Fluid generator for underground pipelines

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of fluid kinetic energy utilization, in particular to a fluid generator for underground pipeline, which comprises a shell, an axle body assembly, a generator assembly and an energy storage assembly. The axle body assembly comprises a first axle body, a second axle body and a shaft coupling. The generator assembly comprises a rotor assembly and a stator assembly. The stator assembly is rotatably connected with the second axle body, and the rotor assembly is arranged on the outer circumferential side of the stator assembly. The energy storage assembly comprises an elastic energy storage member and an energy storage transmission member. The elastic energy storage member is wound around the second axle body. The switch structure comprises a floating switch. The floating switch has a limiting position and a release position. When the floating switch is in the limiting position, the floating switch extends into a limiting hole of the rotor assembly, so that the rotor assembly is stopped. When the floating switch is in the release position, the floating switch exits the limiting hole, and the rotor assembly can rotate relative to the stator assembly under the drive of the elastic energy storage member to generate electric energy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of fluid kinetic energy utilization technology, and in particular to a fluid generator for underground pipelines. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of smart city and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, establishing a comprehensive and precise digital monitoring system for underground pipe networks has become an important measure to ensure the safe operation of cities. In the power supply scheme for underground pipe networks, utilizing the kinetic energy of fluids within the pipes to drive generators, thereby enabling various sensors to be self-powered, is a technical approach that is both economical and feasible.

[0003] However, power supply has always been a core bottleneck restricting the digital and intelligent development of underground pipe networks. Currently, the power supply for monitoring nodes in underground pipe networks mainly relies on two methods: one is long-life chemical batteries. However, the pipe network environment is humid and has large temperature differences, so the actual lifespan of the batteries is often far lower than the theoretical value. Moreover, the periodic replacement after the battery is depleted is not only extremely costly to maintain, but also poses construction safety hazards. The second method is to deploy impeller-type or turbine-type hydroelectric power generation devices inside the pipeline. However, the flow velocity of fluids in underground pipe networks is usually random and low-speed. Traditional impellers require high starting flow velocities (>1.5m / s), have low energy capture efficiency, and the impeller device will significantly reduce the liquid flow velocity in the pipeline. In addition, the pipe network fluids are often accompanied by impurities, dirt, or suspended matter. Rotating mechanical structures are prone to entanglement, jamming, and wear, leading to a rapid deterioration of system reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application discloses a fluid generator for underground pipelines to capture fluid energy in the pipelines and power electrical equipment in underground pipeline networks.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution: In a first aspect, this application provides a fluid generator for underground pipelines, comprising: The outer shell has a sealed containing cavity; A shaft assembly includes a first shaft, a second shaft, and a coupling; the first shaft is disposed outside the housing; the second shaft passes through the housing and is anti-rotationally fitted to the housing, and the second shaft is rotatably connected to the first shaft via the coupling; A generator assembly is disposed within a receiving cavity. The generator includes a rotor assembly and a stator assembly. The stator assembly is rotatably connected to a second shaft. The rotor assembly is disposed on the outer periphery of the stator assembly. The rotor assembly has a first end face and a second end face that are opposite each other in the axial direction. A limit hole is provided on the first end face of the rotor assembly. An energy storage component is disposed on the side of the rotor assembly near the second end face. The energy storage component includes an elastic energy storage element and an energy storage transmission element. The elastic energy storage element is wound around the second shaft and has a first connecting end and a second connecting end opposite each other in its radial direction. The energy storage component is fixedly connected to the outer shell and can rotate unidirectionally along the second shaft. The energy storage transmission element is fixedly connected to the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage element, and the second end of the elastic energy storage element is fixedly connected to the rotor assembly. When the second connecting end is displaced relative to the first connecting end along the winding direction of the elastic energy storage element, the elastic energy storage element stores energy. A switch structure is disposed on the side of the rotor assembly near the first end face. The switch structure includes a floating switch that can be floated along the axial direction of the rotor assembly. The floating switch has a limit position and a release position. When the floating switch is in the limit position, the floating switch extends into the limit hole of the rotor assembly to stop the rotor assembly from rotating. When the floating switch is in the release position, the floating switch exits the limit hole, and the rotor assembly can rotate relative to the stator assembly under the drive of the elastic energy storage element to generate electrical energy.

[0006] In some embodiments, the energy storage transmission component includes an outer energy storage ratchet and an inner energy storage ratchet. The outer energy storage ratchet is fixedly connected to the housing and rotatably connected relative to the second shaft. A first toothed ring is provided on the side wall of the outer energy storage ratchet facing the inner energy storage ratchet. The inner energy storage ratchet is connected to the second shaft through a first one-way bearing. The inner energy storage ratchet includes a first ratchet tooth, which drives and engages with the first toothed ring of the outer energy storage ratchet. The inner energy storage ratchet is fixedly connected to the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage component. The rotation direction of the first one-way bearing is the same as the winding direction of the elastic energy storage element.

[0007] In some embodiments, the energy storage external ratchet includes a first base plate and a first annular side plate surrounding the outer periphery of the first base plate. The first base plate is sleeved on and rotatably connected to the second shaft. A first toothed ring is provided on the inner surface of the first annular side plate. At least one of the first base plate and the first annular side plate is fixedly connected to the outer shell.

[0008] In some embodiments, the energy storage inner ratchet includes a first cylinder and a second cylinder connected together, and at least one of the first cylinder and the second cylinder is rotatably connected to a second shaft. The diameter of the first cylinder is smaller than the diameter of the second cylinder, and the second cylinder is provided with a first ratchet. The first cylinder is provided with a slot, and the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage component is closer to the second shaft than the second connecting end, with the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage component extending into the slot.

