A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms

Abstract

This invention discloses a modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore engineering platforms, comprising: a collection module, including a fixed collection unit and at least one set of extended collection units driven by a folding frame to open and close, thereby extending and retracting a flexible curtain, enabling controllable adjustment of the rainwater collection area; a water conveyance and filtration module for graded physical purification of the collected rainwater; a water storage module for low-cost, large-scale water storage and long-term preservation; a water supply and purification module, connected to the water storage module, and equipped with at least ordinary water pipes and drinking water pipes; and a central control module, electrically connected to the aforementioned modules and integrating a sensor group, intelligently controlling the curtain's opening and closing and the automated operation of the entire system based on environmental and system status. Through intelligent control, this invention achieves maximum capture, graded processing, and differentiated utilization of marine rainfall resources without affecting the platform's normal operation and structural safety, significantly improving the freshwater self-sufficiency and emergency response capabilities of offshore engineering platforms.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of rainwater harvesting and utilization technology, specifically to a modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms. Background Technology

[0002] Water resources are the cornerstone of human survival and social development. For offshore engineering platforms operating in the vast ocean, freshwater is comparable to "liquid gold," and its importance is self-evident. It is not only essential for the daily life of personnel on the platform, such as drinking, washing, and eating, but also the cooling medium upon which many critical pieces of equipment, such as diesel generator sets and central cooling systems, rely for stable operation. However, the unique marine environment in which offshore engineering platforms operate determines the inherent vulnerability of their freshwater supply.

[0003] Traditionally, freshwater supply for offshore platforms relies primarily on two methods: supply vessel transport and on-site desalination plants. Supply vessel transport is extremely expensive, costing hundreds or even thousands of RMB per ton of water. If helicopter transport is used, the cost increases exponentially. Furthermore, it suffers from poor timeliness and is severely hampered by severe sea conditions such as typhoons, monsoons, and large waves, leading to multiple delays or cancellations of supply operations annually, exposing the platform to the risk of water shortages. On-site desalination plants, primarily employing technologies such as reverse osmosis and multi-stage flash evaporation, can achieve self-production of water, but their operation is energy-intensive and requires high maintenance. Reverse osmosis membranes have high requirements for feed water quality, complex pretreatment processes, and are susceptible to clogging due to algal blooms caused by eutrophication. Core equipment such as high-pressure pumps consume enormous amounts of energy, accounting for a significant proportion of the platform's total energy consumption. Regular chemical cleaning and membrane module replacement of the desalination equipment require specialized expertise and are costly. More importantly, desalination plants often need to be shut down during heavy rains and strong winds, and the system will completely shut down when the seawater quality is abnormal, such as due to oil pollution or main unit failure. This single water supply mode makes the platform extremely vulnerable to freshwater shortages in the face of emergencies, directly endangering personnel health, quality of life, and operational safety, and may even lead to huge economic losses.

[0004] To address the aforementioned issues, utilizing rainwater as a natural freshwater source has emerged as a highly promising supplementary solution. However, the application of existing rainwater harvesting technologies on mobile vessels and offshore platforms is rarely reported and remains in the exploratory stage. The limited existing research focuses primarily on cruise ships or large research vessels, utilizing superstructure decks for small-scale collection for non-critical purposes such as deck washing. These systems are simple in structure, with low collection efficiency and utilization rates, and cannot meet the large-scale, high-reliability freshwater replenishment needs of offshore platforms. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology and provide a modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of the present invention is to design a modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms, comprising: The collection module includes a fixed collection unit and at least one set of extended collection units located outside the fixed collection unit. The extended collection unit includes a folding frame driven by a drive mechanism and a flexible curtain mounted on the folding frame. Drainage pipes are installed on the folding frame and the flexible curtain. The fixed collection unit can utilize and modify existing fixed water collection surfaces such as the platform's deck to achieve basic collection. The extended collection unit consists of a folding frame driven by a drive mechanism and a flexible curtain mounted on the folding frame. When rainwater collection is needed, the folding frame unfolds, causing the flexible curtain to form a large additional rainwater collection surface, significantly increasing the rainwater collection area. In severe weather or when collection is not needed, the folding frame retracts, compactly storing the flexible curtain, greatly reducing wind resistance and preventing it from being blown away in extreme weather such as typhoons. Simultaneously, after storage, it does not occupy valuable operating space on the platform, ensuring the safety of helicopter take-off and landing, crane operations, and other operations. The drainage pipes on the folding frame and the flexible curtain can systematically drain the collected rainwater.

[0007] The water conveyance and filtration module, connected to the drainage pipe of the collection module, includes an initial diversion device and a multi-stage filtration system sequentially along the water flow direction of the collection pipe. The initial diversion device automatically diverts and discharges the dirty water during a specific period at the beginning of rainfall into the sea, allowing only clean rainwater from the middle and later stages to enter the subsequent treatment stages. The multi-stage filtration system, through step-by-step interception and graded treatment, significantly reduces the load on single-stage filters, extends the filter cartridge lifespan, and ensures that the rainwater entering the water storage module reaches the preset cleanliness level.

[0008] The water storage module includes a water storage tank, which is equipped with a water quality preservation device. The water quality preservation device solves the problem that rainwater stored in a closed, stagnant chamber is prone to spoilage due to microbial growth over time. Through circulation, disinfection and other means, it effectively extends the storage period of rainwater.

