Intelligent low-temperature-resistant collision buffering device suitable for LNG floating type transmission system

Abstract

The invention discloses an intelligent low-temperature-resistant collision buffering device suitable for an LNG (liquefied natural gas) floating transmission system, and relates to the technical field of safety protection of the LNG floating transmission system.The intelligent low-temperature-resistant collision buffering device comprises a composite buffering device, a shell and a bottom plate; an outer rigid supporting layer, a middle energy absorption layer and an inner flexible contact layer are sequentially arranged from outside to inside, the outer rigid supporting layer, the middle energy absorption layer and the inner flexible contact layer are fixedly connected into a whole in a gluing or integral forming mode, and the outer side of the composite buffering device and the outer side of the internal mechanism are wrapped with the shell. The protective shell is fixedly connected with the bottom plate to form a protective shell; through deep integration of material innovation, structure optimization and intelligent control, the technical problems of low-temperature failure, low energy absorption efficiency, poor posture adaptation, no intelligent regulation and control and the like of a traditional buffer device in an LNG floating transmission scene are comprehensively solved, and the reliability, the adaptability and the intelligent level of collision protection are remarkably improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of safety protection technology for liquefied natural gas (LNG) floating transport systems, specifically to an intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems. Background Technology

[0002] As a clean and efficient energy source, liquefied natural gas (LNG) has seen its global trade volume expand rapidly in recent years. Offshore floating transport systems (such as floating transshipment platforms, floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) facilities, and the dynamic connection between LNG carriers) have become a core solution for cross-regional LNG transportation and reception due to their advantages such as flexible deployment and adaptability to complex sea areas. During LNG floating transport operations, the floating platform and LNG carrier need to be in a dynamic berthing state for extended periods. The continuous effects of wind, waves, tides, and currents in the marine environment cause unavoidable relative movement between them, easily leading to collisions and impacts.

[0003] Traditional collision buffer devices used for ship berthing or protection (such as ordinary rubber fenders and fixed polyurethane buffer pads) have revealed many serious shortcomings in the special low-temperature, dynamic, and high-pressure application scenarios of LNG floating transport, mainly in the following aspects:

[0004] Material performance failure at low temperatures: LNG is stored and transported in extremely low temperatures, typically reaching -162°C or even lower. Under these extreme low-temperature conditions, traditional rubber or ordinary polyurethane materials will experience severe hardening and embrittlement, losing their original high elasticity and flexibility. This results in the buffer device being unable to effectively absorb and dissipate collision energy, thus losing its basic protective function.

[0005] Low energy absorption efficiency and insufficient impact resistance: Traditional buffer devices mostly use single materials or simple laminated structures, and their design and material properties can only cope with gentle collisions at low speeds (e.g., <0.5m / s). However, in the marine environment, due to factors such as waves and wind currents, medium-to-high speed (0.5-2m / s) relative impacts may occur between the ship and the platform. Under such impacts, the energy absorption efficiency of existing devices drops sharply, failing to effectively reduce the peak impact force and easily causing damage to the hull structure and platform connection points.

[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need in this field for a new type of collision buffer device that can adapt to ultra-low temperature environments and has efficient intelligent energy absorption characteristics. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide an intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems, in order to solve the problems of failure of traditional buffer devices in low-temperature environments and low energy absorption efficiency in the prior art.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: an intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems, comprising a composite buffer device, a shell, and a base plate. The composite buffer device is a multi-layer composite structure, with an outer rigid support layer, a middle energy-absorbing layer, and an inner flexible contact layer arranged sequentially from the outside to the inside. The outer rigid support layer, the middle energy-absorbing layer, and the inner flexible contact layer are fixedly connected as a whole by adhesive bonding or integral molding. The shell covers the outside of the composite buffer device and its internal structure and is fixedly connected to the base plate to form a protective shell.

[0009] The internal mechanism includes a servo actuator and a rigid support frame. The servo actuator is disposed between the composite buffer device and the base plate. The servo actuator includes three independently controlled servo drive units. The two ends of each servo drive unit are movably connected to the composite buffer device and the base plate through a universal connection structure. The rigid support frame is connected between the composite buffer device and the base plate through a multi-stage hinge structure.

