Buoy system with self-cleaning camera function and control method thereof

Abstract

The present application relates to the field of marine ecological monitoring, and discloses a buoy system with self-cleaning camera function, which comprises a push rod cleaning mechanism, the whole device is in the shape of a cone, a steel cable and a wire tube are arranged on the top, the end of the steel cable is connected with a sea surface floating platform device, and the push rod cleaning mechanism comprises a protective shell, the upper and lower ends of the protective shell are designed in a semi-sealed structure, a camera and a sensor are arranged in the protective shell, and the camera and the sensor are respectively used for shooting underwater images and videos and collecting environmental data; a push rod mechanism is arranged in the push rod cleaning mechanism; the present application also discloses a control method of the buoy system with self-cleaning camera function, which comprises the following steps: S1, system power-on initialization; S2, starting a communication module and receiving host configuration information; S3, starting an underwater camera 18, water quality detection task and energy management task according to a preset task time; and starting the underwater camera or the water quality detection task according to the preset task time. Through bidirectional cleaning of the push rod cleaning mechanism, pollution inhibition in a light-free environment and a conical structure design, the cleaning efficiency, adaptability and service life of the device are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of marine ecological monitoring, specifically to a buoy system with self-cleaning camera function and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] In modern marine resource development and protection, underwater ecological monitoring has become an important technological means to maintain marine ecological balance and promote sustainable economic development. Underwater cameras, as a key component of monitoring equipment, play a vital role in directly monitoring the growth status of underwater organisms and changes in the ecological environment. However, current underwater monitoring equipment still faces numerous technical challenges when applied in the complex and ever-changing marine environment.

[0003] Due to the unique marine environment, underwater cameras are prone to being covered by algae, plankton, and other pollutants during long-term use, leading to blurred lenses and severely affecting image quality and data accuracy. Currently, cleaning camera lenses is mostly done manually, requiring the equipment to be removed from underwater. This method is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive but also significantly increases maintenance costs, making it difficult to meet the needs of unattended operation and long-term monitoring.

[0004] Meanwhile, the long-term operation of marine buoy systems is significantly affected by environmental changes. Harsh conditions in the marine environment, such as wind, waves, and salt spray corrosion, increase the requirements for the stability and durability of the equipment structure, making it difficult for traditional designs to achieve long-term stable operation. In addition, existing equipment has a low degree of automation under harsh marine conditions, relying on manual intervention for maintenance and adjustment, which greatly restricts its practical application in large-scale marine ecological monitoring.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a buoy system that can solve the above problems. In this regard, the present invention proposes a buoy system with self-cleaning camera function and its control method. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a buoy system with self-cleaning camera function and its control method, which solves the problems of easy lens contamination, high frequency of manual maintenance, and unstable operation in complex marine environments that exist in existing underwater monitoring equipment.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a buoy system with a self-cleaning camera function, comprising: Photovoltaic panels are used to provide energy; A lithium battery charge / discharge management module is used to manage energy storage and release; Lithium-ion batteries are used for energy storage. The buoy's main control circuit is used to coordinate system energy management, task execution, data processing and transmission, and mechanical control. A push rod cleaning mechanism, the overall equipment being conical in shape, with a steel cable and conduit mounted on top. The end of the steel cable is connected to a floating platform on the sea surface. The push rod cleaning mechanism includes: The protective shell features a semi-sealed structure at its top and bottom, housing a camera and sensors for capturing underwater images and videos, as well as collecting environmental data. The push rod mechanism, which is located within the push rod cleaning mechanism, is used to control the movement of the underwater camera. A camera cleaning mechanism is used to clean a camera by rubbing it against a circular brush when the camera is retracted or extended by a push rod. The buoy housing is used to protect the aforementioned components.

[0008] Preferably, the protective shell includes a cylindrical shell, a reducing pipe is installed at the bottom of the cylindrical shell, a small cylindrical shell is installed at the bottom of the reducing pipe, and an outlet cylindrical pipe is installed on the outer wall of the small cylindrical shell.

