Pneumatic separation system and method for pneumatic separation of nuts

Abstract

According to the pneumatic separation system and method for the pneumatic separation nut, monitoring modules are arranged on the air inlet side and the air outlet side of a main control valve correspondingly, a first pressure parameter and a second pressure parameter are obtained in real time, and static self-inspection and dynamic process diagnosis are achieved based on a control module; before the separation action is executed, the control module judges whether the system has a starting condition or not according to pressure parameters on the two sides, so that operation risks are recognized and avoided in advance; in the separation process, by analyzing the change relation of the two paths of pressure on the valve action time sequence, the execution state can be accurately diagnosed, and the fault source can be clearly distinguished. On the premise that a complex redundant structure is not introduced, the state transparency and the fault localization of the system are improved, and the testability, the maintainability and the overall operation controllability of the system in high-reliability occasions such as spacecraft interstage separation and satellite unlocking are greatly enhanced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to the field of pneumatic separation technology, and specifically to a pneumatic separation system and method for pneumatically separating nuts. Background Technology

[0002] A pneumatic release nut is an actuator that uses a burst of high-pressure gas to drive an internal piston, thereby unlocking the threads and ejecting the connecting bolt. It offers advantages such as low separation impact, good synchronization, and repeatability, and is widely used in critical applications such as inter-stage separation in spacecraft, satellite-adaptor unlocking, fairing jettisoning, aerospace test component dropping, and rapid, non-destructive separation of large engineering structures. A pneumatic separation system, on the other hand, is a key device that uses high-pressure gas as a power source to drive one or more pneumatic release nuts to move synchronously through a first pipeline and control valve, thereby achieving the release of mechanical connections and physical separation between structures.

[0003] However, in the existing technology, pneumatic separation systems have obvious shortcomings in condition monitoring and fault diagnosis. The system as a whole is in a "black box" operation mode. Once a fault occurs, it is difficult to quickly distinguish whether the problem is caused by insufficient air pressure, the solenoid valve not opening properly, or the separation nut itself being stuck. This makes fault location and system maintenance difficult, and may bring significant risks, especially in applications with high reliability requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above-mentioned defects or deficiencies in the prior art, it is desirable to provide a pneumatic separation system and method for pneumatically separating nuts that can solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically release nut, comprising: At least one pneumatic release nut; A gas source module is connected to the pneumatic separation nut via a first pipeline, and the gas source module is used to provide high-pressure gas to the pneumatic separation nut; A main control valve is connected in series on the first pipeline between the air source module and the pneumatic separation nut. The main control valve is used to control the opening and closing of the first pipeline. A monitoring module is installed on the first pipeline, and the monitoring module is used to monitor the first pressure parameter on the inlet side of the main control valve and the second pressure parameter on the outlet side of the main control valve. The control module is connected to both the monitoring module and the main control valve, and is configured to: Before the main control valve is opened, a static self-test is performed based on the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to determine if the pneumatic separation system meets the start-up conditions, and then the main control valve is controlled to open. After the main control valve is opened, dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the temporal relationship between the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to diagnose the execution status of the pneumatic separation system.

[0006] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the first pipeline includes: a first sub-pipeline between the air inlet side of the main control valve and the air source module, and a second sub-pipeline between the air outlet side of the main control valve and the pneumatic separation nut; The monitoring module includes: A first pressure sensor is installed on the first sub-pipeline and is used to monitor the first pressure parameter. The second pressure sensor is installed on the second sub-pipeline and is used to monitor the second pressure parameter.

[0007] According to the technical solution provided in this application, a second pipeline is also connected to the second sub-pipeline. A first shut-off valve is provided on the second pipeline. The first shut-off valve is used to control the opening and closing of the second pipeline. The second pipeline is used to release the residual gas in the pneumatic separation nut in a fault state.

[0008] According to the technical solution provided in this application, a third pipeline is also connected to the first sub-pipeline. A second shut-off valve is provided on the third pipeline. The second shut-off valve is used to control the opening and closing of the third pipeline. The third pipeline is used to replenish gas to the gas source module and to depressurize the pneumatic separation system.

[0009] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the gas source module is a high-pressure gas cylinder.

