Automatic connecting device for offshore hoisting

Abstract

The automatic connecting device for offshore hoisting comprises a capturing structure connected with hoisting equipment and a connecting structure connected with equipment to be connected, the catching structure is sleeved into the connecting structure from top to bottom under the action of gravity, firm connection with the to-be-connected equipment is completed after firm connection is formed, and the catching structure releases the connecting structure when the separating structure needs to be separated. According to the utility model, the connection between the automatic hoisting equipment and the equipment to be connected can be efficiently and safely realized in various environments.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of marine lifting equipment, and in particular relates to an automatic connection device for marine lifting. Background Technology

[0002] Unmanned surface vessels (USVs), also known as unmanned surface ships, are vessels capable of performing missions autonomously or remotely without direct human intervention. They are widely used in fields such as marine monitoring, scientific research, environmental protection, security patrols, and military reconnaissance. Because they do not require human crew, USVs can be designed to be smaller and more economical, and can perform tasks that would be too dangerous for humans.

[0003] Launching or recovering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from a mother ship or other fixed platform, especially in rough sea conditions, becomes quite complex and challenging. Varying wave heights, wind speeds, and current velocities all affect the safe and stable deployment and retrieval of UAVs. Furthermore, performing such operations at night or in low visibility conditions adds to the difficulty.

[0004] Traditional methods for recovering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) typically rely on manual operation to attach ropes or other connecting devices so that lifting equipment such as cranes can be used to raise them out of the water. This method has several major problems:

[0005] Inefficient: The ropes need to be manually adjusted and secured each time, which is not only time-consuming but also extremely inefficient, especially in emergencies or when facing changeable weather conditions.

[0006] Poor safety: In the rough seas, even experienced sailors can slip and get injured; at the same time, if the ropes are not installed properly, the unmanned vehicle may fall back into the water or even be damaged.

[0007] Inability to remotely control: With the development of automation technology, more and more application scenarios require the ability to achieve remote or even fully automated operation processes. However, the current human-based binding method is clearly unable to meet this requirement.

[0008] Insufficient adaptability: Different models of unmanned aerial vehicles may require specific types of connection devices to ensure safe and reliable lifting operations, which limits the versatility and flexibility of the system. Utility Model Content

[0009] The purpose of this utility model is to provide an automatic connection device for marine lifting, so as to solve the problems of low efficiency, poor safety and poor adaptability of traditional connection methods in the process of unmanned underwater vehicle recovery.

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, the specific technical solution of this utility model for an automatic connection device for marine lifting is as follows:

[0011] An automatic connection device for offshore hoisting includes a capture structure connected to hoisting equipment and a connection structure connected to the equipment to be connected. The capture structure includes a capture body with a hollow, downward-opening portion connected to the hoisting equipment and an elastic locking pin structure disposed on the capture body. The connection structure includes a connection bracket connected to the equipment to be connected, a connection column erected upwards from the connection bracket, a connector head protruding outwards from the upper end of the connection column, and a release structure. The elastic locking pin structure includes a locking block elastically connected to the inner wall of the capture body and protruding relative to the inner wall of the capture body. The connector head enters the capture body through the opening. After the locking block abuts against the connector head, it avoids contact. After the connector head passes, the locking block pops out and locks the connector head within the capture body. The release structure includes a release block sleeved on the outside of the connection column and a release drive device for moving the release block. The release drive device drives the release block to move along the connection column and abut against the locking block, causing the locking block to release the connector head.

[0012] As a further improvement of this utility model, the elastic locking pin structure includes a locking pin cavity disposed at the lower part of the capture body, a locking pin block disposed in the locking pin cavity, and an elastic component connecting the locking pin block and the locking pin cavity; the locking pin cavity is hollow and opens towards the inner wall of the capture body, the front end of the locking pin block protrudes from the opening of the locking pin cavity relative to the inner wall of the capture body, and after abutting against the connector, it retracts into the locking pin cavity to allow the connector to pass through, and pops out after passing the connector.

[0013] As a further improvement of this utility model, the outer periphery of the connector is a connecting slope that expands outward from top to bottom, and the front end of the locking pin block is a locking pin slope that matches the connecting slope. After the locking pin slope abuts against the connecting slope, the locking pin block retracts into the locking pin cavity.

[0014] As a further improvement of this utility model, the opening of the capture body matches the outer peripheral shape and size of the connector.

[0015] As a further improvement of this utility model, the locking pin cavities are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the capturing body.

[0016] As a further improvement of this utility model, the upper end of the capture body is provided with an eye plate, which is connected to the lifting equipment by a rope.

[0017] As a further improvement of this utility model, the disengagement drive device has a wireless function, which can remotely drive the movement of the disengagement block.

[0018] As a further improvement of this utility model, the disengagement drive device includes a cylinder fixed on the connecting bracket, and a piston rod extending outward from the cylinder and connected to the disengagement block. The piston rod extends and retracts relative to the cylinder, thereby enabling the disengagement block to move along the connecting column.