[0009] In some embodiments, the elastic energy storage element is an elastic coil spring.

[0010] In some embodiments, the switch structure further includes a switch triggering part and a connecting rod. The switch triggering part is sleeved on the second shaft and rotatably connected to the second shaft in one direction. The rotation direction of the switch triggering part is the same as that of the energy storage transmission component. The first end of the connecting rod is sleeved on the second shaft and located between the first end face and the switch trigger part. The floating switch includes a floating element and an elastic element. The floating element passes through the second end of the connecting rod, and the elastic element is located between the floating element and the side of the connecting rod away from the second end face. The switch triggering part includes a drive wall facing the second end face, the drive wall including a flat part and a groove part recessed away from the second end face; the switch triggering part rotates to switch the float switch between a limit position and a release position.

[0011] In some embodiments, when the floating element abuts against the drive wall, the elastic element is in a compressed state, and the floating element extends into the limiting hole of the rotor assembly so that the floating switch is in the limiting position. When the floating element extends into the groove under the reset action of the elastic element, the floating element disengages from the limiting hole of the rotor assembly, so that the floating switch is in the released position.

[0012] In some embodiments, the groove portion includes a first groove sidewall and a second groove sidewall, which are disposed opposite to each other along the circumferential direction of the switch trigger portion; In the rotation direction of the switch triggering part, the second groove sidewall is located behind the first groove sidewall; wherein, the second groove sidewall is inclined in the transmission direction of the switch triggering part.

[0013] In some embodiments, the switch structure further includes a switch driving component, which includes a driving outer ratchet and a driving inner ratchet; The drive outer ratchet is fixedly connected to the housing and rotatably connected relative to the second shaft. The drive outer ratchet has a second tooth ring on its side wall facing the energy storage inner ratchet. The drive inner ratchet is connected to the second shaft through a second one-way bearing. The drive inner ratchet includes a second ratchet tooth, which drives and engages with the second tooth ring of the energy storage outer ratchet. The drive inner ratchet is driven and connected to the switch trigger unit. The second one-way bearing rotates in the same direction as the first one-way bearing.

[0014] In some embodiments, the switch structure further includes a reduction ratio component, and the inner ratchet is driven to be connected to the switch trigger part through the reduction ratio component, so that the rotational speed of the switch trigger part is less than the rotational speed of the inner ratchet.

[0015] In some embodiments, the speed ratio between the drive ratchet and the switch trigger is between 2 and 5.

[0016] In some embodiments, the reduction ratio assembly includes a sun gear, a planet carrier, and a plurality of planet gears; The sun gear is located on the side of the drive ratchet near the rotor assembly and rotates synchronously with the drive ratchet. The planet carrier is located between the sun gear and the switch structure. Multiple planet gears are mounted on the planet carrier and drive the sun gear. The switch trigger also includes a third gear ring surrounding the drive wall in the circumferential direction, which engages with multiple planetary gears.

[0017] In some embodiments, the limiting holes include a plurality of holes, which are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second end face.

[0018] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the outer shell is airfoil-shaped.

[0019] In some embodiments, the housing includes an airfoil side shell, a first end cap, and a second end cap, the shapes of the first end cap and the second end cap being configured to correspond to the shape of the airfoil side shell; The energy storage outer ratchet is interference-fitted with the airfoil side shell.

[0020] In some embodiments, the fluid generator for underground pipelines further includes a connection portion, a first shaft body is disposed on the connection portion, and the connection portion is used for connecting to an external device. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 An exploded view of a fluid generator for underground pipelines provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the power generation components and energy storage components of a fluid generator for underground pipelines. Figure 3 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the switching assembly of a fluid generator for underground pipelines; Figure 4 for Figure 1 An assembly diagram of the internal structure of a fluid generator for underground pipelines; Figure 5 for Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the generator assembly of a fluid generator for underground pipelines; Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of a fluid generator for underground pipelines provided in the embodiments of the application.

[0022] Figure label: 10-Fluid generator; 100-Housing housing; 110-Airfoil side shell; 120-First end cover; 130-Second end cover; 210-First shaft; 220-Second shaft; 231-External coupling; 232-Internal coupling; 240-Connecting bearing; 300-Generator assembly; 310-Rotor assembly; 311-Limiting hole; 312-Second slot; 320-Stator assembly; 400 - Energy storage component; 410 - Elastic energy storage component; 420 - Energy storage outer ratchet; 421 - First gear ring; 430 - Energy storage inner ratchet; 431 - First cylinder; 432 - Second cylinder; 433 - First ratchet tooth; 434 - First slot; 500 - Switch structure; 510 - Switch trigger part; 511 - Flat part; 512 - Groove part; 513 - First slot sidewall; 514 - Second slot sidewall; 515 - Third gear ring; 520 - Connecting rod; 530 - Floating component; 540 - Elastic component; 550 - Drive outer ratchet; 551 - Second gear ring; 560 - Drive inner ratchet; 561 - Second ratchet tooth; 570 - Reduction ratio component; 571 - Sun gear; 572 - Planet carrier; 573 - Planet gear; 600 - Connecting part. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or", for example, A / B can mean A or B; "and / or" in the text is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone.

[0024] Hereinafter, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as implying or suggesting relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature, and in the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0025] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, this application provides a fluid generator 10 for underground pipelines, including a housing 100, a shaft assembly, a generator assembly 300, an energy storage assembly 400, and a switch structure 500.