[0010] Specifically, by controlling the extension and retraction of each servo drive unit in the servo actuator, the composite buffer device can dynamically conform to the curved contour of the LNG ship's sidewall, achieving adaptive buffering.

[0011] Furthermore, the inner flexible contact layer is made of silicone rubber material with a Shore A hardness of 30-50, and its contact surface facing the hull has a honeycomb microstructure with a pore size of 0.5-1mm.

[0012] Furthermore, the intermediate energy-absorbing layer is made of modified polyurethane foam material with a density of 30-50 kg / m³.

[0013] Furthermore, the outer rigid support layer is made of aluminum alloy with a thickness of 5-10mm, and its surface is anodized.

[0014] Furthermore, all three servo drive units are servo hydraulic cylinders and are arranged in a triangular pattern in space.

[0015] Furthermore, the universal joint structure is a cross universal joint, which consists of a connecting seat and a cross pin. The two connecting seats are arranged symmetrically at 90° and connected by the cross pin, and the connecting seats can rotate around the cross pin.

[0016] Furthermore, the rigid support frame includes a buffer module connecting seat, a buffer module connecting pin, a front support, front and rear support pins, a rear support, a base plate connecting pin, and a base plate connecting seat. The buffer module connecting seat is welded to the end face of the composite buffer device, and the side of the buffer module connecting seat is hinged to the front support through the buffer module connecting pin. The other end of the front support away from the buffer module connecting seat is hinged to the rear support through the front and rear support pins. The other end of the rear support is hinged to the base plate connecting seat through the base plate connecting pin. The base plate connecting seat is welded to the inner side of the base plate.

[0017] Furthermore, it also includes an intelligent control component, which consists of a sensing module, a control module, and a drive module. The sensing module integrates a pressure sensor, strain gauge, and temperature sensor to collect data on collision force, deformation of the buffer device, and ambient temperature in real time. The control module is a PID controller with a built-in material performance parameter database, used to receive data from the sensing module and perform condition judgment, parameter correction, and control command generation. The drive module is electrically connected to the servo actuator and is used to receive commands from the control module, adjust the working parameters of the servo drive unit, and achieve adaptive damping adjustment.

[0018] Compared with existing technologies, this invention provides an intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems. Through the deep integration of material innovation, structural optimization, and intelligent control, it comprehensively solves the technical pain points of traditional buffer devices in LNG floating transport scenarios, such as cryogenic failure, low energy absorption efficiency, poor attitude adaptability, and lack of intelligent control. This significantly improves the reliability, adaptability, and intelligence level of collision protection. Specific technical effects include the following:

[0019] 1. Excellent low-temperature performance: A composite material system combining polyurethane foam modified with nano-silica and hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) with silicone rubber of specific hardness is employed. This combination maintains high elasticity and flexibility even at extreme low temperatures of -196℃, with an elongation at break of no less than 200%. This fundamentally solves the problem of buffering function failure caused by hardening and embrittlement of traditional rubber or ordinary polyurethane materials in the low-temperature environment of LNG, ensuring long-term reliable operation of the unit under ultra-low temperature conditions.

[0020] 2. High-efficiency energy absorption: Utilizing a three-layer composite buffer structure—an outer rigid support layer, a middle modified energy-absorbing layer, and an inner flexible contact layer—and integrating a central solid support block and an outer ring-shaped foam composite energy absorber with a dynamic load dispersion structure, combined with intelligent damping adjustment, this device can efficiently absorb and dissipate collision energy under medium-to-high-speed collision conditions of 0.5-2 m / s, achieving an input energy absorption rate of no less than 80%. Simultaneously, it reduces the peak impact force transmitted to the hull and platform by more than 50%, significantly exceeding the buffering performance limits of traditional single-material or simple laminated structures.

[0021] 3. Intelligent Adaptive System: The system integrates an intelligent closed-loop control system comprised of high-precision sensors, a PID controller, and a servo drive unit. It can sense collision force, device deformation, and ambient temperature in real time, and dynamically adjust the operating parameters of the servo actuators through intelligent algorithms, achieving real-time, precise response to collision impacts and adaptive adjustment of buffer force. This function enables the device to proactively adapt to different sea conditions (such as varying wave heights and collision cycles) and collisions from different directions, improving the dynamic adaptability and overall safety of the protection.