[0010] Secondly, this application provides a pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically release nut, which is implemented using the pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically release nut described in any one of the first aspects, and the method includes the following steps: Before the main control valve is opened, a static self-test is performed based on the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to determine whether the pneumatic separation system has the conditions for starting. If so, then control the main control valve to open; After the main control valve is opened, dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the temporal relationship between the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to diagnose the execution status of the pneumatic separation system.

[0011] According to the technical solution provided in this application, determining whether the pneumatic separation system meets the start-up conditions specifically includes: If the first pressure parameter is greater than or equal to the first threshold and the second pressure parameter is less than or equal to the second threshold, then the pneumatic separation system has the conditions for starting. If the first pressure parameter is less than the first threshold, or the second pressure parameter is greater than the second threshold, then the pneumatic separation system does not meet the start-up conditions.

[0012] According to the technical solution provided in this application, dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the temporal variation relationship between the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to diagnose the execution status of the pneumatic separation system, specifically including: If neither the first pressure parameter nor the second pressure parameter changes within a preset time window, the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a main control valve fault state. If the first pressure parameter decreases within the preset time window and the second pressure parameter does not increase by a preset amount, the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a pipeline blockage fault state. If, within the preset time window, the first pressure parameter decreases, the second pressure parameter increases by a preset amount, and the difference between the peak value of the second pressure parameter and the peak value of the first pressure parameter is greater than a third threshold, then the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a leak fault state. If, within the preset time window, the first pressure parameter decreases, the second pressure parameter increases by a preset amount, and the difference between the peak value of the second pressure parameter and the peak value of the first pressure parameter is less than or equal to a third threshold, then the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a normal separation operation state.

[0013] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the following steps are also included: If the pneumatic separation system does not meet the start-up conditions, the following determination is made: If the first pressure parameter is less than the first threshold, the pneumatic separation system is determined to be in a state of insufficient air source pressure. If the second pressure parameter is greater than the second threshold, the pneumatic separation system is determined to be in a second sub-pipeline sealing failure state.

[0014] The beneficial effects of this application are as follows: This application provides a pneumatic separation system and method for a pneumatically separating nut, comprising: at least one pneumatic separating nut, the pneumatic separating nut being connected to an air source module via a first pipeline, and a main control valve being connected in series on the first pipeline for controlling the on / off state of the first pipeline; a monitoring module is also provided on the first pipeline for monitoring a first pressure parameter on the air inlet side of the main control valve and a second pressure parameter on the air outlet side of the main control valve; both the monitoring module and the main control valve are connected to a control module.

[0015] The aforementioned structure enables this application to acquire first and second pressure parameters in real time by setting monitoring modules on the inlet and outlet sides of the main control valve, and to achieve static self-testing and dynamic process diagnosis based on the control module. Before the separation action is executed, the control module determines whether the system meets the start-up conditions based on the first and second pressure parameters, thereby identifying and avoiding operational risks caused by insufficient gas supply or abnormal pipeline sealing in advance. During the separation process, by analyzing the relationship between the changes in the two pressures in the valve action sequence, the system can accurately diagnose the execution status and clearly distinguish the root cause of the fault. Without introducing a complex redundant structure, this application improves the system's status transparency and fault location, and significantly enhances the system's testability, maintainability, and overall operational controllability in high-reliability scenarios such as spacecraft-level separation and satellite unlocking. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically separating nut provided in Embodiment 1 of this application; Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a pneumatic separation method for a pneumatically separating nut provided in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0017] In the diagram: 1. Air source module; 2. Pneumatic separation nut; 3. Main control valve; 4. First pressure sensor; 5. Second pressure sensor; 6. First sub-pipeline; 7. Second sub-pipeline; 8. Second pipeline; 9. Third pipeline; 10. First shut-off valve; 11. Second shut-off valve; 12. Control module; 13. T-connector; 14. Four-way connector. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0019] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. This application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0020] Example 1 Please refer to Figure 1 This application provides a pneumatic separation system for pneumatically separating nuts, comprising: At least one pneumatic release nut 2; Gas source module 1 is connected to pneumatic separation nut 2 via a first pipeline. Gas source module 1 is used to supply high-pressure gas to pneumatic separation nut 2. The main control valve 3 is connected in series on the first pipeline between the air source module 1 and the pneumatic separation nut 2. The main control valve 3 is used to control the opening and closing of the first pipeline. The monitoring module is installed on the first pipeline and is used to monitor the first pressure parameter on the inlet side of the main control valve 3 and the second pressure parameter on the outlet side of the main control valve 3. Control module 12 is connected to both the monitoring module and the main control valve 3. Control module 12 is configured to: Before the main control valve 3 is opened, a static self-check is performed based on the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter. If the pneumatic separation system meets the start-up conditions, the main control valve 3 is controlled to open. After the main control valve 3 is opened, dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the temporal relationship between the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter in order to diagnose the execution status of the pneumatic separation system.

