Distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model provides a hydraulic structure deformation distributed optical fiber monitoring device, and the device comprises an anti-corrosion protection housing which is used for providing packaging and protection; the internal supporting frame is arranged in the anti-corrosion protection shell and used for fixedly installing other parts and providing structural strength; one end of the optical signal transmission optical fiber is connected with an external optical fiber sensing network, the other end of the optical signal transmission optical fiber is terminated in the internal supporting frame and is used for transmitting monitoring data, and the optical signal transmission optical fiber penetrates through the anti-corrosion protection shell through a waterproof connector and enters the interior of the anti-corrosion protection shell; and the sealing ring is positioned at the joint of the anti-corrosion protection shell and the optical signal transmission optical fiber so as to ensure the sealing performance of the device. Through the scheme of the embodiment of the invention, the problem that the optical fiber and the connecting piece are easy to corrode and damage due to long-term soaking in water or in a humid environment can be solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of optical fiber monitoring technology, and in particular to a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation. Background Art

[0002] Distributed fiber-optic monitoring devices for hydraulic structure deformation are commonly used to monitor the real-time health of hydraulic structures. Fiber-optic sensors installed inside or on the structure accurately sense and measure minute deformations, thereby assessing structural safety. However, this device faces a significant practical challenge: prolonged immersion in water or exposure to high humidity can cause corrosion or physical damage to the optical fibers and their connections, leading to reduced monitoring accuracy and even device failure, which directly impacts its reliability and service life. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation, which at least partially solves the problems existing in the prior art.

[0004] The present application provides a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation, comprising:

[0005] An anti-corrosion protective shell is used to provide packaging and protection. The interior of the anti-corrosion protective shell is provided with at least two layers of protective coatings made of different materials, wherein the outer layer is a water-resistant coating and the inner layer is an acid and alkali corrosion resistant coating;

[0006] An internal support frame is provided inside the anti-corrosion protection housing and is used to fix and install other components and provide structural strength;

[0007] an optical signal transmission optical fiber, one end of which is connected to an external optical fiber sensing network and the other end of which is terminated within the internal support frame, for transmitting monitoring data, the optical signal transmission optical fiber passing through the anti-corrosion protective housing via a waterproof connector and entering the interior;

[0008] The sealing ring is located at the connection between the anti-corrosion protection housing and the optical signal transmission optical fiber to ensure the sealing of the device.

[0009] A pressure balancing diaphragm is provided at the bottom of the anti-corrosion protection housing to adjust the internal pressure when the device is immersed in water at different depths; and

[0010] The device is provided with a space for placing the dehumidification drying bag.

[0011] Preferably, a heat conducting or insulating layer is provided between the outer layer and the inner layer.

[0012] Preferably, the internal support frame and the anti-corrosion protection shell are fixed by anti-corrosion stainless steel fasteners.

[0013] Preferably, the waterproof joint adopts a double sealing structure.

[0014] Preferably, an opening is provided at the bottom of the anti-corrosion protection shell, and the pressure balancing diaphragm is fixed at the opening via a sealing ring.

[0015] Preferably, the optical signal transmission optical fiber and the internal support frame are connected by a detachable optical fiber coupling device.

[0016] Preferably, a normally closed opening is provided at the top of the device.

[0017] Preferably, a waterproof cap with a spiral structure is provided at the interface between the anti-corrosion protection housing and the optical signal transmission optical fiber.

[0018] Preferably, the anti-corrosion protection shell is integrally formed.

[0019] The embodiment of the present disclosure provides a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for deformation of hydraulic structures, including an anti-corrosion protective shell for providing packaging and protection; an internal support frame, arranged inside the anti-corrosion protective shell, for fixing and installing other components and providing structural strength; an optical signal transmission optical fiber, one end of which is connected to an external optical fiber sensing network and the other end terminates in the internal support frame for transmitting monitoring data, the optical signal transmission optical fiber passes through the anti-corrosion protective shell via a waterproof connector and enters the interior; a sealing ring, located at the connection between the anti-corrosion protective shell and the optical signal transmission optical fiber, to ensure the sealing of the device. The solution of the embodiment of the present disclosure can solve the problem of easy corrosion and damage of optical fibers and connectors due to long-term immersion in water or in a humid environment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] In the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same reference numerals throughout the multiple drawings represent the same or similar components or elements. These drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. It should be understood that these drawings only depict some embodiments disclosed in this application and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the shaft side of the anti-corrosion protection housing in the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the front cross-sectional structure of the anti-corrosion protection housing in the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the front cross-sectional structure of the optical fiber coupling device in the present invention.