[0022] 4. Strong Compatibility: Through the collaborative design of multi-degree-of-freedom servo actuators and multi-stage articulated rigid support frames, the device possesses multi-positional spatial adjustment and foldable storage capabilities. When not in operation, it can be folded away to reduce space occupation and effectively avoid interference with the complex bulwarks, pipelines, valves, and other structures on the LNG ship's side, ensuring normal operations such as berthing and maintenance. Simultaneously, the optimized structural design and load distribution mechanism reduce stress concentration, extend the device's service life in harsh marine environments, and lower maintenance frequency and costs. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0024] Figure 1 This is an overall appearance and structural diagram provided for an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 An overall internal structure diagram provided for an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the servo actuator is provided for embodiments of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 A structural schematic diagram of a rigid support frame is provided for an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the composite buffer device is provided for embodiments of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the universal joint structure is provided for embodiments of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the composite buffer device extending horizontally is provided for embodiments of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the composite buffer device tilted along a horizontal plane is provided for embodiments of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the composite buffer device tilted along a vertical plane is provided for embodiments of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the composite buffer device after composite adjustment, provided for an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0035] 1. Composite buffer device; 11. Inner flexible contact layer; 12. Middle energy-absorbing layer; 13. Outer rigid support layer;

[0036] 2. Outer shell; 3. Base plate;

[0037] 4. Servo actuator; 41. Servo hydraulic cylinder; 42. Universal joint; 421. Connecting seat; 422. Cross pin;

[0038] 5. Rigid support frame; 51. Buffer module connecting seat; 52. Buffer module connecting pin; 53. Front support; 54. Front and rear support pins; 55. Rear support; 56. Base plate connecting pin; 57. Base plate connecting seat. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solution of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] As attached Figure 1 To be continued Figure 10 As shown:

[0041] Example 1:

[0042] This invention provides an intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems, comprising a composite buffer device 1, a shell 2, and a base plate 3. The composite buffer device 1 is a multi-layer composite structure, with an outer rigid support layer 13, a middle energy-absorbing layer 12, and an inner flexible contact layer 11 arranged sequentially from the outside to the inside. The outer rigid support layer 13, the middle energy-absorbing layer 12, and the inner flexible contact layer 11 are fixedly connected to each other by adhesive bonding or integral molding. The shell 2 covers the outside of the composite buffer device 1 and the internal mechanism and is fixedly connected to the base plate 3 to form a protective shell.

[0043] In one embodiment of the present invention, the inner flexible contact layer 11 is made of silicone rubber material with a Shore A hardness of 30-50. Its contact surface facing the hull is provided with a honeycomb microstructure with a pore size of 0.5-1mm. This design can increase the contact area, disperse local pressure, and effectively reduce the impact damage to the hull surface during collision. At the same time, the flexible properties of silicone rubber can adapt to the small protrusions or depressions on the hull surface.

[0044] In one embodiment of the present invention, the intermediate energy-absorbing layer 12 is made of modified polyurethane foam material with a density of 30-50 kg / m³. By adding nano-silica with a particle size of 20-50 nm and hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) to the polyurethane matrix for modification, it maintains excellent performance even in extreme low temperature environments of -196°C, with an elongation at break of not less than 200% and an energy absorption per unit volume of not less than 50 kJ / m³, which can efficiently absorb the energy generated by medium- and high-speed collisions.

[0045] In one embodiment of the present invention, the outer rigid support layer 13 is made of aluminum alloy with a thickness of 5-10mm and its surface is anodized, which not only significantly improves the corrosion resistance in marine environments, but also effectively limits the excessive deformation of the device when it is subjected to impact, providing stable structural support for the internal energy absorption layer and avoiding energy absorption failure due to excessive local deformation.