[0021] In this embodiment, the pneumatic separation nut 2 serves as the system's execution terminal, and its quantity can be flexibly configured according to the actual separation task requirements; it can be set to one or more. Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, taking the configuration of 6 pneumatic separation nuts 2 as an example, the system achieves air path branching through a three-way connector 13. The inlet of the three-way connector 13 is connected to the first pipeline, and its two outlets are respectively connected to a four-way connector 14; each four-way connector 14 is further connected to three pneumatic separation nuts 2. Through this multi-level branching and converging air path layout, all 6 pneumatic separation nuts 2 are uniformly controlled and synchronously driven by a single air source module 1 and a main control valve 3, thereby ensuring the synchronicity of the separation action of all actuators and the consistency of the overall process.

[0022] In this embodiment, the main control valve 3 is preferably a solenoid valve, which serves as the core on / off switch of the gas circuit. It has a fast response speed and high control accuracy, and can reliably receive electrical signal commands from the control module 12 to realize the rapid release or disconnection of high-pressure gas, thereby accurately controlling the triggering timing of the separation action.

[0023] Specifically, when the system is in normal operation of the separation action, the first pressure parameter (pressure before the main control valve) experiences a brief, slight instantaneous drop upon opening of the main control valve 3, followed by a stable state. This change indicates that the gas source is continuously outputting gas and has sufficient supply capacity. Simultaneously, the first pressure parameter (pressure after the main control valve) rapidly jumps from a low value close to ambient pressure, reaching a high-pressure peak similar to the current gas source pressure in a very short time. Subsequently, it slightly decreases or remains stable due to the continuous flow of gas into the actuating chamber of the pneumatic separation nut 2. This coordinated change curve, where the first pressure parameter remains relatively stable while the second pressure parameter rises sharply and maintains high pressure, constitutes direct characteristic evidence that the main control valve 3 is open normally and that high-pressure gas has been effectively delivered to the pneumatic separation nut 2. Based on the above pressure change pattern, this application connects the control module 12 to the monitoring module and the main control valve 3 signal respectively to achieve real-time acquisition and dynamic analysis of the first and second pressure parameters, thereby diagnosing the execution status of the pneumatic separation system and clearly distinguishing whether the root cause of the fault is from the gas source module 1, the main control valve 3, pipeline blockage, or an abnormality in the pneumatic separation nut 2 itself. The specific analysis process and judgment logic will be further explained in Example 2.

[0024] Working Principle: This application sets monitoring modules on the inlet and outlet sides of the main control valve 3 to acquire the first and second pressure parameters in real time, and performs static self-checks and dynamic process diagnostics based on the control module 12. Before the separation action is executed, the control module 12 determines whether the system has the conditions for starting based on the pressure parameters on both sides, thereby identifying and avoiding operational risks caused by insufficient air supply or abnormal pipeline sealing in advance. During the separation process, by analyzing the relationship between the changes in the valve action sequence of the two pressures, the system can accurately diagnose the execution status and clearly distinguish whether the root cause of the fault is from the air supply module 1, the main control valve 3, pipeline blockage, or the abnormality of the pneumatic separation nut 2 itself. Without introducing a complex redundant structure, this application improves the system's status transparency and fault location, and significantly enhances the system's testability, maintainability, and overall operational controllability in high-reliability situations such as inter-spacecraft separation and satellite unlocking.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first pipeline includes: a first sub-pipeline 6 between the air inlet side of the main control valve 3 and the air source module 1, and a second sub-pipeline 7 between the air outlet side of the main control valve 3 and the pneumatic separation nut 2; The monitoring module includes: First pressure sensor 4 is installed on first sub-pipeline 6 and is used to monitor first pressure parameters. The second pressure sensor 5 is installed on the second sub-pipeline 7 and is used to monitor the second pressure parameter.