[0026] like Figure 1 and Figure 6As shown, the outer casing 100 has a sealed accommodating cavity. Specifically, the outer casing 100 serves as the protective housing for the entire device, and the accommodating cavity formed inside it is isolated from the external fluid environment, providing a dry, clean, and stable operating space for the internal structure.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the shaft assembly includes a first shaft 210, a second shaft 220, and a coupling. The first shaft 210 is disposed outside the housing 100. The second shaft 220 passes through the housing 100 and is anti-rotationally engaged with the housing 100, and the second shaft 220 is rotatably connected to the first shaft 210 via the coupling. Exemplarily, the first shaft 210 can serve as a connection structure connecting the housing 100 to other external devices; the second shaft 220 is fixed to the housing 100 and anti-rotationally engaged with the housing 100, providing an installation position for internal components. The coupling includes an external coupling 231 and an internal coupling 232, specifically, it can be an external magnetic coupling and an internal magnetic coupling. A groove is provided on the first end cover 120 of the housing 100, and a connecting bearing 240 is disposed within the groove. The external coupling 231 is connected to the first end cover 120 via the connecting bearing 240. Through the internal magnetic coupling and the external magnetic coupling, a non-contact magnetic transmission air gap is formed between the two. The outer shell 100 is located in the transmission air gap, realizing the connection between the first shaft 210 and the second shaft 220, while ensuring the sealing of the outer shell 100.

[0028] like Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the generator assembly 300 is disposed in the receiving cavity. The generator assembly 300 includes a rotor assembly 310 and a stator assembly 320. The stator assembly 320 is rotatably connected to the second shaft 220. The rotor assembly 310 is disposed on the outer peripheral side of the stator assembly 320. The rotor assembly 310 has a first end face and a second end face that are opposite each other in the axial direction. A limit hole 311 is provided on the first end face of the rotor assembly 310.

[0029] The stator assembly 320, as the stationary part of the power generation unit, is mounted on the second shaft 220; the rotor assembly 310 is arranged around the stator assembly 320 and serves as the motion output part of the power generation unit. The limiting hole 311 on the first end face of the rotor assembly 310 is the interface for the switch structure 500 to perform a locking action, used to limit the rotation of the rotor assembly 310 relative to the stator assembly 320 at a specific stage. This layout, with the rotor external and the stator internal, is beneficial for increasing the rotor's moment of inertia. Combined with the subsequent energy storage and release mechanism, it can generate a high cutting magnetic field velocity instantaneously, thereby improving power generation efficiency. For example, the stator assembly 320 is a three-phase AC motor stator, and the rotor assembly 310 is a three-phase AC motor rotor.

[0030] like Figure 2As shown, the energy storage component 400 is disposed on the side of the rotor assembly 310 near the second end face. The energy storage component 400 includes an elastic energy storage element 410 and an energy storage transmission element. The elastic energy storage element 410 is wound around the second shaft 220 and has a first connecting end and a second connecting end opposite each other in its radial direction. The energy storage component 400 is fixedly connected to the outer shell 100 and can rotate unidirectionally along the second shaft 220. The energy storage transmission element is fixedly connected to the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage element 410, and the second end of the elastic energy storage element 410 is fixedly connected to the rotor assembly 310. When the second connecting end is displaced relative to the first connecting end along the winding direction of the elastic energy storage element 410, the elastic energy storage element 410 stores energy. Specifically, the energy storage transmission element can adjust the irregular motion input from the outside into unidirectional rotational motion and drive the elastic energy storage element 410 to deform. The elastic energy storage element 410 utilizes the elastic properties of the material to store rotational mechanical energy in the form of elastic potential energy. Since the energy storage component 400 is fixedly connected to the outer casing 100, and the rotor assembly 310 remains stationary in the locked state, the continuous external input motion (the oscillation of the outer casing 100) will continuously increase the relative displacement between the two ends of the elastic energy storage component 410, allowing it to continuously store energy. This process effectively overcomes the problem that low-flow-rate fluids have low energy density and cannot drive the rotor assembly 310 to rotate.

[0031] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the switch structure 500 is disposed on the side of the rotor assembly 310 near the first end face. The switch structure 500 includes a floating switch that can be floated along the axial direction of the rotor assembly 310. The floating switch has a limit position and a release position. When the floating switch is in the limit position, the floating switch extends into the limit hole 311 of the stator assembly 320 to stop the stator assembly 320 from rotating. When the floating switch is in the release position, the floating switch exits the limit hole 311, and the stator assembly 320 can rotate relative to the stator assembly 320 under the drive of the elastic energy storage member 410 to generate electrical energy. It should be noted that "stopping the stator assembly 320 from rotating" here means that the stator assembly 320 remains relatively stationary or locked relative to the rotor assembly 310 to provide a support point for the energy storage of the elastic energy storage member 410. When the switch structure 500 switches to the release position, the floating switch releases the constraint on the rotor assembly 310, and the accumulated elastic potential energy is released instantly, driving the rotor assembly 310 to rotate at high speed and cut the magnetic field of the stator assembly 320 to generate electrical energy, thereby achieving the effect of power generation.

[0032] In some implementations, such as Figure 2As shown, the energy storage transmission component includes an outer energy storage ratchet 420 and an inner energy storage ratchet 430. The outer energy storage ratchet 420 is fixedly connected to the outer casing 100 and rotatably connected relative to the second shaft 220. The outer energy storage ratchet 420 has a first gear ring 421 on its sidewall facing the inner energy storage ratchet 430. The inner energy storage ratchet 430 is connected to the second shaft 220 through a first one-way bearing. The inner energy storage ratchet 430 includes a first ratchet tooth 433, which drives the first gear ring 421 of the outer energy storage ratchet 420. The inner energy storage ratchet 430 is fixedly connected to the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage component 410. The rotation direction of the first one-way bearing is the same as the winding direction of the elastic energy storage component 410.