[0046] In one embodiment of the present invention, in addition to having an outer rigid support layer 13, a middle energy-absorbing layer 12 and an inner flexible contact layer 11, the composite buffer device 1 also integrates a dynamic load dispersion structure, as follows:

[0047] The annular reinforcing ribs are set at the connection between the composite buffer device 1 and the base plate 3 (not shown in the figure). They are made of steel ribs with a thickness of 8-12mm, and there are 4 ribs in total. They are evenly distributed around the circumference of the composite buffer device 1 to disperse the collision load to the base plate 3.

[0048] The middle energy-absorbing layer 12 of the composite buffer device 1 is a composite (not shown in the figure) consisting of a central solid support block and an outer ring foam structure. The central solid support block is made of aluminum alloy and its diameter is 1 / 3 of the total diameter of the composite buffer device 1. The outer ring foam is a modified polyurethane foam with a density of 20-30 kg / m³.

[0049] During operation, small-displacement collision loads are directly transmitted through the central solid support block, while large-displacement collision energy is absorbed by the outer annular foam. Combined with the annular reinforcing ribs, the load is evenly distributed, avoiding local stress concentration.

[0050] Working Principle: When an LNG carrier and a floating platform move relative to each other and are about to collide, the inner flexible contact layer 11 of the composite buffer device 1 first contacts the hull surface. Its honeycomb microstructure rapidly undergoes elastic deformation, increasing the contact area to disperse local pressure and reduce impact damage to the hull; simultaneously, it absorbs the energy generated by low-speed, small-displacement collisions through its own deformation. As the collision force and displacement increase, the impact force is sequentially transmitted to the intermediate energy-absorbing layer 12 and the outer rigid support layer 13. The modified polyurethane foam of the intermediate energy-absorbing layer 12 undergoes compression deformation under pressure, efficiently absorbing the large amount of energy generated by medium-to-high-speed collisions (0.5-2 m / s) using the material's elastic recovery characteristics. Due to the modification treatment, it maintains good elasticity and deformation capacity even in the -162℃ LNG cryogenic environment, avoiding embrittlement failure. The outer rigid support layer 13 limits the excessive deformation of the intermediate energy-absorbing layer 12, preventing the energy-absorbing material from losing its recovery capacity due to excessive compression, while also providing structural support for the entire buffer device, ensuring the stability of the energy absorption process. During the process of the load generated by the collision being transferred to the base plate 3 through the composite buffer device 1, the central solid support block inside the middle energy-absorbing layer 12 directly and smoothly transfers the small displacement load, while the outer annular foam absorbs the large displacement load through deformation, thus achieving graded load treatment. At the same time, the annular reinforcing rib at the connection between the composite buffer device 1 and the base plate 3 evenly distributes the concentrated load along the circumference to the bearing structure of the base plate 3 and the floating platform, avoiding local stress concentration that could lead to damage to the connection parts of the device or the platform structure.

[0051] Example 2:

[0052] This embodiment is basically the same as the previous embodiment, except that the internal mechanism includes a servo actuator 4 and a rigid support frame 5. The servo actuator 4 is located between the composite buffer device 1 and the base plate 3. The servo actuator 4 includes three independently controlled servo drive units. The two ends of each servo drive unit are movably connected to the composite buffer device 1 and the base plate 3 through a universal connection structure. The rigid support frame 5 is connected between the composite buffer device 1 and the base plate 3 through a multi-level hinge structure.

[0053] In this process, by controlling the extension and retraction of each servo drive unit in the servo actuator 4, the composite buffer device 1 can dynamically conform to the curved contour of the LNG ship's sidewall, thus achieving adaptive buffering.

[0054] In one embodiment of the present invention, all three servo drive units are servo hydraulic cylinders 41, arranged in a triangular pattern in space. Specifically, the triangular arrangement can be one cylinder in the upper middle and one cylinder on each of the lower two sides, or one cylinder on each of the upper two sides and one cylinder in the lower middle. The triangular arrangement structure can provide stable support torque, and multi-dimensional attitude adjustment can be achieved through independent control. In addition, the servo hydraulic cylinder 41 can also be replaced with a servo cylinder or a ball screw mechanism to adapt to the power requirements of different installation scenarios.

