Gravity sampler for sampling seabed placer and sampling method

Abstract

The invention provides a gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling and a sampling method, relates to a gravity sampling technology, and particularly discloses a sampling pipe arranged in a counterweight pipe in a sliding manner. A limiting structure is arranged on the inner wall of the counterweight pipe and is used for limiting the sampling pipe to slide in the counterweight pipe; a reaction chamber is arranged in the counterweight pipe, a storage chamber communicated with the reaction chamber is arranged in the sampling pipe, and a first reactant is mounted in the reaction chamber; a second reactant is arranged in the storage chamber; a pushing structure for pushing the second reactant into the reaction chamber is arranged in the sampling pipe; an opening and closing structure for communicating the reaction chamber with the storage chamber is arranged between the reaction chamber and the storage chamber; a triggering structure linked with the opening and closing structure is arranged on the outer side of the sampling pipe; when the trigger structure acts, the opening and closing structure enables the reaction chamber to be communicated with the storage chamber, the pushing structure pushes a second reactant in the storage chamber into the reaction chamber to react with the second reactant, thrust is generated in the reaction chamber, the thrust acts on the sampling pipe, and the sampling pipe is pushed out of the counterweight pipe.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of gravity sampling technology, and more specifically, to a gravity sampler and sampling method for seabed sand mineral sampling. Background Technology

[0002] For the exploration and assessment of seabed placer deposits, gravity samplers are one of the key pieces of equipment for obtaining such samples. They rely on their own gravity to fall freely from the ship and use the kinetic energy at the end of the fall to penetrate the sampling tube into the seabed sediment layer.

[0003] However, in practical applications, especially in deep seas or areas with dense, cemented seabeds, the penetration force of traditional gravity samplers comes solely from the kinetic energy converted from the sampler's own gravitational potential energy. In waters tens to thousands of meters deep, the lowering speed is limited by factors such as cable drag and water flow resistance, resulting in a lower terminal velocity of the sampler upon reaching the seabed. This leads to insufficient penetration force, making it difficult for the sampling tube inside the sampler to obtain a sample of sufficient length. In severe cases, it may even fail to penetrate hard surfaces, making sampling impossible. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a gravity sampler and sampling method for seabed sand mineral sampling, which addresses the shortcomings of existing technologies and solves the problems mentioned in the background.

[0005] The technical solution of this invention is implemented as follows:

[0006] The invention provides a gravity sampler for seabed sand mineral sampling, including a counterweight tube and a sampling tube, wherein the sampling tube is slidably disposed inside the counterweight tube; The inner wall of the counterweight tube is equipped with a limiting structure to restrict the slippage of the sampling tube inside it; The counterweight tube contains a reaction chamber, and the sampling tube contains a storage chamber that communicates with the reaction chamber. The reaction chamber contains a first reactant, and the storage chamber contains a second reactant that reacts with the first reactant. The sampling tube is equipped with a pushing structure for pushing the second reactant into the reaction chamber; An opening and closing structure for connecting the reaction chamber and the storage chamber is provided, and a triggering structure that is linked to the opening and closing structure is provided on the outside of the sampling tube. When the trigger structure is activated and the opening and closing structure is opened, the reaction chamber and the storage chamber are connected. The pushing structure in the sampling tube pushes the second reactant in the storage chamber into the reaction chamber and reacts with the first reactant, generating a thrust in the reaction chamber. The limiting structure is unlocked under the push of the sampling tube, and then the sampling tube is pushed out from the counterweight tube.

[0007] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the limiting structure includes an installation groove formed on the inner side wall of the counterweight tube, a limiting claw rotatably provided in the installation groove, a portion of the sampling tube being embedded in the limiting area of ​​the limiting claw, a limiting strip provided on the outer side wall of the sampling tube, a return spring abutting against the limiting claw installed in the installation groove, a guide groove matching the limiting strip being formed on the side wall of the limiting claw, and a guide slope being formed on the side of the limiting strip near the limiting claw.

[0008] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the pushing structure includes a sliding seat slidably disposed inside the sampling tube, a float installed inside the sliding seat, and a sealing ring installed on the outer side wall of the sliding seat that abuts against the inner wall of the sampling tube.

[0009] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the opening and closing structure includes a storage cylinder installed on the top of the sampling tube, the second reactant is stored in the storage cylinder, a sealing seat is installed at one end of the storage cylinder facing the reaction chamber, a sealing block is slidably provided in the sealing seat, the sealing block is connected to the triggering structure, and a rubber gasket is installed at the end of the storage cylinder away from the reaction chamber.