[0009] A water purification module, connected to the water storage module, is used to perform graded treatment and independent supply according to the water quality requirements of the terminal water, and includes at least one ordinary water pipeline and one drinking water pipeline. The central control module, electrically connected to the aforementioned modules, also includes an integrated sensor array for sensing environmental and system status and enabling automated control. The integrated sensor array is responsible for sensing environmental and system status information such as rainfall, wind speed, liquid level, flow rate, and water quality. The central control module addresses the need for automated and intelligent system operation. Based on sensor information, it can automatically determine and switch the system's operating mode between different conditions such as "standby," "expanded collection," "flow rejection," "filtration," "storage," and "water supply," without manual intervention, greatly improving the system's response speed, reliability, and ease of use.

[0010] Furthermore, the central control module is configured to: control the extended collection unit to deploy the flexible curtain when the wind speed is below a preset safety threshold and a rainfall signal is detected; and control the extended collection unit to retract the flexible curtain after the wind speed exceeds the preset safety threshold or the rainfall stop signal has lasted for a specified duration. The wind speed threshold, as the highest priority safety locking condition, ensures that the device will never deploy or remain deployed under dangerous wind speeds, fundamentally guaranteeing the structural safety of the device. The delayed retraction after rainfall stops avoids frequent deployment and retraction due to brief periods of rain cessation, improving system operating efficiency and equipment lifespan.

[0011] Furthermore, the central control module also includes controlling the size of the flexible curtain unfolded by the drive component based on the wind speed. Within a safe wind speed range, the unfolded area of ​​the curtain is inversely proportional to the wind speed or controlled in a stepped manner. At low wind speeds, it is fully unfolded to maximize collection efficiency; when the wind speed is high but does not exceed the safety threshold, it is partially unfolded or the unfolded area is reduced to decrease wind load. This solves the problem of balancing collection efficiency and structural safety that traditional on / off control cannot solve, achieving dynamic optimal capture of recyclable resources. This dynamic adjustment is not continuous, but rather a comprehensive judgment based on the current wind speed and its changing trend to determine when and to what extent to adjust. This avoids frequent adjustments caused by continuous changes in wind speed within a short period.

[0012] Furthermore, the multi-stage filtration system of the water conveyance filtration module includes a primary filter, a secondary filter, and a tertiary filter sequentially along the water flow direction. The primary filter intercepts large floating objects such as large particles of sand and gravel, and large pieces of plastic; the secondary filter removes small and medium-sized particles of sand and suspended solids; and the tertiary filter further refines the filtration, removing tiny particles and colloids. Through this staged interception, efficient and stable solid-liquid separation is achieved.

[0013] Furthermore, the secondary filter is an automatic backwashing filter, which automatically triggers a self-cleaning program based on the inlet and outlet pressure difference or cumulative operating time. Addressing the problem that secondary filters are prone to clogging due to the large amount of trapped material, requiring frequent manual cleaning and resulting in high maintenance workload and poor system continuity, this invention selects an automatic backwashing filter for the secondary filter. Its core working principle is to use the inlet and outlet pressure difference or cumulative operating time as triggering conditions to automatically initiate a self-cleaning program, such as activating the built-in suction device or backwashing mechanism, to discharge trapped dirt and restore filtration throughput. This achieves unattended operation and long-term continuous and stable operation.

[0014] Furthermore, the water storage tank in the water storage module is a ballast tank, with its inner wall coated with a food-grade anti-corrosion coating and equipped with a water quality maintenance device. This water quality maintenance device includes a circulating aeration device and / or an immersion ultraviolet germicidal lamp to inhibit the spoilage and deterioration of stored rainwater. The water storage tank can be an existing ballast tank on the platform, either idle or semi-idle. This eliminates the need for new water storage facilities, reducing space occupation and construction costs, and enabling the reuse of idle platform resources. The inner wall is coated with a food-grade anti-corrosion coating, and the internal water quality maintenance device includes a circulating aeration device and / or an immersion ultraviolet germicidal lamp. Circulating aeration solves the problem of anaerobic bacteria growth and foul odor caused by oxygen deficiency in stagnant water areas, inhibiting most harmful anaerobic bacteria by maintaining water flow and dissolved oxygen. The immersion ultraviolet germicidal lamp solves the problem of aerobic bacteria and E. coli reproduction in the water, further ensuring the long-term stability of the water quality within the tank through continuous light sterilization.

[0015] Furthermore, in the water purification module, the ordinary water supply pipeline is equipped with a security filter with a filtration accuracy of 5-10 microns, and / or a disinfectant dosing device; the drinking water pipeline is equipped with a deep treatment unit, which consists of a precision filter, an ultraviolet sterilizer, and a reverse osmosis or nanofiltration membrane assembly connected in series along the water flow direction. For ordinary water used in large quantities and frequently, such as for equipment cooling, sanitation rinsing, showering, and laundry, the ordinary water supply pipeline is equipped with a security filter with a filtration accuracy of 5-10 microns, mainly to remove small amounts of suspended solids, rust, and other particles that may be generated after water storage, ensuring basic cleanliness. A disinfectant dosing device, such as a sodium hypochlorite dosing device, is also provided to kill bacteria and viruses in the water, ensuring the safety of bathing water that comes into contact with the human body. For drinking water with strict water quality requirements, the drinking water pipeline is equipped with a deep treatment unit, which consists of a precision filter, an ultraviolet sterilizer, and a reverse osmosis or nanofiltration membrane assembly connected in series along the water flow direction. A precision filter serves as a pretreatment for reverse osmosis, preventing large particles from scratching the membrane surface. An ultraviolet (UV) sterilizer acts as a physical disinfection method, inactivating bacteria and viruses without producing disinfection byproducts. The reverse osmosis or nanofiltration membrane acts as the final barrier, almost completely removing dissolved salts, heavy metal ions, and organic micro-pollutants from the water, ensuring the effluent consistently meets drinking water standards. Furthermore, after disinfection, an online water quality monitoring device can be installed at the pipe outlet to monitor water quality in real time, preventing the use of water that does not meet drinking standards. A circulation pipeline can be installed after water quality monitoring; water that does not meet drinking water standards can then flow back into the advanced treatment unit for further treatment until it meets the standards.

