Automatic detection device for open and full flow in tailrace tunnel
By installing an automatic detection device inside the tailrace tunnel, the information collector can be moved and positioned automatically using support cables and rotating wheels. Combined with a microprocessor and dual power supply, the problem of manual inspection and maintenance in open-flow monitoring of the tailrace tunnel has been solved, improving monitoring efficiency and system reliability, and ensuring the safe and stable operation of the hydropower station.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202520729833.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-24
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-04-17
AI Technical Summary
The existing tailrace tunnel open-full flow alternating state monitoring technology requires staff to enter the tailrace tunnel for equipment inspection and maintenance, which leads to the shutdown of the hydropower station, increases labor intensity and time consumption, and reduces maintenance efficiency.
Design an automatic detection device for open flow in a tailrace tunnel. The device utilizes multiple data collectors mounted on a support cable and uses rotating wheels to automatically move and position the data collectors. Combined with real-time data processing by a microprocessor and a dual-power supply system, it achieves automatic detection and alarm functions.
It enables comprehensive, multi-point monitoring within the tailrace tunnel, reducing the need for staff to enter the tailrace tunnel, improving detection efficiency and system reliability, preventing hydropower station shutdowns, and ensuring the stability of power supply.
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Figure CN223940320U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of water conservancy and hydropower technology, specifically to an automatic detection device for open full flow in a tailrace tunnel. Background Technology
[0002] Currently, medium and large-sized hydropower stations in China have taken a series of measures to deal with the problem of open and full flow in the tailrace tunnel. At the same time, in order to facilitate staff to understand the alternation of open and full flow, a monitoring method for the alternation of open and full flow in the diversion tunnel has emerged in the existing technology, see reference 1.
[0003] Reference 1: Chinese patent document with patent publication number CN115479629B.
[0004] Reference 1 discloses a monitoring method for the alternating open and pressurized flow state of a diversion tunnel, including monitoring the upstream water level, outflow, flow regime inside the tunnel, and pressure data at the tunnel top along the tunnel; statistically analyzing the variation range and variation pattern of each monitoring data, and determining whether each monitoring data meets the following conditions: a) the fluctuation range of the upstream water level of the diversion tunnel is greater than 0.15m; b) the variation range of the outflow of the diversion tunnel is greater than 80m3 / s; c) the flow regime at the tunnel top of the diversion tunnel is an alternating state of open and pressurized flow; d) the pressure at the tunnel top of the diversion tunnel is not a constant value; if the monitoring data simultaneously meet the above four conditions, the diversion tunnel is determined to be in an alternating open and pressurized flow state.
[0005] The existing tailrace tunnel open-full flow alternation monitoring technology system has significant limitations in its monitoring methods. Effective monitoring of this alternation requires the use of various measuring devices, each positioned at different locations within the tailrace tunnel. However, current methods for securing these sensors are rather simplistic. This simplistic approach necessitates entry into the tailrace tunnel for inspection and maintenance. As a crucial component of hydroelectric power plants, the presence of personnel often forces temporary shutdowns, negatively impacting power supply. Furthermore, the dispersed location of the measuring devices within the tailrace tunnel necessitates individual visits to each location for maintenance. This significantly increases workload, consumes considerable time and energy, and substantially reduces maintenance efficiency. Utility Model Content
[0006] The purpose of this invention is to solve the problem that existing equipment for monitoring open flow phenomena in tailrace tunnels is inconvenient for staff to inspect and maintain, and to provide an automatic detection device for open flow phenomena in tailrace tunnels.
[0007] To address the shortcomings of the aforementioned technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: an automatic detection device for open and full flow in a tailrace tunnel, comprising multiple information collectors capable of detecting water flow velocity, water level fluctuation, alternating open and full flow states, and pressure at the top of the tailrace tunnel. The multiple information collectors are arranged in an orderly manner on a support cable, and the support cable is driven by a rotating wheel, which is located at the top of the tailrace tunnel inlet and outlet to tighten the support cable.
[0008] Each of the aforementioned rotating wheels is equipped with a drive motor, which can drive the support cable to rotate in both directions, so that the information collectors installed on the support cable pass through the tailrace tunnel inlet and outlet in turn in sequence, so that staff can perform inspection, maintenance or replacement of the information collectors.
[0009] As a further optimization of the automatic detection device for open flow in the tailrace tunnel of this utility model: the information collector signal transmission has an alarm module, which can display the water level information in the tailrace tunnel and alarm in a timely manner. The alarm module is powered by a power module. The alarm module includes a microprocessor for signal transmission with the information collector. The microprocessor signal transmission has a local control system, which can display the water level information and alarm in a timely manner.
