Water-flooded plant signal optimization device

By combining water level sensors with multiple signal types and logic switch modules, combined with multi-color sound and light alarms and UPS power supplies, the problems of insufficient reliability and slow response speed of traditional water level monitoring systems have been solved, and rapid and accurate early warning and emergency response to flooded plant buildings have been achieved, ensuring the safe operation of hydropower plants.

CN223390052UActive Publication Date: 2025-09-26YUNENG GRP CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422669809.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-11-01
Publication Date
2025-09-26
Estimated Expiration
2034-11-01

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional water level monitoring systems rely on a single sensor, resulting in insufficient system reliability and slow response. They are unable to detect flooding and issue early warnings in a timely manner, increasing the risk of equipment damage and economic losses.

Method used

The system combines water level sensors with various signal types (switch quantity, analog quantity, communication quantity) with logic switch modules, multi-color sound and light alarms and plant accident broadcasting systems, and ensures system reliability and rapid response through redundant design and UPS power supply.

Benefits of technology

The reliability and response speed of signal detection for flooded power plants have been improved, ensuring timely issuance of early warnings and implementation of emergency measures, thus reducing equipment damage and economic losses.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of automatic control of hydroelectric power plants, in particular to a signal optimization device for a flooded plant, which comprises a water level sensor, a control cabinet and an alarm module, a controller is arranged in the control cabinet, and a touch screen is arranged on the outer surface of the control cabinet. The water level sensors are arranged at the positions, prone to being flooded, of the lowest layer of the plant, and the water level sensors output three signal types of switching quantity, analog quantity and communication traffic; the water level sensor, the alarm module and the touch screen are electrically connected with the controller; the controller comprises an OR gate logic switch module, a first AND gate logic switch module, a second AND gate logic switch module and a third AND gate logic switch module. According to the utility model, the reliability and accuracy of plant flooding signal detection can be improved, and when the plant flooding risk occurs, early warning can be given out in time and corresponding emergency measures can be taken, so that the loss is reduced.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of automatic control of hydropower plants, in particular to a signal optimization device for flooded plant buildings. Background Art

[0002] During the operation of hydropower plants, water level monitoring and flood warning systems within the plant are crucial safety precautions. Flooding accidents can not only damage equipment but also severely impact power production and even lead to economic losses. Traditional water level monitoring systems typically rely on a single type of sensor, such as a float switch or pressure sensor. These single sensors have the following drawbacks:

[0003] Insufficient system reliability: Traditional systems mostly use a single sensor for water level monitoring. This single-point failure design lacks redundancy. When a sensor malfunctions or fails, the system may not be able to detect water level changes in a timely manner, and thus cannot issue an early warning.

[0004] Slow response: In the event of a sudden flood, if the system cannot detect and respond quickly, the emergency shutdown procedure will not be initiated in time, increasing the possibility of equipment damage and economic losses.

[0005] In view of the shortcomings in the above technical background, it is urgent to develop a new flooding signal optimization system to improve monitoring accuracy and response speed. Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a flooded plant signal optimization device, aiming to improve the reliability and accuracy of flooded plant signal detection, ensure that when the risk of plant flooding occurs, early warning can be issued in time and corresponding emergency measures can be taken to reduce losses.

[0007] To achieve the above-mentioned object, a flooded plant signal optimization device is provided, comprising a water level sensor, a control cabinet, and an alarm module. The control cabinet is provided with a controller, and the outer surface of the control cabinet is provided with a touch screen. The water level sensor is installed at a location on the lowest floor of the plant that is prone to flooding. The water level sensor uses three types of signal outputs: switching value, analog value, and communication value. The water level sensor, alarm module, and touch screen are all electrically connected to the controller.

[0008] The controller includes an OR gate logic switch module, and the output signals of the water level sensor of the three signal types of switch quantity, analog quantity and communication quantity are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the OR gate logic switch module;

[0009] The controller also includes a first AND gate logic switch module, a second AND gate logic switch module and a third AND gate logic switch module. The output signals of the switch and analog type water level sensors are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the first AND gate logic switch module, the output signals of the switch and communication type water level sensors are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the second AND gate logic switch module, and the output signals of the analog and communication type water level sensors are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the third AND gate logic switch module.

[0010] Furthermore, the alarm module includes a multi-color sound and light alarm and a factory accident broadcasting system; when the OR gate logic switch module is triggered, the multi-color sound and light alarm sends a primary warning signal, displays a monochrome and sound warning; when the first AND gate logic switch module, the second AND gate logic switch module or the third AND gate logic switch module is triggered, the multi-color sound and light alarm sends an emergency warning signal, displays a multi-color and sound warning.

[0011] Furthermore, the water level sensors are respectively a double float switch, a radar water level gauge and a piezoresistive liquid level transmitter.

[0012] Furthermore, a switching power supply and a UPS power supply are also provided in the control cabinet, and the switching power supply and the UPS power supply are connected between the mains and the controller.

