation tank 10 is rotated so that the vent 15 is at the top. At this time, the liquid inlet 14 is also located at the top of the saturation tank 10.

[0060] This embodiment also provides a saturation method for a self-falling penetrometer, employing the aforementioned saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer, comprising: horizontally fitting a saturation tank 10 onto the probe 110 of the self-falling penetrometer via an insertion interface 12 until the cone tip 120 of the probe 110 abuts against the positioning cone groove 13; sealing structure 20 sealing between the saturation tank 10 and the probe 110; rotating the saturation tank 10 so that the exhaust port 15 faces upward; opening the switch valve 38 on the second pipeline 35, turning on the vacuum pump 31, recording the pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge 32 as the first pressure value, the first pressure value gradually decreasing, and closing the vacuum pump 31 and the switch valve 38 when the first pressure value is less than or equal to the first set pressure value; if the fluctuation of the first pressure value within a first time period does not exceed the first set range, then the airtightness is determined to be up to standard; opening the liquid interface 14, injecting saturation liquid into the saturation chamber 11 through the liquid interface 14, the saturation liquid overflowing the positioning plate 40 and the permeable stone 130 on the probe 110, and reserving a gas collection space at the top of the saturation chamber 11. In the meantime, close the liquid interface 14; open the switch valve 38 on the second pipeline 35, turn on the vacuum pump 31, and record the pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge 32 as the second pressure value. Bubbles in the saturated liquid precipitate out, and the gas flows along the inner wall of the saturation chamber 11 towards the exhaust port 15, and flows through the exhaust port 15, the first pipeline 34, the storage tank 33, and the second pipeline 35 to the vacuum pump 31. The second pressure value gradually decreases. When the second pressure value is less than or equal to the second set pressure value, close the vacuum pump 31 and the switch valve 38. If the second pressure value fluctuates within the second time period without exceeding the second set range, it is determined that saturation has ended, and the switch valve 38 is opened. When the vacuum pump 31 is in the closed state and the switch valve 38 is in the open state, the pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge 32 is recorded as the third pressure value. The third pressure value gradually increases. When the third pressure value is greater than or equal to the third set pressure value, rotate the saturation tank 10 so that the liquid interface 14 faces downward, open the liquid interface 14 to drain the saturated liquid, and remove the saturation tank 10 horizontally.

[0061] Before injecting saturated liquid into the saturation chamber 11, an airtightness test is performed to prevent air leakage in the entire system. Specifically, after activating the vacuum pump 31, a negative pressure state is created, causing the first pressure value to gradually decrease. When the first pressure value is less than or equal to a first set pressure value, the vacuum pump 31 and the switching valve 38 are shut off. If the first pressure value fluctuates within a first set range over a first time period, the airtightness is considered satisfactory. The first set pressure value, the first time period, and the first set range can be set as needed. For example, when the first pressure value is less than or equal to -100 kPa, the vacuum pump 31 and the switching valve 38 are shut off; if the first pressure value fluctuates within 5 minutes and does not exceed (-0.5 kPa, 0.5 kPa), the airtightness is considered satisfactory.

[0062] It is understandable that when the probe 110 is saturated, the temperature of the external environment remains basically stable. If the temperature changes significantly, it may cause large fluctuations in the pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge. In this embodiment, the temperature fluctuation is taken as no more than 2 degrees Celsius.