[0055] In one embodiment of the present invention, the universal joint structure is a cross universal joint 42, which consists of a connecting seat 421 and a cross pin 422. The two connecting seats 421 are arranged symmetrically at 90° and connected by the cross pin 422, and the connecting seats 421 can rotate around the cross pin 422. Specifically, when the servo hydraulic cylinder 41 performs the telescopic action, its axis can be deflected at any angle in space relative to the connection surface of the composite buffer device 1 and the base plate 3, thereby perfectly compensating for the change in the angle of the connection point caused by the change in the posture of the composite buffer device 1, avoiding the huge additional constraint stress that may be caused by the rigid connection, and ensuring the flexibility and reliability of the mechanism's movement.

[0056] In one embodiment of the present invention, the rigid support frame 5 includes a buffer module connecting seat 51, a buffer module connecting pin 52, a front support 53, front and rear support pins 54, a rear support 55, a base plate connecting pin 56, and a base plate connecting seat 57. The buffer module connecting seat 51 is welded to the end face of the composite buffer device 1, and the side of the buffer module connecting seat 51 is hinged to the front support 53 via the buffer module connecting pin 52. The other end of the front support 53 away from the buffer module connecting seat 51 is hinged to the rear support 55 via the front and rear support pins 54. The other end of the rear support 55 is hinged to the base plate connecting seat 57 via the base plate connecting pin 56. The base plate connecting seat 57 is welded to the inner side of the base plate 3. Specifically, through the multi-stage hinge structure, the rigid support frame 5 has the ability to fold and adjust angles while ensuring load-bearing capacity, so as to cooperate with the servo actuator 4 to complete the attitude change of the composite buffer device 1.

[0057] The core working logic of this embodiment is to achieve dynamic adaptation of the composite buffer device 1 to the curved contour of the LNG ship hull through precise adjustment by servo drive and stable cooperation of rigid support, ensuring full contact and uniform force distribution during collision. The specific working process is as follows:

[0058] 1. Posture perception and adjustment command generation

[0059] When the LNG carrier and the floating platform are in a dynamic relative motion state, the control system sends attitude adjustment commands to the servo actuator 4 according to the curved contour of the ship's sidewall (such as inclined surface, arc surface, etc.). The commands are generated based on the ship's shape detection data or the pre-collision prediction signal, and specify the target extension and retraction amount of each servo hydraulic cylinder 41.

[0060] 2. Multi-degree-of-freedom attitude adjustment process

[0061] Horizontal extension adjustment: When the extension lengths of the three servo hydraulic cylinders 41 are consistent, the composite buffer device 1, driven by the servo actuator 4, extends or retracts horizontally relative to the base plate 3 (e.g., Figure 7 As shown, the device can be unfolded or folded for storage. When not in use, it is folded to fit the ship's side to reduce space occupation, and when in use, it is unfolded to a preset angle perpendicular to the ship's side.

[0062] Horizontal tilt adjustment: When the extension lengths of the servo hydraulic cylinders 41 in the upper and lower positions are different, under the angular compensation action of the universal joint 42, the composite buffer device 1 forms a certain angle with respect to the horizontal plane (e.g., Figure 8 As shown), it adapts to the inclined shape of the hull to ensure that the contact surfaces fit together.

[0063] Vertical plane tilt adjustment: When the extension lengths of the servo hydraulic cylinders 41 in the left and right positions are different, the composite buffer device 1 forms a certain angle with respect to the vertical plane (e.g., Figure 9 As shown in the figure, it meets the buffering requirements of the vertical curvature region of the hull.

[0064] Composite angle adjustment: By combining and controlling the extension length of three servo hydraulic cylinders 41, the composite buffer device 1 can form any angle posture in space (e.g., Figure 10 As shown in the figure, it fully adapts to the complex and varied curved contours of LNG ship hulls, ensuring that the entire buffer surface is subjected to uniform force during a collision.

[0065] 3. The synergistic supporting effect of rigid support frames

[0066] During the attitude adjustment process of the composite buffer device 1 driven by the servo actuator 4, the rigid support frame 5 rotates synchronously through a multi-stage hinge structure, always maintaining stable support for the composite buffer device 1:

[0067] During the adjustment process, the hinge points of the buffer module connecting pin 52, the front and rear support pins 54, and the base plate connecting pin 56 rotate flexibly to adapt to changes in posture and avoid jamming or stress concentration.