[0009] Preferably, the push rod mechanism includes a base plate one, which is mounted on the top of the protective shell. The bottom of the base plate one is connected to a base plate two via multiple support columns one. The bottom of the base plate one is connected to a base via support columns two. The bottom of the base is connected to a push rod via a fixing member. The drive end of the push rod is connected to a connecting sleeve. The camera is mounted on the inner wall of the connecting sleeve.

[0010] Preferably, the camera cleaning mechanism includes a baffle and a circular brush, which are arranged sequentially from top to bottom at the bottom of the small cylindrical barrel. The outlet tube is sleeved outside the baffle and the circular brush, and the bottom of the outlet tube is concave.

[0011] Preferably, the outer wall of the base is equipped with multiple U-shaped clips, and the multiple sensors are respectively installed in the multiple U-shaped clips.

[0012] Preferably, a water-permeable cover is installed on the top of the substrate, and a lifting ring is installed on the top of the substrate.

[0013] Preferably, the lithium battery charge / discharge management module includes: The charging management module is used to manage the charging and discharging state of the lithium battery, regulate the charging current and voltage, and ensure safe charging of the battery. It is also responsible for controlling the power input of the photovoltaic panel and regulating the current to prevent overcharging and high temperature. Energy storage control switch, used to control the electrical energy input of photovoltaic panels to manage the charging and discharging state of lithium batteries; Temperature acquisition device, used to detect the system operating temperature; Overvoltage and overcurrent protection circuits are used to protect the safe operation of lithium batteries; The power monitoring module is used to monitor the current battery power and transmit the data to the main control circuit.

[0014] Preferably, the buoy main control circuit includes: A microcontroller is used to handle task execution, logical judgment, and the distribution of control signals; The power management module, which includes a BUCK circuit, a BOOST circuit, and an LDO circuit, is used to provide the required voltage to various parts of the system. The push rod drive circuit is used to control the movement of the electric push rod; The communication module, which includes 4G, NB-IoT, LoRa, and Bluetooth modules, is used for remote data transmission and device control; The data acquisition and forwarding module includes a 4G communication module 2, a microcontroller 2, and an AHD to MIPI circuit, which is used to receive and process data from the camera (18) and upload it to the host. It is responsible for receiving and processing sensor and camera data and uploading it to the host. A multiplexer is used to control the power supply to underwater sensors, cameras, actuators, and communication modules.

[0015] A control method for a buoy system with a self-cleaning camera function includes the following steps: S1. System power-on initialization; S2. Start the communication module and receive host configuration information; S3. Start the underwater camera 18, water quality detection task, and energy management task according to the preset task time. S4, the push rod drive circuit controls the movement of the electric push rod, which in turn links the camera for cleaning and shooting; S5. Upload underwater data to the host computer via the communication module. Preferably, step S4 specifically includes the following steps: When recording video, the push rod extends, and the camera is pushed out from the center of the outlet tube of the protective shell; Upon launch, the lens of the camera can be cleaned by passing through the center of the circular brush and applying friction. After the recording is complete, the microcontroller controls the push rod to retract, causing the camera to retract back into the protective shell. The circular brush at the bottom of the protective shell can scrape the camera again to remove the covering when the camera retracts.

[0016] This invention provides a buoy system with a self-cleaning camera function and its control method. It has the following beneficial effects: 1. This invention designs a push-rod cleaning mechanism. During the camera's extension and retraction, concentric circular brushes inside the outlet tube use friction to clean the camera lens, removing surface dirt and deposits. The cleaning action is integrated with the camera's movement, eliminating additional cleaning steps. The bidirectional friction of the brushes achieves two cleaning cycles for the lens, avoiding repetitive energy consumption and complex control, significantly improving the equipment's efficiency.