[0016] Furthermore, the fixed collection unit is modified from the existing drainage outlet of the platform deck, with a three-way diverter valve installed at its end. This three-way diverter valve is controlled by the central control module to switch between discharge and collection modes. Preferably, this three-way diverter valve is electrically and manually operable and controlled by the central control module. It has one inlet and two outlets. The inlet connects to the deck drainage pipe and the drainage pipe of the collection module; one outlet leads to the original discharge pipeline; and the other outlet connects to the collection pipeline of this system. In non-collection conditions or during initial overflow discharge, the valve remains open, discharging water into the sea without affecting the original deck drainage function. When collection is required, the central control module issues a command to switch the valve, directing rainwater into the collection system.

[0017] Specifically, the folding frame includes symmetrically arranged first connecting rods. One end of the first connecting rod is hinged to a mounting bracket, and the other end is hinged to one end of a middle hinge rod. The other end of the middle hinge rod is hinged to one end of a second connecting rod. The other ends of the two second connecting rods are connected by a first reinforcing rod. Meshing gears are provided at the hinge points of the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, and the middle hinge rod. The two middle hinge rods are connected by a second reinforcing rod. A drainage trough is fixedly installed below the second reinforcing rod, and the drainage trough is connected to the flexible screen via a pipe. The drainage trough is also connected to a drainage pipe. A folding drive rod is hinged to the second reinforcing rod, and a sliding rod is hinged to the other end of the folding drive rod. The drive component drives the sliding rod to slide within a groove on the mounting bracket. The flexible screen is fixedly installed on the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, the middle hinge rod, and the first and second reinforcing rods, and is surrounded by a water-blocking plate. This combination structure of connecting rods, hinges, and reinforcing rods solves the problems of insufficient support stiffness and easy sagging and deformation of long cantilever flexible screens. At the hinge point, meshing gears are installed at the joints between the first and second connecting rods and the middle hinge rod, solving the synchronization problem of the left and right connecting rods during movement. This ensures that the mechanisms on both sides open and close simultaneously at the same angle, preventing the curtain from twisting, jamming, or even tearing due to asynchronous movement. The double reinforcing rod structure and drainage channel integrated design below solve the load-bearing and diversion problems after water is collected on the large rainwater collection surface.

[0018] Optionally, the driving component is a linear motor. Alternatively, a motor can drive a lead screw, rack and pinion, or a hydraulic cylinder, or other drive mechanisms capable of linear motion.

[0019] The advantages and beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This invention constructs a third water source system independent of supply ships and seawater desalination units, transforming rainfall—a free and uncontrollable natural resource—into a reliable and controllable freshwater resource. Its core lies in the large-scale collection of rainwater through a central control module and a collection module, followed by storage through a water storage module. This fundamentally solves the problem of the traditional offshore platforms' reliance on a single, vulnerable source of freshwater, greatly enhancing the platform's survivability in emergencies such as extreme weather, supply disruptions, and main water treatment equipment failures. The platform's idle ballast tanks are reused as rainwater storage tanks, with food-grade anti-corrosion coatings on the inner walls and the addition of water quality maintenance devices. This not only saves the enormous construction costs and valuable space required to build a new water tank of the same volume but also achieves dual-use and multifunctionality, making it ideal for offshore platforms with limited space and load capacity. Through an intelligent, retractable, flexible screen, guided by meteorological sensors and an intelligent control system, it possesses adaptive shape adjustment capabilities: in calm weather, it achieves full-width deployment for efficient rain collection; during storms, it can retract and hide within seconds, transforming into a structural component virtually unaffected by wind. It also adjusts the extension length in real time according to wind speed to achieve a balance between wind resistance and maximum rainwater collection area. This comprehensive water management system, encompassing tiered collection, treatment, and utilization, enables precise control of purification energy consumption, avoiding significant energy waste and minimizing the overall system operating costs. The system can automatically sense weather changes, automatically deploy and retract the collection device, and automatically start and stop the filtration equipment, requiring almost no human intervention. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of the rainwater harvesting and utilization system of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the extended collection unit of the present invention when it is deployed; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the folding frame structure when the extended collection unit of the present invention is unfolded; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the folding frame structure when the extended collection unit of the present invention is folded.

[0021] In the diagram: 1. Drive unit; 2. Folding frame; 21. First connecting rod; 22. Intermediate hinge rod; 23. Second connecting rod; 24. First reinforcing rod; 25. Gear; 26. Second reinforcing rod; 27. Drainage channel; 28. Folding drive rod; 29. ​​Sliding rod; 3. Flexible curtain; 4. Drainage pipe; 5. Mounting bracket; 51. Sliding channel; 31. Water barrier. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0023] This invention relates to a modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms. The system comprises five core modules that work in tandem: a collection module, a water conveyance and filtration module, a water storage module, a water supply and purification module, and a central control module. The specific composition, function, and preferred implementation of each module are described in detail below.

[0024] Collection module The collection module consists of two main parts: a fixed collection unit and an extended collection unit.

