Waterproof sealing structure of rear delivery cabin body of unmanned aerial vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of aviation medical rescue, in particular to a waterproof sealing structure of a cabin body of a rear delivery cabin of an unmanned aerial vehicle. Comprising an upper cabin body, a lower cabin body, an inflation sealing ring assembly and a sliding type self-tightening dustproof cover assembly, the upper cabin body and the lower cabin body are detachably and fixedly connected through a peripheral connecting structure, and an annular butt joint seam is formed at the butt joint position. The inflation sealing ring assembly is arranged at the annular butt joint seam and comprises a hollow annular sealing ring body and an inflation and deflation nozzle, the sealing ring body is embedded in an annular caulking groove in the edge of the cabin body, and the inflation and deflation nozzle penetrates through the cabin wall to be communicated with an inner cavity of the sealing ring. The sliding type self-tightening dustproof cover assembly is arranged at an external connector of the cabin body and comprises a cover body, a sliding guide rail and a self-tightening elastic element, the cover body is installed on the outer wall of the cabin body through the sliding guide rail, and the self-tightening elastic element enables the cover body to cover and press the end face of the connector in a natural state. The structure effectively solves the problems that an existing sealing structure is prone to generating gaps due to vibration and looseness, and interface sealing reliability is insufficient, and the sealing performance is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air medical rescue, and in particular to a waterproof sealing structure for the hull of a drone evacuation capsule. Background Technology

[0002] As core equipment for emergency rescue and cross-regional material transfer, the drone evacuation capsule must operate stably in extreme environments such as sea salt spray, high-altitude rain and snow, and humid and turbulent conditions. Its waterproof and sealing performance directly determines the safety of the injured personnel, the reliability of medical equipment, and the integrity of supplies inside the capsule. Based on application requirements, the evacuation capsule must achieve an IP67 waterproof rating, completely preventing dust intrusion and allowing for brief immersion in 1 meter of water without harmful effects. It must also be adaptable to dynamic scenarios such as drone mounting and rappelling, withstanding the sealing challenges posed by airflow turbulence, takeoff and landing impacts, and component movement during flight. Current evacuation capsule sealing structures have significant shortcomings: the capsule's joints often use traditional solid rubber gaskets, relying on bolt preload for sealing. However, vibrations during drone flight can easily cause slight loosening of the connection structure, creating gaps between the gaskets and the capsule's contact surface, making it impossible to maintain a long-term seal. External interfaces (such as power connectors and equipment interfaces) commonly use flip-top or threaded sealing covers, lacking a self-tightening and reset mechanism. These are prone to accidental opening in turbulent environments and are cumbersome to operate, making it difficult to balance sealing reliability and ease of use. These problems mean that traditional sealing structures cannot meet the high waterproof requirements of the evacuation capsule in complex environments. Moisture and salt spray can easily seep into the capsule, which can damage precision medical equipment, affect the stability of the environment inside the capsule, and even threaten the lives of the injured. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a structure that can achieve coordinated sealing between the capsule's docking seams and external interfaces, has strong anti-interference capabilities, and provides a stable sealing effect. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention provides a waterproof sealing structure for the hull of a drone delivery capsule, aiming to solve the problems of existing sealing structures being prone to gaps due to vibration and insufficient reliability of interface sealing.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the following technical solution is adopted.

[0005] A waterproof sealing structure for a drone delivery cabin includes an upper cabin, a lower cabin, an inflatable sealing ring assembly, and a sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly. The upper and lower cabins are detachably fixedly connected by a peripheral connecting structure, forming an annular joint at the joint. The inflatable sealing ring assembly is located at the annular joint and includes a hollow annular sealing ring body and an inflation / deflation nozzle. The sealing ring body is embedded in an annular groove on the edge of the upper or lower cabin, and the inflation / deflation nozzle passes through the cabin wall and communicates with the internal cavity of the sealing ring body. The sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly is located at the external interface of the cabin and includes a cover body, a sliding guide rail, and a self-tightening elastic element. The cover body is installed on the outer wall of the cabin around the interface via the sliding guide rail, and the self-tightening elastic element acts on the cover body, causing the cover body to cover and press against the end face of the interface in its natural state.

[0006] Optionally, the inflatable sealing ring assembly further includes a pressure monitoring unit and a venting capillary tube. The pressure monitoring unit is located inside the chamber and includes a pressure sensor and a signal processor. The pressure sensor is connected to the internal cavity of the sealing ring body through a venting tube to detect the cavity pressure in real time. One end of the venting capillary tube is connected to the internal cavity of the sealing ring body, and the other end is connected to the external atmospheric environment. The aperture of the venting capillary tube is configured to allow gas to pass through very slowly. After the upper chamber and lower chamber are docked and locked, gas is injected into the sealing ring body through the inflation / deflation nozzle, causing it to expand and tightly fill all gaps between the annular groove and the edge of the docking chamber, forming the first sealing barrier. The pressure monitoring unit monitors the pressure value during the inflation process and issues a prompt when the preset working pressure range is reached.