[0068] Once the composite buffer device 1 is adjusted to the target posture, the supporting components of the rigid support frame 5 are in a state of force balance, and together with the servo actuator 4, they bear the weight of the composite buffer device 1 and provide a stable support foundation for the collision process, preventing the buffer device from shifting or shaking under the impact force.

[0069] 4. Collision buffering works in concert

[0070] After the composite buffer device 1 is aligned with the hull through attitude adjustment, the impact force generated by the collision is sequentially transmitted to the inner flexible contact layer 11, the middle energy-absorbing layer 12 and the outer rigid support layer 13 of the composite buffer device 1. The impact force is attenuated through the coordinated energy absorption of the multi-layer structure. At the same time, the universal joint 42 of the servo actuator 4 can adapt to the slight attitude changes at the moment of collision, while the rigid support frame 5 maintains stable support, avoiding excessive displacement of the device due to impact, and ensuring a smooth and efficient buffering process.

[0071] In summary, Embodiment 2 solves the problem of poor compatibility between traditional devices and ship hull surfaces by using the precise attitude adjustment of the servo actuator 4 and the stable support of the rigid support frame 5. This enables the composite buffer device 1 to dynamically conform to the ship hull, providing a structural foundation for subsequent efficient buffering and further improving the applicability and reliability of the device in complex sea conditions.

[0072] Example 3:

[0073] This embodiment, based on Embodiments 1 and 2, adds an intelligent control component. Through a closed-loop control logic of perception-computation-drive, it achieves intelligent adaptive buffering performance of the device, solving the shortcomings of traditional devices that rely on fixed structures and cannot cope with complex sea state changes. The specific structure is as follows:

[0074] The system includes an intelligent control component, which comprises a sensing module, a control module, and a drive module. The sensing module integrates a pressure sensor, strain gauge, and temperature sensor. The pressure sensor, with an accuracy of ±0.1 MPa, is installed between the inner flexible contact layer 11 and the intermediate energy-absorbing layer 12 of the composite buffer device 1, acquiring the impact force signal generated by the collision in real time. The strain gauge, with an accuracy of ±1 με, is attached to the inner side of the outer rigid support layer 13, accurately capturing the deformation data of the buffer device. The temperature sensor, with an accuracy of ±0.5℃, is located inside the outer shell 2, continuously monitoring the real-time temperature of the LNG transmission environment. All sensors transmit signals to the control module in real time via shielded cables, ensuring the stability and accuracy of data transmission.

[0075] The control module is a PID controller with a built-in preset control algorithm and a database of material performance parameters (including parameters such as the elastic modulus of modified polyurethane foam, the stiffness coefficient of silicone rubber, and the supporting strength of aluminum alloy at different temperatures). After receiving real-time data from the sensing module, the PID controller generates target control commands through algorithm calculations and sends them to the drive module. It also has built-in threshold judgment logic, preset the maximum permissible collision force parameter F_max for different sea conditions and temperatures, providing a basis for overload protection.

[0076] The drive module is electrically connected to the servo actuator 4. It consists of a power amplifier, a hydraulic control valve group, and a signal conversion unit. After receiving the digital control command from the control module, the drive module converts it into an analog drive signal through the signal conversion unit. After being amplified by the power amplifier, it controls the opening of the hydraulic control valve group, thereby adjusting the oil supply pressure and extension speed of the servo hydraulic cylinder 41. At the same time, it is linked to the emergency locking mechanism and the audible and visual alarm device. When the overload protection is triggered, it can quickly respond to complete the mechanism locking and alarm actions.

[0077] In summary, the intelligent control component of this embodiment forms a complete collaborative system with Embodiments 1 and 2: the detection data of the sensing module directly reflects the working status of the composite buffer device (1), providing a real basis for control decisions; the control module precisely regulates the working parameters of the servo actuator (4) through the drive module, so that the damping force of the servo hydraulic cylinder (41) is dynamically matched with the collision intensity; the stable support of the rigid support frame (5) provides a structural basis for intelligent adjustment, avoiding data distortion or drive response lag caused by device shaking. The three components work together to achieve the integrated function of structural buffering + attitude adaptation + intelligent control, comprehensively improving the reliability of the device under complex sea conditions.

