Groundwater protection well

Abstract

A groundwater protection well according to an embodiment of the present disclosure measures a water level of groundwater according to whether a wire connected to a water level float is wound or unwound, and can include a wire winding drum that winds the wire and stores the wound wire, a spring drum connected to at least one of a gear box and the wire winding drum, which rotates in a forward direction or a reverse direction according to tension of the wire to maintain tension of the wire, a gear box disposed between the wire winding drum and the spring drum to decelerate rotation of the wire winding drum to be transmitted to the spring drum, and a rotation measurement unit that measures a rotation direction and a number of rotations of the wire while the wire is wound or unwound in the wire winding drum, and measures the water level of the groundwater based on the measured number of rotations.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technical concept disclosed herein relates to a groundwater protection well, and more specifically, to a groundwater protection well for measuring groundwater levels. Background Technology

[0002] Water level gauges inserted into groundwater protection wells are essential devices for monitoring groundwater levels to support resource protection and efficient utilization. Previously used water level gauges lacked sufficient low-power characteristics, making long-term continuous monitoring difficult and incurring significant maintenance burdens, such as battery replacement or recharging.

[0003] Furthermore, since very deep water is common, the line connecting to the water level buoy needs to be quite long. However, the process of winding or unwinding long lines manually or with simple actuation devices consumes a lot of energy, thus limiting its applicability in environments requiring low-power actuation.

[0004] Furthermore, designing or installing a large reel that can accommodate the entire length of the line is not easy. The larger the reel, the larger and heavier the entire device becomes, making installation and maintenance more complex. Controlling the rotational force of the reel itself also becomes difficult, potentially leading to problems in maintaining line tension. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0006] The technical concept of this disclosure aims to solve the problem of providing a groundwater protection well that minimizes energy consumption during the winding or unwinding process, and combines a high-reduction gearbox and a spring drum to accommodate long wires in a small drum, thereby managing the wires stably with low power consumption.

[0007] means for solving problems

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a groundwater protection well that measures groundwater level based on whether or not a line connected to a water level buoy is wound may include: a spool for winding the line and storing the wound line; a spring spool connected to at least one of a gearbox and the spool, which rotates forward or backward according to the tension of the line to maintain the tension of the line; a gearbox disposed between the spool and the spring spool to reduce the rotation of the spool to the spring spool; and a rotation measuring unit that measures the direction and number of rotations while the line is wound or unwound on the spool, and measures the groundwater level based on the measured number of rotations.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the spring drum may include a torsion spring, the torsion spring having a rotation axis that coincides with at least one of the gearbox and the winding drum.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the required torque of the torsion spring can be proportional to the weight acting on the wire and the radius of the spring drum.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the gearbox is connected to the spring drum while sharing a first rotating shaft, and is connected to the winding drum while sharing a second rotating shaft different from the first rotating shaft. The rotation ratio of the first rotating shaft relative to the second rotating shaft may depend on the number of gears included in the gearbox and the gear ratio of the gears.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the gearbox is configured such that five first gears having a gear ratio of 1:4 are connected to one second gear having a gear ratio of 1:3, which can achieve a reduction ratio of 768:1.

[0013] According to one embodiment, when the winding drum rotates 768 times, the spring drum can rotate less than 270 degrees.

[0014] According to one embodiment, during the period when the spool is winding more than 200m of wire, the spring spool may rotate less than once.

[0015] Invention Effects

[0016] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the water level measurement module can stably wind or unwind the line using a spool when a long line is required, and the spring spool continuously maintains the tension of the line, thereby enabling accurate measurement of the water level without the line coming loose or slipping.

[0017] Meanwhile, by utilizing the gearbox's reduction mechanism, the rotation of the spring drum is minimized when winding or releasing long lines, thereby significantly reducing the load on the spring. In particular, achieving a reduction ratio of 768:1 means that even with long line movement, the spring drum performs less than one rotation, thus minimizing spring fatigue accumulation and improving the device's durability.

[0018] Furthermore, by accurately measuring the number of revolutions of the cable reel using a wire encoder, the groundwater level can be precisely calculated. Therefore, compared to existing technologies, the reliability of water level monitoring can be significantly improved.

[0019] Meanwhile, the structure of the spring drum and the gearbox combination allow long lines to be stored in a small drum, thus reducing the overall size and weight of the device and improving the convenience of installation and maintenance.

[0020] In addition, this invention enables stable monitoring of water levels for extended periods even in low-power environments, and can be effectively used in areas where external power supply is difficult or in battery-based operating environments.