[0010] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the triggering structure includes a delay device installed inside the top of the sampling tube and an electromagnetic push-pull rod. The electromagnetic push-pull rod is electrically connected to the delay device. A mounting bracket is installed on the top of the sampling tube. A pull rod is slidably provided in the vertical direction inside the mounting bracket. The pull rod is connected to the sealing block. A reset spring that abuts against the mounting bracket is sleeved on the pull rod. The telescopic end of the electromagnetic push-pull rod is connected to the pull rod in a transmission manner.

[0011] In some technical solutions of the present invention, a plurality of guide tubes communicating with the reaction chamber are arranged around the outer wall of the counterweight tube. An anchor rod is slidably arranged inside the guide tube along its extension direction. A piston is provided on the outer wall of the anchor rod and slidably connected to the guide tube. A cone head is installed at the end of the anchor rod. An assembly port is opened on the outer wall of the cone head. An anchor claw is rotatably arranged in the assembly port. A spring pawl connected to the anchor claw is provided in the assembly port.

[0012] In some technical solutions of the present invention, a partition is provided in the reaction chamber, which divides the reaction chamber into a first chamber and a second chamber. The first chamber is connected to the storage cylinder and the first chamber is connected to the guide tube. A communication structure is provided between the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0013] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the connecting structure includes a valve seat opened on the partition, an opening and closing block is slidably provided in the valve seat, a traction rope connected to the opening and closing block is provided on the piston, and a blocking structure for restricting the movement of the opening and closing block is provided on the valve seat.

[0014] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the blocking structure includes a frame mounted on a valve seat, a guide rod slidably mounted on the frame and connected to the opening and closing block, and a telescopic spring connected to the frame sleeved on the guide rod.

[0015] Compared to existing technologies, this invention has at least the following advantages or beneficial effects: It utilizes a counterweight tube to carry the sampling tube during its descent in water, gaining initial kinetic energy; the sampling tube is slidably positioned within the counterweight tube, forming a sliding nested structure, which shortens the actual length of the sampler while providing space for the sampling tube to be inserted into the seabed sediment layer a second time; when the sampler touches the seabed or reaches a predetermined position, its internal triggering structure activates, driving the opening and closing structure to connect the reaction chamber and the storage chamber. Simultaneously with the connection between the reaction chamber and the storage chamber, the pushing structure activates, pushing the second reactant from the storage chamber into the reaction chamber, where it contacts the first reactant and undergoes a chemical reaction. The first and second reactants react chemically within the sealed reaction chamber, generating a large amount of gas or rapidly increasing pressure, forming a powerful thrust. The thrust acts directly on the top of the sampling tube; when the thrust pushes the sampling tube to overcome the constraint of the limiting structure and is rapidly pushed out of the counterweight tube and inserted into the seabed sediment layer, the sampling tube with additional propulsion overcomes the limitation of relying solely on its own weight kinetic energy for sampling, and can enable the sampling tube to penetrate harder or thicker sediment layers to obtain deeper and more complete columnar samples. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of the counterweight tube and the sampling tube in this invention.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the sampling tube moving out of the counterweight tube in this invention.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another installation structure for the counterweight tube and the sampling tube in this invention.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the guide tube in this invention.

[0021] Figure 6 for Figure 2 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure at point A in the middle.

[0022] Figure 7 for Figure 2 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure at point B in the middle.

[0023] Figure 8 for Figure 3 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure at point C.

[0024] Reference numerals: 1. Counterweight tube; 2. Sampling tube; 201. Limiting strip; 2011. Guide slope; 3. Limiting structure; 301. Mounting groove; 302. Limiting claw; 3021. Guide groove; 303. Telescopic body; 4. Reaction chamber; 401. Partition; 402. First chamber; 403. Second chamber; 5. Storage chamber; 6. Pushing structure; 601. Sliding seat; 602. Float; 603. Sealing ring; 7. Opening and closing structure; 701. Storage cylinder; 702. Sealing seat; 703. 704. Sealing block; 8. Rubber gasket; 9. Triggering structure; 10. Delay timer; 11. Electromagnetic push-pull rod; 12. Mounting bracket; 13. Pull rod; 14. Return spring; 15. Guide tube; 16. Anchor rod; 17. Piston; 18. Cone; 19. Anchor claw; 10. Connecting structure; 1001. Valve seat; 1002. Opening / closing block; 1003. Traction rope; 1004. Blocking structure; 10041. Frame; 10042. Guide rod; 10043. Telescopic spring. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0026] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the invention.