[0024] Figure: 1. Anti-corrosion protective housing; 2. Internal support frame; 3. Optical signal transmission fiber; 4. Sealing ring; 5. Protective coating; 6. Anti-corrosion stainless steel fasteners; 7. Special waterproof connector; 8. Pressure balance diaphragm; 9. Fiber coupling device; 10. Opening; 11. Waterproof cap; 14. Dehumidification and drying bag DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present disclosure more clear, the embodiments of the present disclosure are further described in detail below in combination with the embodiments and drawings. The schematic implementation methods of the embodiments of the present disclosure and their descriptions are only used to explain the embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation of the present application includes key components such as an anti-corrosion protective housing 1, an internal support frame 2, an optical signal transmission fiber 3, and a sealing ring 4. These components together form a sealing system with excellent waterproof and corrosion resistance, allowing the device to operate stably in harsh environments, especially underwater or in high humidity conditions.

[0027] The corrosion protection housing 1 provides the basic physical enclosure for the entire device, offering corrosion resistance and waterproofing. It is constructed from specialized materials, such as corrosion-resistant alloys or advanced plastic composites, that effectively resist salt spray corrosion and other chemical corrosion factors found in hydraulic structures, providing long-term protection for the internal equipment. Furthermore, the corrosion protection housing 1 is fully enclosed, with seals installed at all interfaces to prevent direct access between the interior and exterior of the housing.

[0028] The internal support frame 2 is installed within the interior of the corrosion-resistant housing 1 and primarily serves to support and position the other device components. This frame is typically constructed from high-strength, lightweight metals such as aluminum or titanium alloys. Its rational structural layout allows it to withstand potential external forces while maintaining overall structural stability and stability. Each fixing point on the frame is carefully calculated to ensure sufficient strength while also allowing for adequate space for fiber optic routing and connection.

[0029] Optical signal transmission fiber 3 facilitates information communication from the device's interior to external systems. One end connects to an external fiber-optic sensor network, leveraging existing infrastructure to achieve wide coverage. The other end extends into the aforementioned internal support frame 2. To meet specific application requirements, this type of optical fiber is typically selected for its high-quality flexibility and transmission performance, and is coated with a special waterproof coating to prevent moisture from entering the connector through tiny pores.

[0030] The sealing ring 4 is a small, round, gasket-like object placed between the fiber's passageway and the interface with the anti-corrosion housing to block the infiltration of external contaminants. Made primarily of oil-resistant rubber or synthetic rubber, it features a simple shape and structure. However, due to its crucial barrier effect at the critical path, its elasticity and durability are rigorously tested to ensure it effectively seals gaps and prevents the accumulation of liquid water or particulate matter throughout its lifespan, thus preventing any potential hazards.

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown, in one embodiment, in a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for deformation of a hydraulic structure of the present application, at least two layers of protective coatings 5 made of different materials are provided inside the anti-corrosion protective shell 1, in order to improve the corrosion resistance of the entire device, thereby ensuring that the device can maintain a good working condition when immersed in a water environment for a long time. Specifically, the two layers of protective coatings 5 made of different materials form a complementary protective effect through different chemical or physical action mechanisms. On the one hand, they prevent the external liquid environment from damaging the built-in components of the shell, especially optical components such as optical fibers; on the other hand, they also enhance the overall stability and life of the device. By adopting this composite protection strategy, the long-term durability and anti-environmental interference capabilities of the device are significantly improved, and it can still maintain high reliability and measurement accuracy under a variety of extreme conditions. Specifically, the outer protective coating can be made of a material with strong water resistance to resist external moisture invasion; the inner layer can be made of a special material that is resistant to acid and alkali corrosion to prevent degradation and failure of optical fibers and other key components under complex chemical conditions.