[0007] Optionally, the sealing ring body of the inflatable sealing ring assembly has an irregular polygonal cross-section, including a main sealing lip, a secondary sealing lip, and shear-resistant ribs; the main sealing lip is located on the side of the sealing ring body facing the annular mating seam, and after inflation, it protrudes to form a sealing surface that contacts the edge plane line of the docking compartment; the secondary sealing lip is located on both sides of the bottom of the sealing ring body, and after inflation, it expands and fits tightly against the side wall of the annular groove; the shear-resistant ribs are formed inside the sealing ring body to maintain the structural shape of the sealing ring body when the compartment is subjected to turbulence and relative displacement.

[0008] Optionally, the self-tightening elastic element of the sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly is a torsion spring or a constant force spring; the sliding guide rail includes a slide rail fixed to the outer wall of the cabin and a slider connected to the cover; one end of the self-tightening elastic element is fixed to a mounting base on the outer wall of the cabin, and the other end acts on the cover or the slider; when it is necessary to expose the interface, the cover is slid open along the sliding guide rail against the force of the self-tightening elastic element; after being released, the restoring force of the self-tightening elastic element drives the cover to slide back along the sliding guide rail until the sealing gasket on the inner side of the cover is pressed against the annular sealing protrusion on the end face of the interface.

[0009] Optionally, the sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly further includes a locking mechanism and a water guide channel; the locking mechanism is located at the end of the sliding path of the cover and includes a hook and a slot. When the cover slides to the closed position that completely covers the interface, the hook and the slot automatically engage to prevent the cover from accidentally sliding open under bumps and vibrations; the water guide channel is opened on the outer wall of the cabin around the interface. The water guide channel is arranged around the interface and its position is lower than the end face of the interface but higher than the lower edge of the cover. It is used to guide liquid that may splash onto the surface of the cover to both sides for discharge.

[0010] Optionally, the waterproof sealing structure further includes a bellows sealing assembly disposed on the movable parts outside the hull; the bellows sealing assembly includes a retractable bellows and connecting flanges at both ends; the bellows sealing assembly is sleeved on the outside of the rod-shaped structure of the movable part, one end of the bellows is fixed to the periphery of the opening on the outer wall of the hull through the connecting flange, and the other end is fixed to the base of the movable part through the connecting flange, so that when the movable part moves within its stroke range, the bellows extends and retracts accordingly, and its folds always cover the dynamic gap between the movable part and the hull wall, preventing external water and salt spray from entering.

[0011] Optionally, the waterproof sealing structure further includes a double sealing assembly for the observation window; the double sealing assembly includes the observation window glass, a fixed pressure frame, a first sealing adhesive layer, and a second sealing ring; the observation window glass is fastened to the window of the bulkhead by bolts of the fixed pressure frame; the first sealing adhesive layer is applied between the contact surfaces of the observation window glass and the bulkhead window; the second sealing ring is embedded in the annular groove of the pressing surface of the fixed pressure frame and the observation window glass; when the bolts are tightened, the fixed pressure frame presses the observation window glass, the first sealing adhesive layer is squeezed and filled in the microscopic unevenness, and at the same time the second sealing ring undergoes elastic deformation, forming a surrounding airtight line on the glass surface.

[0012] Optionally, the waterproof sealing structure further includes a potting sealing module for cable penetration; the potting sealing module is disposed at the cable penetration point in the bulkhead, and includes a perforation bushing, an isolation baffle, and liquid sealant; the perforation bushing is fixed inside the perforation in the bulkhead, and its inner diameter is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the cable bundle; the isolation baffle is temporarily disposed inside the perforation bushing, dividing the inner cavity of the bushing into two chambers, one near the inside of the bulkhead and the other near the outside of the bulkhead; the liquid sealant is injected into the chamber near the outside of the bulkhead, so that after the liquid sealant cures, it forms a solid seal that wraps around the cable bundle and adheres tightly to the inner wall of the perforation bushing; after curing, the isolation baffle is removed, and the inner chamber remains unobstructed.

[0013] Optionally, the waterproof sealing structure also includes a positive pressure maintenance system inside the cabin; the positive pressure maintenance system includes a miniature air pump, an air intake filter, an exhaust check valve, and a pressure regulator; the air intake of the miniature air pump is connected to the outside atmosphere through the air intake filter, and the air outlet is connected to the sealed space inside the cabin; the exhaust check valve is located on the cabin wall, and its opening direction is from inside the cabin to outside; the pressure regulator controls the operation of the miniature air pump to keep the air pressure inside the cabin stable and slightly higher than the external ambient air pressure, forming an internal and external pressure difference to inhibit external water or salt spray from seeping into the cabin through any potential tiny gaps.