[0019] Beneficial effects:

[0020] By designing the capture and connection structures, a rapid and automated connection between the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and the lifting equipment is achieved, completing the connection process without human intervention. This not only significantly improves operational efficiency but also reduces operational errors caused by human factors.

[0021] The flexible locking mechanism ensures the connector is securely locked within the capture body, preventing accidental detachment due to rough seas or improper operation. Furthermore, the entire connection process eliminates the need for direct contact with the heavy object, reducing the risk of injury to workers.

[0022] The design takes into account the characteristics of different UAV models, enabling the device to be widely used on various types of UAVs. Meanwhile, the design that matches the shape and size of the capture body opening with the outer periphery of the connector ensures good versatility and adaptability.

[0023] The disengagement drive unit is wirelessly equipped, enabling remote control of the disengagement block's movement. This means that the unmanned aerial vehicle can be easily deployed even far from the vessel, further enhancing the system's flexibility and practicality.

[0024] The device employs symmetrically arranged locking cavities on both sides of the capture body, along with elastic components within them, and a beveled design at a specific angle on the connector head. This ensures that the device can automatically lock smoothly regardless of the direction of approach and remains stable and does not disengage when subjected to strong external forces.

[0025] The various components of the device are closely connected yet relatively independent, facilitating routine inspections and necessary maintenance and replacements. At the same time, new functional modules developed based on existing technologies are easy to integrate into the system, which helps in future continuous improvement and optimization.

[0026] In summary, the automatic connection device for marine lifting proposed in this utility model, with its unique structural design and advanced technical characteristics, greatly enhances operational safety and convenience while improving work efficiency, and is of great significance for promoting technological progress in the field of marine equipment such as unmanned surface vessels. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an automatic connection device for marine lifting according to the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 To capture a schematic diagram of the structure;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure;

[0030] The markings in the diagram are as follows: 100, capturing structure; 110, capturing body; 111, opening; 112, eye plate; 120, elastic locking structure; 121, locking cavity; 122, locking block; 123, elastic component; 124, locking bevel; 200, connecting structure; 210, connecting bracket; 220, connector; 221, connecting bevel; 230, connecting column; 240, disengagement structure; 241, disengagement block; 242, disengagement drive device. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To enhance understanding of this utility model, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to explain the present utility model and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0032] Implementation example:

[0033] Taking the operation of recovering an unmanned underwater vehicle from a mother ship using offshore lifting equipment as an example, such as... Figure 1 The illustrated automatic offshore lifting connection device includes a capture structure connected to the mother ship via a winch rope, and a connection structure mounted on the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Operators use lifting equipment to align the capture structure 100 with the connection structure 200 from above and slowly release it downwards. After the capture structure 100 connects with the connection structure 200, the UAV is captured and transported to a designated location for storage.

[0034] like Figure 2As shown, the capture body 110 in the capture structure 100 is a hollow structure. The downward opening accommodates the connector 220 of the connecting structure 200. An eye plate 112 is provided at the upper end for connection to the hook at the end of the lifting equipment rope. The inner wall shape of the capture body matches the shape of the connector 220, allowing the connector 220 to enter. Symmetrically arranged on both sides of the lower part of the capture body 110 are locking cavities 121. Each locking cavity 121 is hollow and has an opening facing the inner wall of the capture body. Locking cavities 121 accommodate locking blocks 122, which are connected to the locking cavity 121 by elastic members 123. The front end of the locking block 122 protrudes relative to the inner wall of the capture body through the opening of the locking cavity. A locking ramp 124 is provided at the front end of the locking block 122, which slopes outward from top to bottom to match the outer circumference shape of the connector 220. In this embodiment, the elastic component 123 is a stainless steel spring. The front end of the locking pin block protrudes from the opening of the locking pin cavity through its own elastic force. When the inclined surface 124 of the locking pin abuts against the outer periphery of the connector, the locking pin block 122 retracts into the locking pin cavity 121. After passing through the connector 220, the spring pushes the locking pin block 122 out, and the locking pin block 122 locks the connector 220 in the capture body 110.

[0035] like Figure 3 As shown, in the connecting structure 200, the connecting bracket 210 is fixed to the upper surface of the unmanned aerial vehicle by bolts. The connecting column 230 extends upward from the upper surface of the connecting bracket, and the connecting head protrudes from the upper surface of the connecting column 230. A concave space is formed around the connecting column 230, and the locking pin 122 locks the connecting head 220 on both sides of the connecting column 230. A connecting slope 221 is provided on the outer periphery of the connecting head corresponding to the locking pin slope 124. The connecting slope 221 slopes outward from top to bottom, making the connecting head conical. When it abuts against the locking pin 122, it pushes the locking pin 122 into the locking pin cavity 121 to enter the hollow interior of the capture body 110. The detachment structure 240 drives the detachment block 241 to move up and down along the connecting column 230 through the detachment drive device 242, causing the locking pin 122 to retract into the locking pin cavity 121. The capture body 110 is then detached from the connecting head 220 by the lifting equipment. In this embodiment, the disengagement drive device 242 is an electric cylinder with a wireless module, enabling remote control. The cylinder body is located below the connecting bracket 210, and the piston rod passes through the connecting bracket 210 and connects to the disengagement block 241. The extension and retraction of the piston rod drives the disengagement block 241 to move up and down along the connecting column 230. When the connector 220 is locked inside the capture body 110, the disengagement block 241 is manipulated to move upward, abutting against the inclined surface 124 of the locking pin, squeezing the locking pin block 122 into the locking pin cavity 121. Then, the lifting equipment lifts the capture body 110, and the capture body 110 disengages from the connector 220 when the locking pin block 122 is no longer locked.