[0078] The buffer device in this embodiment is equipped with an intelligent control method, the specific steps of which are as follows:

[0079] 1. Data Acquisition Phase

[0080] During LNG floating transport operations, the sensing module remains operational.

[0081] The pressure sensor detects the collision force F generated by the composite buffer device 1 in contact with the LNG hull in real time, covering the full range of collision loads from low-speed small-amplitude swaying (<0.5m / s) to medium-high speed impact (0.5-2m / s);

[0082] The strain gauge synchronously captures the deformation ΔL of the composite buffer device 1, reflecting the degree of compression and buffering effect of the energy-absorbing layer, and assists in judging the collision intensity;

[0083] Temperature sensors monitor ambient temperature T and provide real-time feedback on changes in extreme low-temperature environments during LNG transportation, providing a basis for material parameter correction.

[0084] All detection data is transmitted to the PID controller via shielded cables at millisecond-level frequency to ensure real-time control decisions.

[0085] 2. State Judgment and Parameter Correction Stage

[0086] After receiving the sensing data, the PID controller first performs operating condition analysis and parameter correction:

[0087] Based on the ambient temperature T, the built-in material performance database is queried to correct key parameters such as the elastic modulus of the modified polyurethane foam in the middle energy-absorbing layer 12 and the stiffness coefficient of the silicone rubber in the inner flexible contact layer 11. For example, in an extreme low temperature environment of -162℃, the elastic modulus of the polyurethane foam is adjusted to the appropriate value through a preset correction algorithm to avoid affecting the damping adjustment accuracy due to changes in material properties caused by low temperature.

[0088] By combining the corrected material parameters, the current collision force F and deformation ΔL, the maximum allowable collision force F_max that the device can withstand under the current operating conditions is predicted by the PID algorithm. The value of F_max changes dynamically with temperature and collision speed (for example, F_max can be appropriately increased when the material toughness is improved in high temperature environment; F_max is reduced by a preset ratio in medium and high speed collision scenarios), so as to avoid protection failure or overprotection caused by fixed threshold.

[0089] 3. Adaptive Damping Adjustment Stage

[0090] Based on the state judgment result, the PID controller achieves precise adjustment of the damping force through the drive module:

[0091] Based on the proportional coefficient k (which is dynamically adjusted according to sea conditions; the value of k is 1.2-1.5 when the wave height is ≥2m and the collision frequency is ≥0.5Hz, and the value of k is 0.8-1.0 when the wave height is <1m), the target damping force F_target=k×F is calculated using the PID algorithm.

[0092] The control module sends digital control commands to the drive module, specifying the target oil supply pressure and extension speed parameters. After receiving the commands, the drive module converts them into analog signals through the signal conversion unit, amplifies them through the power amplifier, and controls the hydraulic control valve group to adjust the oil supply pressure of the servo hydraulic cylinder 41 so that the actual damping force of the servo drive unit is consistent with the target damping force F_target.

[0093] During the adjustment process, the extension and retraction of the servo hydraulic cylinder 41 are synchronized and matched with the attitude adjustment of the composite buffer device 1 to ensure that the buffer surface is always in contact with the hull, and the damping force is evenly applied to the collision contact surface, so that the device absorbs ≥80% of the input energy at a collision speed of 0.5-2m / s and the maximum impact force is reduced by more than 50%.

[0094] 4. Overload protection stage

[0095] When the collision force F exceeds the maximum permissible collision force F_max (such as encountering a high-speed, strong impact caused by extreme waves with a wave height ≥3m), the control module immediately triggers the emergency protection mechanism:

[0096] An emergency lock command is sent to the drive module, which controls the hydraulic control valve group to close the oil supply channel. At the same time, the emergency lock mechanism locks the current stroke of the servo hydraulic cylinder 41 to prevent the device from being damaged due to excessive deformation.