[0014] Optionally, the connection structure between the upper and lower compartments is a multi-point quick-lock buckle, with the quick-lock buckles evenly distributed along the circumference of the annular joint seam. Each quick-lock buckle includes a locking hook on the upper compartment and a locking seat on the lower compartment. When locked, the locking hook engages with the locking seat, and a radial locking force is applied through an eccentric wheel or screw mechanism, so that the upper and lower compartments fit tightly along the annular joint seam, providing a uniform pre-tightening support surface for the inflatable sealing ring assembly. All quick-lock buckles achieve synchronous locking or unlocking actions through a linkage rod or synchronous motor.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: The sealing structure of this application achieves a comprehensive technological upgrade. First, through the detachable and fixed connection design between the upper and lower chambers, combined with the inflatable sealing ring assembly at the annular joint and the sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly at the external interface, the problems of existing sealing structures being prone to gaps due to vibration and insufficient interface sealing reliability are effectively solved. The inflatable sealing ring can tightly fill all gaps at the joint by inflating and expanding, and is not affected by minor loosening of the connection structure. The sliding self-tightening dust cover naturally covers and presses the interface under the action of the elastic element. The two work together to ensure that the overall sealing performance of the chamber is stable and meets the IP67 waterproof rating requirements. The combination of the air pressure monitoring unit and the venting capillary tube can monitor the internal air pressure of the sealing ring in real time, ensuring that the sealing pressure is maintained within the preset range, avoiding damage from overcharging or sealing failure due to insufficient pressure. The venting capillary tube can balance the air pressure difference caused by temperature changes, further improving the sealing stability. The sealing ring body with an irregular polygonal cross-section effectively resists the shear force generated by cabin turbulence through the line contact sealing of the main sealing lip, the tight fit between the secondary sealing lip and the groove sidewall, and the structural support of the anti-shear ribs, preventing the sealing ring from deforming and failing. The self-tightening elastic element uses a torsion spring or constant force spring, which can provide a continuous and stable self-tightening force to ensure a tight fit between the cover and the interface end face. The locking mechanism can prevent the cover from accidentally sliding open during vibration, and the water guide groove can promptly drain liquid and prevent water accumulation and seepage at the interface. The bellows sealing assembly achieves dynamic gap sealing of moving parts through a telescopic structure, blocking water and salt spray intrusion without affecting the normal operation of the parts. The double sealing design of the observation window uses the synergistic effect of the sealing adhesive layer and the sealing ring to fill the microscopic unevenness of the contact surface, forming a double airtight protection and ensuring the overall sealing consistency between the observation window and the cabin. The sealing module uses liquid sealant to solidify into a solid seal, achieving a seamless seal at cable penetration points and preventing leakage. The positive pressure maintenance system inside the cabin maintains a slightly higher air pressure inside the cabin than outside, forming an active protective barrier to inhibit moisture and salt spray from seeping in through potential tiny gaps. Multi-point quick-lock buckles are evenly distributed along the circumference of the joint, providing uniform radial locking force to ensure a tight fit between the upper and lower cabins. This provides a stable pre-tightening support surface for the inflatable sealing ring, while the synchronous locking or unlocking mechanism improves the efficiency of cabin assembly and disassembly, balancing sealing reliability and ease of operation, ensuring long-term stable operation of the rear delivery cabin in various extreme environments. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an embodiment of a waterproof sealing structure for a drone delivery cabin according to the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of a drone emplacement cabin according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the cabin explosion from another angle, representing an embodiment of the waterproof sealing structure of a drone emplacement cabin according to the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the sealing ring body structure of an embodiment of the waterproof sealing structure for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emplacement compartment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the sealing ring body from another angle, representing an embodiment of a waterproof sealing structure for a drone emplacement compartment according to the present invention.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly, which is an embodiment of the waterproof sealing structure of the drone delivery cabin of the present invention.

[0022] The components include: 1. Upper chamber; 2. Lower chamber; 3. Sealing ring body; 31. Main sealing lip; 32. Secondary sealing lip; 33. Shear-resistant rib; 4. Inflation / depression nozzle; 5. Annular groove; 6. Cover; 7. Sliding guide rail; 8. Self-tightening elastic element; 9. Bellows sealing assembly; 10. Observation window glass; 11. Fixed pressure frame; 12. Quick-lock buckle. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other.

[0024] The following detailed description is exemplary and intended to provide further detailed explanation of the invention. Unless otherwise specified, all technical terms used in this invention have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. The terminology used in this invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of exemplary embodiments according to the invention.

[0025] like Figures 1-6 As shown, this embodiment discloses a waterproof sealing structure for a drone delivery cabin, which is suitable for drone delivery cabins that need to meet the IP67 waterproof rating. It can completely prevent dust intrusion and can withstand a brief immersion in 1 meter deep water for 1 minute under normal temperature and pressure without causing harmful effects. At the same time, it is suitable for dynamic scenarios such as drone mounting and rappelling, and meets the requirements for impact resistance, vibration resistance and use in harsh environments such as humidity and salt spray.