[0021] The effects derived from the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure pertain from the following description. That is, unexpected effects resulting from implementing the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a groundwater protection well according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the components of a water level measurement module installed in a groundwater protection well, according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of laying out lines as the groundwater level drops, according to one example.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a coiled wire as the groundwater level rises, according to one example.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a gearbox according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a spring reel according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 7A This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment in which pulleys are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the ground.

[0029] Figure 7B This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of measuring the groundwater level with the cover of a groundwater protection well open.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0031] 10: Water level measurement module

[0032] 100: spool

[0033] 200: Gearbox

[0034] 300: Spring drum

[0035] 400: Rotating measuring unit

[0036] 410: Body of Revolution

[0037] 420: Encoder

[0038] 20: Groundwater protection well

[0039] 21: Flange

[0040] 22: Cover

[0041] 23: Pulley Detailed Implementation

[0042] Throughout this disclosure, the same reference numerals denote the same structural elements. This disclosure does not describe all elements of the embodiments, but rather omits general content in the technical field to which this disclosure pertains or content repeated between embodiments. Terms such as "part, module, component, block" as used in the specification can be implemented in software or hardware, and according to embodiments, multiple "parts, modules, components, blocks" can also embody a single structural element, or a "part, module, component, block" can include multiple structural elements.

[0043] Throughout the instruction manual, when it is stated that a part is "connected" to other parts, this includes not only direct connections but also indirect connections, including connections via wireless communication networks.

[0044] Furthermore, when it is stated that a part "includes" a certain structural element, unless there is a particularly contrary statement, it means that other structural elements may also be included, rather than other structural elements being removed.

[0045] In the full text of the instruction manual, when it is stated that a component is located "on" other components, this includes not only cases where a component is connected to other components, but also cases where other components exist between the two components.

[0046] The terms "first" and "second" are used to distinguish one structural element from another, and the structural element is not limited by the aforementioned terms.

[0047] Singular expressions include plural expressions, provided there is no explicit exception in the context.

[0048] In each step, the identification symbols are used for ease of explanation. The identification symbols do not indicate the order of the steps. Unless a specific order is explicitly stated in the context, the steps can be performed in a different order than that described above.

[0049] The working principle and embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a groundwater protection well 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Reference Figure 1The water level measurement module 10 disclosed herein is installed on the side of the groundwater protection well 20 and can measure the groundwater level. In particular, it can be configured to accurately measure the water level using a long cable with low power consumption. The groundwater protection well 20 plays the main role in the groundwater level monitoring system, and the flange 21 set at the upper end plays the role of stabilizing and supporting the water level measurement unit and the cover 22.

[0052] Specifically, a flange 21 can be provided at the upper end of the groundwater protection well 20. The flange 21, formed on the upper part of the protection well, can be located around the opening and can seal the sides to prevent foreign objects from easily penetrating through the groundwater protection well. A cover 22 is hinged to the flange 21, and the cover 22 can be opened and closed relative to the flange 21. The cover 22 protects the interior of the groundwater protection well 20 from intrusion of foreign objects and can be opened for inspection and maintenance when necessary.

[0053] A pulley 23 is installed on the cover 22. The pulley 23 serves to guide and support the line used for water level measurement, so that the winding and unwinding of the line can be carried out smoothly. The pulley 23 is a structure that holds the line of the water level measurement module to guide the buoy smoothly and stably towards the groundwater. However, the pulley 23 disclosed herein is not limited to this and can be a structure for stably guiding various types of sensors towards the groundwater.

[0054] The water level measuring module 10, used for measuring water level, is fixed to the side wall of the groundwater protection well 20. The groundwater level can be measured by the degree of rotation of the rotating body based on the rotating measuring unit. The degree of rotation can include information such as rotation direction, number of rotations, and rotation angle as rotation information. The rotation information of the rotating body can be measured by the encoder of the rotating measuring unit.

[0055] Figure 1 (a) shows the closed state of the cover 22, at which point the pulley 23 can be positioned on the upper side of the flange 21. Figure 1 (b) shows the open state of the cover 22. In the open state of the cover 22 being rotated, the pulley 23 can also stably guide the line on the flange 21.

[0056] With the structure described above, the present invention can stably control winding and unwinding even when using long lines, and can measure water levels with high reliability while maintaining low power consumption. Furthermore, the opening and closing of cover 22 facilitates maintenance operations.

[0057] According to one embodiment, a bearing may be provided between the flange 21 and the cover 22. The bearing performs a supporting function so that the cover 22 can rotate smoothly relative to the flange 21.