[0027] Example 1 This invention provides a gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling, such as... Figures 1-8 As shown, to address the issue that existing gravity samplers, designed with excessively long tubes to increase gravitational potential energy after release, often fail to generate sufficient kinetic potential energy in narrow seas or shallow waters, resulting in suboptimal sampling of seabed materials. This design addresses this problem by dividing the sampler into two components: a counterweight tube 1 and a sampling tube 2. The sampling tube 2 is slidably positioned within the counterweight tube 1, forming a sliding nested structure. Initially, a limiting structure 3 on the inner wall of the counterweight tube 1 prevents the sampling tube 2 from sliding out of the counterweight tube 1.

[0028] A reaction chamber 4 is also provided inside the counterweight tube 1, and a storage chamber 5 connected to the reaction chamber 4 is provided inside the sampling tube 2. The first reactant is installed in the reaction chamber 4, and the second reactant that reacts with the first reactant is provided in the storage chamber 5. By utilizing the violent chemical reaction that occurs after the two specific substances are mixed, the chemical energy is instantly converted into the mechanical energy of gas expansion in a closed space, thereby rapidly pushing out the sampling tube in the counterweight tube 1 and inserting it into the seabed sediment layer for sampling.

[0029] The sampling tube 2 is equipped with a pushing structure 6 for pushing the second reactant into the reaction chamber 4; An opening and closing structure 7 for connecting the reaction chamber 4 and the storage chamber 5 is provided between them, and a triggering structure 8 that is linked to the opening and closing structure 7 is provided on the outside of the sampling tube 2. When the trigger structure 8 is activated, opening and closing structure 7 connects the reaction chamber 4 and the storage chamber 5. The pushing structure 6 inside the sampling tube 2 pushes the second reactant from the storage chamber 5 into the reaction chamber 4, where it reacts with the first reactant, generating thrust within the reaction chamber 4. The limiting structure 3 unlocks under the push of the sampling tube 2, and the sampling tube 2 is then pushed out from the counterweight tube 1. The activation of this device requires the trigger structure 8 to open the reaction channel after the entire device has bottomed out. This allows the second reactant, driven by the pushing structure 6, to enter the sealed reaction chamber 4 and react chemically with the first reactant, generating a large amount of gas or rapidly increasing pressure, creating a powerful thrust that quickly pushes the sampling tube located in the counterweight tube 1 out, inserting it into the seabed sediment layer for sampling. This structure, based on the traditional gravity sampler which relies on its own weight for penetration, incorporates a chemical reaction chamber 4 between the counterweight tube 1 and the sampling tube 2. This chamber allows for an additional, instantaneous, and enormous thrust generated by the chemical reaction of the substances. This forces the sampling tube 2 to rely on its own gravitational potential energy and the explosive propulsion force generated within the counterweight tube 1, thereby enhancing the sampling tube 2's penetration capability and sampling depth on the seabed.

[0030] The working process of this structure: After the operator assembles the sampler, it is hoisted onto the ship's hoisting equipment with a steel wire rope and placed on the sea surface. The sampler is then deployed to the seabed by the gravity exerted on it by the counterweight tube 1, carrying the first reactant pre-loaded in the reaction chamber 4 and the second reactant in the storage chamber 5.

[0031] When the sampler touches the seabed or reaches a predetermined position, its internal triggering structure 8 is activated, driving the opening and closing structure 7 to open, so that the reaction chamber 4 and the storage chamber 5 are connected to each other.

[0032] While the reaction chamber 4 and the storage chamber 5 are connected, the pushing structure 6 then moves to push the second reactant in the storage chamber 5 into the reaction chamber 4, where it comes into contact with the first reactant and undergoes a chemical reaction.

[0033] The first and second reactants undergo a chemical reaction within the sealed reaction chamber 4, generating a large amount of gas or a rapidly increasing pressure, forming a powerful thrust. This thrust acts directly on the top of the sampling tube 2; when the thrust pushes the sampling tube 2 to overcome the constraint force of the limiting structure 3, the limiting structure 3 unlocks.