[0017] 2. The upper and lower ends of the protective shell of this invention adopt a semi-sealed structure. The circular brush at the bottom closes when the camera is retracted, forming a light-blocking environment that physically inhibits the growth of algae and plankton. This design protects the push rod mechanism and sensor, reduces the risk of equipment failure due to biological contamination, and extends the service life of the equipment.

[0018] 3. The push rod cleaning mechanism of the present invention is cone-shaped, and is connected to equipment such as floating platforms on the sea surface through steel cables at the top. The structure is stable and can withstand complex marine environmental conditions. The cone-shaped design not only helps the stability of the equipment when it is submerged in water, but also optimizes the impact of water flow on the equipment and improves the adaptability of the system. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram of the buoy system architecture of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the main control circuit architecture of the buoy system of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a power management architecture diagram of the buoy system of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the architecture of the lithium battery charge and discharge management module of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a diagram of the communication module architecture of the present invention; Figure 6 This is an architecture diagram of the data acquisition and forwarding module of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the buoy system control method of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a front view and cross-sectional view of the buoy system cleaning equipment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a partial diagram of the push rod cleaning mechanism of the present invention. Figure 10 This is a detailed drawing of the push rod mechanism of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a detailed view of the protective casing of the present invention.

[0020] The components include: 1. Steel cable; 2. Conduit; 3. Push rod cleaning mechanism; 4. Water-permeable cover; 5. Lifting ring; 6. Push rod mechanism; 7. Sensor; 8. Protective shell; 9. Base plate one; 10. Support column one; 11. Base plate two; 12. Support column two; 13. Base; 14. U-shaped clip; 15. Fixing component; 16. Push rod; 17. Connecting sleeve; 18. Camera; 19. Cylinder; 20. Reducer; 21. Small cylinder; 22. Baffle; 23. Circular brush; 24. Outlet circular pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solutions in 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. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] Please see the appendix Figure 1 -Appendix Figure 8 This invention provides a buoy system with a self-cleaning camera function, comprising: Photovoltaic panels are used to provide energy; A lithium battery charge / discharge management module is used to manage energy storage and release; Lithium-ion batteries are used for energy storage. The buoy's main control circuit is used to coordinate system energy management, task execution, data processing and transmission, and mechanical control. The push rod cleaning mechanism 3 is cone-shaped, with a steel cable 1 and a cable conduit 2 mounted on top. The end of the steel cable 1 is connected to the floating platform equipment on the sea surface. The push rod cleaning mechanism 3 includes: The protective shell 8 has a semi-sealed structure design at the top and bottom, and is equipped with a camera 18 and a sensor 7, which are used to capture underwater images and videos and collect environmental data, respectively. The push rod mechanism 6 is located inside the push rod cleaning mechanism 3 and is used to control the movement of the underwater camera 18. A camera cleaning mechanism is used to clean the camera 18 by rubbing it against a circular brush 23 when the camera 18 is retracted or extended by the push rod 16. The buoy housing is used to protect the aforementioned components.

[0023] Specifically, the buoy system of this invention provides energy to the lithium battery charge and discharge management module through a photovoltaic panel, and the lithium battery serves as an energy storage unit to ensure the stable operation of the system. The buoy's main control circuit coordinates the work of each component, including functions such as energy management, task execution, data processing, and mechanical control, ensuring the system operates efficiently in complex marine environments.

[0024] The conical design of the push rod cleaning mechanism 3 provides high stability, and it connects to the floating platform equipment on the sea surface via steel cable 1 and conduit 2, adapting to changes in the water flow environment. The semi-sealed structure of the protective shell 8 houses a camera 18 and a sensor 7. The camera 18 captures underwater images and videos, while the sensor 7 collects environmental data. During recording, the main control circuit controls the push rod mechanism 6 to push the camera 18 out of the outlet tube of the protective shell 8. During this process, the camera 18 passes through a circular brush 23, where friction cleans the lens, ensuring image clarity. After recording, the push rod mechanism 6 retracts the camera 18, which undergoes a second cleaning via the circular brush 23, and then returns to the dark environment inside the protective shell 8 to prevent algae and plankton from adhering, extending the equipment's lifespan.