[0058] That is, the cover 22 can be configured to rotate along a bearing provided on the flange 21. Therefore, the user can easily rotate the cover 22 on the flange 21 to adjust the direction of the pulley 23, hang the line according to the adjusted pulley 23 direction, and thus adjust the direction of the retrieval sensor. In addition, the user can adjust the direction of the pulley 23 to set the direction for retrieving the buoy floating in the groundwater. The line used for water level measurement moves through the pulley 23 to change the line's output direction according to the external environment, the structural conditions of the groundwater protection well 20, or the position of the water level measurement module 10.

[0059] Accordingly, the direction of the pulley 23 is adjusted by rotating the cover 22 on the flange 21, thereby optimizing the wire guide direction. Thus, the wire naturally passes through the pulley 23 while minimizing friction or stress, and preventing wire damage or measurement errors.

[0060] In addition, the cover 22 can rotate smoothly via bearings, so the user can easily adjust the position of the cover 22 along the lead-out path, thereby enabling stable and accurate water level measurement in various installation environments.

[0061] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the components of a water level measuring module 10 installed in a groundwater protection well 20 according to one embodiment.

[0062] Reference Figure 2 The water level measurement module 10 may include: a winding drum 100, a gearbox 200, a spring drum 300, and a rotation measurement unit 400. The rotation measurement unit 400 may include a rotating body 410 and an encoder 420. The rotating body 410 rotates each time the wire is wound or unwound, and the encoder 420 measures the rotation information of the rotating body 410.

[0063] At the same time, refer to Figure 2 (c) A display unit 500 may be configured within the housing of the water level measurement module 10. The display unit 500 can display the groundwater level corresponding to the line length. For example, the processor of the encoder 420 can calculate the line length based on rotation information and provide information so that the line length can be displayed on the display unit 500. The display unit 500 may consist of a seven-segment display, configured to allow the user to confirm the water level. Simultaneously, the display unit 500 operates in a non-active state as its basic state, displaying the water level only when the display button is pressed, thereby minimizing power consumption.

[0064] The reel 100 performs the function of winding or releasing the line connected to the water level buoy. The reel 100 rotates as it winds and releases the line, thereby reflecting changes in water level.

[0065] The gearbox 200 is connected between the winding drum 100 and the spring drum 300, and reduces the rotation of the winding drum 100 to transmit the speed to the spring drum 300. At this time, by appropriately setting the speed reduction ratio, the rotation of the spring drum 300 is minimized, and spring fatigue can be suppressed even if the cable length is long.

[0066] The spring drum 300 is equipped with an internal torsion spring, which maintains a predetermined tension during line unwinding or winding. This prevents the line from becoming excessively slack or taut and supports stable water level measurement.

[0067] The rotation measurement unit 400 is provided for measuring the rotation information of the spool 100 or the rotating body 410. For example, the rotation measurement unit 400 includes the rotating body 410 and an encoder 420, which detects the amount of rotation of the rotating body 410. The encoder 420 sends the rotation information to a processor, which can then calculate the length of the cable. The rotation measurement unit 400 is not limited to this; it can also measure the number of revolutions, the direction of rotation, and the angle of rotation of the spool 100.

[0068] Additionally, a display unit 500 may be configured on the outer casing of the water level measurement module 10. The display unit 500 performs the function of displaying the groundwater level to the user based on the line length calculated by the processor. For example, the display unit 500 may be composed of a seven-segment display.

[0069] The display unit 500 can be configured to remain inactive as a basic state to minimize power consumption, displaying the current water level only when a user presses the display button. This allows the water level measurement module to operate stably even in low-power operating environments.

[0070] According to one embodiment, in the water level measuring module 10 of the present invention, the spring drum 300 and the winding drum 100 are configured to rotate around independent rotation axes.

[0071] Specifically, the spring drum 300 is configured to rotate about a first rotation axis. This first rotation axis is connected to a gearbox 200, and the required tension of the wire is provided by a torsion spring disposed inside the spring drum 300 twisting along the first rotation axis. The spring drum 300 is linked to the winding spool 100 via the gearbox 200, but due to the gear ratio, it only receives reduced rotational motion, thus rotating only within a predetermined rotational range (e.g., below 270 degrees).

[0072] On the other hand, the reel 100 is configured to rotate around a second rotation axis. The second rotation axis supports the reel 100, allowing for direct winding and unwinding of line. As the line connected to the water level buoy moves, the reel 100 rotates freely around the second rotation axis, and this rotational movement is detected by the rotation measurement unit 400.