[0033] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the external ratchet 420, serving as an external power input structure, reciprocates with the outer casing 100 under the influence of the fluid. When the external ratchet 420 oscillates, its inner first gear ring 421 engages with the first ratchet tooth 433 on the inner ratchet 430. Since the inner ratchet 430 is mounted on the second shaft 220 via a first one-way bearing, and the conduction direction of the first one-way bearing is consistent with the winding energy storage direction of the elastic coil spring, torque can only be transmitted when the ratchet meshes and drives the inner ratchet 430 to rotate in the energy storage direction, regardless of the direction in which the outer casing 100 oscillates. Conversely, when oscillating in the opposite direction, the first one-way bearing slips and spins freely, and the inner ratchet 430 remains stationary. This motion converts the bidirectional, low-frequency, irregular oscillation of the external fluid into the unidirectional rotational motion of the inner ratchet 430, providing a stable power input for subsequent elastic energy storage.

[0034] In some implementations, such as Figure 2 As shown, the energy storage external ratchet 420 includes a first base plate and a first annular side plate surrounding the outer periphery of the first base plate. The first base plate is sleeved on and rotatably connected to the second shaft 220. A first toothed ring 421 is provided on the inner surface of the first annular side plate. At least one of the first base plate and the first annular side plate is fixedly connected to the outer casing 100. A shaft hole is opened in the center of the first base plate, which is sleeved on the second shaft 220 through a bearing, providing radial support and axial positioning for the entire energy storage external ratchet 420. The first toothed ring 421 is machined on the inner wall of the first annular side plate, directly meshing with the energy storage inner ratchet 430. In terms of assembly, the energy storage external ratchet 420 can be fixed to the inner wall of the airfoil outer casing 100 by interference fit, thereby directly transmitting the movement of the outer casing 100 to the ratchet system.

[0035] In some implementations, such as Figure 2As shown, the energy storage inner ratchet 430 includes a first cylinder 431 and a second cylinder 432 connected together. At least one of the first cylinder 431 and the second cylinder 432 is rotatably connected to the second shaft 220. The diameter of the first cylinder 431 is smaller than the diameter of the second cylinder 432, and the second cylinder 432 is provided with a first ratchet tooth 433. The first cylinder 431 is provided with a first slot 434, and the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage member 410 is closer to the second shaft 220 than the second connecting end, with the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage member 410 extending into the slot. Specifically, the energy storage inner ratchet 430 adopts a stepped shaft cylinder structure. The second cylinder 432, with a larger diameter, has first ratchet teeth 433 arranged on its outer periphery for meshing with the energy storage outer ratchet 420. The first cylinder 431, with a smaller diameter, is used to install the elastic energy storage member 410, and the slot on it forms a stable fixed connection with the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage member 410.

[0036] In this embodiment, the elastic energy storage element 410 is an elastic coil spring. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the first connecting end (inner end) of the elastic coil spring is fixed in the slot of the first cylinder 431 of the energy storage inner ratchet 430, and the second connecting end (outer end) is fixed in the second slot 312 of the rotor assembly 310. When the energy storage inner ratchet 430 rotates unidirectionally along the winding direction under the drive of the first one-way bearing, and the rotor assembly 310 is in a stationary state locked by the switch structure 500, the two ends of the elastic coil spring generate relative angular displacement, the spring band is gradually tightened, and mechanical energy is stored inside the coil spring in the form of elastic potential energy. When the switch structure 500 releases the rotor assembly 310, the energy stored in the elastic coil spring is released instantaneously, driving the rotor assembly 310 to rotate at high speed to generate electricity.

[0037] It should be understood that although an elastic coil spring is preferred in this embodiment, in other embodiments, the elastic energy storage element 410 can also be replaced by a torsion bar spring, a disc spring assembly, or other elastic elements with rotational energy storage characteristics, as long as the function of "relative displacement generating coil energy storage" can be achieved.

[0038] In some implementations, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the switch structure 500 also includes a switch trigger part 510 and a connecting rod 520. The switch trigger part 510 is sleeved on the second shaft 220 and is unidirectionally rotatable relative to the second shaft 220. The rotation direction of the switch trigger part 510 is the same as that of the energy storage transmission component. The first end of the connecting rod 520 is sleeved on the second shaft 220 and is located between the second end face and the switch trigger part 510. The floating switch includes a floating member 530 and an elastic member 540. The floating member 530 passes through the second end of the connecting rod 520, and the elastic member 540 is disposed between the side of the connecting rod 520 away from the second end face and the floating member 530. The switch trigger part 510 includes a drive wall facing the second end face. The drive wall includes a flat part 511 and a recessed part 512 that is recessed away from the second end face. The switch trigger part 510 rotates to switch the floating switch between a limit position and a release position.