[0034] After the limiting structure 3 is unlocked, the sampling tube 2 is rapidly pushed out relative to the counterweight tube 1 under the continuous thrust generated by the reaction chamber 4. The counterweight tube 1 relies on its own weight to prevent the sampler from moving away from the seabed strata due to the thrust generated in the reaction chamber 4. When the sampling tube 2, which is rapidly pushed out of the counterweight tube 1, is inserted into the seabed sediment layer, the sampling tube 2, with its additional propulsion force, can penetrate harder or thicker sediment layers compared to traditional gravity samplers that rely solely on their own weight and inertia, thus obtaining deeper and more complete columnar samples. This is especially suitable for sampling deep seabed or tightly cemented placer deposits. The thrust generated by the chemical reaction reduces the impact of seabed topography and changes in seabed hardness on the sampling process, avoiding problems such as the sampling tube 2 being inserted too shallowly due to insufficient weight of the sampler or insufficient squeezing pressure on the sample inside the sampling tube 2, which could cause the sample to detach from the sampling tube 2 and prevent sampling from being completed.

[0035] Preferably, in order to prevent the sampled material from falling out of the sampling tube 2, a hollow drill bit is provided at the end of the sampling tube 2, and two semi-circular baffles are provided inside the drill bit, which are connected by a torsion spring.

[0036] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the limiting structure 3 includes an installation groove 301 formed on the inner side wall of the counterweight tube 1. A limiting claw 302 is rotatably provided in the installation groove 301 via a pin. A portion of the sampling tube 2 is embedded in the limiting area of ​​the limiting claw 302. An upper limiting strip 201 is provided on the outer side wall of the sampling tube 2. A telescopic body 303 that abuts against the limiting claw 302 is installed in the installation groove 301. A guide groove 3021 matching the limiting strip 201 is formed on the side wall of the limiting claw 302. A guide inclined surface 2011 is formed on the side of the limiting strip 201 near the limiting claw 302. Preferably, the telescopic body 303 can be replaced by a spring, a torsion spring, or a spring sheet. When a thrust is generated in the reaction chamber 4 to push the sampling tube 2, the limiting strip 201 on the outer side of the sampling tube 2 slides along the guide groove 3021 on the limiting claw 302 with the sampling tube 2. Because the end of the limiting strip 201 is provided with a guide slope 2011, during the sliding process, the slope squeezes the limiting claw 302, forcing the limiting claw 302 to rotate against the elastic force of the telescopic body 303. When the limiting claw 302 rotates to a certain angle and its limiting area no longer constrains the bottom end of the sampling tube 2, the limiting structure 3 unlocks, and the sampling tube 2 can slide freely out of the counterweight tube 1. Subsequently, the rectangular segment of the guide strip slides in the guide groove 3021 to guide the sampling tube 2 to slide vertically out of the counterweight tube 1.

[0037] When the guide ramp 2011 is in operation, it converts the axial linear motion of the sampling tube 2 into a radial force acting on the limiting claw 302. This force acts as the rotational torque of the limiting claw 302, causing it to rotate around its rotation point, thus achieving mechanical unlocking. The telescopic body 303 provides the initial locking force and allows the limiting claw 302 to reset after unlocking. The telescopic body 303 ensures that in the non-working state, the limiting claw 302 automatically resets and securely locks the sampling tube 2, preventing accidental dislodgement during transportation or lowering. After the sampling tube 2 re-enters the counterweight tube 1, the limiting claw 302 resets, and a portion of the sampling tube 2 is once again embedded within the limiting area of ​​the limiting claw 302, preparing for the next sampling.

[0038] Preferably, when the sampling tube 2 slides along the counterweight tube 1 to its end, the telescopic body 303 pushes the limiting claw 302 to enter the notch provided at the top of the limiting strip 201 to prevent the sampling tube 2 from completely separating from the counterweight tube 1. A limiting ring is also provided at the top of the sampling tube 2, and a limiting block is provided on the inner wall of the opening of the counterweight tube 1 accordingly.

[0039] In some technical solutions of this invention, the pushing structure 6 includes a sliding seat 601 slidably disposed within the sampling tube 2. A float 602 is installed inside the sliding seat 601. A sealing ring 603, which abuts against the inner wall of the sampling tube 2, is installed on the outer wall of the sliding seat 601. An exhaust hole is provided on the outer wall of the sampling tube 2. Initially, the sliding seat 601 covers the exhaust hole. When the sampler enters seawater, the seawater will push the sliding seat 601 to move under the action of the seawater. The float 602 provides additional buoyancy, assisting the seawater in pushing the sliding seat 601 to the top of the sampling tube 2. At this time, the top of the sampling tube 2 and the sliding seat 601 slidably disposed within the sampling tube 2 form a relatively sealed air chamber, i.e., a "syringe". When the opening and closing structure 7 is opened, the storage chamber 5 is connected to the reaction chamber 4. The sliding seat 601 drives the sealing ring 603 on it to continue moving upward, causing the air in the air chamber formed by the sampling tube 2 and the sliding seat 601 to act on the second reactant, and then inject it into the reaction chamber 4. The sliding seat 601 located inside the sampling tube 2 does not obstruct the vent. Air and seawater inside the sampling tube 2 will then be discharged through the vent after the sand enters the sampling tube 2, ensuring the sampled material smoothly enters the sampling tube 2. The float 602 inside the sliding seat 601 provides upward auxiliary buoyancy. Especially after the reaction chamber 4 and storage chamber 5 are connected and their pressures are balanced, the float 602 on the sliding seat 601 will continue to push the sliding seat 601 towards the top of the sampling tube 2 under the buoyancy generated in the seawater, ensuring that the second reactant located in the storage chamber 5 is pushed as far as possible into the reaction chamber 4. The sealing ring 603 effectively isolates the storage chamber 5 from the external environment and the reaction chamber 4, ensuring stable storage of the second reactant before triggering.