[0073] As described above, by allowing the spring drum 300 to rotate independently about the first rotation axis and the spool 100 to rotate independently about the second rotation axis, tension can be stably maintained and water level can be accurately measured even when using long lines. Furthermore, the reduction mechanism via the gearbox 200 prevents the spring drum 300 from over-rotating, thereby significantly improving the system's durability and reliability.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the spring drum 300 is connected to the gearbox 200, and the rotational motion of the first rotating shaft is reduced in speed by the gearbox 200 and then transmitted to the second rotating shaft. The second rotating shaft supports the winding drum 100 and can directly perform winding and unwinding, and receives the reduced rotational motion to move the line smoothly.

[0075] Specifically, the rotation of the first rotating shaft occurring in the spring drum 300 is reduced in multiple stages by a plurality of gears disposed inside the gearbox 200. For example, the reduction ratio can be set to 768:1, thereby allowing the spool 100 to wind or unwind a long line by rotating multiple times during a period in which the spring drum 300 rotates only a predetermined angle (e.g., less than 270 degrees).

[0076] By employing this independent structure of the first and second rotating shafts and a speed reduction transmission mechanism, the rotational fatigue of the spring drum 300 is minimized while using long lines, and the line tension is stably maintained, thereby improving the accuracy of water level measurement and the durability of the system.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the rotating body 410 of the rotating measuring unit 400 is capable of rotating in the direction of line movement each time the line is moved. The groove through which the line passes in the rotating body 410 can be formed into a precisely designed spiral structure, forming a two-turn spiral, which can perform constant rotation each time the line moves.

[0078] The encoder 420 of the rotation measurement unit 400 can measure the rotation direction, number of revolutions, and rotation angle. Based on the measured rotation information, the length of line movement can be calculated. For example, the encoder 420 can be a magnetic encoder, and when mounted on the winding drum 100 or the rotating body 410, it can accurately detect the rotation angle.

[0079] The line length L calculated by encoder 420 can be calculated using the following mathematical formula:

[0080] Mathematical Formula 1

[0081] L = 2πx rx N.

[0082] R can be the radius of the groove, and N can be the number of revolutions. In terms of the design characteristics of the spiral groove, the rotating body can guide the line constantly and accurately based on the two-turn spiral structure, and the accurate water level can be calculated based on the detected number of revolutions.

[0083] A magnetic encoder detects changes in the relative position between a magnet and a sensor in a non-contact manner, converting the angle into a digital signal. Typically, it can communicate with a processor via I2C or PWM output and provide accurate rotation values ​​in real time at high resolution (e.g., 12 bits, 4096 steps / revolution). Based on this, the rotation of the reel 100 or the rotating body 410 is accurately tracked, and the measured value can be converted into a water level value in real time using a water level calculation algorithm.

[0084] The line can be made of a metal wire with high tensile strength, such as stainless steel, and is connected to the buoy. The line can be wound or unwound on a reel as the water level changes. The buoy, as a structure floating on the water surface, pulls the line up or down as the water level changes, guiding the rotation of the reel 100 and the spring drum 300. The water level measurement module 10 according to an embodiment of this disclosure can be configured to be detachable and installable in the groundwater protection well 20, and can be easily disassembled and reassembled on-site for maintenance and replacement.

[0085] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of laying out lines as the groundwater level drops, according to one example.

[0086] Reference Figure 3 When the groundwater level drops, the buoy 600 also descends, and line can be released from the reel 100. Therefore, the water level measurement system according to the present invention has a structure that precisely sets the force balance so that the buoy 600 can naturally rise or fall with the groundwater level. In the buoy 600, the gravity G generated by its own weight, the buoyancy B in the water, the tension T generated by the line, and the elastic force Fs provided by the torsion spring of the reel 300 interact.

[0087] The buoy 600 tends to descend underground due to the influence of gravity G, while simultaneously experiencing an upward force due to buoyancy B. The buoy 600 is connected to a line, which receives tension through a reel 100 and a spring drum 300 within the water level measurement module 10. The spring drum 300 maintains continuous tension on the line via an internal torsion spring, thereby preventing the line from slackening.

[0088] At this point, in order for the buoy 600 to descend naturally into the ground, the gravity G acting on the buoy 600 should be greater than the sum of the buoyancy B and the tension T. That is, gravity G should be more dominant than the total upward force (B+T) acting on the buoy 600. The tension T formed by the elastic force Fs of the torsion spring should be set to a level that does not hinder the buoy 600 from descending naturally by gravity. This is intended to prevent the spring drum 300 from providing excessive elastic force that would inhibit the movement of the buoy 600 and to keep the line at a proper tension at all times.