[0025] The overall system design achieves energy-efficient utilization, automatic cleaning of the 18 cameras, and stable operation without human intervention for extended periods, adapting to the demands of complex marine environments. Please see the appendix Figure 11 The protective shell 8 includes a cylindrical barrel 19, a reducing pipe 20 installed at the bottom of the cylindrical barrel 19, a small cylindrical barrel 21 installed at the bottom of the reducing pipe 20, and an outlet cylindrical pipe 24 installed on the outer wall of the small cylindrical barrel 21.

[0026] Specifically, the protective shell 8, through the combined design of a cylindrical shell 19, a reducing tube 20, and a small cylindrical shell 21, forms a stable internal structure that supports and protects the internal camera 18 and sensor 7. The reducing tube 20 at the bottom of the cylindrical shell 19 serves as a transitional connection, linking the wider upper cylindrical shell 19 with the smaller lower cylindrical shell 21, ensuring the compactness and strength of the structure. The outlet cylindrical tube installed on the outer wall of the small cylindrical shell 21 provides an entry and exit channel for the camera 18. Simultaneously, during the movement of the camera 18, the friction of its inner wall, in conjunction with the installed circular brush 23, cleans the lens. The entire structural design optimizes the stability of the camera 18's movement trajectory and ensures effective protection of the internal equipment in various complex environments.

[0027] Please see the appendix Figure 8 and attached Figure 10 The push rod mechanism 6 includes a base plate 9, which is mounted on the top of the protective shell 8. The bottom of the base plate 9 is connected to a base plate 11 via multiple support columns 10. The bottom of the base plate 9 is connected to a base 13 via support columns 12. The bottom of the base 13 is connected to a push rod 16 via a fastener 15. The drive end of the push rod 16 is connected to a connecting sleeve 17. The camera 18 is mounted on the inner wall of the connecting sleeve 17.

[0028] The camera cleaning mechanism includes a baffle 22 and a circular brush 23. The baffle 22 and the circular brush 23 are arranged from top to bottom at the bottom of the small round barrel 21. The outlet round tube 24 is sleeved on the outside of the baffle 22 and the circular brush 23. The bottom of the outlet round tube 24 is concave.

[0029] Specifically, the push rod mechanism 6, through a combination of a base plate and a support column, securely fixes the push rod 16 within the protective shell 8, while simultaneously providing support for the smooth movement of the camera 18. The drive end of the push rod 16 connects to the connecting sleeve 17, and the inner wall of the connecting sleeve 17 fixes the camera 18, enabling the push rod 16 to move in tandem with the camera 18 to complete a linear push-out or retraction action. During the push-out and retraction process, the camera 18 passes through the cleaning mechanism at the bottom of the small cylindrical barrel 21, sequentially passing through the baffle 22 and the circular brush 23. The circular brush 23, in conjunction with the inner wall design of the outlet cylindrical tube 24, removes adhering substances through friction between the brush and the lens during the movement of the camera 18, ensuring the cleanliness of the lens. The concave design at the bottom of the outlet cylindrical tube further optimizes the cleaning effect of the brush and provides additional protection through the baffle 22, preventing external contaminants from entering the cleaning mechanism. The entire design effectively achieves synchronization between the movement and cleaning of the camera 18, ensuring the efficient operation of the equipment.

[0030] Please see the appendix Figure 9 Multiple U-shaped clips 14 are installed on the outer wall of the base 13, and multiple sensors 7 are installed in the multiple U-shaped clips 14 respectively.