[0025] The fixed collection unit aims to fully utilize the platform's existing structure and avoid large-scale modifications. Its core implementation involves upgrading the existing drainage system of large rain-receiving areas such as the main deck and helicopter deck. Specifically, an electrically controlled three-way diverter valve is installed at the end of the main collection pipe connecting the existing drain outlets or drainage ditches on the deck. This electrically controlled three-way diverter valve has one inlet and two selectable outlets. The inlet connects to the confluence of the deck drain outlets and the drainage pipe 4 of the extended collection unit; one outlet remains connected to the original sea discharge pipeline as the first path; the other outlet connects to the water supply and filtration module via a newly laid pipeline as the second path. The actuator of the electrically controlled three-way diverter valve is controlled by the central control module and can receive switching commands from it. When the system is in standby or non-collection mode, the valve defaults to keeping the first path open, ensuring that the normal drainage function of the deck is not affected in any way. When the central control module determines from sensor signals that rainfall is imminent and collection is necessary, it sends an electrical signal to the electrically controlled three-way diverter valve, actuating the valve core to switch to the second channel, guiding all rainwater from the deck into the collection system. This modification method involves minimal engineering work, has no impact on the safety of the original structure, and has a simple approval process, making it the optimal solution for utilizing a fixed catchment area. The three-way diverter valve can be electrically controlled or a combination of electrically and manually controlled.

[0026] according to Figure 2-4 As shown, the extended collection unit is an additional rainwater collection mechanism with an actively adjustable form, located outside the fixed collection unit, such as at the edge of the superstructure of the platform, the top of the residential building, or below the helicopter deck. It mainly consists of a mounting bracket 5, a drive unit 1, a folding frame 2, a flexible curtain 3, and an integrated drainage pipe 4.

[0027] The mounting bracket 5 is securely fixed to the strong deck or bulkhead of the platform's main structure, ensuring that all loads generated by the device are safely transferred to the platform's main structure under various extreme conditions without damaging the mounting point. The mounting bracket 5 is typically provided with a groove 51 for the movement of sliding components.

[0028] The preferred drive component 1 is a waterproof and explosion-proof linear motor. A linear motor directly converts electrical energy into mechanical energy for linear motion, driving the load along a linear trajectory. Alternatively, a rotary motor + lead screw and nut or a hydraulic cylinder solution can be used. Linear motors have a more compact and simpler structure, eliminating the backlash, wear, and efficiency losses associated with intermediate transmission links. They offer extremely fast response speeds, high controllability, and eliminate the risk of hydraulic oil leakage polluting the platform environment, perfectly meeting the stringent requirements of offshore platforms for high reliability, high safety, and high environmental friendliness. This linear motor is also precisely controlled by a central control module, and its thrust, speed, and stroke can be adjusted in real time.

[0029] The folding frame 2 is a multi-link mechanism that forms the supporting skeleton of the curtain. It extends in a plane or space based on a "scissor" or similar principle. In a preferred, structurally stable and highly synchronized implementation, the folding frame 2 adopts a symmetrical design. Each side mechanism consists of a first link 21, a middle hinge link 22, a second link 23, and a series of reinforcing rods and gears.

[0030] The specific connection relationships are as follows: The first connecting rod 21 serves as the starting component, with one end hinged to the base of the mounting bracket 5 via a bolt or hinge rod through a hinge hole, forming a fixed rotation center. The other end of the first connecting rod 21 is connected to one end of the intermediate hinge rod 22 via the same hinge method. The other end of the intermediate hinge rod 22 is hinged to one end of the second connecting rod 23. The other ends of the second connecting rods 23 on both the left and right sides, which are the farthest ends of the entire folding frame 2, are connected by a first reinforcing rod 24, forming a robust rectangular end frame, which greatly enhances the overall rigidity and torsional resistance of the far end structure after unfolding. To ensure that the connecting rod mechanisms on both sides move in absolute synchronization and do not skew or jam, a pair of meshing gears 25 are provided at the hinge points connecting the first connecting rod 21, the intermediate hinge rod 22, and the second connecting rod 23. When one side of the mechanism moves, the meshing gear 25 forces the other side of the mechanism to move at the same angular velocity and rotation angle, achieving mechanical synchronization between the two sides. This is a purely mechanical and highly reliable synchronization scheme, far more suitable for harsh environments than relying solely on electronic synchronization control. The two symmetrical intermediate hinge rods 22 are also rigidly connected by a second reinforcing rod 26, further enhancing the bending strength of the middle section of the frame.

[0031] The flexible curtain 3 is the core component that directly contacts and bears rainwater. It is made of a special coated roll material that is high-strength, weather-resistant, salt spray-resistant, and UV-resistant, such as PVC-coated high-strength polyester fiber cloth or PTFE membrane. It is cut to a shape that matches the unfolded profile of the folding frame 2 and is firmly fixed to the first connecting rod 21, the second connecting rod 23, the intermediate hinge rod 22, and the first reinforcing rod 24 and the second reinforcing rod 26. When the folding frame 2 unfolds, the flexible curtain 3 is stretched, forming an effective rain-collecting surface facing upwards with a large unfolding angle. The size of its opening angle is determined by the unfolding stroke of the linkage mechanism. This angle is optimized to ensure that rainwater flows smoothly to the downward drainage channel 27 while reasonably controlling wind load. To prevent the collected rainwater from splashing or overflowing from the edges of the curtain, upward-curving water-blocking panels 31 are provided around the four edges of the flexible curtain 3. The water-blocking panel 31 can also be made of flexible material and sealed to the main body of the curtain, forming a three-dimensional structure similar to a sail. To ensure that the water-blocking panel 31 can always stand upright when deployed, support rods can be installed at both ends of the water-blocking panel 31 for support. The upward-facing angled structure ensures that all water caught by the curtain is directed downwards.