[0040] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the opening and closing structure 7 includes a storage cylinder 701 installed on the top of the sampling tube 2, the second reactant is stored in the storage cylinder 701, a sealing seat 702 is installed at one end of the storage cylinder 701 facing the reaction chamber 4, a sealing block 703 in the shape of a frustum of a cone is slidably provided in the sealing seat 702, the sealing block 703 is connected to the triggering structure 8 in a transmission manner, a rubber gasket 704 is installed at the end of the storage cylinder 701 away from the reaction chamber 4, after the rubber gasket 704 is subjected to pressure, it moves into the interior of the storage cylinder 701, applying a pre-push force to the second reactant installed in the storage cylinder 701.

[0041] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the trigger structure 8 includes a delay 801 installed on the top of the sampling tube 2 and an electromagnetic push-pull rod 802. The electromagnetic push-pull rod 802 is electrically connected to the delay 801. A mounting bracket 803 is installed on the top of the sampling tube 2. A pull rod 804 is slidably provided in the vertical direction inside the mounting bracket 803. The pull rod 804 is connected to the sealing block 703. A reset spring 805 is sleeved on the pull rod 804 and abuts against the mounting bracket 803. The telescopic end of the electromagnetic push-pull rod 802 is connected to the pull rod 804 in a transmission manner.

[0042] Once the sampler reaches the seabed, the timer 801 on its top ends or the trigger switch is activated, sending a signal to the electromagnetic push-pull rod 802. A battery, electrically connected to the timer 801 and the electromagnetic push-pull rod 802, is also built into the top of the sampling tube 2. At this time, the telescopic end of the electromagnetic push-pull rod 802 actuates, releasing the pushing action on the pull rod 804. Pull rod 804 moves upward against the resistance of return spring 805, that is, pull rod 804 pulls sealing block 703 in sealing seat 702 to move closer to counterweight tube 1, exposing the inlet and outlet channel of sealing seat 702 and connecting it with reaction chamber 4. Thus, the top of sampling tube 2 and sliding seat 601 slidably set in sampling tube 2 form a "syringe" structure. Under the thrust of seawater, the "syringe" structure pushes the high-pressure gas in the gas chamber to the second reactant located in the mounting cylinder into reaction chamber 4. Then, sealing block 703 will close the inlet and outlet channel of sealing seat 702 again to ensure that reaction chamber 4 remains relatively sealed and will not cause the escape of explosive gas, resulting in insufficient thrust applied to sampling tube 2.

[0043] Example 2 To avoid excessive reaction force exerted on the counterweight tube 1 by the reactants in the above structure, which would limit the depth to which the sampling tube could be inserted into the seabed sediment layer, some technical solutions of this invention, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, this structure has several guide tubes 9 that communicate with the reaction chamber 4 surrounding the outer wall of the counterweight tube 1. An anchor rod 901 is slidably provided inside the guide tube 9 along its extension direction. A piston 902 that is slidably connected to the guide tube 9 is provided on the outer wall of the anchor rod 901. A cone head 903 is installed at the end of the anchor rod 901. An assembly port is opened on the outer wall of the cone head 903. An anchor claw 904 is rotatably provided in the assembly port. A spring lever connected to the anchor claw 904 is provided in the assembly port.