[0026] Specifically, the first pipeline includes: a first sub-pipeline 6 and a second sub-pipeline 7. The first sub-pipeline 6 is connected between the output port of the gas source module 1 and the air inlet of the main control valve 3, forming an airflow path from the gas source to the main control valve 3. The second sub-pipeline 7 is connected between the air outlet of the main control valve and the pneumatic separation nut 2, forming an airflow path from the main control valve 3 to the pneumatic separation nut 2.

[0027] The monitoring module consists of two independent pressure sensors, including a first pressure sensor 4 and a second pressure sensor 5. The first pressure sensor 4 is installed on the first sub-pipeline 6 and is used to monitor the first pressure parameter in real time. The first pressure parameter directly reflects the output pressure of the gas source module 1 and the pressure state of the first sub-pipeline 6 in static and dynamic conditions. It is the primary basis for judging whether the gas source is normal and whether the gas path is unobstructed. The second pressure sensor 5 is installed on the second sub-pipeline 7 and is used to monitor the second pressure parameter. The second pressure parameter directly indicates whether the high-pressure gas passes through the main control valve 3 and enters the second sub-pipeline 7. It is a key indicator for judging whether the main control valve 3 is in place, whether the pipeline is sealed, and whether the pneumatic separation nut 2 is receiving gas normally.

[0028] This application achieves independent and synchronous monitoring of the two stages of gas source output and gas delivery by setting pressure sensors at key nodes of the gas path (i.e., the inlet and outlet sides of the main control valve 3). This provides accurate and necessary input signals for the control module 12 to perform static self-test and dynamic process diagnosis, thereby supporting the realization of the functions of visualizing the status of the entire system and locating faults at the hardware level.

[0029] In some embodiments, a second pipeline 8 is also connected to the second sub-pipeline 7. A first shut-off valve 10 is provided on the second pipeline 8. The first shut-off valve 10 is used to control the opening and closing of the second pipeline 8. The second pipeline 8 is used to release residual gas in the pneumatic separation nut 2 in a fault state.

[0030] Specifically, a second sub-pipe 7 is also connected to a second pipe 8. The end of the second pipe 8 away from the second sub-pipe 7 is connected to the atmosphere or a safe pressure relief area. A first shut-off valve 10 is installed on the second pipe 8 as a control component to control the opening and closing of the second pipe 8. Its specific form can be a suitable valve type such as a manual ball valve or a needle valve.

[0031] Specifically, the second pipeline 8 and the first shut-off valve 10 together form a controlled safety relief channel, mainly used to safely vent the high-pressure gas remaining inside the second sub-pipe 7 and the pneumatic separation nut 2 after the separation action is completed or the system terminates due to a fault, thereby avoiding danger caused by sudden pressure relief during subsequent disassembly and maintenance. In addition, this structure also facilitates partial maintenance, replacement or testing of the pneumatic separation nut 2 or the second sub-pipe 7. By closing the main control valve 3 and opening the first shut-off valve 10 to release the pressure after the valve, safe operation can be carried out without venting the main gas in the air source module 1, which saves gas resources and simplifies the maintenance process. During the system static self-test phase, if the first shut-off valve 10 is in the closed state, the closed chamber formed between it and the main control valve 3 (i.e., the second sub-pipe 7) can also be used for auxiliary sealing tests: whether the reading of the second pressure sensor 5 rises abnormally can determine whether there is a leak in the closed chamber.

[0032] In some embodiments, a third pipeline 9 is also connected to the first sub-pipeline 6. A second shut-off valve 11 is provided on the third pipeline 9. The second shut-off valve 11 is used to control the opening and closing of the third pipeline 9. The third pipeline 9 is used to replenish gas to the gas source module 1 and to depressurize the pneumatic separation system.

[0033] Specifically, to further improve the inflation and deflation functions of the system, a third pipe 9 is connected to the first sub-pipe 6. The end of the third pipe 9 away from the first sub-pipe 6 is connected to the atmospheric environment or an external air source interface. A second shut-off valve 11 is installed on the third pipe 9. As the core control component for the on / off of the third pipe 9, an automatic shut-off valve that matches the system pressure level can be selected.