[0032] The power transmission and deployment mechanism is as follows: One end of a folding drive rod 28 is hinged to the second reinforcing rod 26, and the other end of the folding drive rod 28 is hinged to one end of a slide rod 29. The slide rod 29 is constrained within a groove 51 machined on the mounting bracket 5 and can only slide linearly back and forth along the direction of the groove 51. The drive component 1, i.e., the linear motor, has its mover directly connected to the slide rod 29. When the linear motor receives the deployment command from the central control module, its mover pushes the slide rod 29 to move linearly up and down within the groove 51. The movement of the slide rod 29 pulls the folding drive rod 28, which in turn pushes the second reinforcing rod 26, transmitting force to the entire folding frame 2. Under the combined action of the synchronous constraint of the gear 25 and the hinge point, the linkage system, originally in a folded state, rapidly expands and extends outward in a controlled manner until it is fully deployed. When it needs to be retracted, the linear motor moves in the opposite direction, pulling the slide bar 29 and the folding drive bar 28 to fold the entire folding frame 2 back, and the flexible screen 3 is also neatly folded into the storage space near the mounting bracket 5.

[0033] The entire folding mechanism has an upward opening angle, which is controlled by the drive unit 1, thus controlling the extent of unfolding. A larger opening angle results in a larger unfolding area and a larger rainwater collection area. During folding, the first link 21 and the second link 23 are nearly in contact, meaning the opening angle is close to 0 degrees. This allows for effective storage, with the entire folding frame completely attached to the deck sidewall, occupying no extra space and not affecting the normal operation of the offshore platform. Furthermore, to protect the entire extended collection unit and extend its service life, an automatically opening and closing protective cover can be installed on its exterior after full folding. Additionally, during rainwater collection, the drive unit 1 and mounting bracket 5 are also enclosed within the protective cover to prevent rainwater or seawater intrusion. Finally, multiple extended collection units can be installed at any location on the offshore platform as needed, simply by connecting the control lines and pipes to the main control lines and pipes. During opening and closing, all or only some of the extended collection units can be controlled to participate in rainwater collection.

[0034] Below the second reinforcing rod 26, a drainage channel 27 spanning the width of the curtain is fixedly installed. Rainwater collected on the flexible curtain 3 flows downwards under gravity, eventually converging at the lowest point of the curtain's bottom. The lowest point of the flexible curtain 3 is connected to the drainage channel 27 below through multiple vertically arranged pipes, guiding the water into the channel. The bottom of the drainage channel 27 has an opening that connects to the first interface of the drainage pipe 4. The entire drainage channel 27 and the routing of the pipes are carefully designed to ensure that water flows smoothly into the drainage pipe 4 regardless of the unfolded state of the folding frame 2, without backflow or water accumulation. Because the height of the drainage pipe 4 and its distance from the mounting bracket 5 change when the folding frame 2 is opened and closed, a flexible hose or a pipe with freely expandable and contractible length is preferably used when connecting the drainage pipe 4 to the system's main drainage pipe.

[0035] Water supply filtration module according to Figure 1 As shown, the water conveying and filtration module is responsible for the initial purification of the raw water captured by the collection module and its delivery to the water storage module. Along the water flow direction of the collection pipeline, it mainly includes an initial diversion device and a multi-stage filtration system.

[0036] The initial runoff diversion device is located at the front of this module, and its core function is to automatically identify and remove the heavily polluted "first flush" of rainfall. Its working principle can vary. A common and reliable method is volumetric runoff diversion. This device has one or more cavities or a collection container. After rainfall begins, rainwater flowing from the collection module first enters this device. The process of initial rainwater filling the container itself is a process of containing and isolating contaminated water. Once a small-capacity cavity is full, the subsequent relatively clean rainwater will automatically change its flow direction due to hydraulic action, for example, through an overflow weir or a guide plate driven by a float valve, switching the water flow to the pipeline leading to the multi-stage filtration system. The contaminated water isolated in the cavity is slowly emptied after the rain stops through a slow-drain valve or a solenoid valve controlled by the central control module. The discharged water is directly discharged into the sea, preparing for the next rainfall. Another approach is a time- or water quality-based control scheme. A turbidity sensor detects water quality, and when the turbidity drops below a preset standard, the central control module instructs a diversion valve to switch to collection mode. Volumetric diversion systems are preferred due to their simple structure, lack of external power supply and sensors, and extremely high reliability. This device significantly mitigates the impact of initial contaminants on the entire water storage system, serving as a preliminary step to ensure water quality in the storage tank. In addition to the above two methods, systems can also be configured based on time. For example, if the water is considered dirty within the first 10 minutes after deployment, it will be discharged into the sea through a three-way valve. After 10 minutes, the central control module will activate the three-way valve to direct rainwater to a multi-stage filtration system.

[0037] A multi-stage filtration system is a series of filters with progressively increasing filtration accuracy, designed to physically intercept suspended solids of different sizes in rainwater. The system consists of a primary filter, a secondary filter, and a tertiary filter arranged sequentially along the water flow direction.

[0038] The primary filter, the coarse filter, typically uses a large-pore stainless steel diamond or wedge mesh filter element, with pore sizes ranging from 1 millimeter to several millimeters. Its main function is to trap larger, more visible debris such as leaves, plastic scraps, cigarette butts, and welding rod ends that may be carried by rainwater along the deck. This stage of filtration protects the subsequent precision filter from blockage or mechanical damage caused by large foreign objects.