[0063] When saturated liquid is injected into the saturation chamber 11, it overflows the positioning plate 40 and the permeable stone 130, and fills most of the space in the convergence chamber 112 until a gas collection space is reserved at the top of the convergence chamber 112. When the vacuum pump 31 is turned on, the power interface 363 on the housing 361 is connected to an external power source, and the vacuum control switch 37 is pressed to the first state. As the gas flows along the inner wall of the saturation chamber 11 toward the exhaust port 15, the operator can observe the bubble escape and the flow process through the transparent part of the saturation tank 10. The pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge 32 is recorded as the second pressure value. The second pressure value gradually decreases. When the second pressure value is less than or equal to the second set pressure value, the vacuum pump 31 and the switch valve 38 are turned off. If the second pressure value fluctuates within the second time period without exceeding the second set range, saturation is considered to be complete. At this time, the bubble escape can be observed to have basically stopped. If the second pressure value fluctuates within the second time period without exceeding the second set range, that is, after the saturated liquid is evacuated and pressure is maintained, the saturated liquid can better penetrate into the smallest pores of the permeable stone 130 under pressure, squeezing out any possible residual microbubbles that are difficult to observe with the naked eye.

[0064] The second set pressure value, the second duration, and the second set range can be set as needed. For example, when the second pressure value is less than or equal to -95 kPa, the vacuum pump 31 and the switching valve 38 are turned off; if the second pressure value fluctuates within 10 minutes and does not exceed (-0.5 kPa, 0.5 kPa), then saturation is considered to have ended.

[0065] With vacuum pump 31 in the off state and switching valve 38 in the open state, the saturation chamber 11 gradually returns to normal pressure due to the connection between vacuum pump 31 and the outside environment. The pressure value detected by vacuum pressure gauge 32 is recorded as the third pressure value. The third pressure value gradually increases, and when the third pressure value is greater than or equal to the third set pressure value, it indicates that the pressure has returned to normal pressure. The third set pressure value may vary depending on the actual location and environment and can be set as needed. For example, when the third pressure value is greater than or equal to 0 kPa, or within the error range, when the third pressure value is between -0.5 kPa and 0.5 kPa, it indicates that the pressure has returned to normal pressure. Normally, vacuum pressure gauge 32 displays relative pressure.

[0066] The above-mentioned saturation method for self-falling penetrometers enables rapid, accurate, and in-situ saturation of horizontally positioned self-falling penetrometers on the deck without disassembling the probe 110. This avoids damaging the sealing performance of the self-falling penetrometer, prevents damage from repeated disassembly, and significantly improves saturation efficiency and reliability.

[0067] The above embodiments merely illustrate the basic principles and characteristics of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the present invention as claimed. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer, characterized in that, include: A saturation tank (10) is provided with a saturation cavity (11) inside. One end of the saturation tank (10) is provided with an interface (12) communicating with the saturation cavity (11). The saturation tank (10) can be horizontally fitted onto the probe (110) of the self-falling penetrometer through the interface (12). The end of the saturation cavity (11) away from the interface (12) is a closed end and forms a positioning cone groove (13). The positioning cone groove (13) is used to accommodate the cone tip (120) of the probe (110). Along the direction from the interface (12) to the closed end, the inner diameter of the saturation cavity (11) gradually increases. The outer peripheral wall of the saturation tank (10) is provided with a liquid passage interface (14) communicating with the saturation cavity (11) and an exhaust port (15) corresponding to the position of the closed end. A sealing structure (20) is provided on the inner wall of the insertion interface (12). The sealing structure (20) includes multiple sealing rings, which are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the insertion interface (12). The vacuum assembly (30) includes a vacuum pump (31), a vacuum gauge (32), and a liquid storage tank (33). The liquid storage tank (33) has an air inlet (331) and an air outlet (332). The air inlet (331) is located on the side of the liquid storage tank (33) and is connected to the exhaust port (15) through a first pipe (34). The air outlet (332) is located on the top of the liquid storage tank (33) and is connected to the vacuum pump (31) through a second pipe (35). The vacuum gauge (32) is located on the second pipe (35). A switching valve (38) is provided on the second pipe (35) between the vacuum gauge (32) and the vacuum pump (31). At least a portion of the first pipe (34) is a flexible pipe so that the saturation tank (10) can move relative to the vacuum assembly (30). A positioning plate (40) is disposed in the saturation cavity (11) and divides the saturation cavity (11) into a stabilizing cavity (111) and a converging cavity (112). A positioning hole (41) for the probe (110) to pass through is provided in the middle of the positioning plate (40). A plurality of connecting holes (42) are distributed around the periphery of the positioning hole (41) on the positioning plate (40). The connecting holes (42) connect the stabilizing cavity (111) and the converging cavity (112).