[0089] Therefore, in this invention, the spring force of the torsion spring should be adjusted to a degree of tension on the line that does not impede the descent of the buoy 600. Accordingly, the buoy 600 can descend naturally as the groundwater level drops, while the line maintains appropriate tension, thereby enabling accurate detection of positional changes in the buoy 600. This force balance setting helps to simultaneously improve the reliability of water level measurement data and the durability of the system.

[0090] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the water level measuring module 10 rotates the spool 100 and the spring drum 300 in a first direction while the line is being unloaded, and the rotating body 410 of the rotation measuring unit 400, which rotates the line, also rotates in a corresponding direction. At this time, the rotation ratio of the spool 100 and the spring drum 300 can be proportional to the gear ratio of the gearbox 200. The rotation ratio can be the ratio of the rotation angle of the spring drum 300 to the rotation angle of the spool 100. For example, if the spring drum 300 rotates 3 times during the period when the spool 100 rotates 2 times, the rotation angle of the spool 100 is 720 degrees, the rotation ratio can be 240:1 (720:3), and the gear ratio can be 240:1. The gear ratio according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to this, but can include gear ratios in all cases achievable by the gearbox 200.

[0091] The encoder 420 can acquire the direction, angle, and number of rotations of the rotating body 410 as rotation information. The encoder 420 calculates the acquired rotation information, and then calculates the length of the laid-out line. The calculated length is added to the previously stored groundwater level, and then the changing groundwater level can be calculated.

[0092] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a coiled wire as the groundwater level rises, according to one example.

[0093] Reference Figure 4 When the groundwater level rises, the buoy 600 rises along with it, and the line can be wound onto the reel 100. In the water level measurement system of the present invention, when the groundwater level rises, the buoy 600 rises upward as the buoyancy B increases. During this process, gravity G, buoyancy B, tension T generated by the line, and elastic force Fs generated by the torsion spring of the spring reel 300 act on the buoy 600 in balance.

[0094] If the groundwater level rises, the volume of buoy 600 submerged in water increases, thereby significantly increasing buoyancy B. Buoyancy B increases proportionally to the volume of water displaced by buoy 600; therefore, as the water level rises, the force pushing the buoy upwards also becomes stronger.

[0095] At this moment, the gravity G of buoy 600 still acts downwards, but at the instant when the buoyancy B exceeds the gravity G, buoy 600 begins to rise upwards. Since buoy 600 is connected to the line, a tensile force is generated along the line when buoy 600 rises, and this tensile force is transmitted to the reel 100 and the spring reel 300.

[0096] In particular, the torsion spring installed in the spring drum 300 gradually compresses its elastic force Fs by rotating in the direction of the winding when the line is pulled upward by the rising of the float 600. The spring drum 300 is designed to maintain a predetermined torque while winding the line toward the spool 100, and the elastic force Fs is adjusted to allow the float 600 to rise naturally without excessive resistance.

[0097] As a result, when buoy 600 rises with the water level due to buoyancy B, the force relationship that buoyancy B > gravity G + tension T should hold true. Tension T, as the tensile force applied through the line, is directly related to the elastic force Fs of the torsion spring. This tension T should be moderate enough to allow buoy 600 to rise naturally without hindering its ascent, thus maintaining the line from slackening.

[0098] As the water level rises, the buoy 600 naturally rises due to the increased buoyancy B, while the spring force Fs of the torsion spring keeps the line under appropriate tension while causing the reel 100 to wind the line. Thus, changes in the position of the buoy 600 can be accurately detected, and precise measurements can be taken based on changes in water level.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the buoy 600 should naturally descend or rise according to changes in the groundwater level. In this case, the torsion spring of the spring drum 300 should be set in order to maintain appropriate tension online without hindering the movement of the buoy 600.

[0100] Considering the descent of buoy 600, gravity G acts on buoy 600, exerting a force downwards. At this time, the line connected to buoy 600 is given a predetermined elastic force Fs through the torsion spring of spring drum 300, thus exerting a force in the direction of the winding line. For buoy 600 to descend naturally, the gravity G acting on buoy 600 should be greater than the sum of buoyancy B and tension T, where tension T depends on the elastic force Fs of the torsion spring. Therefore, during descent, the gravity of buoy 600 should be sufficiently greater than the elastic force Fs provided by spring drum 300, and buoy 600 should be prevented from being excessively supported upwards by the elastic force or from being hindered from descending due to resistance.

[0101] Conversely, if buoy 600 is to rise with the increase in groundwater level, the sum of the buoyancy force B and the elastic force Fs acting on buoy 600 in the direction of ascent must be greater than the weight G. That is, the ascent condition can be summarized as B + Fs > G. In this case, buoy 600 will rise naturally by the force of the sum of buoyancy and elastic force, and will remain taut while the line is wound by spool 100.