[0013] Furthermore, the UPS power supply includes a battery, the battery is connected to a charge and discharge management module for real-time monitoring of the battery status, and the charge and discharge management module is electrically connected to the controller.

[0014] Furthermore, a power indicator light and a power switch are provided on the outer surface of the control cabinet.

[0015] Principles and advantages:

[0016] 1. Water level sensors are installed in key locations prone to flooding. Using three signal output types: switching, analog, and communication, this ensures that if any one sensor fails, the other two remain operational, greatly improving the reliability of the flood signal.

[0017] 2. The water level sensor monitors the water level data in the plant in real time and transmits it to the controller. The controller can perform real-time monitoring based on the water level alarm threshold preset on the touch screen. For example, when the water level detected by any water level sensor reaches the first upper limit (i.e., the OR gate logic switch module is triggered), the multi-color sound and light alarm is triggered, a primary warning signal is issued, and a single color and sound warning are displayed. When any two water level sensors are detected to have reached the second upper limit of the water level at the same time (i.e., any one of the first AND gate logic switch module, the second AND gate logic switch module, and the third AND gate logic switch module is triggered), the multi-color sound and light alarm is triggered, a multi-color and sound warning is displayed, indicating that an emergency requires shutdown, and the plant accident broadcast system is activated to notify relevant personnel to take emergency measures in a timely manner. At the same time, a notification is issued to close the tailwater gate of the pumped storage unit to prevent further flooding and spread.

[0018] 3. Through the touch screen, operators can view the water level values ​​detected by the water level sensor in real time and set the water level alarm threshold. The intuitive and easy-to-use touch screen interface provides flexible adjustment of various parameters to meet the needs of different operating conditions and seasonal changes.

[0019] 4. The alarm system includes multi-color audible and visual alarms and a factory emergency broadcast system. The multi-color audible and visual alarms are installed in key areas of the factory, such as the control room and operating room, where personnel gather. The alarms use color to indicate warnings. The emergency broadcast system covers the entire factory, notifying all personnel on site through broadcasts to ensure timely and accurate information dissemination.

[0020] 5. To ensure the system's continued operation in the event of a main power failure or unstable power supply, this embodiment incorporates a UPS as a backup power source. In the event of a voltage drop or power outage, the system automatically switches to battery power, ensuring proper operation of the water level sensor, controller, and alarm module. The battery system is also equipped with a charge and discharge management module to monitor battery status in real time and extend battery life.

[0021] 6. This solution utilizes multiple redundant water-level monitoring devices, precise signal processing technology, a fast-response alarm and emergency system, and a highly reliable backup power system to ensure the hydropower plant can respond quickly and accurately to flooding risks and implement effective countermeasures. The introduction of a battery system further enhances system reliability, ensuring continuous operation, especially during extreme weather or emergencies, and providing a strong guarantee for the safe operation of the hydropower plant. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of a flooded plant signal optimization device according to an embodiment of the present utility model. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The following is further described in detail through specific implementation methods:

[0024] Example 1

[0025] A flooded plant signal optimization device, basically as follows Figure 1 As shown, it includes a water level sensor, a control cabinet and an alarm module. The control cabinet is equipped with a controller, a switching power supply and a UPS power supply. The outer surface of the control cabinet is equipped with a touch screen, a power indicator light and a power switch.

[0026] The water level sensor is installed on the lowest floor of the factory building, in an area prone to flooding. It uses three signal output types: switch, analog, and communication. The water level sensor, alarm module, and touch screen are all electrically connected to the controller. The water level sensors include a double float switch, a radar water level gauge, and a piezoresistive level transmitter. The double float switch is installed on the left side of the gallery drainage ditch, the radar water level gauge is installed on the right side of the gallery drainage ditch, and the piezoresistive level transmitter is installed in the gallery drainage sump. The three water level sensors ensure that if any one fails, the other two signals will function normally, greatly improving the reliability of the flooding signal.

[0027] The controller includes an OR gate logic switch module, and the output signals of the water level sensor of the three signal types of switch quantity, analog quantity and communication quantity are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the OR gate logic switch module;

[0028] The controller also includes a first AND gate logic switch module, a second AND gate logic switch module and a third AND gate logic switch module. The output signals of the switch and analog type water level sensors are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the first AND gate logic switch module, the output signals of the switch and communication type water level sensors are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the second AND gate logic switch module, and the output signals of the analog and communication type water level sensors are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the third AND gate logic switch module.

[0029] The alarm module includes a multi-color sound and light alarm and a factory accident broadcast system. When the OR gate logic switch module is triggered, the multi-color sound and light alarm issues a primary warning signal, displaying a single color and providing an audible warning. When the first, second, or third AND gate logic switch modules are triggered, the multi-color sound and light alarm issues an emergency warning signal, displaying a multi-color display and providing an audible warning. In this embodiment, the multi-color sound and light alarm uses a dual-color sound and light alarm, including red and green.