[0039] Specifically, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the rotation direction of the switch trigger 510 is consistent with the energy storage direction of the energy storage inner ratchet 430 in the energy storage transmission component. The connecting rod 520 is fixedly sleeved on the second shaft 220, serving as the mounting base for the floating switch. The floating member 530 slides axially through the connecting rod 520; the elastic member 540 can be a compression spring sandwiched between the floating member 530 and the connecting rod 520. The bottom surface of the switch trigger 510 facing the first end face of the rotor assembly 310 forms a drive wall, which has a flat portion 511 and a groove portion 512. When the switch trigger 510 rotates, the structure of its bottom surface can drive the floating member 530 to float axially. Specifically, when the floating member 530 is opposite to the flat portion 511 of the switch trigger portion 510, the flat portion 511 presses the floating member 530 down, causing the floating member 530 to extend into the limiting hole 311 of the stator assembly 320, thereby stopping the rotor assembly 310 from rotating. At this time, the floating switch is in the limiting position. When the floating member 530 is opposite to the recessed portion 512 of the switch trigger portion 510, the floating member 530 bounces upward under the action of the elastic member 540, exiting the limiting hole 311. The rotor assembly 310 can then rotate relative to the stator assembly 320 under the drive of the elastic energy storage member 410 to generate electrical energy.

[0040] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, to ensure smooth triggering of the switch structure 500, the groove portion 512 includes a first groove sidewall 513 and a second groove sidewall 514, which are arranged opposite to each other along the circumferential direction of the switch trigger portion 510. In the rotation direction of the switch trigger portion 510, the second groove sidewall 514 is located behind the first groove sidewall 513. The second groove sidewall 514 is inclined in the transmission direction of the switch trigger portion 510. Specifically, after the switch trigger portion 510 continues to rotate and completes one release, it needs to re-enter the limit state of the next energy storage cycle. At this time, the floating member 530 needs to move out of the groove portion 512 and abut against the flat portion 511. If the outlet sidewall of the groove portion 512 is a vertical steep wall, the floating member 530 will be subjected to large radial shear force and rigid impact during the downward pressing and abutment against the flat portion 511, which can easily lead to jamming, wear, or even breakage. By designing the second groove sidewall 514 as a guide surface inclined in the direction of rotation, the floating member 530 can gradually transition from the groove portion 512 to the flat portion 511 along the inclined surface of the second groove sidewall 514 during the rotation of the switch trigger portion 510. This design reduces the loss of the floating member 530 when switching from the release position to the trigger position, and ensures the service life of the fluid generator 10.

[0041] In some implementations, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the switch structure 500 also includes a switch drive assembly, which includes an outer drive ratchet 550 and an inner drive ratchet 560. The outer drive ratchet 550 is fixedly connected to the housing 100 and rotatably connected relative to the second shaft 220. A second gear ring 551 is provided on the side wall of the outer drive ratchet 550 facing the energy storage inner ratchet 430. The inner drive ratchet 560 is connected to the second shaft 220 through a second one-way bearing. The inner drive ratchet 560 includes a second ratchet tooth 561, which drives and engages with the second gear ring 551 of the outer drive ratchet 550. The inner drive ratchet 560 is driven and connected to the switch trigger part 510. The second one-way bearing rotates in the same direction as the first one-way bearing. Specifically, the outer drive ratchet 550 is fixedly connected to the housing 100 and swings synchronously with the housing 100. The motion input source of the outer drive ratchet 550 is the same as that of the energy storage outer ratchet 420, both originating from the housing 100. The drive ratchet 560 is mounted on the second shaft 220 via a second one-way bearing. Utilizing the meshing of the second ratchet 561 and the second gear ring 551, and the unidirectional conduction characteristic of the second one-way bearing, the bidirectional oscillation of the housing 100 is also adjusted to a unidirectional rotational motion. Since the conduction direction of the second one-way bearing is the same as that of the first one-way bearing, the rotation direction of the drive ratchet 560 is consistent with that of the energy storage ratchet 430. This dual-path parallel adjustment design ensures that the rotation angle of the switch trigger 510 is proportional to the cumulative oscillation amount of the housing 100, and consequently proportional to the winding amount of the elastic coil spring.

[0042] To further optimize power generation performance, such as Figure 3 As shown, the switch structure 500 also includes a reduction ratio assembly 570. The inner drive ratchet 560 is driven and connected to the switch trigger part 510 through the reduction ratio assembly 570, so that the rotational speed of the switch trigger part 510 is less than the rotational speed of the inner drive ratchet 560. The reduction ratio assembly 570 specifically uses a planetary gear system to achieve speed reduction transmission. The reduction ratio assembly 570 includes a sun gear 571, a planet carrier 572, and multiple planet gears 573. The sun gear 571 is disposed on the side of the inner drive ratchet 560 near the rotor assembly 310 and rotates synchronously with the inner drive ratchet 560. The planet carrier 572 is disposed between the sun gear 571 and the switch structure 500. The multiple planet gears 573 are mounted on the planet carrier 572 and drive and cooperate with the sun gear 571. The switch trigger part 510 also includes a third gear ring 515 surrounding the drive wall in the circumferential direction. The third gear ring 515 drives and cooperates with the multiple planet gears 573.

[0043] Specifically, in this planetary gear transmission chain, the sun gear 571 serves as the power input end, receiving unidirectional rotational power from the drive ratchet 560; multiple planet gears 573 serve as intermediate transmission components, rotating both on their own axes and revolving around the sun gear 571; and the third ring gear 515 serves as the power output end, integrally formed with the switch trigger part 510. By configuring the tooth number relationship of the sun gear 571, planet gears 573, and third ring gear 515, a specific reduction transmission ratio is established.