[0044] When high-pressure gas / pressure begins to be generated in the reaction chamber 4, a portion of the main thrust generated by the reaction is diverted. The pressure is transmitted to each guide tube 9 through the connecting pipe, pushing the piston 902 inside the guide tube 9 to move. The piston 902 drives the anchor rod 901 to extend outward, and the cone 903 at the front end of the anchor rod 901 penetrates the seabed sediment layer. The anchoring claws 904 on the cone 903 unfold outward under the action of the spring tab, anchoring in the sediment like barbs to prevent the sampler from sliding or tipping over. This structure also solves the problem of traditional samplers easily tipping over or sliding, leading to sampling failure, when the seabed is soft or sloping. Furthermore, the two anchoring claws 904 installed on the anchor rod 901 in this structure can firmly grip the seabed, ensuring the stability of the sampler's posture and creating a stable foundation for the extension of the sampling tube 2. This ensures that the sampling tube 2 can penetrate the strata vertically and accurately when extended, thereby improving sample quality and core recovery rate. Moreover, the anchor rod 901 must reach the seabed strata one step ahead of the sampling tube 2.

[0045] Example 3 Based on Example 2, in order to ensure that the anchoring rod 901 reaches the seabed strata before the sampling tube 2 to achieve the anchoring effect, in some technical solutions of the present invention, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the reaction chamber 4 is provided with a partition 401, which divides the reaction chamber 4 into a first chamber 402 and a second chamber 403. The first chamber 402 is connected to the storage cylinder 701 and the guide tube 9. A connecting structure 10 is provided between the first chamber 402 and the second chamber 403.

[0046] Preferably, in this structure, the side wall of the storage cylinder 701 within the opening / closing structure 7 is provided with a pipe communicating with the output port of the sealing seat 702. The sealing block 703 opens the inlet / outlet channel of the sealing seat 702. The pipe is used to connect the first chamber 402 and the inlet / outlet channel, allowing the second reactant to enter the first chamber 402. The first reactant is also disposed within the first chamber 402.

[0047] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the connecting structure 10 includes a valve seat 1001 opened on the partition 401, an opening and closing block 1002 is slidably provided in the valve seat 1001, a traction rope 1003 connected to the opening and closing block 1002 is provided on the piston 902, and a blocking structure 1004 for restricting the movement of the opening and closing block 1002 is provided on the valve seat 1001.

[0048] In some technical solutions of the present invention, the blocking structure 1004 includes a frame 10041 mounted on the partition 401. A guide rod 10042 connected to the opening and closing block 1002 is slidably provided on the frame 10041. A telescopic spring 10043 connected to the frame 10041 is sleeved on the guide rod 10042. The blocking structure 1004 formed by the guide rod 10042 and the telescopic spring 10043 keeps the opening and closing block 1002 closed at the beginning and is released only when the traction rope 1003 reaches the predetermined tension.

[0049] First, the reaction begins in the first chamber 402. The high-pressure gas generated drives the piston 902 in the guide tube 9, pushing the anchoring rod 901 and its anchoring claws 904 to reach the seabed strata ahead of the sampling tube 2 to complete the anchoring action. Subsequently, when the piston 902 moves to the middle of the anchoring rod 901's entry and exit from the guide tube 9, it pulls the opening and closing block 1002 in the connecting structure 10 between the second chamber 403 and the first chamber 402 via the connected traction rope 1003. When the piston 902 reaches its position, the traction rope 1003 pulls the opening and closing block 1002 out of the valve seat 1001. After the opening and closing block 1002 opens the entry and exit channel of the valve seat 1001, the first chamber 402 connects with the larger second chamber 403, the reaction area expands rapidly, and the chemical reaction accelerates in a larger space, thereby generating a huge thrust sufficient to unlock and push out the sampling tube 2. This structure adopts a staged pressure release. That is, the reaction chamber 4 is separated by a partition 401, and a connecting valve triggered by the anchoring action is provided. The system achieves a sequence of actions where the entire device is first anchored before pushing the sampling tube 2. Furthermore, the blocking structure 1004 sets the threshold force required to trigger connection, ensuring that all reaction energy is released only after the anchoring process is essentially complete. This allows the sampling tube 2 to be anchored during insertion, preventing the sampler body from moving or tilting. This solves the problem of the sampler being moved or tipped over due to excessively rapid thrust. Consequently, the sampler can obtain more vertical, less disturbed, undisturbed cylindrical samples.