[0031] Specifically, the outer wall of the base 13 provides a stable fixing position for the sensor 7 via multiple U-shaped clips 14. This design facilitates the installation and maintenance of the sensor 7, while ensuring that the sensor 7 remains stable and unaffected by external interference during the movement of the push rod mechanism 6. The distribution of the U-shaped clips 14 optimizes the arrangement of the sensor 7, allowing it to be evenly distributed on the outer wall of the base 13, thereby improving the range and accuracy of environmental data acquisition. In addition, the U-shaped clips 14 fixing method is simple and reliable, and can withstand vibration and impact in the marine environment, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the sensor 7.

[0032] Please see the appendix Figure 8 -Appendix Figure 9 A water-permeable cover 4 is installed on the top of substrate 9, and a lifting ring 5 is installed on the top of substrate 9.

[0033] Specifically, the permeable cover 4 on top of the substrate 9 allows water to flow, preventing structural stress problems inside the protective shell 8 caused by pressure differences or water flow obstruction. It also facilitates direct contact between the sensor 7 and the aquatic environment, improving the accuracy of data acquisition. The lifting ring 5, mounted on top of the substrate 9, connects the steel cable 1, securely linking the entire buoy system to a surface platform or other fixed equipment. The design of the lifting ring 5 ensures the stability of the equipment's suspension and positioning, adapts to complex marine environmental conditions, and ensures the buoy system maintains the correct working posture in the water.

[0034] Please see the appendix Figure 4 The lithium battery charge and discharge management module includes: The charging management module is used to manage the charging and discharging state of the lithium battery, adjust the charging current and voltage to ensure safe charging of the battery, and is responsible for controlling the power input of the photovoltaic panel and adjusting the current to prevent overcharging and high temperature. Energy storage control switch, used to control the electrical energy input of photovoltaic panels to manage the charging and discharging state of lithium batteries; Temperature acquisition device, used to detect the system operating temperature; Overvoltage and overcurrent protection circuits are used to protect the safe operation of lithium batteries; The power monitoring module is used to monitor the current battery power and transmit the data to the main control circuit.

[0035] Specifically, the lithium battery charge / discharge management module plays a crucial role in energy management and safety protection within the entire buoy system. Its functional modules ensure an efficient and stable energy supply for the system in complex marine environments.

[0036] First, the charging management module precisely controls the power input to the photovoltaic panel and dynamically adjusts the charging current based on environmental conditions and the lithium battery status. This prevents lithium battery performance degradation or internal device overheating caused by overcharging or high temperatures generated during charging. Combined with real-time system temperature data, the module can automatically limit the charging rate under high-temperature conditions, effectively extending the lithium battery's lifespan and preventing system failures caused by heat buildup.

[0037] The energy storage control switch further optimizes energy storage and release. By intelligently managing the charging and discharging process of the lithium battery, it allocates energy supply to the microcontroller control switch to control the power supply of various circuits according to the equipment's operating needs, prioritizing the normal operation of core tasks (such as camera 18 capturing images and sensor 7 acquiring data). When energy is insufficient, the module can also automatically shut down unnecessary functions, thereby achieving a low-power operation mode and improving the reliability of the equipment in unattended operation.

[0038] The temperature acquisition device and overvoltage and overcurrent protection circuits work together to monitor the voltage, current, and temperature inside the system in real time. When the equipment experiences abnormal temperature, current, or voltage in harsh environments, the protection circuits will respond quickly, cutting off circuits that may cause battery overload or overheating, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the system.

[0039] The power monitoring module is responsible for collecting the lithium battery's power information in real time and transmitting the data to the buoy's main control circuit. By receiving the data from the power monitoring module, the main control circuit intelligently adjusts the device's operating strategy, such as dynamically adjusting task priorities, switching device operating modes, or limiting the activation of high-power functions. In this way, the system can flexibly respond to task demands under different energy states while maximizing the device's battery life.