[0097] The drive module activates the audible and visual alarm device, emitting a continuous buzzing alarm and flashing red lights. At the same time, it sends alarm signals to the control systems of the floating platform and the LNG carrier, reminding operators to take timely evasive measures (such as adjusting the ship's mooring position or suspending transmission operations).

[0098] After the overload condition is released (the collision force F drops to below 80% of F_max), the control module automatically sends a reset command to the drive module, the drive module resumes oil supply and unlocks the servo hydraulic cylinder 41, and the device resumes normal buffer adjustment function and can be put back into use without manual intervention.

[0099] The foregoing has only described certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention by way of illustration. Undoubtedly, those skilled in the art can modify the described embodiments in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the foregoing drawings and descriptions are illustrative in nature and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A smart cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems, comprising a composite buffer device (1), a shell (2), and a base plate (3), characterized in that, The composite buffer device (1) is a multi-layer composite structure, with an outer rigid support layer (13), a middle energy-absorbing layer (12) and an inner flexible contact layer (11) arranged sequentially from the outside to the inside. The outer rigid support layer (13), the middle energy-absorbing layer (12) and the inner flexible contact layer (11) are fixedly connected as one unit by adhesive bonding or integral molding. The outer shell (2) covers the outside of the composite buffer device (1) and the internal mechanism and is fixedly connected to the base plate (3) to form a protective shell. The internal mechanism includes a servo actuator (4) and a rigid support frame (5). The servo actuator (4) is located between the composite buffer device (1) and the base plate (3). The servo actuator (4) includes three independently controlled servo drive units. The two ends of each servo drive unit are movably connected to the composite buffer device (1) and the base plate (3) through a universal connection structure. The rigid support frame (5) is connected between the composite buffer device (1) and the base plate (3) through a multi-level hinge structure. In this process, by controlling the extension and retraction of each servo drive unit in the servo actuator (4), the composite buffer device (1) can dynamically conform to the curved contour of the LNG ship's sidewall, thereby achieving adaptive buffering.

2. The intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner flexible contact layer (11) is made of silicone rubber material with a Shore A hardness of 30-50. Its contact surface facing the hull is provided with a honeycomb microstructure with a pore size of 0.5-1mm.

3. The intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems according to claim 1, characterized in that, The intermediate energy-absorbing layer (12) is made of modified polyurethane foam material with a density of 30-50 kg / m³.

4. The intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer rigid support layer (13) is made of aluminum alloy with a thickness of 5-10 mm and its surface is anodized.

5. The intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems according to claim 1, characterized in that, All three servo drive units are servo hydraulic cylinders (41) and are arranged in a triangular shape in space.

6. The intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems according to claim 1, characterized in that, The universal joint structure is a cross universal joint (42), which consists of a connecting seat (421) and a cross pin (422). The two connecting seats (421) are arranged symmetrically at 90° and connected by the cross pin (422). The connecting seat (421) can rotate around the cross pin (422).

7. The intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rigid support frame (5) includes a buffer module connecting seat (51), a buffer module connecting pin (52), a front support (53), front and rear support pins (54), a rear support (55), a base plate connecting pin (56), and a base plate connecting seat (57). The buffer module connecting seat (51) is welded to the end face of the composite buffer device (1), and the side of the buffer module connecting seat (51) is hinged to the front support (53) through the buffer module connecting pin (52). The other end of the front support (53) away from the buffer module connecting seat (51) is hinged to the rear support (55) through the front and rear support pins (54). The other end of the rear support (55) is hinged to the base plate connecting seat (57) through the base plate connecting pin (56). The base plate connecting seat (57) is welded to the inner side of the base plate (3).

8. The intelligent cryogenic collision buffer device suitable for LNG floating transport systems according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, It also includes an intelligent control component, which consists of a sensing module, a control module and a drive module. The sensing module integrates a pressure sensor, a strain gauge and a temperature sensor to collect collision force, buffer device deformation and ambient temperature data in real time. The control module is a PID controller with a built-in material performance parameter database to receive data from the sensing module and perform working condition judgment, parameter correction and control command generation. The drive module is electrically connected to the servo actuator (4) to receive commands from the control module, adjust the working parameters of the servo drive unit and realize adaptive damping adjustment.

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