[0010] As a further optimization of the automatic detection device for open flow in the tailrace tunnel of this utility model: the power supply terminal of the power supply module is electrically connected to a first-stage DC system and a second-stage DC system. The first-stage DC system and the second-stage DC system can provide dual current modes for the power supply module. The first-stage DC system and the second-stage DC system are respectively taken from different buses of the DC power supply system.
[0011] As a further optimization of the automatic detection device for open flow in the tailrace tunnel of this utility model: the outer edge of the rotating wheel is provided with a flared part, which cooperates with the placement part for connecting the information collector and the support cable, so that the staff can assemble and disassemble the information collector on the support cable when the rotating wheel is aligned with the information collector.
[0012] As a further optimization of the automatic detection device for open flow in tailrace tunnel of this utility model: the placement component includes a connecting block for connecting the positioning information collector, and a C-shaped clamp that can hold the support cable is fixedly provided at the end of the connecting block facing the support cable, and a locking screw for fastening the C-shaped clamp is provided on the C-shaped clamp.
[0013] As a further optimization of the automatic detection device for open flow in the tailrace tunnel of this utility model: the information collector includes a water level sensor, a water flow sensor, a camera and a pressure sensor.
[0014] As a further optimization of the automatic detection device for open flow in the tailrace tunnel of this utility model: the water level sensor is a float-type water level sensor, and the water level sensor has multiple floats, which are distributed along the flow direction of the tailrace tunnel.
[0015] As a further optimization of the automatic detection device for open flow in the tailrace tunnel of this utility model: multiple auxiliary components are arranged in an orderly manner on the top of the tailrace tunnel. The auxiliary components are provided with limiting grooves that slide with the support cable, and the auxiliary components can press against the positioning information collector.
[0016] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:
[0017] This invention uses placement components to systematically connect various sensors within the data acquisition unit to a support cable. Simultaneously, the flexible rotation of the rotating wheel allows the support cable to adapt well to the long structure of the tailrace tunnel. The rotation of the wheel facilitates the easy transport of the data acquisition unit connected to the placement components to different locations within the tailrace tunnel, achieving comprehensive, multi-point monitoring coverage. More importantly, when the data acquisition unit needs inspection, maintenance, or replacement, it can be transported out of the tailrace tunnel sequentially by continuously rotating the wheel. This eliminates the need for personnel to penetrate deep into the tailrace tunnel, significantly reducing the difficulty and complexity of maintenance operations, effectively improving work efficiency, and avoiding potential hydroelectric power station shutdowns caused by personnel entering the tailrace tunnel. This provides a more convenient, efficient, and safe solution for tailrace tunnel monitoring.
[0018] This invention uses an information collector to monitor the water level dynamics inside the tailrace tunnel in real time. The collected data signals are transmitted to a microprocessor, which serves as the main control core. The microprocessor precisely processes these signals and transmits them to the on-site system, allowing staff to directly and clearly observe the water level inside the tailrace tunnel and accurately determine whether open flow is occurring. When open flow occurs, the system immediately triggers an alarm mechanism to promptly alert staff. Once the open flow disappears and the water level returns to normal, the alarm automatically resets, allowing staff to quickly understand the status changes and take appropriate action. The power supply module for the microprocessor features a unique design, connecting both a single DC system and a second DC system, forming a dual-power supply mode. This dual-power design significantly reduces the risk of monitoring work being interrupted due to a single power supply failure. In the face of complex and changing operating environments, this system not only enriches the monitoring methods for open flow but also significantly improves the ability to handle emergencies such as circuit damage, effectively ensuring the continuity and reliability of monitoring work and providing solid support for the safe and stable operation of the hydropower station. Attached Figure Description
[0019] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the present invention in use.
[0020] Figure 2 This is a front view structural diagram of the present utility model;
[0021] Figure 3 This is an enlarged structural diagram of point A in this utility model;
[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the system structure of this utility model;
[0023] The markings in the diagram are: 1. Placement component; 101. Connecting block; 102. Locking screw; 103. C-shaped clamp; 2. Information collector; 3. Rotating wheel; 301. Flared end; 4. Fixing frame; 5. Support cable; 6. Drive motor; 7. Auxiliary component; 8. Limiting groove; 9. Tailwater tunnel. Detailed Implementation
[0024] To better understand this utility model, the following embodiments further illustrate the content of this utility model, but the content of this utility model is not limited to the following embodiments.