[0040] Please see the appendix Figure 2 -Appendix Figure 3 and attached Figure 5 -Appendix Figure 6 The buoy's main control circuit includes: A microcontroller is used to handle task execution, logical judgment, and the distribution of control signals; The power management module, which includes a BUCK circuit, a BOOST circuit, and an LDO circuit, is used to provide the required voltage to various parts of the system. The push rod 16 drive circuit is used to control the movement of the electric push rod 16; The communication module, which includes 4G, NB-IoT, LoRa, and Bluetooth modules, is used for remote data transmission and device control; The data acquisition and forwarding module includes a 4G communication module 2, a microcontroller 2, and an AHD to MIPI circuit. It is used to receive and process data from the camera 18 and upload it to the host. A multiplexer is used to control the power supply to the underwater sensor 7, camera 18, push rod 16, and communication module.

[0041] Specifically, the buoy main control circuit is the core control unit of the entire buoy system. Through the coordinated work of its various functional modules, it realizes functions such as task execution, energy management, data processing and remote communication, ensuring the efficient operation of the equipment in complex marine environments.

[0042] As the central controller of the system, the microcontroller is responsible for task execution and logical judgment, including the distribution of control signals and the coordination of the work of various modules. For example, the microcontroller controls the starting and stopping of camera 18, the extension and retraction of push rod 16, and the timed data acquisition tasks of sensor 7 according to task requirements. Through its intelligent scheduling capability, the microcontroller enables flexible adjustment of task priorities.

[0043] The power management module regulates the voltage supplied by the lithium battery through BUCK, BOOST, and LDO circuits, providing suitable voltage outputs (such as 5V, 12V, and 3.3V) for different device modules to ensure stable operation of each component. Simultaneously, this module balances energy efficiency and equipment safety during energy supply, preventing system failures caused by voltage fluctuations.

[0044] The push rod drive circuit is responsible for precisely controlling the movement of the push rod 16. When performing a shooting task, it pushes the camera 18 through the cleaning mechanism to clean the lens according to the instructions of the main control circuit, and ensures that the camera 18 accurately reaches the designated position. After the task is completed, the push rod 16 is controlled to retract the camera 18 and return it to the inside of the protective shell 8.

[0045] The communication module integrates multiple communication technologies, including 4G, NB-IoT, LoRa, and Bluetooth, to adapt to different marine environments and communication needs. For example, the 4G module is used for high-coverage long-distance data transmission, the NB-IoT module enables low-power, long-duration operation, the LoRa module supports ultra-long-range communication, and the Bluetooth module is used for short-range device debugging and real-time data monitoring. The flexible switching between multiple communication methods ensures reliable connection between the system and the host and real-time data transmission.

[0046] The data acquisition and forwarding module is responsible for receiving, preprocessing, and formatting data from sensor 7 and camera 18, and uploading the processed data to the host via the 4G communication module 2. Simultaneously, this module monitors data integrity and validity to ensure that the uploaded data is available for accurate analysis by the host.

[0047] The multiplexer, controlled by a microcontroller, dynamically adjusts the power supply status of the underwater sensor 7, camera 18, push rod 16, and communication module. In non-mission mode, it shuts off power to some modules to reduce energy consumption and extend system runtime; while during mission execution, it manages the power supply to the equipment in real time according to requirements to ensure successful mission completion.

[0048] Please see the appendix Figure 7 A control method for a buoy system with self-cleaning camera function includes the following steps: S1. System power-on initialization; S2. Start the communication module and receive host configuration information; S3. Start the underwater camera 18 or the water quality detection task according to the preset task time. S4, the push rod drive circuit controls the electric push rod 16 to move, and links the camera 18 to clean and take pictures; S5. Upload underwater data to the host via the communication module.

[0049] Step S4 specifically includes the following steps: When recording video, push rod 16 is pushed out, and camera 18 is pushed out from the center of outlet tube 24 of protective shell 8; At the same time as it is launched, the lens of the camera 18 can be cleaned by passing through the center of the circular brush 23 under the action of friction. After the recording is completed, the microcontroller controls the push rod 16 to retract, causing the camera 18 to retract back into the protective shell 8. The circular brush 23 at the bottom of the protective shell 8 can scrape the camera 18 again to remove the covering when the camera 18 retracts.