[0026] The overall cabin consists of an upper cabin 1 and a lower cabin 2, both made of lightweight, high-strength materials to ensure the total weight of the rear cargo compartment does not exceed 100 kg, meeting the requirements for attached transport. The upper cabin 1 and lower cabin 2 are detachably and securely connected via a perimeter connecting structure, naturally forming an annular joint at the docking point. This annular joint surrounds the cabin, and its width and depth are rationally designed according to the overall dimensions of the cabin and sealing requirements, ensuring that subsequent sealing components can effectively fill and form a reliable seal.

[0027] An inflatable sealing ring assembly is installed at the annular joint. The core of this assembly is a hollow annular sealing ring body 3, made of rubber material with excellent aging resistance, salt spray resistance, and elastic recovery properties. It can withstand a working temperature range of -25℃ to 46℃, meeting the requirements of different environments. The sealing ring body 3 is embedded in an annular groove 5 opened at the edge of the upper chamber 1. The size of the annular groove 5 is adapted to the uninflated state of the sealing ring body 3, ensuring that the sealing ring body 3 is securely installed without displacement or detachment when uninflated. The inflation / deflation nozzle 4 adopts a waterproof structure design. One end communicates with the internal cavity of the sealing ring body 3, and the other end extends through the wall of the upper chamber 1 into the interior of the chamber, facilitating inflation / deflation operations from inside the chamber. The inflation / deflation nozzle 4 itself has a sealing valve structure that automatically closes when no inflation / deflation operation is being performed, preventing gas leakage and the entry of external moisture.

[0028] The external interfaces on the hull include power connectors and equipment connection interfaces. All these interfaces must meet an IP67 waterproof rating, effectively preventing water and dust damage during connection and disconnection. Each external interface is equipped with a sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly. The cover 6 is made of a wear-resistant and waterproof material compatible with the hull material, and its size is designed according to the size of the corresponding interface to ensure complete coverage of the interface end face. The sliding guide rail 7 consists of a rail fixed to the outer wall of the hull and a slider connected to the cover 6. The rail extends along one side of the hull surface of the interface, and the slider is fixed to the cover 6 through integral molding or fastening, ensuring that the slider can smoothly drive the cover 6 along the rail without jamming. A self-tightening elastic element 8 acts on the cover 6, ensuring that the cover 6 always covers and presses against the interface end face in its natural state, guaranteeing a constant seal of the interface.

[0029] The inflatable sealing ring assembly also includes a pressure monitoring unit and a venting capillary tube. The pressure monitoring unit is installed inside the chamber, away from sensitive equipment and in a location easily accessible for maintenance. It consists of a pressure sensor and a signal processor. The pressure sensor is connected to the internal cavity of the sealing ring body 3 via a venting tube. The venting tube is made of flexible, aging-resistant tubing, and its arrangement avoids moving parts and high-temperature areas within the chamber, ensuring smooth gas transmission without affecting the operation of other components. The pressure sensor is used to detect the air pressure value inside the sealing ring body 3 in real time and transmits the detected air pressure signal to the signal processor. After analyzing and processing the signal, the signal processor can issue a prompt signal when the air pressure reaches the preset working air pressure range. The prompt can be implemented through an indicator light or an audible alarm inside the chamber, allowing operators to be aware of the sealing status promptly. One end of the venting capillary tube is connected to the internal cavity of the sealing ring body 3, while the other end extends to the outside of the chamber and is positioned in a direction less prone to water and dust accumulation. Its aperture is precisely designed to allow gas to pass through very slowly, which can balance the air pressure difference between the inside and outside environment caused by temperature changes, and prevent moisture and dust from entering the sealing ring through the capillary tube. After the upper chamber 1 and the lower chamber 2 are docked, the operator fills the sealing ring body 3 with gas through the inflation / deflation nozzle 4. As the gas is injected, the sealing ring body 3 gradually expands until it tightly fills all the gaps between the annular groove 5 and the edge of the lower chamber 2, forming the first reliable sealing barrier, effectively preventing external moisture, salt spray and dust from entering the chamber.

[0030] The cross-section of the sealing ring body 3 is designed as an irregular polygon, specifically including a main sealing lip 31, a secondary sealing lip 32, and a shear-resistant rib 33. The main sealing lip 31 is located on the side of the sealing ring body 3 facing the annular joint seam. It is relatively thin and will bulge out preferentially after inflation to form a line contact sealing surface with the mating edge plane of the lower compartment 2. The line contact seal can effectively increase the contact pressure of the sealing surface and enhance the sealing effect. The secondary sealing lip 32 is symmetrically arranged on both sides of the bottom of the sealing ring body 3. Its length is adapted to the height of the side wall of the annular groove 5. After inflation, it will expand to both sides and tightly fit the inner wall of the annular groove 5 to form an auxiliary seal, preventing moisture from seeping in from the mating surface between the sealing ring body 3 and the groove. Shear-resistant ribs 33 are formed on the inner side of the sealing ring body 3 and are evenly distributed along the circumference of the sealing ring body 3. Their cross-section is triangular or trapezoidal and has strong structural rigidity. When the cabin is subjected to relative displacement due to airflow turbulence, take-off and landing impacts, etc. during flight, the shear-resistant ribs 33 can effectively resist shear force, maintain the overall structural shape of the sealing ring body 3, and prevent the sealing ring from twisting or deforming, which would lead to sealing failure.