[0034] Specifically, the third pipeline 9 and the second shut-off valve 11 together constitute the system's inflation and overall depressurization channel. When gas needs to be replenished to the gas source module 1, the main control valve 3 can be closed and the second shut-off valve 11 opened, allowing external gas to be safely injected into the gas source module 1 through the third pipeline 9. At this time, the first pressure sensor 4 can monitor and display the inflation pressure in real time, ensuring that the process is under control. When the system completes the separation task or requires comprehensive maintenance, the high-pressure gas in the entire system (including the gas source module 1, the first sub-pipeline 6, and the front section of the main control valve 3) can be orderly discharged to the atmosphere through the third pipeline 9 by opening the second shut-off valve 11, thereby achieving safe depressurization of the entire system. This structure allows inflation and depressurization operations to be completed independently through a dedicated channel without operating the main working pipeline, ensuring process safety and avoiding frequent operation of precision components such as the main control valve 3 and the monitoring module. In actual maintenance procedures, the third pipeline 9 and the second pipeline 8 are used in conjunction to achieve segmented and safe pressure release and isolation of the system, greatly improving the flexibility and overall safety of maintenance operations.

[0035] In some implementations, the gas source module 1 is a high-pressure gas cylinder.

[0036] In this embodiment, the gas source module 1 specifically uses a high-pressure gas cylinder as the core gas storage and supply unit. The high-pressure gas cylinder is usually a pressure-resistant container made of metal or composite material, and its interior is pre-filled with an inert gas (such as nitrogen) at a certain pressure, serving as the high-pressure gas source for driving the pneumatic separation nut 2. The outlet of the high-pressure gas cylinder is reliably connected to the first sub-pipeline 6 through a flange or a dedicated high-pressure connector, forming the starting point for the gas source that supplies power to the entire system.

[0037] Example 2 Please refer to Figure 1 The present application provides a pneumatic separation method for a pneumatically release nut 2, which is implemented using the pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically release nut provided in Example 1, and specifically includes the following steps: S100: Before the main control valve is opened, a static self-check is performed based on the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to determine whether the pneumatic separation system has the conditions for starting. Specifically, before the main control valve 3 is opened, the control module 12 performs a static self-test process to comprehensively assess whether the system is in a ready state to safely and effectively perform the separation action. The core basis of this self-test is the real-time acquisition of the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter. Based on the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter, it is determined whether the pneumatic separation system has the pneumatic conditions.

[0038] Furthermore, determining whether the pneumatic separation system meets the start-up conditions specifically includes: If the first pressure parameter is greater than or equal to the first threshold and the second pressure parameter is less than or equal to the second threshold, then the pneumatic separation system is ready to start. If the first pressure parameter is less than the first threshold, or the second pressure parameter is greater than the second threshold, the pneumatic separation system does not meet the start-up conditions.

[0039] Specifically, before performing a static self-test, it is necessary to ensure that the main control valve 3 and the first shut-off valve 10 are closed, while keeping the second shut-off valve 11 open. At this time, high-pressure gas is introduced into the gas source module 1 (a high-pressure gas cylinder in this embodiment) through the dedicated inflation port and the third pipeline 9. During this process, the first pressure parameter displayed by the first pressure sensor 4 installed on the first sub-pipeline 6 reflects the inflation pressure of the high-pressure gas cylinder in real time. After inflation is completed, the second shut-off valve 11 is closed. At this time, the entire gas source module 1 and the first sub-pipeline 6 maintain a stable high-pressure state, reserving power for subsequent separation actions.

[0040] When the system enters the formal static self-test, the main control valve 3, the first shut-off valve 10, and the second shut-off valve 11 are all in the closed state, forming a stable closed gas circuit system. The control module 12 synchronously reads the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter. The first pressure parameter represents the current output pressure of the high-pressure gas cylinder and the static pressure of the first sub-pipeline 6; the second pressure parameter reflects the static pressure of the second sub-pipeline 7 and the inlet of the pneumatic separation nut 2. Under ideal pipeline and valve sealing conditions, the second pressure parameter should be maintained at a low level close to ambient pressure (this value is predefined as the second threshold). The control module 12 compares the read first pressure parameter with a pre-stored first threshold (in this embodiment, the first threshold is 13.5 MPa), and simultaneously compares the second pressure parameter with a pre-stored second threshold (in this embodiment, the second threshold is 0.05 MPa). If the first pressure parameter is greater than or equal to the first threshold, it indicates that the air source pressure is sufficient and capable of providing the rated driving force; if the second pressure parameter is less than or equal to the second threshold, it indicates that the second sub-pipe 7 is well-sealed under static conditions and there is no accidental leakage. Only when both of the above conditions are met simultaneously will the control module 12 determine that the pneumatic separation system as a whole is ready for startup and allow it to enter the subsequent separation execution stage; if either condition is not met, it is determined that the pneumatic separation system is not ready for startup.