[0039] The secondary filter is the intermediate filter, with a filter element precision set at the 100 to 500 micrometer level. It is preferably a self-cleaning filter, such as a suction-type self-cleaning filter or a brush-type self-cleaning filter. This stage mainly intercepts finer particles such as sand, rust, and biofilm fragments remaining after the primary filtration. Its core advantage lies in its self-cleaning capability. Taking a typical suction-type self-cleaning filter as an example, it has an internal control system linked to inlet and outlet differential pressure sensors or timers. This system can operate as a sub-unit under the unified coordination of a central control module, or it can operate independently. When the pressure difference inside and outside the filter reaches a preset trigger threshold (e.g., 0.05 MPa) or the cumulative flushing time reaches a set value (e.g., 4 hours), the device automatically starts the cleaning program. Driven by a motor, a drain shaft with a suction nozzle spirals against the inner surface of the filter screen. Simultaneously, the drain valve opens, using the system's own pressurized water to draw in the dirt trapped on the outside of the filter screen through the suction nozzle. This dirt is then powerfully backwashed out by the drain shaft and drain valve. The entire process lasts only a few tens of seconds, during which the filter does not need to be stopped, and the normal water flow remains uninterrupted. This greatly reduces the frequency of manual disassembly and cleaning, achieving near-maintenance-free operation.

[0040] The third-stage filter is a fine filtration stage, located before the rainwater enters the storage module. Its filter cartridges have a precision of 10 to 50 microns and can be bag filters, cartridge filters, or sand filters. This stage removes finer suspended particles and colloids from the water, ensuring the water entering the storage tank is clear and transparent with extremely low turbidity. This creates excellent raw water conditions for long-term storage and subsequent deep purification. Taking a multi-bag filter as an example, multiple filter bags made of polypropylene or polyester fiber can be installed in parallel within its housing, providing a large dirt-holding capacity and filtration area. When the filter bag pressure differential reaches a certain value, simply close the inlet and outlet valves, open the top cover, and replace the filter bags—operation is simple and quick.

[0041] All filters are equipped with bypass lines and isolation valves, allowing for individual isolation of any filter for maintenance if it fails or requires replacement, without affecting the continuous operation of the entire system.

[0042] To increase the pressure of the entire water pipeline, the entire process can be pressurized by pumps or other means before multi-stage filtration.

[0043] Water storage module according to Figure 1 As shown, the water storage module is responsible for the safe and long-term storage of treated rainwater. The water storage tank directly reuses one or two designated dedicated ballast tanks existing on the offshore platform (selecting ballast tanks that are not frequently used in operations or can be dynamically adjusted to avoid affecting the stability of the platform).

[0044] Prior to implementation, these selected ballast tanks required specialized modifications to meet the needs of clean water storage. The first step was a thorough cleaning and internal lining treatment. High-pressure fresh water was used for repeated rinsing to completely remove any remaining sludge, oil, and marine organisms. This was followed by rigorous sandblasting to achieve a specific cleanliness and roughness level on the inner metal surfaces. The most crucial step was applying a food-grade anti-corrosion coating. This coating, after curing, forms a dense, non-toxic, inert protective layer that effectively isolates the steel from the stored water, preventing corrosion. More importantly, it does not leach any harmful chemicals into the water, meeting the hygiene standards for drinking water facilities and requiring certification from relevant authorities confirming its suitability for drinking water contact. The coating selection had to balance water resistance, corrosion resistance, and good adhesion.

[0045] To ensure that the rainwater stored in the tank does not deteriorate during the long settling period, the water storage module must be equipped with a reliable water quality maintenance device. This device typically consists of a circulating aeration unit and an immersion ultraviolet germicidal lamp. The circulating aeration unit comprises a low-lift, seawater-resistant circulating pump and piping system. It draws water from a low outlet in the storage tank and then transports the water through pipes to a higher point at the other end of the tank or sprays it out at different levels, or directly aerates it through micropores in aeration discs embedded in the tank bottom. This creates a weak circulation within the tank, breaking up stagnant water zones, and simultaneously increases the dissolved oxygen content in the water through aeration. An oxygen-rich environment effectively inhibits the growth of anaerobic bacteria (such as sulfate-reducing bacteria) and prevents the production of odorous gases such as hydrogen sulfide due to oxygen deficiency. Meanwhile, immersion-type ultraviolet germicidal lamps installed in key locations within the tank operate continuously for 24 hours. The specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light (UVC) emitted by these lamps penetrate the cell walls of microorganisms in the water, damaging their DNA or RNA structure, rendering them inactive and causing them to die. This effectively and broadly kills bacteria, viruses, and mold in the water. In case of emergencies or abnormal fluctuations in water quality, a micro-dosing device for chemical disinfectants can be configured as a short-term enhanced treatment measure, but routine maintenance primarily relies on the aforementioned physical methods. High-precision radar or hydrostatic level sensors must be installed within the storage tank to transmit real-time water volume information to the central control module, providing decision-making support for water resource allocation across the entire platform.

[0046] Water purification module according to Figure 1 As shown, the water purification module draws water from the storage module and performs advanced treatment of varying degrees and combinations of processes according to the diverse water quality needs of end users. Finally, the water is supplied to different user points through an independent pipeline system. This module includes at least one general water pipeline and one drinking water pipeline.

[0047] Ordinary water supply pipelines serve scenarios with relatively low water quality requirements but high water consumption, such as: equipment cooling water system makeup water, deck flushing water, toilet flushing water, shower and laundry water, etc. The core purification process is as follows: water is drawn from the rainwater storage tank, pressurized by a variable frequency constant pressure water supply pump, and then passed through a security filter with a filtration accuracy of 5-10 microns. Sometimes, an ultraviolet sterilizer and an activated carbon filter are connected in series afterward. The security filter uses a polypropylene melt-blown filter element, and its main function is to act as the final physical barrier, intercepting pipe rust, fine suspended particles, etc., that may be introduced during water storage and transportation, ensuring clear effluent and protecting subsequent water-using equipment from clogging. As a preferred option, an interface can be reserved in this pipeline to connect and link a disinfectant dosing device, such as a sodium hypochlorite solution metering pump. This dosing device is controlled by a flow signal, precisely injecting diluted disinfectant into the water according to a set ratio. This maintains the residual chlorine in the water within a suitable range of 0.2-0.5 mg / L, ensuring the safety of microorganisms at the end of the pipe network, which is especially crucial for water used in direct contact with the human body, such as for showering and laundry. This treatment method has low energy consumption and extremely low operating costs.