[0102] In summary, the relationship between the gravity G generated by the weight of the buoy 600 and the elastic force Fs of the spring drum 300 should be set as follows: When the buoy 600 descends, G > Fs + B should be satisfied to achieve natural descent; when the buoy 600 rises, B + Fs > G should also be satisfied to achieve natural ascent. Here, the elastic force Fs should be appropriately set to be large enough to maintain the tension of the line without hindering the natural movement of the buoy 600.

[0103] Based on this force relationship, the stiffness coefficient k and initial torque of the torsion spring are appropriately set in this invention, thereby achieving a design that simultaneously satisfies the requirement of freely moving the buoy 600 according to water level changes and maintaining a taut line.

[0104] The spring force Fs of a torsion spring is typically determined by the spring constant k and the rotation angle θ. That is, it is expressed as Fs = k × θ. Here, k is the spring constant, and θ is the angle of spring torsion. Therefore, when designing the spring drum 300, the maximum upward movement distance of the buoy 600 and the reduction ratio with the reel 100 should be considered to appropriately set the value of k so as to provide the required spring force within a suitable rotation angle range.

[0105] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a gearbox 200 according to one embodiment.

[0106] Reference Figure 5 The gearbox 200 includes multiple 1:4 gears as first gears 210, and may include 1:3 gears as second gears 220. The gearbox 200 is positioned between the rotational shafts of the cable reel 100 and the spring drum 300. The rotation of the cable reel 100 is not directly transmitted to the spring drum 300, but rather after multiple stages of reduction. Specifically, the gearbox 200 configures the first gears 210 with a 1:4 gear ratio into 5 stages, and then adds one stage by configuring the second gears 220 with a 1:3 gear ratio, achieving a total reduction ratio of 768:1.

[0107] With this structure, during the 768 rotations of the winding drum 100, the spring drum 300 rotates by less than 270 degrees. Therefore, when winding or unwinding over long distances, such as exceeding 200m, the rotation of the spring drum 300 is very small, thus suppressing the accumulation of spring fatigue.

[0108] Furthermore, the high reduction ratio of 768:1 enables precise rotational control based on long-line movement, thus significantly improving the accuracy of water level measurements. In particular, when using long lines, errors caused by line laying and winding are minimized, enabling long-term, highly reliable water level measurements.

[0109] The gearbox 200 of the present invention has a structure that achieves a high reduction ratio while also helping to maintain a stable torque of the spring drum 300 and improve the overall durability of the system.

[0110] The number of gears and gear ratios included in the gearbox 200 disclosed herein are not limited thereto, but can be appropriately selected according to the required line length and the strength of the torsion spring.

[0111] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a spring reel 300 according to one embodiment.

[0112] Reference Figure 6 The spring reel disclosed herein may include a torsion spring, which may be formed as a planar helical structure. The torsion spring should not generate excessive elastic force during the ascent or descent of the buoy 600. The elastic force Fs provided by the spring should be set at a level that maintains appropriate tension in the line without hindering the free movement of the buoy 600. To this end, the spring stiffness coefficient k should be determined by considering factors such as the weight G of the buoy 600, the predicted buoyancy B, and the distance the line moves (change in length).

[0113] Furthermore, the helical torsion spring should maintain its predetermined torque characteristics even when the angle θ of the line being wound or unwound is large. Since the buoy 600 can move tens of meters or more within the groundwater protection well 20, sufficient spring range of action must be ensured. The torsional rotation angle of the spring (allowable θ) should be set to correspond to the maximum movement distance of the buoy 600, during which the spring should maintain sufficient elastic restoring force without plastic deformation.

[0114] In particular, for planar helical torsion springs, the torque can increase non-linearly if the rotation angle of the structure increases. Therefore, in the design, an excessively large initial spring force is not set, and the initial line load (preload) should be adjusted to provide only appropriate basic tension at the initial position of the buoy 600 (e.g., under normal water level). Accordingly, the buoy 600 can rise and fall freely according to water level changes, while preventing the line from slackening.

[0115] As a result, in order to satisfy both the free movement of the buoy 600 and the tension of the line, the spring stiffness coefficient k, the allowable rotation angle θ, the initial winding state, etc. are precisely set in this invention to optimize the planar helical torsion spring.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the torque required by the torsion spring can be proportional to the load acting on the line and the radius of the spring drum 300. The load acting on the line can be the value of the weight of the buoy 600 minus the buoyancy, and the buoyancy is proportional to the volume of the buoy 600 submerged in water and can have a fixed value. That is, with a fixed radius of the spring drum 300, the torque required by the torsion spring can be determined based on the weight of the buoy 600.