[0050] Sampling methods based on sampler sampling: S1. Device preparation and deployment: Place the first reactant in the reaction chamber 4 and the second reactant in the storage chamber 5, and ensure that the opening and closing structure 7 is in the closed state; hoist the assembled sampler from the hull of the work vessel into the sea by means of a cable. The sampler sinks freely under the gravity of the counterweight tube 1 until it touches the seabed sediment layer. S2, Bottom contact trigger: After the sampler contacts the seabed, the triggering structure 8 on it is triggered or delayed to drive the opening and closing structure 7 to open, thereby connecting the reaction chamber 4 and the storage chamber 5. S3. Chemical reaction initiation and device anchoring: After the opening and closing structure 7 is opened, the pushing structure 6 operates under seawater pressure or buoyancy, pushing the second reactant in the storage chamber 5 into the reaction chamber 4, where it mixes with the first reactant and undergoes a chemical reaction, generating high-pressure gas in the reaction chamber 4; the high-pressure gas drives the anchoring rod 901 to extend outward from the guide tube 9, causing the anchoring claw 904 to penetrate and anchor in the seabed sediment. S4. Full thrust release and sampling tube 2 penetration: When the anchor rod 901 extends to the predetermined position, the connecting structure 10 is opened through the linkage mechanism, so that the pressure in the reaction chamber 4 acts on the entire sampling tube 2; the huge thrust generated pushes the sampling tube 2 to overcome the constraint of the limiting structure 3, and ejects it from the counterweight tube 1 at high speed and penetrates the seabed strata to obtain columnar sediment samples. S5. Recovery and sampling: Raise the cable to recover the sampler that has completed sampling to the ship deck, and take out the sampling tube 2 containing the columnar sediment sample from the counterweight tube 1.

[0051] In step S1, the delay device 801 in the trigger structure 8 is set with a preset delay time before delivery to ensure that the opening and closing structure 7 opens after the sampler has reached the bottom.

[0052] The specific action of the pushing structure 6 in step S3 is as follows: during the lowering process, the seawater pressure pushes the sliding seat 601 upward in the sampling tube 2, forming a sealed air chamber at the top of the sampling tube 2; when the opening and closing structure 7 is opened, the compressed air in the sealed air chamber and / or the continuous buoyancy of the float 602 push the sliding seat 601, pushing the second reactant from the storage cylinder 701 into the reaction chamber 4.

[0053] The device anchoring described in step S3 and the full thrust release described in step S4 have a sequential order, specifically: S31. Primary reaction and anchoring: The high-pressure gas generated in the initial stage of the chemical reaction mainly enters the guide tube 9, pushing the piston 902 to extend the anchoring rod 901 to complete the anchoring. At this time, the connecting structure 10 remains closed under the action of the blocking structure 1004, limiting the thrust to act entirely on the sampling tube 2. S41, Anchoring Trigger and Main Thrust Release: When the anchor rod 901 extends into place, the opening and closing block 1002 is pulled by the traction rope 1003, overcoming the resistance of the blocking structure 1004 to open the connecting structure 10, thereby expanding the volume of the reaction chamber 4, intensifying the chemical reaction and generating a main thrust, which pushes the sampling tube 2 to penetrate.

[0054] In step S4, when the sampling tube 2 is pushed out, the vent hole on its tube wall is opened to facilitate the entry of the sample and the discharge of the internal fluid.

[0055] After recovery in step S5, the locking of the limiting structure 3 on the unloaded or replaced sampling tube 2 needs to be released, and it needs to be reinstalled into the counterweight tube 1. The first reactant and the second reactant should be replenished or replaced in preparation for the next sampling.

[0056] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A gravity sampler for sampling seabed placer deposits, characterized in that, It includes a counterweight tube and a sampling tube, wherein the sampling tube is slidably disposed inside the counterweight tube; The inner wall of the counterweight tube is provided with a limiting structure to restrict the slippage of the sampling tube inside it; The counterweight tube is provided with a reaction chamber, and the sampling tube is provided with a storage chamber that communicates with the reaction chamber. A first reactant is installed in the reaction chamber, and a second reactant that reacts with the first reactant is provided in the storage chamber. The sampling tube is equipped with a pushing structure for pushing the second reactant into the reaction chamber; An opening and closing structure for connecting the reaction chamber and the storage chamber is provided between them, and a triggering structure that is linked to the opening and closing structure is provided on the outside of the sampling tube. When the trigger structure is activated and the opening and closing structure is opened, the reaction chamber is connected to the storage chamber. The pushing structure in the sampling tube pushes the second reactant in the storage chamber into the reaction chamber and reacts with the first reactant. Subsequently, a thrust is generated in the reaction chamber. The limiting structure is unlocked under the push of the sampling tube, and then the sampling tube is pushed out from the counterweight tube.