[0048] Drinking water pipelines serve kitchens, direct drinking water machines, and medical clinics—occurring in situations with the highest water quality safety requirements. While their water consumption is typically very small, the standards are extremely stringent. The treatment process is a multi-stage deep treatment unit, consisting of a precision filter, an ultraviolet sterilizer, and a reverse osmosis or nanofiltration membrane module connected in series along the water flow direction. The precision filter typically has a filtration accuracy of 1-5 microns, serving as a pre-protection for the high-pressure pump and membrane module. The subsequent ultraviolet sterilizer provides a more thorough initial disinfection step. The core desalination and purification component is the reverse osmosis membrane. A reverse osmosis membrane is a semi-permeable membrane that allows only water molecules to pass through while retaining almost all dissolved solids, organic micro-pollutants, heavy metal ions, bacteria, and viruses. In specific application scenarios, if necessary, a scale inhibitor dosing device can be installed before the reverse osmosis membrane to prevent scaling on the membrane surface. The effluent after reverse osmosis treatment has extremely low conductivity, TDS far below national standard limits, a pure taste, and extremely high safety. The purified water from reverse osmosis is stored in a small drinking water purification tank or sanitary-grade pressure tank equipped with a breather and ultraviolet disinfection unit, and then transported to various drinking water points through an independent water supply pump and dedicated food-grade stainless steel pipelines. To improve taste, a post-activated carbon filter can be added after the reverse osmosis permeate outlet. As an alternative, for some marine areas or conditions where the influent salinity is not particularly high, nanofiltration membrane modules with lower operating pressure can be used instead of reverse osmosis membranes. Nanofiltration membranes can also efficiently remove most divalent and multivalent ions, organic matter, and microorganisms, but have a lower retention rate for monovalent sodium and potassium ions. While meeting key drinking water indicators, they can retain some beneficial minerals and significantly reduce operating energy consumption. This advanced treatment unit, from rainwater extraction to high-quality drinking water, constructs a robust line of defense for the health and safety of platform personnel throughout the entire process.

[0049] Central control module according to Figure 1 As shown, the central control module integrates all independently operating mechanical, electrical, and fluid components into a collaborative, intelligently responsive whole. The core hardware of this module is typically a control cabinet based on a programmable logic controller (PLC) or distributed control system, containing a central processing unit, various input / output modules, communication interface modules, a power supply module, and a human-machine interface (HMI). The HMI is usually a touchscreen, which can be installed in the control room or on-site. It visually displays the overall system overview, real-time status of each module, key parameters (such as water tank level, flow rate, water conductivity, valve opening, and motor operating frequency), and system alarm information, allowing operators to manually intervene and change operating parameters.

[0050] The integrated sensor array is crucial for the central control module to perceive the world and its own status. It is distributed throughout the entire system and includes, but is not limited to, the following sensors: high-precision anemometers representing the platform's wind field environment, installed high on the platform; rain sensors or capacitive rain gauges installed at rapid response locations to detect the start and end of rainfall immediately; electromagnetic flow meters installed on the main water supply pipeline to measure real-time and cumulative rainfall; pressure transmitters installed before and after each stage of filters to monitor blockage; static pressure or radar level gauges installed in the water storage tank to monitor the water level; and online water quality monitoring instruments such as conductivity meters, turbidity meters, pH meters, and residual chlorine / ozone analyzers installed at various treatment nodes in the water storage tank and water purification module to assess the depth and effectiveness of water treatment in real time.

[0051] A complex set of control logic and algorithms is embedded within the central control module. In a typical scenario of this invention, its workflow is as follows: The system defaults to safe mode, the extended collection unit retracts, and the electrically controlled three-way diversion valve is directed towards the sea. When the anemometer in the integrated sensor group detects that the current wind speed is lower than the preset safe operating threshold (e.g., continuous wind speed less than 20 m / s, and no record of instantaneous gusts exceeding 25 m / s), and the rain sensor detects a continuous rainfall signal for a certain period of time, the central control module determines that the time is ripe to start collection. It first sends a switching command to the electrically controlled three-way diversion valve, diverting the flow from the fixed collection unit into the system pipeline. Simultaneously, the drive unit 1 starts under the command, and the folding frame 2 unfolds smoothly and orderly outwards. In an optimized control strategy, the degree of unfolding of the folding frame 2 is not constant, but is dynamically decided by the central control module based on the current wind speed. For example, in a light breeze (e.g., below 5 m / s), the drive unit 1 fully extends the folding frame 2 to its maximum stroke, maximizing the flexible curtain 3's unfolded area and achieving maximum capture efficiency. When the wind speed rises to a moderate level (e.g., 15 m / s), to balance wind load and safety, the central control module controls the drive unit 1 to extend the folding frame 2 to only 80% or 70% of its stroke, correspondingly reducing the curtain's unfolded area and lowering the stress. When the wind speed is within the safety threshold but close to its limit, or when the wind direction is particularly unfavorable, it may even only unfold to 50%. This technical feature of controlling the size of the flexible curtain 3 according to the wind speed is a high-level manifestation of the system's intelligence.