[0041] Furthermore, if the pneumatic separation system does not meet the startup conditions, the following determination will be made: If the first pressure parameter is less than the first threshold, the pneumatic separation system is determined to be in a state of insufficient air source pressure. If the second pressure parameter is greater than the second threshold, the pneumatic separation system is determined to be in a state of second sub-pipeline seal failure.

[0042] Specifically, when the pneumatic separation system is determined to lack startup conditions during static self-test, control module 12 will further perform fault type determination to identify the root cause of the problem and guide subsequent operations. The specific determination logic is as follows: If the first pressure parameter is less than the first threshold, the control module 12 determines that the system is in a state of insufficient gas supply pressure. This insufficient gas supply pressure indicates that the gas pressure in the high-pressure cylinder has not reached the minimum requirements for safe system operation, which may be caused by insufficient filling, cylinder leakage, or pressure drop due to ambient temperature. In this case, the control module 12 will prevent the main control valve 3 from opening and will issue a corresponding alarm message through the human-machine interface, prompting the operator to check the gas supply module 1 and perform gas replenishment, leak detection, or cylinder replacement.

[0043] If the second pressure parameter exceeds the second threshold, the control module 12 determines that the system is in a second sub-pipeline sealing failure state. This second sub-pipeline sealing failure state indicates that, with the main control valve 3 closed, an abnormal pressure increase occurs in the second sub-pipeline 7 (including the inlet section of the connected pneumatic release nut 2), typically caused by leaks at pipe joints, poor valve sealing, or sensor malfunction. In this case, the control module 12 also prevents the main control valve 3 from opening and prompts for a sealing check and repair of the second sub-pipeline 7 and related valves.

[0044] If both types of faults occur simultaneously, the system can output corresponding alarm information in parallel to comprehensively reflect the system status. This fault determination mechanism can identify potential risks before the system starts up and guide maintenance personnel to quickly locate problems through clear status prompts, thereby significantly improving the maintainability and operational safety of the system.

[0045] S200: If so, then control the main control valve to open; S300: After the main control valve is opened, dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the time-series changes of the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to diagnose the execution status of the pneumatic separation system.

[0046] Specifically, if the pneumatic separation system is determined to meet the start-up conditions during static self-testing, the control module 12 generates and outputs an opening command to the main control valve 3 (usually a solenoid valve). After receiving the electrical signal, the main control valve 3 quickly actuates, changing from a closed state to a fully open state, allowing high-pressure gas to flow from the gas source module 1 sequentially through the first sub-pipeline 6, the main control valve 3, and the second sub-pipeline 7, finally reaching the pneumatic separation nut 2, driving its internal piston mechanism to complete the separation action of thread unlocking and bolt ejection.

[0047] At the instant the main control valve 3 opens and within a preset time window thereafter, the control module 12 synchronously enters the dynamic process diagnostic mode. The core of this mode is to collect the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter in real time and synchronously, and analyze the dynamic correlation between the two in the time sequence before and after the main control valve 3 opens, thereby achieving accurate diagnosis and judgment of the separation action execution status.

[0048] Furthermore, dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the temporal variation relationship between the first and second pressure parameters to diagnose the operational status of the pneumatic separation system, specifically including: If neither the first pressure parameter nor the second pressure parameter changes within the preset time window, the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a main control valve fault state. If the first pressure parameter decreases within the preset time window and the second pressure parameter does not increase by a preset amount, the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a pipeline blockage fault state. If, within a preset time window, the first pressure parameter decreases and the second pressure parameter increases by a preset amount, and the difference between the peak value of the second pressure parameter and the peak value of the first pressure parameter is greater than a third threshold, then the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a leak fault state. If, within a preset time window, the first pressure parameter decreases and the second pressure parameter increases by a preset amount, and the difference between the peak value of the second pressure parameter and the peak value of the first pressure parameter is less than or equal to a third threshold, then the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in normal operation of the separation action.