[0044] Furthermore, the speed ratio between the drive ratchet 560 and the switch trigger unit 510 is between 2 and 5. Specifically, when the speed ratio is set within this range, it means that for every rotation of the switch trigger unit 510 (i.e., to complete one energy storage and release cycle), the drive ratchet 560 needs to rotate 2 to 5 times, and correspondingly, the elastic coil spring is wound a corresponding number of times more. If the speed ratio is too small (e.g., less than 2), the single energy storage cycle is too short, and the energy stored in the elastic coil spring is insufficient to drive the rotor assembly 310 to reach the effective power generation speed, resulting in an excessively low output voltage, making it difficult for the back-end circuit to utilize the power. If the speed ratio is too large (e.g., greater than 5), although the energy released per cycle increases, the trigger frequency decreases significantly, which may lead to an excessively long interval between two power generation pulses under low flow rate conditions, failing to meet the power supply continuity requirements for continuous sensor monitoring. Therefore, by setting the speed ratio in the range of 2 to 5 times the reduction ratio, both the single energy density and the triggering frequency are taken into account. This ensures that each released electrical energy pulse has sufficient amplitude and duration to drive the load, while maintaining a reasonable triggering frequency to adapt to the random fluctuation characteristics of underground pipe network fluids, thereby achieving the optimization of overall power generation efficiency.

[0045] In some implementations, such as Figure 3As shown, the limiting holes 311 include multiple holes, which are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second end face. Specifically, multiple limiting holes 311 are evenly distributed along the circumferential direction on the first end face of the rotor assembly 310. The multiple limiting holes 311 significantly reduce the difficulty of matching the floating switch with the limiting holes 311, and improve the locking success rate and response speed.

[0046] To optimize the energy capture efficiency of the fluid generator 10 in low-flow-rate environments, the cross-section of the outer casing 100 is airfoil-shaped. Specifically, as shown... Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, the outer casing 100 employs a composite hydrodynamic airfoil profile. Exemplarily, this airfoil has a symmetrical cross-section, with its maximum thickness located at 30% of the chord length, and the upper and lower surfaces are symmetrical about the chord. This design allows the outer casing 100 to generate a large-amplitude reciprocating oscillation even at low flow velocities (e.g., below 0.5 m / s). Simultaneously, the 30% relative thickness ensures structural strength to withstand water pressure and alternating loads while providing sufficient internal space to accommodate energy storage and power generation components.

[0047] It should be understood that although this embodiment preferably uses a symmetrical airfoil to adapt to bidirectional flow or pipeline environments with uncertain flow direction, in scenarios with constant flow direction, an asymmetrical airfoil or an airfoil with curvature can also be used to further improve unidirectional energy capture efficiency.

[0048] In some implementations, such as Figure 1 As shown, the outer casing 100 includes an airfoil side shell 110, a first end cap 120, and a second end cap 130. The shapes of the first end cap 120 and the second end cap 130 correspond to the shape of the airfoil side shell 110. The energy storage outer ratchet 420 is interference-fitted with the airfoil side shell 110. Specifically, the outer casing 100 adopts a split structure design, assembled from the middle airfoil side shell 110 and the end caps at both ends. In terms of connection, the energy storage outer ratchet 420 is directly interference-fitted with the inner wall of the airfoil side shell 110, so that the swing energy of the outer casing 100 can be directly transmitted to the energy storage transmission component. The mating surfaces of the first end cap 120 and the second end cap 130 with the airfoil side shell 110 are coated with high-performance waterproof sealant, and a static seal is formed by interference fit or bolt tightening, completely preventing the infiltration of external fluids.

[0049] In some implementations, such as Figure 6 As shown, the fluid generator 10 also includes a connecting portion 600, on which a first shaft 210 is disposed. The connecting portion 600 is used for connection with an external device. Specifically, as shown... Figure 1 and Figure 1As shown, the connecting part 600 in this embodiment is specifically embodied as a connector or other structure that cooperates with the external environment. The first shaft 210 serves as a fixed reference and is fixedly connected to the external pipeline through the connector. The connector can take various forms such as a flange, screw fixing seat, or magnetic base to adapt to different installation scenarios.

[0050] The following is a comprehensive description of the complete working process of the fluid generator 10, from fluid kinetic energy input to electrical energy output. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, when the fluid in the pipe flows through the airfoil 100, due to the hydrodynamic characteristics of the airfoil cross-section, the airfoil 100 can continuously reciprocate around the first axis as a fulcrum. The first axis 210 is fixed to the inner wall of the pipe by a connector, serving as the static reference for the entire device. The oscillation of the airfoil 100 is the motion input source of the device, and its oscillation amplitude and frequency depend on the flow velocity and density of the fluid in the pipe, as well as the geometric parameters outside the airfoil. It should be understood that the oscillation of the airfoil 100 is a random reciprocating motion influenced by the turbulent characteristics of the fluid, and its frequency and amplitude change in real time with the operating conditions.

[0051] Next, refer to Figures 2 to 4 The motion is transmitted from the outer shell 100 to the internal energy storage component 400 and switching structure 500 via two parallel transmission paths. The oscillation of the airfoil 100 simultaneously drives the interference-fitted external energy storage ratchet 420 and the drive external ratchet 550 to reciprocate synchronously. At the same time, the motion of the airfoil 100 is also transmitted to the interior of the receiving cavity through magnetic coupling between the external and internal magnetic couplings, crossing the isolation wall of the airfoil 100 cover. The second shaft 220 is connected to the external magnetic coupling via the internal magnetic coupling, providing a support reference for the internal energy storage component 400, switching structure 500, and generator assembly 300. The airfoil 100 cover is interference-fitted with the airfoil 100 and sealed with waterproof adhesive, completely isolating the internal precision transmission and power generation components from the external fluid environment.