[0030] In this solution, the controller is a Siemens PLC, including a CPU module ST20, a communication module SBCM01, and an analog module EM AM03. The switching power supply is NDR-240, with an input of AC220V and an output of DC24V. The UPS power supply is DR-UPS40, with a 24V-40A capacity. The battery connected to the UPS power supply has 12V, 12Ah cells, connected in series and parallel to form a large 24V, 100Ah battery. This ensures continuous power supply to the system for at least 24 hours in the event of a main power (mains) outage. The gate logic switch module, the first AND gate logic switch module, the second AND gate logic switch module, and the third AND gate logic switch module can be implemented using corresponding gate logic circuits or through the gate logic program in the PLC. Gate logic is the foundation of digital circuits, so this implementation will not be elaborated on in detail.

[0031] During use: Through the touch screen, the operator can view the water level value detected by the water level sensor in real time and set the water level alarm threshold.

[0032] The water level sensor monitors the water level data in the plant in real time and transmits the data to the PLC through the communication module. The PLC performs real-time analysis based on the preset water level alarm threshold. When any water level sensor detects the first upper limit (that is, the OR gate logic switch module is triggered), the alarm module is triggered, issuing a primary warning signal, displaying green and sounding an alarm. When two sets of water level sensors are detected to have reached the second upper limit of the water level at the same time (that is, any one of the first AND gate logic switch module, the second AND gate logic switch module, and the third AND gate logic switch module is triggered), the PLC triggers the multi-color sound and light alarm, displaying red and sounding an alarm, indicating that an emergency requires shutdown, and activates the plant accident broadcast system to notify relevant personnel to take emergency measures in a timely manner. At the same time, relevant personnel are responsible for closing the tailwater gate of the pumped storage unit to prevent further flooding and spread.

[0033] This solution utilizes multiple redundant water-level monitoring devices, precise signal processing technology, a fast-response alarm and emergency system, and a highly reliable backup power system to ensure the hydropower plant can respond quickly and accurately to flooding risks and implement effective countermeasures. The introduction of a battery system further enhances system reliability, ensuring continuous operation, especially during extreme weather or emergencies, and providing a strong guarantee for the safe operation of the hydropower plant.

[0034] The above is only an embodiment of the present invention. The common knowledge such as the known specific structures and characteristics in the scheme will not be described in detail here. Ordinary technicians in the relevant field are aware of all the common technical knowledge in the technical field of the invention before the application date or priority date, can obtain all the existing technologies in the field, and have the ability to apply conventional experimental means before that date. Ordinary technicians in the relevant field can improve and implement this scheme in combination with their own abilities under the inspiration given by this application. Some typical known structures or known methods should not become obstacles for ordinary technicians in the relevant field to implement this application. It should be pointed out that for those skilled in the art, without departing from the structure of the present invention, several deformations and improvements can be made, which should also be regarded as the scope of protection of the present invention. These will not affect the effect of the implementation of the present invention and the practicality of the patent. The scope of protection required by this application shall be based on the content of its claims, and the specific implementation methods and other records in the specification can be used to interpret the content of the claims.

Claims

1. A flooded plant signal optimization device, characterized by: The system comprises a water level sensor, a control cabinet and an alarm module. The control cabinet is provided with a controller and a touch screen is provided on the outer surface of the control cabinet. The water level sensor is installed at a location on the lowest floor of the plant that is prone to flooding. The water level sensor uses three types of signal outputs: switching value, analog value and communication value. The water level sensor, alarm module and touch screen are all electrically connected to the controller. The controller includes an OR gate logic switch module, and the output signals of the water level sensor of the three signal types of switch quantity, analog quantity and communication quantity are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the OR gate logic switch module; The controller also includes a first AND gate logic switch module, a second AND gate logic switch module and a third AND gate logic switch module. The output signals of the switch and analog type water level sensors are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the first AND gate logic switch module, the output signals of the switch and communication type water level sensors are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the second AND gate logic switch module, and the output signals of the analog and communication type water level sensors are respectively used as the opening and closing conditions of the third AND gate logic switch module.

2. The flooded plant signal optimization device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The alarm module includes a multi-color sound and light alarm and a factory accident broadcasting system; when the OR gate logic switch module is triggered, the multi-color sound and light alarm sends a primary warning signal, displays a single color and a sound warning; when the first AND gate logic switch module, the second AND gate logic switch module or the third AND gate logic switch module is triggered, the multi-color sound and light alarm sends an emergency warning signal, displays a multi-color and a sound warning.

3. The flooded plant signal optimization device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water level sensors are respectively a double float switch, a radar water level gauge and a piezoresistive liquid level transmitter.

4. The flooded plant signal optimization device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control cabinet is also provided with a switching power supply and a UPS power supply, and the switching power supply and the UPS power supply are connected between the mains and the controller.

5. The flooded plant signal optimization device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The UPS power supply includes a battery, the battery is connected to a charge and discharge management module for real-time monitoring of the battery status, and the charge and discharge management module is electrically connected to a controller.

6. The flooded plant signal optimization device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer surface of the control cabinet is provided with a power indicator light and a power switch.