2. The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first anti-collision pad is provided on the inner wall of the positioning hole (41), and the first anti-collision pad at least covers the edge of the positioning hole (41) near the plug interface (12).

3. The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer according to claim 2, characterized in that, A first anti-collision pad is provided on the inner wall of the positioning hole (41), and the first anti-collision pad covers the edges on both sides of the positioning hole (41).

4. The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the connecting hole (42) extends to the outer peripheral edge of the positioning plate (40).

5. The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The taper of the positioning cone groove (13) is 60°; a second anti-collision pad is provided on the inner wall of the positioning cone groove (13).

6. The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-layered sealing rings, from the outside to the inside, are a dust scraper ring (21), an O-ring (22), and a plug ring (23). The inner diameter of the dust scraper ring (21) is smaller than the inner diameter of the plug ring (23), and the inner diameter of the plug ring (23) is smaller than or equal to the inner diameter of the O-ring (22).

7. The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vacuum assembly (30) also includes a container (36), in which the vacuum pump (31), the liquid storage tank (33) and the second pipeline (35) are all located inside the container (36), and part of the first pipeline (34) is located outside the container (36).

8. The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first pipeline (34) is a flexible hose and passes through the container (36).

9. The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, At least part of the saturation tank (10) is made of a transparent material, and the vent (15) is located in the transparent part of the saturation tank (10).

10. A saturation method for a self-falling penetrometer, characterized in that, The saturation device for a self-falling penetrometer according to any one of claims 1-9 comprises: The saturation tank (10) is horizontally fitted onto the probe (110) of the self-falling penetrometer through the insertion interface (12) until the cone tip (120) of the probe (110) abuts against the positioning cone groove (13). The sealing structure (20) seals between the saturation tank (10) and the probe (110). The saturation tank (10) is rotated so that the exhaust port (15) faces upward. Open the switch valve (38) on the second pipeline (35), turn on the vacuum pump (31), and record the pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge (32) as the first pressure value. The first pressure value gradually decreases. When the first pressure value is less than or equal to the first set pressure value, turn off the vacuum pump (31) and the switch valve (38). If the first pressure value fluctuates within the first time period without exceeding the first set range, the air tightness is judged to meet the standard. Open the liquid circuit interface (14) and inject saturated liquid into the saturation chamber (11) through the liquid circuit interface (14). The saturated liquid overflows the permeable stone (130) on the positioning plate (40) and the probe (110) and leaves a gas collection space at the top of the saturation chamber (11). Close the liquid circuit interface (14). Open the switch valve (38) on the second pipeline (35), turn on the vacuum pump (31), and record the pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge (32) as the second pressure value. Bubbles are released from the saturated liquid, and the gas flows along the inner wall of the saturated chamber (11) toward the exhaust port (15), and flows through the exhaust port (15), the first pipeline (34), the liquid storage tank (33), and the second pipeline (35) to the vacuum pump (31). The second pressure value gradually decreases. When the second pressure value is less than or equal to the second set pressure value, turn off the vacuum pump (31) and the switch valve (38). If the second pressure value fluctuates within the second time period without exceeding the second set range, it is determined that saturation has ended, and the switch valve (38) is opened. With the vacuum pump (31) in the off state and the switch valve (38) in the open state, the pressure value detected by the vacuum pressure gauge (32) is recorded as the third pressure value. The third pressure value gradually increases. When the third pressure value is greater than or equal to the third set pressure value, rotate the saturated tank (10) so that the liquid interface (14) faces downward, open the liquid interface (14) to drain the saturated liquid, and remove the saturated tank (10) in the horizontal direction.

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