[0117] The spring stiffness can be determined based on the required torque of the torsion spring. That is, a torsion spring 300 and a float 600 that satisfy the following mathematical formula can be selected:

[0118] Mathematical Formula 1

[0119] F×r=k×θ.

[0120] Here, F can be the load acting on the line, r can be the radius of the spring drum 300, k can be the stiffness of the torsion spring, and θ can be the allowable rotation angle of the torsion spring.

[0121] The weight of the buoy 600 can be selected based on the allowable rotation angle of the torsion spring, which depends on the predicted groundwater depth. If the predicted groundwater depth is large, a torsion spring with a large allowable rotation angle should be used, and therefore a heavier buoy 600 should be employed. Conversely, if the predicted groundwater depth is shallow, a torsion spring with a small allowable rotation angle can be used, and therefore a lighter buoy 600 can be employed.

[0122] Therefore, the water level measurement system disclosed herein can be used by selecting any one of different types of torsion springs and buoys 600 based on the predicted or initially measured groundwater depth.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the spool 100 may be composed of an inner cylinder for winding the cable and an outer cylinder for preventing the tangled cable from slipping off. The diameter of the outer cylinder may be proportional to the number of layers of cable, and the length of cable that can be wound in each layer and the total number of layers of cable can be calculated using the following mathematical formula:

[0124] Mathematical formula 2

[0125] n = w / d

[0126] Mathematical Formula 3

[0127]

[0128] Here, n can be the number of times the wire is wound per layer, w can be the width of the inner cylinder, and d can be the diameter of the wire. For example, with w = 200 mm and d = 4 mm, each layer can be wound 50 times.

[0129] L can be the total length of the thread, r0 can be the diameter of the inner cylinder, and N can be the number of layers of thread. The total number of layers N of the thread is calculated using mathematical formulas 2 and 3, and then the diameter of the outer cylinder can be calculated using mathematical formula 4.

[0130] Mathematical expression 4

[0131] R f =r0+N·d.

[0132] In order to wind the wire, the winding drum 100 can rotate many times. The diameters of the inner and outer cylinders are calculated taking into account the total length of the wire, so as to prevent the wire from falling off the winding drum while winding the wire stably.

[0133] Figure 7A This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment in which the pulley 23 is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the ground.

[0134] According to the water level measurement system of the present invention, in Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, the rotation surface of the pulley 23 provided on the cover 22 is parallel to the ground. In this case, the line passing through the pulley 23 can only move in the vertical direction, making it difficult to naturally guide the line in the direction of the ground.

[0135] Conversely, according to Figure 7A In one embodiment, the rotation surface of the pulley 23 can be configured perpendicular to the ground even when the cover 22 is closed. Accordingly, the line moving via the pulley 23 can be routed in the direction of the ground, allowing the user to operate the line more stably and conveniently. In particular, compared to conventional structures that only route the line vertically, the ability to route it in the direction of the ground reduces line friction and bending, thereby improving the reliability of long-term water level measurement operations.

[0136] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, during the initial measurement of groundwater level, the water level can be directly measured without being attached to the pulley 23. The initial water level measurement can be performed with the buoy 600 directly connected to the reel 100 without being attached to the pulley 23, thereby ensuring the initial water level value quickly and accurately.

[0137] After measuring the initial water level, the installer can untie the cable to attach it to pulley 23. During this process, a stop measurement command can be issued to the water level measurement module 10 to avoid affecting the water level measurement data during cable untying. The installer can input the stop measurement command by operating the button located on the housing of the water level measurement module, and then, after confirming that the cable is properly attached to pulley 23, can issue a resume measurement command by pressing the button again.

[0138] This control function prevents water level data errors caused by factors such as wire detachment or tension fluctuations during initial installation, greatly improving the consistency and reliability of water level measurements. Furthermore, the manual input method via buttons provides convenience and intuitiveness for installers, thereby increasing installation efficiency.

[0139] Figure 7B This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of measuring the groundwater level with the cover 22 of a groundwater protection well 20 open.

[0140] Reference Figure 7B In order to stably measure the groundwater level or retrieve the buoy 600 while the cover 22 of the groundwater protection well 20 is open, the line can be hung on the pulley 23 formed in the cover 22. For this purpose, the groundwater protection well cover 22 of this disclosure can rotate along the outer periphery of the flange 21. The cover 22 of the groundwater protection well 20 can be configured to support stable movement of the line even when it is open.