[0031] The self-tightening elastic element 8 of the sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly can be either a torsion spring or a constant force spring. Both types of springs can provide a continuous and stable self-tightening force, and the choice can be made flexibly according to the installation position and operating space of the interface. When a torsion spring is selected, it is fitted onto the end shaft of the slide rail, with one end fixed to the mounting base on the outer wall of the cabin and the other end connected to the side of the cover 6. The torsional force of the torsion spring drives the cover 6 to reset. When a constant force spring is selected, its fixed end is installed on the mounting base on the outer wall of the cabin, and its free end is connected to the slider. The extension and retraction force of the constant force spring drives the cover 6 to slide. The slide rail 7 adopts a groove structure, and the slider is embedded in the groove of the slide rail. The two are fitted with a clearance fit to ensure smooth sliding while effectively preventing dust and impurities from entering the mating surface and affecting the sliding performance. A sealing gasket is fixedly installed on the inner side of the cover 6. The sealing gasket is made of soft and wear-resistant waterproof rubber material, and its shape matches the contour of the interface end face. The interface end face is provided with an annular sealing boss, the height of which is slightly higher than other areas of the interface end face. When the cover 6 is reset, the sealing gasket will be precisely pressed against the annular sealing boss, forming a tight-fitting sealing surface, further improving the waterproof and dustproof effect of the interface. When the interface needs to be used, the operator applies a pushing force along the extension direction of the sliding guide rail 7 to overcome the force of the self-tightening elastic element 8 and slide open the cover 6. After the operation is completed, the cover 6 is released, and the restoring force of the self-tightening elastic element 8 will drive the cover 6 to slide in the opposite direction along the sliding guide rail 7 until the sealing gasket is pressed against the annular sealing boss, realizing automatic reset sealing.

[0032] The sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly also includes a locking mechanism and a water guide channel. The locking mechanism is located at the end of the sliding path of the cover 6 and consists of a hook and a slot. The hook is installed at the end of the cover 6 via an elastic hinge, and the slot is correspondingly located on the outer wall of the cabin. The head of the hook is arc-shaped, and the shape of the slot matches the hook. When the cover 6 slides to the closed position that completely covers the interface, the hook automatically engages with the slot under its own elasticity, thereby locking the cover 6 in the closed position. This effectively prevents the cover 6 from accidentally sliding open due to turbulence and vibration during drone flight, ensuring the reliability of the seal. When it is necessary to open the cover 6, only a slightly larger pushing force is needed to disengage the hook from the slot, making the operation convenient and not affecting the user experience. The water guide channel is located on the outer wall of the cabin around the interface, arranged in a ring around the interface. Its cross-section is U-shaped, and the bottom of the water guide channel is inclined to ensure that the liquid can flow smoothly to both sides. The water guide channel is designed to be located in an area lower than the interface end face but higher than the lower edge of the cover 6. This way, when rainwater, seawater or other liquids splash onto the surface of the cover 6, the liquid will not accumulate on the top of the cover 6, but will flow along the surface of the cover 6 into the water guide channel, and then be guided to the sides of the cabin through the inclined structure of the water guide channel to be discharged, thus preventing the liquid from seeping into the cabin along the interface edge.

[0033] A bellows sealing assembly 9 is installed at the external moving parts of the hull. These moving parts include rod-like structures related to rappelling and movable mounting connection components. During operation, these components undergo reciprocating motion or rotation, creating dynamic gaps between the moving parts and the hull wall, which can easily become channels for moisture and salt spray intrusion. The bellows sealing assembly 9 consists of a telescopic bellows and connecting flanges at both ends. The bellows is made of a corrosion-resistant and fatigue-resistant flexible material. The number of bellows and the telescopic stroke are designed according to the maximum range of motion of the moving parts, ensuring that the bellows can smoothly extend and retract throughout the entire range of motion of the moving parts, without overstretching or compression folding. The connecting flanges are made of metal and are fixed to the perimeter of the opening on the outer wall of the hull and the base of the moving parts by welding or bolting. The connecting flanges and the ends of the bellows are sealed by vulcanization bonding or clamp fastening to ensure a leak-free connection. The bellows sealing assembly 9 is fitted outside the rod-shaped structure of the moving part. Its pleated part always covers the dynamic gap between the moving part and the bulkhead when the moving part moves, forming a flexible sealing barrier that effectively prevents external water and salt spray from entering the interior of the cabin, while not affecting the normal operation of the moving part.