[0049] Specifically, dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the temporal relationship between the first and second pressure parameters to determine the execution status of the pneumatic separation system. This is achieved through the following logic: Within a preset time window after the main control valve 3 opens, the control module 12 continuously monitors and analyzes the real-time changes of the first and second pressure parameters. The length of this preset time window is determined based on the system gas capacity, pipeline length, and the action time of the separating nut to ensure that the dynamic pressure characteristics of the separation process can be fully captured.

[0050] If, within the preset time window, neither the first pressure parameter nor the second pressure parameter changes significantly (i.e., the first pressure parameter maintains its original high pressure value, and the second pressure parameter maintains its original low pressure value), then the diagnostic system is in a main control valve fault state. A main control valve fault state indicates that main control valve 3 failed to respond to the opening command, the valve core did not actually move, high-pressure gas did not enter the actuator pipeline, and the separation action was not triggered. Possible causes include solenoid valve drive circuit failure, valve core mechanical jamming, or signal transmission interruption.

[0051] If the first pressure parameter decreases within the preset time window, indicating that gas has been output from the gas source, but the second pressure parameter does not rise by the preset amount, or the rate of increase is much lower than normal, then the diagnostic system is in a pipeline blockage fault state. A pipeline blockage fault state indicates that the gas encounters flow obstruction somewhere after the outlet of the main control valve 3, possibly due to mechanical flattening of the second sub-pipe 7, blockage by foreign objects, or blockage of the inlet filter of the pneumatic separator nut 2. At this time, although the gas source pressure is consumed, it is not effectively transmitted to the pneumatic separator nut 2.

[0052] If, within a preset time window, the first pressure parameter decreases and the second pressure parameter increases by a preset amount, it indicates that gas has flowed through the main control valve 3 and entered the second sub-pipe 7. However, if the difference between the peak value of the second pressure parameter and the peak value of the first pressure parameter is greater than a third threshold, the diagnostic system is in a leakage fault state. A leakage fault state indicates that there is a significant leak in the system, or that the piston inside the pneumatic release nut 2 is stuck or the seal has failed, preventing the establishment of normal operating pressure. The third threshold is the lower limit of the allowable pressure difference set according to the system's theoretical pressure transmission efficiency; values ​​exceeding this value are considered insufficient pressure holding capacity (in this embodiment, the third threshold is 1.5 MPa).

[0053] If, within a preset time window, the first pressure parameter decreases and the second pressure parameter increases by a preset amount, and the difference between the peak value of the second pressure parameter and the peak value of the first pressure parameter is less than or equal to a third threshold, then the diagnostic system is in a normal separation operation state. This state indicates that the gas flow is smooth, the pressure transmission is effective, and the internal mechanism of the pneumatic separation nut 2 can respond normally and complete the unlocking and separation action.

[0054] Based on the diagnostic results, the control module 12 outputs corresponding status signals and displays whether the separation was successful or the specific fault type on the human-machine interface. It also supports data logging and remote status reporting. This diagnostic mechanism enables real-time, online evaluation of the separation process, giving the system the ability to instantly identify process anomalies and preliminarily distinguish fault types.

[0055] After the pneumatic release nut 2 completes its separation action, the control system immediately issues a command to close the main control valve 3, and enters the post-task equipment recovery or maintenance phase. At this time, the system keeps the second shut-off valve 11 closed, thereby isolating the high-pressure gas cylinder from the second sub-pipeline 7 and the pneumatic release nut 2, allowing the remaining gas in the high-pressure gas cylinder to be stored for later use. Subsequently, the operator can slowly open the first shut-off valve 10, allowing the high-pressure gas remaining in the second sub-pipeline 7 and each pneumatic release nut 2 to be safely and controllably discharged into the atmosphere through the second pipeline 8. This operating procedure ensures maintenance safety while avoiding the waste of gas stored in the high-pressure gas cylinder, and provides convenience for subsequent equipment disassembly, inspection, or refilling.

[0056] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and an explanation of the technical principles employed. Those skilled in the art should understand that the scope of the invention involved in this application is not limited to technical solutions formed by specific combinations of the above-described technical features, but should also cover other technical solutions formed by arbitrary combinations of the above-described technical features or their equivalents without departing from the inventive concept. For example, technical solutions formed by substituting the above features with (but not limited to) technical features with similar functions disclosed in this application.