[0025] An automatic detection device for open flow in a tailrace tunnel includes an information collector 2 installed inside the tailrace tunnel 9 to monitor various water flow information within the tunnel. The information collector 2 includes a water level sensor monitoring the fluctuation range of the upstream water level, a flow rate sensor monitoring the change range of the outlet flow of the tailrace tunnel 9, a camera showing alternating open and pressurized flow at the top of the tailrace tunnel 9, and a pressure sensor indicating that the pressure at the top of the tailrace tunnel 9 is not constant. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the information collector 2 includes multiple of the four types of sensors. The information collector 2 can be positioned in conjunction with the placement component 1 at corresponding locations on the support cable 5. The support cable 5 is connected to two rotating wheels 3, which are respectively mounted on fixed frames 4 at the top of the tailrace tunnel 9 inlet and outlet to tighten the support cable 5. Once the support cable 5 is tightened, the drive motor 6, which drives any of the rotating wheels 3, operates. The drive motor 6, through the friction between the rotating wheel 3 and the support cable 5, causes the support cable 5 to rotate. The information collector 2 mounted on the support cable 5 can then be transported to different locations in the tailrace tunnel 9 for corresponding information collection. When it is necessary to inspect or maintain the information collector 2, the drive motor 6 can be controlled to rotate, causing the different sensors of the information collector 2 to be moved out of the tailrace tunnel 9 sequentially for inspection and maintenance by personnel. When a sensor is damaged, it can be easily replaced. After inspection and replacement, a reset is also completed simultaneously, greatly improving the efficiency of inspection, maintenance, or replacement of the information collector 2. The cable can be positioned on the outside of the support cable 5, away from the rotating wheel 3, thus supporting the cable and electrically connecting it to the information collector 2. This provides power to the information collector 2, enabling its operation. During inspection and maintenance of the information collector 2, the cable can be simultaneously removed from the support cable 5 for synchronous testing, and then reset during reverse rotation after testing. To prevent the cable from tangling and breaking, the drive motor 6 can be reversed to complete the above steps during the next test.
[0026] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the outer edge of the rotating wheel 3 is provided with a flared portion 301, which can cooperate with the placement component 1 to facilitate the separation of the placement component 1 from the support cable 5 when the placement component 1 is aligned with the rotating wheel 3, thereby facilitating the replacement of the placement component 1 or the information collector 2. Specifically, the rotating wheel 3 is V-shaped. The placement component 1 includes a connecting block 101 that can connect to the sensors included in the information collector 2. A C-shaped clip 103 is fixedly provided at the end of the connecting block 101 facing the support cable 5. The C-shaped clip 103 can be engaged with the support cable 5 in the initial state, so that the operator can fix the connecting block 101 connected to the information collector 2 to the support cable 5. At the same time, the C-shaped clip 103 can be connected to the locking screw 102, thereby improving the connection stability between the C-shaped clip 103 and the support cable 5. Furthermore, the notch of the C-clamp 103 can mate with the flared part 301, preventing excessive tension on the support cable 5 when passing the rotating wheel 3. This also facilitates easy removal and installation of the C-clamp 103 by personnel when it occupies the corresponding rotating wheel 3. The support cable 5, positioned between the two rotating wheels 3, is connected to a limiting groove 8 on the auxiliary component 7. The auxiliary component 7 is bolted to the inner wall of the tailrace tunnel 9. The limiting groove 8 helps to position the support cable 5 inside the tailrace tunnel 9, thus improving the stability of the support cable 5's cyclic rotation. Simultaneously, the auxiliary component 7 is positioned corresponding to the location of the tailrace tunnel 9 to be monitored. Therefore, after the cable rotates to the appropriate position, the placement component 1 can engage and restrain the auxiliary component 7, stabilizing the position of the information collector 2 and improving the information collection accuracy of the information collector 2. The specific auxiliary component 7 is set in an I-shape, and the edge of the auxiliary component 7 on one side of the tailrace tunnel 9 extends beyond the side of the auxiliary component 7 away from the tailrace tunnel 9. The position of the connecting bolt of the auxiliary component 7 is set at the edge of the auxiliary component 7, so as to facilitate the staff to fix the auxiliary component 7 to the top of the tailrace tunnel 9.
[0027] The information collector 2 includes a float-type water level sensor, with multiple floats arranged in an orderly fashion along the direction of the water flow from the tailrace tunnel 9. This layout effectively increases the number of water level data points detected by the sensor. More data points complement and verify each other, greatly improving the accuracy and stability of data monitoring, making the data fed back by the water level sensor more reliable and providing solid data support for accurately judging the water level status of the tailrace tunnel 9. To adapt to the complex working environment of the tailrace tunnel 9, the information collector 2 is encapsulated with high-quality water-resistant materials. This allows the information collector 2 to operate stably and reliably even under extreme conditions of full flow within the tailrace tunnel 9, unaffected by environmental and water flow interference, ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of data collection. Figure 4As shown, the information collector 2 can collect relevant signals in real time and accurately transmit them to the microprocessor. The microprocessor, as the main control structure of the system, is responsible for in-depth processing of the data collected by the information collector 2. Specifically, it accurately analyzes and calculates the analog signals emitted by the information collector 2, converting these signals into specific numerical values reflecting various data points of water flow within the tailrace tunnel 9, and then quickly sends them to the local control system. After receiving the water level values output by the microprocessor, the local control system displays the water level at each measuring point within the tailrace tunnel 9 in a real-time dynamic manner. If the water level is detected to be too high, indicating a possible alternation of open and full flow, the system will immediately issue an alarm signal to alert personnel. When the water level drops to the normal range, the alarm signal will automatically reset, ensuring that the normal operating status of the system is clearly presented.