2. The gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The limiting structure includes an installation groove on the inner side wall of the counterweight tube, a limiting claw rotatably disposed in the installation groove, a portion of the sampling tube being embedded in the limiting area of ​​the limiting claw, a limiting strip on the outer side wall of the sampling tube, a telescopic body connected to the limiting claw being installed in the installation groove, a guide groove matching the limiting strip being provided on the side wall of the limiting claw, and a guide slope being provided on the side of the limiting strip near the limiting claw.

3. A gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pushing structure includes a sliding seat slidably disposed inside the sampling tube, a float installed inside the sliding seat, and a sealing ring installed on the outer side wall of the sliding seat that abuts against the inner wall of the sampling tube; an exhaust hole is provided on the outer side wall of the sampling tube; initially, the sliding seat covers the exhaust hole, and when the storage chamber and the reaction chamber are connected, the sliding seat moves upward with the float, releasing the cover of the exhaust hole, and the exhaust hole is connected to the outside.

4. A gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling according to claim 3, characterized in that, The opening and closing structure includes a storage cylinder installed on the top of the sampling tube, the second reactant is stored in the storage cylinder, a sealing seat is installed at the end of the storage cylinder facing the reaction chamber, a sealing block is slidably provided in the sealing seat, the sealing block is drivenly connected to the triggering structure, and a rubber gasket is installed at the end of the storage cylinder away from the reaction chamber.

5. A gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling according to claim 4, characterized in that, The triggering structure includes a timer installed on the top of the sampling tube and an electromagnetic push-pull rod. The electromagnetic push-pull rod is electrically connected to the timer. A mounting bracket is installed on the top of the sampling tube. A pull rod is slidably provided in the vertical direction inside the mounting bracket. The pull rod is connected to a sealing block. A reset spring is sleeved on the pull rod and abuts against the mounting bracket. The telescopic end of the electromagnetic push-pull rod is connected to the pull rod in a transmission manner.

6. A gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The outer wall of the counterweight tube is surrounded by several guide tubes that communicate with the reaction chamber. An anchor rod is slidably arranged inside the guide tube along its extension direction. A piston is provided on the outer wall of the anchor rod and is slidably connected to the guide tube. A cone head is installed at the end of the anchor rod. An assembly port is opened on the outer wall of the cone head. An anchor claw is rotatably arranged in the assembly port. A spring pawl connected to the anchor claw is provided in the assembly port.

7. A gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling according to claim 6, characterized in that, The reaction chamber is equipped with a partition that divides the reaction chamber into a first chamber and a second chamber. The second chamber is located between the first chamber and the sampling tube and is connected to the storage cylinder. The first chamber is connected to the guide tube. A communication structure is provided between the first chamber and the second chamber.

8. A gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling according to claim 7, characterized in that, The communication structure includes a valve seat opened on the partition plate, an opening and closing block is slidably disposed in the valve seat, a traction rope connected to the opening and closing block is disposed on the piston, and a blocking structure for restricting the movement of the opening and closing block is disposed on the valve seat.

9. A gravity sampler for seabed placer sampling according to claim 8, characterized in that, The blocking structure includes a frame mounted on the partition, a guide rod slidably mounted on the frame and connected to the opening and closing block, and a telescopic spring mounted on the guide rod and connected to the frame.

10. A sampling method for seabed placer sampling using a gravity sampler according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The first reactant is placed in the reaction chamber, the second reactant is placed in the storage chamber, and the opening and closing structure is kept closed. The assembled sampler is lowered from the hull of the work vessel into the sea by a cable. The sampler sinks freely under the weight of the counterweight tube until it touches the seabed sediment layer. When the sampler comes into contact with the seabed, the triggering structure inside is triggered or delayed, driving the opening and closing structure to open, thereby connecting the reaction chamber and the storage chamber. After the opening and closing structure is opened, the pushing structure moves under the action of seawater pressure or buoyancy, pushing the second reactant in the storage chamber into the reaction chamber, where it mixes with the first reactant and undergoes a chemical reaction, generating high-pressure gas in the reaction chamber; the high-pressure gas drives the anchoring rod to extend outward from the guide tube, causing the anchoring claw to penetrate and anchor in the seabed sediment. When the anchor rod extends to the predetermined position, the connecting structure is opened by the linkage mechanism, allowing the pressure in the reaction chamber to enter the second chamber from the first chamber and act on the entire sampling tube; the thrust pushes the sampling tube to overcome the constraint of the limiting structure, and it is ejected at high speed from the counterweight tube and penetrates the seabed strata to obtain columnar sediment samples. Raise the cable to retrieve the sampler, which has completed sampling, to the ship's deck, and remove the sampling tube containing the columnar sediment sample from the counterweight tube.

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