Claims

1. A pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically release nut, characterized in that, include: At least one pneumatic release nut (2); Gas source module (1), the gas source module (1) is connected to the pneumatic separation nut (2) through a first pipeline, the gas source module (1) is used to provide high pressure gas to the pneumatic separation nut (2); The main control valve (3) is connected in series on the first pipeline between the air source module (1) and the pneumatic separation nut (2). The main control valve (3) is used to control the opening and closing of the first pipeline. The monitoring module is installed on the first pipeline and is used to monitor the first pressure parameter on the inlet side of the main control valve (3) and the second pressure parameter on the outlet side of the main control valve (3). Control module (12), which is connected to the monitoring module and the main control valve (3) respectively, is configured to: Before the main control valve (3) is opened, a static self-test is performed based on the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to determine if the pneumatic separation system has the conditions for starting, and then the main control valve (3) is controlled to open. After the main control valve (3) is opened, dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the temporal relationship between the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to diagnose the execution status of the pneumatic separation system.

2. The pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically release nut according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first pipeline includes: a first sub-pipeline (6) between the air inlet side of the main control valve (3) and the air source module (1) and a second sub-pipeline (7) between the air outlet side of the main control valve (3) and the pneumatic separation nut (2); The monitoring module includes: The first pressure sensor (4) is installed on the first sub-pipeline (6) and is used to monitor the first pressure parameter. The second pressure sensor (5) is installed on the second sub-pipeline (7) and is used to monitor the second pressure parameter.

3. A pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically release nut according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second sub-pipe (7) is also connected to a second pipe (8), and a first shut-off valve (10) is provided on the second pipe (8). The first shut-off valve (10) is used to control the opening and closing of the second pipe (8), and the second pipe (8) is used to release the residual gas in the pneumatic separation nut (2) in the fault state.

4. A pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically separating nut according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first sub-pipe (6) is also connected to a third pipe (9), and a second shut-off valve (11) is provided on the third pipe (9). The second shut-off valve (11) is used to control the opening and closing of the third pipe (9). The third pipe (9) is used to replenish gas to the gas source module (1) and to depressurize the pneumatic separation system.

5. A pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically release nut according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas source module (1) is a high-pressure gas cylinder.

6. A pneumatic separation method for a pneumatically release nut, implemented using the pneumatic separation system for a pneumatically release nut as described in any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The method includes the following steps: Before the main control valve (3) is opened, a static self-check is performed based on the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to determine whether the pneumatic separation system has the conditions for starting. If so, then control the main control valve (3) to open; After the main control valve (3) is opened, dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the temporal relationship between the first pressure parameter and the second pressure parameter to diagnose the execution status of the pneumatic separation system.

7. A pneumatic separation method for a pneumatically release nut according to claim 6, characterized in that, Determining whether the pneumatic separation system meets the start-up conditions specifically includes: If the first pressure parameter is greater than or equal to the first threshold and the second pressure parameter is less than or equal to the second threshold, then the pneumatic separation system has the conditions for starting. If the first pressure parameter is less than the first threshold, or the second pressure parameter is greater than the second threshold, then the pneumatic separation system does not meet the start-up conditions.

8. A pneumatic separation method for a pneumatically release nut according to claim 6, characterized in that, Dynamic process diagnosis is performed based on the temporal variation relationship between the first and second pressure parameters to diagnose the execution status of the pneumatic separation system, specifically including: If neither the first pressure parameter nor the second pressure parameter changes within a preset time window, the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a main control valve fault state. If the first pressure parameter decreases within the preset time window and the second pressure parameter does not increase by a preset amount, the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a pipeline blockage fault state. If, within the preset time window, the first pressure parameter decreases, the second pressure parameter increases by a preset amount, and the difference between the peak value of the second pressure parameter and the peak value of the first pressure parameter is greater than a third threshold, then the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a leak fault state. If, within the preset time window, the first pressure parameter decreases, the second pressure parameter increases by a preset amount, and the difference between the peak value of the second pressure parameter and the peak value of the first pressure parameter is less than or equal to a third threshold, then the pneumatic separation system is diagnosed as being in a normal separation operation state.

9. A pneumatic separation method for a pneumatically release nut according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: If the pneumatic separation system does not meet the start-up conditions, the following determination is made: If the first pressure parameter is less than the first threshold, the pneumatic separation system is determined to be in a state of insufficient air source pressure. If the second pressure parameter is greater than the second threshold, the pneumatic separation system is determined to be in a second sub-pipeline sealing failure state.

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