[0034] The observation window is equipped with a double-sealing assembly. Located near the head of the pilot in the cabin, the observation window includes the left and right sides and the top, and is made of high-strength transparent material. This allows it to meet observation needs while withstanding airflow pressure and potential impacts during flight. The double-sealing assembly includes the observation window glass 10, a fixing frame 11, a first sealing layer, and a second sealing ring. The fixing frame 11 is a ring-shaped structure, its dimensions adapted to the observation window glass 10 and the cabin wall window. The observation window glass 10 is installed at the window location on the cabin wall, and the fixing frame 11 is bolted to the outside of the cabin wall, pressing and fixing the observation window glass 10 firmly. The first sealing layer uses a weather-resistant sealant with excellent adhesion, evenly applied between the contact surfaces of the observation window glass 10 and the cabin wall window. The coating thickness is adjusted according to the flatness of the contact surfaces to ensure sufficient filling of any microscopic unevenness. The second sealing ring is made of highly elastic rubber and is embedded in the annular groove formed on the mating surface of the fixed pressure frame 11 and the observation window glass 10. The size of the annular groove matches the sealing ring to ensure that the sealing ring will not fall off after installation. When the bolts are tightened, the fixed pressure frame 11 applies a uniform clamping force to the observation window glass 10. Under the pressure, the first sealing layer is squeezed and deformed, completely filling all the microscopic gaps between the observation window glass 10 and the bulkhead window contact surface, forming the first seal. At the same time, the second sealing ring also undergoes elastic deformation, tightly adhering to the surface of the observation window glass 10, forming a sealed line around the entire observation window, achieving double sealing protection and ensuring that the observation window area achieves the same IP67 waterproof rating as the entire bulkhead.

[0035] A potting and sealing module is installed at the cable penetration point. Cable perforations are provided in the cabin wall to allow the cable bundle to pass through and connect to the interior. The potting and sealing module is installed at these perforations to ensure the sealing performance of the cable penetration point. The potting and sealing module includes a perforated bushing, an isolation baffle, and liquid sealant. The perforated bushing is made of metal and is fixed inside the perforation in the cabin wall by welding or interference fit. Its inner diameter is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the cable bundle, facilitating cable passage while providing sufficient space for subsequent potting and sealing. The isolation baffle is made of a high-temperature resistant and easily removable material and is temporarily installed inside the perforated bushing, dividing the bushing cavity into two independent chambers: one closer to the cabin interior and one closer to the cabin exterior. The edge of the isolation baffle fits tightly against the inner wall of the perforated bushing to prevent liquid sealant from flowing into the chamber on the cabin interior side during potting. The liquid sealant selected is a potting compound with good sealing, aging resistance, and adhesion properties after curing. After the cable bundle passes through the perforated bushing and is fixed in position, the liquid sealant is slowly poured into the cavity near the outside of the chamber, with the amount poured enough to completely fill the cavity. After the liquid sealant has completely cured, it forms a solid seal that tightly wraps around the cable bundle and firmly adheres to the inner wall of the perforated bushing. This solid seal effectively prevents external moisture and salt spray from seeping into the chamber through the gap between the cable and the perforation. After curing, the isolation baffle is removed from one side of the chamber, keeping the chamber inside unobstructed and not affecting the normal cable laying and operation.

[0036] The cabin is equipped with a positive pressure maintenance system, which includes a miniature air pump, an intake filter, an exhaust check valve, and a pressure regulator. These components work together to maintain the internal air pressure slightly higher than the external ambient pressure, forming an active protective barrier. The miniature air pump is a small, lightweight, and low-noise model, installed inside the cabin in a location that does not interfere with the layout of other equipment or personnel activities. Its air inlet is connected to the intake filter via a pipe. The intake filter uses high-efficiency filter material to effectively filter impurities such as dust, water vapor, and salt spray from the air, ensuring that the air entering the cabin is clean and dry, avoiding adverse effects on the equipment and personnel inside. The exhaust port of the miniature air pump is directly connected to the sealed space inside the cabin, continuously injecting air to increase the internal air pressure. An exhaust check valve is installed in a suitable location on the cabin wall, opening from the inside to the outside. When the cabin pressure exceeds a preset value, the exhaust check valve automatically opens to release excess air, preventing damage to the cabin structure due to excessive pressure. When the cabin pressure falls below the preset value, the exhaust check valve automatically closes to maintain stable cabin pressure. A pressure regulator is electrically connected to a miniature air pump, monitoring the cabin pressure in real time and controlling the pump's operation based on the monitoring results. When the cabin pressure falls below the set value, the regulator starts the pump to inflate the cabin; when the cabin pressure reaches the set value, the regulator stops the pump, ensuring the cabin pressure remains consistently slightly higher than the external ambient pressure. This pressure difference prevents external water or salt spray from seeping into the cabin through any potential tiny gaps, further enhancing the overall sealing reliability of the cabin.