[0036] During use, ensure the connecting structure on the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is intact and that the rope hook of the lifting equipment is securely connected to the capture body 110. The operator uses the remote control system to determine the UAV's position and adjust its attitude for docking. The UAV is then slowly moved towards the mother ship, maintaining stability. The lifting equipment and the UAV are manipulated to bring the capture body 110 above the connector 220. The capture body 110 is slowly lowered and, under gravity, engages with the connector 220. The connector 220 passes through the elastic locking structure 120 and enters the inner cavity of the capture body 110. After the connector 220 passes the locking block 122, due to the concave space around the connecting post 230, the locking block 122 pops out under the action of the elastic component 123, thus firmly locking the connector 220 within the capture body 110, completing the automatic connection between the UAV and the lifting equipment. Once the connection is confirmed to be secure and reliable, the lifting equipment can be activated to begin recovering the UAV. After the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is moved to the designated location, if it needs to be released, the disengagement drive device 242 in the connection structure is activated. The disengagement drive device 242 is activated via a wireless remote control command, driving the disengagement block 241 to move upwards along the connecting post 230, pushing the locking block 122 back into the locking cavity 121, thus releasing the locked state. As the locking block 122 retracts, the connector 220 is no longer secured, and the capture body 110 rises and disengages, achieving safe separation of the UAV from the lifting equipment. Release is similar; the UAV is captured from its storage location and then released to the designated water surface.

[0037] It is understood that this utility model has been described through some embodiments, and those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes or equivalent substitutions can be made to these features and embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model. Furthermore, under the teachings of this utility model, these features and embodiments can be modified to adapt to specific situations and materials without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model. Therefore, this utility model is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims of this application are within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. An automatic connection device for offshore lifting, characterized in that, It includes a capture structure for connecting to lifting equipment, and a connection structure for connecting to the equipment to be connected; The capture structure includes a capture body that is connected to the lifting equipment and has a hollow, downward-opening structure, and an elastic locking pin structure disposed on the capture body. The connection structure includes a connection bracket connected to the device to be connected, a connection column erected upward from the connection bracket, a connector head protruding in all directions from the upper end of the connection column, and a disengagement structure. The elastic locking structure includes a locking block that is elastically connected to the inner wall of the capture body and protrudes relative to the inner wall of the capture body. The connector enters the capture body through the opening. After the locking block abuts against the connector, it avoids it. After the connector passes, the locking block pops out and locks the connector in the capture body. The disengagement structure includes a disengagement block sleeved on the outside of the connecting post, and a disengagement drive device for driving the disengagement block to move; the disengagement drive device drives the disengagement block to move along the connecting post and abut against the locking block, causing the locking block to release the connecting head.

2. The automatic connection device for offshore hoisting according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic locking structure includes a locking cavity disposed at the lower part of the capturing body, a locking block disposed in the locking cavity, and an elastic component connecting the locking block and the locking cavity; The locking cavity is hollow and opens towards the inner wall of the capture body. The front end of the locking block protrudes from the opening of the locking cavity relative to the inner wall of the capture body. After abutting against the connector, it retracts into the locking cavity to allow the connector to pass through. After passing the connector, it pops out.

3. The automatic connection device for offshore hoisting according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer periphery of the connector is a connecting slope that expands outward from top to bottom. The front end of the locking pin block is a locking pin slope that matches the connecting slope. After the locking pin slope abuts against the connecting slope, the locking pin block retracts into the locking pin cavity.

4. The automatic connection device for offshore hoisting according to claim 1, characterized in that, The opening of the capture body matches the outer periphery shape and size of the connector.

5. The automatic connection device for offshore hoisting according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking cavities are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the capturing body.

6. The automatic connection device for offshore hoisting according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper end of the capture body is equipped with an eye plate, which is connected to the lifting equipment via a rope.

7. The automatic connection device for offshore hoisting according to claim 1, characterized in that, The disengagement drive device has wireless functionality, enabling it to remotely drive the movement of the disengagement block.

8. The automatic connection device for marine lifting according to claim 1 or 7, characterized in that, The disengagement drive device includes a cylinder fixed to the connecting bracket, and a piston rod extending from the cylinder and connected to the disengagement block. The piston rod extends and retracts relative to the cylinder to move the disengagement block along the connecting column.

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