[0052] The initial diversion process during the initial rainfall is completed by the initial diversion device, while the timer inside the central control module keeps synchronized. After the diversion time ends or the accumulated flow reaches the set value, the system defaults to clean rainwater officially flowing through the multi-stage filtration system to the water storage module. Throughout the rainfall process, the self-cleaning program of the secondary filter is triggered and managed by its built-in differential pressure switch or the central control module based on the accumulated time or differential pressure signal. When the rainfall stop signal is captured by the rainwater sensor and continues for a specified duration (e.g., 15 minutes), the central control module determines that the rainfall event has ended. It will first control the electronically controlled three-way diverter valve to reset to the sea discharge state, and then control the drive unit 1 to perform a retraction action, firmly closing the extended collection unit. Subsequently, a small pipeline purging program may be initiated, using gravity or compressed air to purge the remaining water in the pipes, preventing seawater splashing and back-contamination or the formation of stagnant water zones in the pipelines.

[0053] During the water supply process, the central control module continuously monitors the water level in the storage tank. When the constant pressure water supply pump in the ordinary water pipeline starts, or when feedback indicates a drop in pipeline pressure, the system activates the ordinary water treatment process. When the level in the drinking water purification tank falls below the lower limit, and the raw water quality (turbidity in the storage tank) meets the inlet water requirements, the system automatically activates the advanced treatment unit, including a high-pressure pump and a matching ultraviolet sterilizer, to produce water and replenish the liquid. The system automatically shuts down once the high water level is reached. All operational data, alarm history, and water production statistics are recorded and analyzed by the central control module and can be packaged and uploaded to a higher-level automation and information management network on the platform.

[0054] Through the orderly combination and joint operation of the above five modules, the system provided by this invention realizes the full life cycle management of marine rainfall resources from capture, purification, storage to utilization in an efficient, reliable and intelligent manner, providing a solid and green autonomous water conservation solution for marine engineering platforms.

[0055] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the technical principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms, characterized in that, include: The collection module includes a fixed collection unit and at least one set of extended collection units located in the peripheral area of ​​the fixed collection unit; The extended collection unit includes a folding frame (2) driven by a drive unit (1) to open and close, and a flexible screen (3) installed on the folding frame (2). Drainage pipes (4) are provided on the folding frame (2) and the flexible screen (3). The water conveying and filtration module is connected to the drainage pipe (4) of the collection module, and includes an initial diversion device and a multi-stage filtration system in sequence along the water flow direction of the collection pipe. A water storage module, including a water storage tank, which is equipped with a water quality maintenance device; A water purification module, connected to the water storage module, is used to perform graded treatment and independent supply according to the water quality requirements of the terminal water, and includes at least one ordinary water pipeline and one drinking water pipeline. The central control module is electrically connected to the aforementioned modules and also includes an integrated sensor group for sensing the environment and system status and realizing automated control.

2. The modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that, The central control module is configured to: when the wind speed is lower than a preset safety threshold and a rainfall signal is detected, control the extended collection unit to unfold the flexible curtain (3); and when the wind speed is higher than the preset safety threshold or the rainfall stop signal continues for a specified duration, control the extended collection unit to retract the flexible curtain.

3. A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms according to claim 2, characterized in that, The central control module also includes controlling the size of the flexible curtain (3) unfolded by the drive component (1) according to the wind speed.

4. A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-stage filtration system of the water conveyance filtration module includes a primary filter, a secondary filter, and a tertiary filter in sequence along the water flow direction.

5. A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms according to claim 4, characterized in that, The secondary filter is an automatic flushing filter, which automatically triggers a self-cleaning program based on the inlet and outlet pressure difference or cumulative operating time.

6. A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water storage tank in the water storage module is a ballast tank, and its inner wall is coated with a food-grade anti-corrosion coating; the water quality maintenance device includes a circulating aeration device and / or an immersion ultraviolet germicidal lamp, which are used to inhibit the spoilage and deterioration of the stored rainwater.

7. A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the water supply purification module, the ordinary water supply pipeline is equipped with a security filter with a filtration accuracy of 5-10 microns, and / or a disinfectant dosing device; the drinking water pipeline is equipped with a deep treatment unit, which consists of a precision filter, an ultraviolet sterilizer and a reverse osmosis or nanofiltration membrane assembly connected in series along the water flow direction.

8. A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fixed collection unit is modified from the existing drainage outlet on the platform deck, and a three-way diversion valve is installed at its end. The three-way diversion valve is controlled by the central control module to switch between discharge and collection modes.

9. A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that, The folding frame (2) includes a first connecting rod (21) arranged symmetrically on the left and right. One end of the first connecting rod (21) is hinged to the mounting bracket (5), and the other end is hinged to one end of the intermediate hinge rod (22). The other end of the intermediate hinge rod (22) is hinged to one end of the second connecting rod (23). The other ends of the two second connecting rods (23) are connected by a first reinforcing rod (24). The first connecting rod (21), the second connecting rod (23) and the intermediate hinge rod (22) are provided with meshing gears (25). The two intermediate hinge rods (22) are connected by a second reinforcing rod (26). A drainage groove (27) is fixedly installed below the second reinforcing rod (26). The drainage groove (27) is connected to the flexible curtain (3) through a pipe. The drainage groove (27) is connected to the drainage pipe (4) below. A folding drive rod (28) is hinged to the second reinforcing rod (26), and a slide rod (29) is hinged to the other end of the folding drive rod (28). The drive member (1) drives the slide rod (29) to slide in the slide groove (51) on the mounting bracket (5). The flexible curtain (3) is fixedly installed on the first connecting rod (21), the second connecting rod (23), the intermediate hinge rod (22), the first reinforcing rod (24), and the second reinforcing rod (26), and a water-blocking plate (31) is provided around it.

10. A modular intelligent rainwater harvesting and utilization system for offshore platforms according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driving component (1) is a linear motor.

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