[0050] Specifically, upon system startup, power-on initialization is performed first. The buoy main control circuit activates the microcontroller and initializes the communication module, push rod drive circuit, and sensor module, ensuring that all components enter standby mode. After initialization, the communication module establishes a connection with the host and receives configuration information from the host, including camera timed shooting time, sensor wake-up interval, and energy management strategy.

[0051] Based on the task scheduling information configured on the host computer, the system initiates timed tasks at preset times, including underwater camera shooting tasks or water quality detection tasks. At specific time points or when triggered by host computer commands, the microcontroller controls the push rod 16 to move through the push rod drive circuit, performing the mechanical operation of pushing or retracting the push rod 16.

[0052] When a camera recording task is initiated, the push rod drive circuit activates, and push rod 16 pushes camera 18 through the center of the outlet tube 24 of the protective housing 8. During this extension, the lens of camera 18 rubs against the circular brush 23 installed inside the outlet tube 24, removing dirt and planktonic organisms adhering to the lens surface and ensuring the lens is clean. After push rod 16 is fully extended, camera 18 reaches the designated position, and the microcontroller controls camera 18 to begin recording video or capturing images, while simultaneously transmitting the data to the data acquisition and forwarding module.

[0053] After the recording task is completed, the microcontroller controls the push rod 16 to retract, and the camera 18 is brought back into the protective shell 8. During this process, the camera 18 passes through the circular brush 23 again, and the friction of the brush achieves a secondary cleaning of the lens. After the camera 18 is retracted into the protective shell, the brush closes to create a dark environment, effectively inhibiting the growth of algae and plankton, and protecting the cleaning mechanism and sensor from contamination.

[0054] During task execution, sensor 7 collects water quality or environmental data in real time, which, along with image data captured by camera 18, is transmitted to the main control circuit. The data acquisition and forwarding module preprocesses the data and uploads it to the host computer via the communication module, ensuring the integrity and timeliness of the monitoring data.

[0055] During operation, the buoy system monitors the internal power and temperature data in real time. The lithium battery charge and discharge management module adjusts the charging current based on the input from the photovoltaic panel and the battery status to prevent overheating or depletion of power. If a communication failure occurs during task execution, the system automatically switches to local control mode to ensure task continuity.

[0056] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A buoy system with self-cleaning camera function, characterized in that, include: Photovoltaic panels are used to provide energy; A lithium battery charge / discharge management module is used to manage energy storage and release; Lithium-ion batteries are used for energy storage. The buoy's main control circuit is used to coordinate system energy management, task execution, data processing and transmission, and mechanical control. The push rod cleaning mechanism (3) is cone-shaped, with a steel cable (1) and a conduit (2) on top. The end of the steel cable (1) is connected to the floating platform equipment on the sea surface. The push rod cleaning mechanism (3) includes: The protective shell (8) has a semi-sealed structure at its upper and lower ends and is equipped with a camera (18) and a sensor (7), which are used to capture underwater images and videos and collect environmental data, respectively. The push rod mechanism (6) is located inside the push rod cleaning mechanism (3) and is used to control the movement of the underwater camera (18). The camera cleaning mechanism is used to clean the camera (18) by rubbing it against the circular brush (23) when the camera (18) is retracted or pushed out by the push rod (16); The buoy housing is used to protect the aforementioned components.

2. The buoy system with self-cleaning camera function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protective shell (8) includes a cylindrical barrel (19), a reducing pipe (20) is installed at the bottom of the cylindrical barrel (19), a small cylindrical barrel (21) is installed at the bottom of the reducing pipe (20), and an outlet cylindrical pipe (24) is installed on the outer wall of the small cylindrical barrel (21).