[0032] For example, an outer coating (water-resistant coating) can be made of a material such as epoxy resin, due to its excellent water resistance and chemical stability. The inner coating (acid and alkali resistant coating) can be made of polyurethane or Teflon, the latter being particularly suitable for protection in acidic environments, further ensuring that important components such as optical fibers are highly protected from erosion and damage by the surrounding medium. Furthermore, a thermally conductive or insulating layer can be added between the two layers of protective coating 5 to optimize the temperature control performance of the monitoring device and reduce the potential for electrical interference, making it applicable to a wider range of hydrological environment monitoring applications.

[0033] In one embodiment, reference Figure 2 The present invention relates to a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation, comprising an internal support frame 2 fabricated from a high-strength, corrosion-resistant titanium alloy. This selection is based on the alloy's superior mechanical properties and stable performance in harsh environments. The internal support frame 2 is secured to the corrosion-resistant protective housing 1 via corrosion-resistant stainless steel fasteners 6, which not only enhance the overall structural stability but also protect it from the effects of ambient moisture.

[0034] Specifically, during the actual manufacturing process, Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy is preferably used for forging or precision casting the internal support frame 2 components. During assembly, AISI 316L corrosion-resistant stainless steel is selected as the fixings, and the two are securely connected using threaded connections or other suitable engineering methods. This approach not only meets the device's requirements for robustness and environmental adaptability, but also facilitates subsequent maintenance and potential technical upgrades.

[0035] Continue to refer Figure 2 In one embodiment, a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation of the present application is designed to specifically strengthen the requirements for waterproof function and structural stability in order to ensure that the device can still operate normally in a complex hydraulic environment. Specifically, when the optical signal transmission optical fiber 3 penetrates the anti-corrosion protective housing 1 and enters the interior of the housing, it must be sealed with the housing through a special waterproof connector 7. Such a sealed connection can not only effectively block the external humid environment and prevent moisture penetration from causing optical signal transmission quality problems, but also largely avoid damage and breakage of the optical fiber due to reasons such as water ingress.

[0036] For example, when implementing the aforementioned technical features, a special waterproof connector made of a material with excellent impermeability can be used to achieve this design goal. This waterproof connector utilizes a double-sealing structure: the first seal directly seals the gap between the optical fiber and the protective housing, preventing moisture from entering through the gap; the second seal provides additional protection, maintaining the overall sealing effectiveness even if minor defects in the primary seal occur. This multi-layered defense mechanism ensures the safe operation of the monitoring device and the validity of its monitoring data, even in harsh environments.

[0037] In one embodiment, a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for deformation of a hydraulic structure of the present application improves the working stability and life of the monitoring device by providing a pressure-balancing diaphragm 8 with adjustable depth at the bottom of the anti-corrosion protective shell 1. This pressure-balancing diaphragm 8 can automatically adjust the internal cavity pressure in water pressure environments of different depths so that it tends to balance with the external pressure. Therefore, in deep waters or environmental conditions where the water level changes significantly, this diaphragm can effectively reduce the adverse effects of the pressure difference encountered during the monitoring of hydraulic structures on the sensor. This feature can not only enhance the pressure resistance and adaptability of the entire monitoring system, but also prevent the optical fiber from deforming or breaking under extreme pressure differences, thereby ensuring long-term stable detection accuracy and data accuracy. In addition, by ensuring that the optical fiber is in relatively ideal working conditions, signal distortion caused by external factors can be effectively avoided and the service life of the system can be extended.

[0038] Specifically, in one embodiment, to ensure pressure balancing and improve the diaphragm's efficiency and durability, the diaphragm can be manufactured from a polymer material with excellent elasticity and chemical stability. Furthermore, during installation, it is pre-stretched and secured to the housing opening using a precision mechanical device and fitted with a sealing ring, thereby maintaining optimal pressure regulation under varying operating conditions. For example, during actual underwater operations at greater depths, diaphragm 8 is pressed toward the interior of housing 1, maintaining internal and external pressure balance, thereby ensuring the reliability of monitoring results and the safety of the optical fiber.