[0037] The connection structure between the upper compartment 1 and the lower compartment 2 adopts a multi-point quick-lock buckle 12. The quick-lock buckles 12 are evenly distributed along the circumference of the annular joint seam, and the number of them is determined according to the circumference of the compartment and the locking requirements to ensure that a uniform locking force is provided to the upper and lower compartments. Each quick-lock buckle 12 consists of a hook and a seat. The hook is located on the edge of the upper compartment 1, and the seat is located on the edge of the lower compartment 2. The end of the hook is designed with a hook structure, and the seat has a locking groove that matches the hook structure. When locking, the hook is engaged in the locking groove of the seat, and a radial locking force is applied by the eccentric wheel or screw mechanism of the quick-lock buckle 12. This locking force can drive the upper compartment 1 and the lower compartment 2 to fit tightly along the annular joint seam, eliminating the gap between the mating surfaces, providing a uniform pre-tightening support surface for the inflatable sealing ring assembly, and ensuring that the inflatable sealing ring can fully fit with the mating surface after expansion to form a reliable seal. All quick-lock latches 12 achieve synchronous locking or unlocking via a linkage rod or synchronous motor. When a linkage rod structure is used, the linkage rod is arranged circumferentially along the cabin body and connected to the operating end of each quick-lock latch 12. The operator can drive all quick-lock latches 12 to lock or unlock simultaneously by rotating the linkage rod. When a synchronous motor is used, the motor is connected to all quick-lock latches 12 through a transmission mechanism to achieve automated synchronous locking or unlocking, which not only improves operating efficiency but also ensures that the locking degree of all quick-lock latches 12 is consistent, avoiding seal failure due to uneven locking.

[0038] The various components of this waterproof sealing structure work together to provide comprehensive sealing protection for multiple key areas, including cabin joints, external interfaces, observation windows, cable penetrations, and moving parts. Simultaneously, a positive pressure maintenance system provides active protection, ensuring the entire cabin achieves an IP67 waterproof rating. This effectively resists the effects of various harsh environmental factors such as dust, rain, seawater, and salt spray, guaranteeing the safety of personnel and the normal operation of equipment inside. In practical applications, this structure is easy to install and operate, adaptable to various working scenarios such as mounting, rappelling, and transporting UAV delivery cabins, meeting different needs such as emergency rescue and cross-regional material transfer. Furthermore, all components are made of high-quality, aging-resistant and fatigue-resistant materials, ensuring a long service life and maintaining stable sealing performance over extended use.

[0039] As is known from common technical knowledge, this invention can be implemented through other embodiments that do not depart from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments described above are merely illustrative in all respects and are not the only ones. All modifications within the scope of this invention or its equivalents are included in this invention.

Claims

1. A waterproof sealing structure for the hull of a UAV delivery capsule, characterized in that, The device includes a housing, an inflatable sealing ring assembly, and a sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly. The housing includes an upper housing (1) and a lower housing (2). The upper housing (1) and the lower housing (2) are detachably and fixedly connected by a peripheral connecting structure, forming an annular joint at the joint. The inflatable sealing ring assembly is located at the annular joint and includes a hollow annular sealing ring body (3) and an inflation / deflation nozzle (4). The sealing ring body (3) is embedded in the side of the upper housing (1) or the lower housing (2). Inside the annular groove (5) of the edge, the air inlet / outlet nozzle (4) passes through the cabin wall and communicates with the internal cavity of the sealing ring body (3); the sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly is set at the external interface on the cabin body. The sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly includes a cover body (6), a sliding guide rail (7) and a self-tightening elastic element (8). The cover body (6) is installed on the outer wall of the cabin body around the interface through the sliding guide rail (7). The self-tightening elastic element (8) acts on the cover body (6) so that the cover body (6) covers and presses against the end face of the interface in a natural state.

2. The waterproof sealing structure for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emplacement compartment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inflatable sealing ring assembly also includes a pressure monitoring unit and a venting capillary tube. The pressure monitoring unit is located inside the chamber and includes a pressure sensor and a signal processor. The pressure sensor is connected to the internal cavity of the sealing ring body (3) through a venting tube to detect the cavity pressure in real time. One end of the venting capillary tube is connected to the internal cavity of the sealing ring body (3), and the other end is connected to the external atmospheric environment of the chamber. The aperture of the venting capillary tube is configured to allow gas to pass through very slowly. After the upper chamber (1) and the lower chamber (2) are docked and locked, gas is injected into the sealing ring body (3) through the inflation / deflation nozzle (4) to make the sealing ring body (3) expand and tightly fill all the gaps between the annular groove (5) and the edge of the docking chamber, forming the first sealing barrier. The pressure monitoring unit monitors the pressure value during the inflation process and issues a prompt when the preset working pressure range is reached.

3. The waterproof sealing structure for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emplacement compartment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing ring body (3) of the inflatable sealing ring assembly has an irregular polygonal cross-section, including a main sealing lip (31), a secondary sealing lip (32), and an anti-shear rib (33). The main sealing lip (31) is located on the side of the sealing ring body (3) facing the annular joint seam. After inflation, it protrudes to form a sealing surface that contacts the edge plane line of the docking compartment. The secondary sealing lip (32) is located on both sides of the bottom of the sealing ring body (3). After inflation, it expands and fits tightly against the side wall of the annular groove (5). The anti-shear rib (33) is formed inside the sealing ring body (3) and is used to maintain the structural shape of the sealing ring body (3) when the compartment is subjected to turbulence and relative displacement.