[0052] In the transmission path of energy storage component 400, such as Figures 2 to 4As shown, when the outer ratchet 420 reciprocates with the airfoil 100, its inner first gear ring 421 engages with the first ratchet tooth 433 on the inner ratchet 430. Since the inner ratchet 430 is mounted on the shaft via a first one-way bearing, and this bearing only conducts energy in the direction of the coiling of the elastic spring, torque is effectively transmitted when the airfoil 100's oscillation direction causes the ratchet engagement to drive the inner ratchet 430 to rotate in the energy storage direction. Conversely, when oscillating in the opposite direction, the first one-way bearing slips and spins freely, keeping the inner ratchet 430 stationary. In this way, the bidirectional, low-frequency, irregular oscillation of the airfoil 100 is converted into a unidirectional rotational motion of the inner ratchet 430. The unidirectional rotation of the inner ratchet 430 drives the inner end of the elastic spring to rotate in the coiling direction. During the energy storage phase, the rotor assembly 310 of the motor is locked and remains stationary by the switching structure 500, and the outer end of the elastic coil spring, fixed to the rotor assembly 310, also remains stationary. Therefore, a continuous relative angular displacement occurs between the two ends of the elastic coil spring, which is gradually tightened. The mechanical energy input from the oscillating airfoil 100 is continuously accumulated in the elastic coil spring in the form of elastic potential energy. This process essentially compresses and accumulates low-power fluid energy dispersed over a relatively long period, preparing for the subsequent instantaneous release of high power.

[0053] In the force transmission path of the 500-type switch structure, such as Figures 2 to 4As shown, the outer ratchet 550 swings synchronously with the airfoil housing 100. Through the meshing of the second ratchet 561 with the second gear ring 551 and the action of the second one-way bearing, the bidirectional swing of the housing 100 is converted into the unidirectional rotational motion of the inner ratchet 560. The unidirectional rotation of the inner ratchet 560 then enters the planetary gear reduction assembly for deceleration. Specifically, the inner ratchet 560 drives the sun gear 571 to rotate synchronously. The sun gear 571 drives multiple planet gears 573 to both rotate on their own axis and revolve around the planet carrier 572. The planet gears 573 then mesh with the third gear ring 515 inside the switch trigger part 510, transmitting the motion to the switch trigger part 510. Through the gear ratio configuration between the sun gear 571 and the third gear ring 515, the rotational speed of the switch trigger part 510 is reduced to one-half to one-fifth of the rotational speed of the inner ratchet 560. The drive wall profile on the bottom surface of the switch trigger part 510 directly controls the axial position of the switch float 530. Since the drive path of the switch structure 500 and the spring energy storage share a power input source (i.e., the oscillation of the airfoil 100), and the unidirectional bearings in the two paths have the same conduction direction, the cumulative rotation angle of the switch trigger 510 is proportional to the actual energy storage state of the elastic spring, ensuring the synchronization of the triggering sequence and the energy storage progress. During the energy storage stage, the flat part 511 of the switch trigger 510 presses down on the floating member 530, forcing the elastic member 540 between the floating member 530 and the connecting rod 520 to compress and store energy. At the same time, the lower end of the floating member 530 is tightly inserted into the limiting hole 311 on the first end face of the rotor assembly 310, keeping the rotor assembly 310 locked and stationary. At this time, the elastic spring continues to store energy. When the switch trigger 510 rotates exactly until the groove part 512 on its bottom surface is aligned with the floating member 530. The reset force stored in the elastic element 540 is released, causing the floating element 530 to pop out of the limiting hole 311 of the rotor assembly 310 and extend into the groove 512, thereby unlocking the rotor assembly 310. The elastic potential energy stored in the elastic coil spring is released, driving the rotor assembly 310 to rotate. The rotor assembly 310 cuts the magnetic field of the stator assembly 320 fixed on the second shaft 220, generating an induced electromotive force and outputting electrical energy. After the energy release is complete, the device automatically enters the next working cycle. The switch trigger part 510 continues to rotate under the continuous drive of the drive ratchet 550. The inclined second groove sidewall 514 of its groove 512 gradually presses down the floating element 530, causing the floating element 530 to smoothly transition along the inclined surface to abut against the flat part 511, thereby pressing the floating element 530 into the limiting hole 311 and relocking the rotor assembly 310. Because the rotor assembly 310 has multiple limiting holes 311 distributed circumferentially on its end face, the floating component 530 can quickly fall into the next limiting hole 311 without precisely aligning to a single position during the reset process, thus improving the locking success rate. At this point, the device completes a full working cycle and continues to operate under the continuous action of the pipeline fluid, providing power to the downstream electrical equipment.

[0054] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to the embodiments of this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if these modifications and variations of this application fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A fluid generator for underground pipelines, characterized in that, include: The outer shell has a sealed containing cavity; A shaft assembly includes a first shaft, a second shaft, and a coupling; the first shaft is disposed outside the housing; the second shaft passes through the housing and is anti-rotationally engaged with the housing, and the second shaft is rotatably connected to the first shaft via the coupling; A generator assembly is disposed within the receiving cavity. The generator assembly includes a rotor assembly and a stator assembly. The stator assembly is rotatably connected to the second shaft. The rotor assembly is disposed on the outer periphery of the stator assembly. The rotor assembly has a first end face and a second end face that are opposite each other in the axial direction. A limit hole is provided on the first end face of the rotor assembly. An energy storage component is disposed on the side of the rotor assembly near the second end face. The energy storage component includes an elastic energy storage element and an energy storage transmission element. The elastic energy storage element is wound around the second shaft and has a first connecting end and a second connecting end opposite each other in its radial direction. The energy storage component is fixedly connected to the outer shell and can rotate unidirectionally along the second shaft. The energy storage transmission element is fixedly connected to the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage element, and the second end of the elastic energy storage element is fixedly connected to the rotor assembly. When the second connecting end is displaced relative to the first connecting end along the winding direction of the elastic energy storage element, the elastic energy storage element stores energy. A switch structure is disposed on the side of the rotor assembly near the first end face. The switch structure includes a floating switch that can be floated along the axial direction of the rotor assembly. The floating switch has a limit position and a release position. When the floating switch is in the limit position, the floating switch extends into the limit hole of the rotor assembly to stop the rotor assembly from rotating. When the floating switch is in the release position, the floating switch exits the limit hole, and the rotor assembly can rotate relative to the stator assembly under the drive of the elastic energy storage element to generate electrical energy.

2. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy storage transmission component includes an outer energy storage ratchet and an inner energy storage ratchet. The outer energy storage ratchet is fixedly connected to the outer shell and rotatably connected relative to the second shaft. A first toothed ring is provided on the side wall of the outer energy storage ratchet facing the inner energy storage ratchet. The inner energy storage ratchet is connected to the second shaft through a first one-way bearing. The inner energy storage ratchet includes a first ratchet tooth, which drives and engages with the first toothed ring of the outer energy storage ratchet. The inner energy storage ratchet is fixedly connected to the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage component. The rotation direction of the first one-way bearing is the same as the winding direction of the elastic energy storage element.

3. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 2, characterized in that, The energy storage external ratchet includes a first base plate and a first annular side plate surrounding the outer periphery of the first base plate. The first base plate is sleeved on the second shaft and rotatably connected to the second shaft. A first toothed ring is provided on the inner surface of the first annular side plate. At least one of the first base plate and the first annular side plate is fixedly connected to the outer shell.

4. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 2, characterized in that, The energy storage inner ratchet includes a first cylinder and a second cylinder connected together, and at least one of the first cylinder and the second cylinder is rotatably connected to the second shaft. The diameter of the first cylinder is smaller than the diameter of the second cylinder, and the second cylinder is provided with a first ratchet. The first cylinder is provided with a slot, and the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage component is closer to the second shaft than the second connecting end, and the first connecting end of the elastic energy storage component extends into the slot.

5. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic energy storage component is an elastic coil spring.

6. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The switch structure further includes a switch triggering part and a connecting rod. The switch triggering part is sleeved on the second shaft and is unidirectionally rotatable relative to the second shaft. The rotation direction of the switch triggering part is the same as that of the energy storage transmission component. The first end of the connecting rod is sleeved on the second shaft and located between the first end face and the switch trigger part. The floating switch includes a floating element and an elastic element. The floating element passes through the second end of the connecting rod, and the elastic element is disposed between the side of the connecting rod away from the second end face and the floating element. The switch triggering part includes a drive wall facing the second end face, the drive wall including a flat part and a groove part recessed away from the second end face; the switch triggering part rotates to switch the floating switch between the limit position and the release position.

7. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the floating member abuts against the drive wall, the elastic member is in a compressed state, and the floating member extends into the limiting hole of the rotor assembly so that the floating switch is in the limiting position. When the floating member extends into the groove under the reset action of the elastic member, the floating member disengages from the limiting hole of the rotor assembly, so that the floating switch is in the release position.

8. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 6, characterized in that, The groove portion includes a first groove sidewall and a second groove sidewall, which are arranged opposite to each other along the circumferential direction of the switch trigger portion. In the rotation direction of the switch triggering part, the second slot sidewall is located behind the first slot sidewall; wherein the second slot sidewall is inclined in the transmission direction of the switch triggering part.

9. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 6, characterized in that, The switch structure also includes a switch driving component, which includes an outer driving ratchet and an inner driving ratchet. The external drive ratchet is fixedly connected to the housing and rotatably connected relative to the second shaft. A second toothed ring is provided on the side wall of the external drive ratchet facing the inner energy storage ratchet. The inner drive ratchet is connected to the second shaft through a second one-way bearing. The inner drive ratchet includes a second ratchet tooth, which drives and engages with the second toothed ring of the external energy storage ratchet. The inner drive ratchet is driven and connected to the switch trigger part. The second one-way bearing rotates in the same direction as the first one-way bearing.

10. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 9, characterized in that, The switch structure also includes a reduction ratio component, and the inner drive ratchet is driven to the switch trigger unit through the reduction ratio component, so that the rotational speed of the switch trigger unit is less than the rotational speed of the inner drive ratchet.

11. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 10, characterized in that, The speed ratio between the drive ratchet and the switch trigger is between 2 and 5.

12. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 10, characterized in that, The reduction ratio assembly includes a sun gear, a planet carrier, and multiple planet gears; The sun gear is disposed on the side of the drive ratchet near the rotor assembly and rotates synchronously with the drive ratchet. The planet carrier is disposed between the sun gear and the switch structure. A plurality of planet gears are mounted on the planet carrier and drive the sun gear. The switch triggering part further includes a third gear ring arranged in the circumferential direction surrounding the drive wall, the third gear ring engaging with the plurality of planetary gears.

13. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 1, characterized in that, The limiting holes include a plurality of holes, which are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second end face.

14. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cross-section of the outer shell is airfoil-shaped.

15. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer shell includes an airfoil side shell, a first end cap, and a second end cap, the shapes of the first end cap and the second end cap being configured to correspond to the shape of the airfoil side shell; The energy storage outer ratchet is interference-fitted with the airfoil side shell.

16. The fluid generator for underground pipelines according to claim 1, characterized in that, The underground pipeline fluid generator also includes a connecting part, the first shaft is disposed in the connecting part, and the connecting part is used to connect with an external device.

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