[0039] In one embodiment, Figure 3 As shown, a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for deformation of hydraulic structures of the present application has the technical characteristics of being able to maintain efficient and reliable operation under complex and changeable hydraulic environmental conditions. Among them, in order to ensure the reliability of long-term use and the convenience of maintenance, an optical fiber coupling device 9 that can be easily disassembled between the optical signal transmission optical fiber 3 and the internal support frame 2 is adopted. In this way, not only can the device be quickly repaired on site, but the faulty part can also be effectively replaced to ensure the stable operation of the entire system. The detachable structure designed in this way can greatly reduce the cost investment in long-term operation and maintenance, and increase the service life of the entire system.

[0040] Specifically, the detachable fiber optic coupling device 9 can be technically implemented by selecting an optical interface that connects magnetically or snap-on. This not only simplifies on-site maintenance but also improves the precision of fiber insertion and removal during the coupling process. When an affected fiber optic module needs to be repaired or replaced, engineers can quickly remove it and install a new component, thereby maintaining the overall performance of the device without being hampered by a single damaged component and quickly restoring it to normal monitoring status. This design plays a significant role in extending the device's service life and ensuring the continued effectiveness and high accuracy of monitoring operations.

[0041] In one embodiment, returning reference Figure 2 The top of the distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation of the present invention is designed with a normally closed opening 10 for easy maintenance. For example, the opening 10 can be sealed with a glass lamp to facilitate observation of the internal situation.

[0042] In one embodiment, a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for deformation of hydraulic structures of the present application adds a waterproof cap 11 with a spiral structure at the interface between the anti-corrosion protection housing 1 and the optical signal transmission optical fiber 3 to enhance the level of protection against external moisture intrusion. Specifically, this design enables the device to operate reliably in harsh underwater or humid environments and ensures that the optical components are not damaged. This enhanced protection not only improves the overall reliability of the device, but also extends its service life. Since the interface is often a vulnerable point for liquid intrusion into the equipment, this structure further enhances the waterproof effect through tight sealing, effectively avoiding the risk of corrosion and short circuit.

[0043] At the technical implementation level, in order to achieve a strict waterproof effect, the waterproof cap 11 with a spiral structure can be made of a polymer material or metal material with a certain hardness and elasticity to ensure that the thread can form a close contact with the interface of the anti-corrosion protection shell 1. Specifically, during the installation process, the staff fixes the waterproof cap 11 between the anti-corrosion protection shell 1 and the optical fiber interface by rotating it. This method is simple, fast and effective, ensuring that even if it works in a high humidity environment for a long time, the normal transmission of the optical signal will not be affected by water seepage. For example, during installation, it is necessary to ensure that the spiral pattern on the waterproof cap 11 is aligned with the matching thread on the shell, and apply appropriate force to tighten it so that the two are tightly combined to form an effective sealing barrier.

[0044] In one embodiment, the anti-corrosion protective housing 1 of a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation of the present application is manufactured using an integrated molding process. This integrated design not only reduces the number of seams within the housing, improving the structural strength and corrosion resistance of the device, but also, to a certain extent, prevents external environmental factors such as moisture and dirt from invading the housing cavity, ensuring a safe and reliable operating environment for internal components.

[0045] In one embodiment, Figure 2As shown, in order to ensure its stability and long-term reliability in harsh or high-humidity environments, a distributed optical fiber monitoring device for deformation of hydraulic structures of the present application is designed with the key factor that electrical components are extremely sensitive to moisture in mind. In order to prevent internal components from being damaged by the penetration of external moisture, the device adopts a special space segmentation strategy. To this end, an independent and well-sealed storage area is provided in the device specifically for accommodating the dehumidification drying bag 14. The high-efficiency dehumidification drying bag 14 equipped in this storage area can effectively absorb moisture in the surrounding environment to ensure that the location remains dry.