4. The waterproof sealing structure for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emplacement compartment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The self-tightening elastic element (8) of the sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly is a torsion spring or a constant force spring; the sliding guide rail (7) includes a slide rail fixed to the outer wall of the cabin and a slider connected to the cover (6); one end of the self-tightening elastic element (8) is fixed to the mounting seat on the outer wall of the cabin, and the other end acts on the cover (6) or the slider; when it is necessary to expose the interface, the cover (6) is opened by sliding against the force of the self-tightening elastic element (8) along the direction of the sliding guide rail (7); after being released, the restoring force of the self-tightening elastic element (8) drives the cover (6) to slide back along the sliding guide rail (7) until the sealing gasket on the inner side of the cover (6) is pressed against the annular sealing protrusion on the end face of the interface.

5. The waterproof sealing structure for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emplacement compartment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The sliding self-tightening dust cover assembly also includes a locking mechanism; the locking mechanism is located at the end of the sliding path of the cover (6), and the locking mechanism includes a hook and a slot. When the cover (6) slides to the closed position that completely covers the interface, the hook and the slot automatically engage to prevent the cover (6) from accidentally sliding open under bumps and vibrations.

6. The waterproof sealing structure for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emplacement compartment according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a bellows sealing assembly (9) located on the moving parts outside the cabin; the bellows sealing assembly (9) includes a retractable bellows and connecting flanges at both ends; the bellows sealing assembly (9) is sleeved on the outside of the rod-shaped structure of the moving parts, one end of the bellows is fixed to the periphery of the opening on the outer wall of the cabin through the connecting flange, and the other end is fixed to the base of the moving parts through the connecting flange, so that when the moving parts move within the stroke range, the bellows will extend and retract accordingly, and its folds will always cover the dynamic gap between the moving parts and the cabin wall, preventing external water and salt spray from entering.

7. The waterproof sealing structure for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emplacement compartment according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a double sealing assembly for the observation window; the double sealing assembly includes the observation window glass (10), the fixed pressure frame (11), the first sealing layer and the second sealing ring; the observation window glass (10) is fastened to the window of the bulkhead by bolts of the fixed pressure frame (11); the first sealing layer is applied between the contact surface of the observation window glass (10) and the window of the bulkhead; the second sealing ring is embedded in the annular groove of the pressing surface of the fixed pressure frame (11) and the observation window glass (10); when the bolts are tightened, the fixed pressure frame (11) presses the observation window glass (10) tightly, the first sealing layer is squeezed and filled in the microscopic unevenness, and at the same time the second sealing ring undergoes elastic deformation to form a surrounding sealing line on the glass surface.

8. The waterproof sealing structure for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emplacement compartment according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a potting and sealing module for cable penetration; the potting and sealing module is set at the cable penetration point in the bulkhead, and includes a perforation bushing, an isolation baffle and liquid sealant; the perforation bushing is fixed inside the perforation in the bulkhead, and its inner diameter is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the cable bundle; the isolation baffle is temporarily set inside the perforation bushing, dividing the inner cavity of the bushing into two chambers near the inside of the bulkhead and near the outside of the bulkhead; the liquid sealant is injected into the chamber near the outside of the bulkhead, so that after the liquid sealant cures, it forms a solid seal that wraps around the cable bundle and adheres tightly to the inner wall of the perforation bushing. After curing, the isolation baffle is removed, and the inner chamber remains unobstructed.

9. The waterproof sealing structure for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) emplacement compartment according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an internal positive pressure maintenance system; the positive pressure maintenance system includes a miniature air pump, an intake filter, an exhaust check valve, and a pressure regulator; the intake port of the miniature air pump is connected to the outside atmosphere through the intake filter, and the exhaust port is connected to the sealed space inside the cabin; the exhaust check valve is located on the cabin wall, and its opening direction is from inside the cabin to outside; the pressure regulator controls the operation of the miniature air pump to keep the air pressure inside the cabin stable and slightly higher than the external ambient air pressure, forming an internal and external pressure difference to inhibit external water or salt spray from seeping into the cabin through any potential tiny gaps.

10. A waterproof sealing structure for the hull of a UAV delivery capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The connection structure between the upper compartment (1) and the lower compartment (2) is a multi-point quick-lock buckle (12), which is evenly distributed along the circumference of the annular joint seam. Each quick-lock buckle (12) includes a locking hook on the upper compartment (1) and a locking seat on the lower compartment (2). When locked, the locking hook engages with the locking seat and applies radial locking force through an eccentric wheel or screw mechanism, so that the upper and lower compartments fit tightly along the annular joint seam, providing a uniform pre-tightening support surface for the inflatable sealing ring assembly. All quick-lock buckles (12) achieve synchronous locking or unlocking actions through a linkage rod or synchronous motor.

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