[0141] Specifically, a flange 21 is provided on the upper part of the groundwater protection well 20, and a cover 22 is connected to the flange 21 via a hinge structure. A pulley 23 is installed on the cover 22, allowing the line to be moved while suspended from the pulley 23. The pulley 23 performs the function of supporting and guiding the line to move along a predetermined path.

[0142] In particular, the present invention is designed so that the cover 22 can rotate along the outer periphery of the flange 21. A bearing can be provided between the cover 22 and the flange 21, and the user can adjust the direction of the pulley 23 by rotating the cover 22. Accordingly, the wire lead-out direction or winding direction can be optimized, and the wire movement path can be flexibly adjusted according to the installation conditions of the groundwater protection well 20 or the ease of operation for the user.

[0143] Because the cover 22 can rotate, friction or bending of the line can be minimized when retrieving the buoy 600 or measuring groundwater levels, thus preventing line damage or measurement errors. Furthermore, the pulley 23 can still guide the line when the cover 22 is open, significantly improving the system's stability and convenience when inspecting or replacing the buoy 600.

[0144] Therefore, the present invention provides a technical effect that simultaneously improves the efficiency and reliability of measuring water level and retrieving buoys in groundwater protection well 20 by combining the rotating structure of cover 22 with pulley 23.

[0145] According to one embodiment, when the line connected to the buoy 600 is guided by the pulley 23, a difference may occur between the actual distance the line moves and the vertical distance the buoy 600 moves when the line path is changed by the pulley 23. Therefore, in order to accurately calculate the groundwater level, it is necessary to consider the increase in the path length of the line suspended by the pulley 23 to correct for the water level.

[0146] Specifically, as the buoy 600 rises or falls, the line moves along the pulley 23. The length of the line section connecting the pulley 23 and the buoy 600 includes not only the vertical distance but also the path length from the pulley 23 to the buoy 600. Therefore, the total length of line wound or unwound by the reel 100 will be slightly longer than the actual vertical distance the buoy 600 moves.

[0147] In this embodiment, the increase in length due to changes in the line path is reflected in the measurement, allowing for accurate calculation of the groundwater level. Specifically, when calculating the line movement distance based on the number of revolutions of the spool 100 detected by the rotating measuring unit 400 and the direction of rotation, the additional path length caused by the line hanging on the pulley 23 is calculated and can be used as a correction value for water level calculation.

[0148] For example, if the basic distance between pulley 23 and buoy 600 is fixed, the additional length can be preset to a fixed value, and can be added to the basic length when calculating the water level. Conversely, if the path length between pulley 23 and buoy 600 changes depending on the position of buoy 600, the water level measurement module 10 can include calculation logic that can dynamically reflect the changes.

[0149] As described above, the present invention provides a method for calculating groundwater levels with high accuracy in structures that reflect changes in line path length, even when the line is guided by pulley 23.

[0150] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will understand that this disclosure can be implemented in forms different from the disclosed embodiments even without altering the technical concept or essential features of this disclosure. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A groundwater protection well, comprising measuring the groundwater level based on whether or not the line connected to the water level buoy is wound, including: A spool for winding the wire and storing the wound wire; A spring drum, connected to at least one of the gearbox and the winding drum, rotates in the forward or reverse direction according to the tension of the line in order to maintain the tension of the line; A gearbox is disposed between the winding drum and the spring drum to reduce the rotation of the winding drum to transmit power to the spring drum; and The rotating measuring unit rotates the line simultaneously with the winding or unwinding of the winding drum, measures the direction and number of rotations, and measures the groundwater level based on the measured number of rotations.

2. The groundwater protection well according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spring drum includes a torsion spring. The torsion spring has a rotating shaft that coincides with at least one of the gearbox and the winding drum.

3. The groundwater protection well according to claim 2, characterized in that, The required torque ratio of the torsion spring is proportional to the weight acting on the wire and the radius of the spring drum.

4. The groundwater protection well according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gearbox shares a first rotating shaft and is connected to the spring drum, and shares a second rotating shaft different from the first rotating shaft and is connected to the winding drum. The rotation ratio of the first rotating shaft relative to the second rotating shaft depends on the number of gears included in the gearbox and the gear ratio of the gears.

5. The groundwater protection well according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gearbox has five first gears with a gear ratio of 1:4 connected to one second gear with a gear ratio of 1:3, resulting in a reduction ratio of 768:

1.

6. The groundwater protection well according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the winding drum rotates 768 times, the spring drum rotates less than 270 degrees.

7. The groundwater protection well according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the period when the spool is wound with more than 200m of wire, the spring spool rotates less than once.

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