[0046] Specifically, in order to minimize the impact of humidity on core electrical components, a completely isolated independent space is created by physical partitions or other materials during the design to specifically accommodate the dehumidification drying bag 14. This not only facilitates the regular replacement of the desiccant, but also prevents the drying bag from absorbing moisture from the air and then releasing it into areas where other important components are located, greatly reducing the possibility of potential corrosion of electronic components by moisture. For example, during the manufacturing process, a material with good moisture-proof properties is selected to make the partition wall, or a layer of moisture-absorbing paint is applied to the partition wall to further enhance the drying effect and extend the effective service life of the device. In addition, considering that actual application scenarios may vary greatly, it is also necessary to ensure that this design is flexible and adjustable to different on-site conditions to ensure stable and reliable continuous operation of the entire system.

[0047] In actual operation, when the device is used, the anti-corrosion protective housing 1 is first installed at the designated location on the hydraulic structure. This housing not only provides a sturdy exterior for the entire device, but also prevents corrosion from saltwater or harmful chemicals on internal components. Next, after one end of the optical signal transmission fiber 3 is connected to the distributed fiber optic sensor network interface outside the hydraulic structure, the other end is guided into the device and secured by a tightly designed internal support frame 2. This design ensures that the optical fiber remains stable and free of deformation, even in highly volatile water environments, maintaining high-quality data transmission performance. The sealing ring 4 installed between the housing and the fiber optic connection port provides a dual seal: first, it prevents moisture from entering the device through the optical fiber; second, it ensures that the overall structure is leak-proof, preventing moisture from affecting sensor readings. Therefore, when the distributed fiber optic monitoring device operates underwater for extended periods, the comprehensive protection mechanism comprised of the anti-corrosion housing, structural frame, and tightly protected accessories effectively safeguards the operating status of the internal electronic components and accurately records any subtle deformations of the monitored structure, converting them into useful signals for transmission. This allows technicians to continuously track and analyze the safety and stability trends of the underwater structure. This design enables the device to have the ability to perform long-term reliable monitoring under harsh conditions.

[0048] The specific implementation methods described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solutions and beneficial effects of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the above description is only a specific implementation method of the embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the embodiments of the present disclosure should be included in the scope of protection of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation, characterized in that: include: An anti-corrosion protective shell (1) is used to provide packaging and protection, wherein the interior of the anti-corrosion protective shell (1) is provided with at least two layers of protective coatings (5) made of different materials, wherein the outer layer is a water-resistant coating and the inner layer is an acid- and alkali-resistant coating; An internal support frame (2) is arranged inside the anti-corrosion protection shell (1) and is used for fixed installation and to provide structural strength; An optical signal transmission optical fiber (3), one end of which is connected to an external optical fiber sensing network and the other end of which is terminated in the internal support frame (2) for transmitting monitoring data, wherein the optical signal transmission optical fiber (3) passes through the anti-corrosion protection housing (1) via a waterproof connector (7) and enters the interior; A sealing ring (4) is located at the connection between the anti-corrosion protection housing (1) and the optical signal transmission optical fiber (3) to ensure the sealing of the device, wherein A pressure balancing diaphragm (8) is provided at the bottom of the anti-corrosion protection housing (1) to adjust the internal pressure when the device is immersed in waters of different depths; and The device is provided with a space for placing a dehumidifying and drying bag (14).

2. The distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation according to claim 1, characterized in that: A thermally conductive or insulating layer is provided between the outer layer and the inner layer.

3. The distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The internal support frame (2) and the anti-corrosion protection shell (1) are fixed via anti-corrosion stainless steel fasteners (6).

4. The distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The waterproof joint (7) adopts a double sealing structure.

5. The distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bottom of the anti-corrosion protection housing (1) is provided with an opening, and a pressure balancing diaphragm (8) is fixed at the opening via a sealing ring.

6. The distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The optical signal transmission optical fiber (3) and the internal support frame (2) are connected by a detachable optical fiber coupling device (9).

7. The distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation according to claim 1, characterized in that: A normally closed opening (10) is provided on the top of the device.

8. The distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation according to claim 1, characterized in that: A waterproof cap (11) with a spiral structure is provided at the interface between the anti-corrosion protection housing (1) and the optical signal transmission optical fiber (3).

9. The distributed optical fiber monitoring device for hydraulic structure deformation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The anti-corrosion protection housing (1) is integrally formed.

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