[0028] In terms of power supply, the stable operation of the microprocessor relies on the power module. This power module employs a dual-power supply design, powered by a primary DC system and a secondary DC system. Notably, the primary and secondary DC systems are powered from different buses of the DC power supply system. This design provides redundant power supply for the automatic water level acquisition module, significantly reducing the possibility of failure of the open flow monitoring function due to a single circuit failure, ensuring the reliability and stability of the system. Furthermore, the system achieves real-time measurement data, effectively compensating for the shortcomings of current open flow monitoring technology in the tailrace tunnel of the hydropower station, significantly improving the safety and reliability of the hydropower station's generator units, and providing strong support for the safe and stable operation of the hydropower station and the power grid.
[0029] The specific embodiments of this utility model have been described above. It should be understood that this utility model is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and those skilled in the art can make various modifications or variations within the scope of the claims, which do not affect the substantive content of this utility model.
Claims
1. An automatic detection device for open and full flow in a tailrace tunnel, comprising multiple information collectors (2) capable of detecting the flow velocity, water level fluctuation, alternating open and full flow state, and pressure at the top of the tailrace tunnel (9) within the tailrace tunnel (9), characterized in that: The various information collectors (2) are arranged in an orderly manner on the support cable (5). The support cable (5) is driven by a rotating wheel (3). The rotating wheel (3) is located at the top of the inlet and outlet of the tailrace tunnel (9) to tighten the support cable (5). Each of the aforementioned rotating wheels (3) is equipped with a drive motor (6), which can drive the support cable (5) to rotate in both directions, so that the information collector (2) installed on the support cable (5) passes through the tailrace tunnel (9) in both directions in sequence, so that the staff can carry out inspection, maintenance or replacement of the information collector (2).
2. The automatic detection device for open flow in a tailrace tunnel as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The information collector (2) has a warning module for signal transmission. The warning module can display the water level information in the tailrace tunnel (9) and alarm in a timely manner. The warning module is powered by a power module. The warning module includes a microprocessor for signal transmission with the information collector (2). The microprocessor has a local control system for signal transmission. The local control system can display the water level information and alarm in a timely manner.
3. The automatic detection device for open flow in a tailrace tunnel as described in claim 2, characterized in that: The power supply module is electrically connected to a first-stage DC system and a second-stage DC system. The first-stage DC system and the second-stage DC system can provide dual current modes for the power supply module. The first-stage DC system and the second-stage DC system are respectively taken from different buses of the DC power supply system.
4. The automatic detection device for open flow in a tailrace tunnel as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The outer edge of the rotating wheel (3) is provided with a flared part (301), which cooperates with the placement part (1) that connects the information collector (2) and the support cable (5) so that the staff can assemble and disassemble the information collector (2) on the support cable (5) when the rotating wheel (3) corresponds to the information collector (2).
5. The automatic detection device for open flow in a tailrace tunnel as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The placement component (1) includes a connecting block (101) for connecting the positioning information collector (2). The end of the connecting block (101) facing the support cable (5) is fixed with a C-shaped clip (103) that can hold the support cable (5), and the C-shaped clip (103) is provided with a locking screw (102) for fastening the C-shaped clip (103).
6. The automatic detection device for open flow in a tailrace tunnel as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The information collector (2) includes a water level sensor, a water flow sensor, a camera, and a pressure sensor.
7. The automatic detection device for open flow in a tailrace tunnel as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The water level sensor is a float-type water level sensor, and the water level sensor has multiple floats, which are distributed along the water flow direction of the tailrace tunnel (9).
8. The automatic detection device for open flow in a tailrace tunnel as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The tailrace tunnel (9) has multiple auxiliary components (7) arranged in an orderly manner on its top. Each auxiliary component (7) has a limiting groove (8) that slides with the support cable (5), and the auxiliary component (7) can press against the positioning information collector (2).
Citation Information
Patent Citations
A monitoring method and system for alternating open and full flow states in a diversion tunnel
CN115479629B