3. A buoy system with self-cleaning camera function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The push rod mechanism (6) includes a base plate (9), which is mounted on the top of the protective shell (8). The bottom of the base plate (9) is connected to a base plate (11) via multiple support columns (10). The bottom of the base plate (9) is connected to a base (13) via support columns (12). The bottom of the base (13) is connected to a push rod (16) via a fastener (15). The drive end of the push rod (16) is connected to a connecting sleeve (17). The camera (18) is mounted on the inner wall of the connecting sleeve (17).

4. A buoy system with self-cleaning camera function according to claim 2, characterized in that, The camera cleaning mechanism includes a baffle (22) and a circular brush (23). The baffle (22) and the circular brush (23) are arranged from top to bottom at the bottom of the small round barrel (21). The outlet round tube (24) is sleeved on the outside of the baffle (22) and the circular brush (23). The bottom of the outlet round tube (24) is concave.

5. A buoy system with self-cleaning camera function according to claim 3, characterized in that, Multiple U-shaped clips (14) are installed on the outer wall of the base (13), and multiple sensors (7) are respectively installed in multiple U-shaped clips (14).

6. A buoy system with self-cleaning camera function according to claim 3, characterized in that, A water-permeable cover (4) is installed on the top of the substrate (9), and a lifting ring (5) is installed on the top of the substrate (9).

7. A buoy system with self-cleaning camera function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lithium battery charge / discharge management module includes: The charging management module is used to manage the charging and discharging state of the lithium battery, regulate the charging current and voltage, and ensure safe charging of the battery. It is also responsible for controlling the power input of the photovoltaic panel and regulating the current to prevent overcharging and high temperature. Energy storage control switch, used to control the electrical energy input of photovoltaic panels to manage the charging and discharging state of lithium batteries; Temperature acquisition device, used to detect the system operating temperature; Overvoltage and overcurrent protection circuits are used to protect the safe operation of lithium batteries; The power monitoring module is used to monitor the current battery power and transmit the data to the main control circuit.

8. A buoy system with self-cleaning camera function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The buoy main control circuit includes: A microcontroller is used to handle task execution, logical judgment, and the distribution of control signals; The power management module, which includes a BUCK circuit, a BOOST circuit, and an LDO circuit, is used to provide the required voltage to various parts of the system. A push rod drive circuit is used to control the movement of the electric push rod (16); The communication module, which includes 4G, NB-IoT, LoRa, and Bluetooth modules, is used for remote data transmission and device control; The data acquisition and forwarding module includes a 4G communication module 2, a microcontroller 2, and an AHD to MIPI circuit, which is used to receive and process data from the camera (18) and upload it to the host. It is responsible for receiving and processing data from the sensor (7) and the camera (18) and uploading it to the host. A multiplexer is used to control the power supply to the underwater sensor (7), camera (18), push rod (16), and communication module.

9. A control method for a buoy system with a self-cleaning camera function, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. System power-on initialization; S2. Start the communication module and receive host configuration information; S3. Start the underwater camera 18, water quality detection task, and energy management task according to the preset task time. S4, the push rod drive circuit controls the electric push rod (16) to move, and links the camera (18) to clean and take pictures; S5. Upload underwater data to the host via the communication module.

10. A control method for a buoy system with self-cleaning camera function according to claim 9, characterized in that, The S4 step specifically includes the following steps: When shooting video, the push rod (16) is pushed out, and the linked camera (18) is pushed out from the center of the outlet tube (24) of the protective shell (8); At the same time as it is launched, by passing through the center of the circular brush (23), the lens of the camera (18) can be cleaned under the action of friction. After the camera is captured, the microcontroller controls the push rod (16) to retract, causing the camera (18) to retract back into the protective shell (8). The circular brush (23) at the bottom of the protective shell (8) can scrape the camera (18) again to remove the covering when the camera (18) retracts.

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