Unmanned ship water taking device and unmanned ship applying same

Abstract

This utility model relates to the technical field of water sampling equipment, specifically an unmanned surface vessel (USV) water sampling device and an USV using the same. The device includes an USV equipped with a sampling component and a water sample bottle mounted on one side. The sampling component collects underwater water samples and transports them to the water sample bottle for collection. The sampling component includes a housing with a sampling pump installed inside. The inlet of the sampling pump is connected to a sampling inlet pipe, the end of which penetrates the housing and extends underwater. The outlet of the sampling pump is located inside the housing. In this USV water sampling device and the USV using it, the sampling component is equipped with a sampling pump, a sampling inlet pipe, and a sampling outlet pipe. The sampling inlet pipe extends underwater, allowing for rapid extraction of underwater water samples by the sampling pump, which are then accurately transported to the water sample bottle via pipeline. This eliminates the need for manual underwater operation, significantly improving water sampling efficiency, and is particularly suitable for inaccessible water areas or large-scale water sampling scenarios.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of water sampling equipment, specifically to an unmanned vessel water sampling device and an unmanned vessel using the same. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of water quality monitoring and analysis, obtaining representative and accurate water samples is crucial. Traditional water sampling methods largely rely on manual operation, requiring sampling personnel to travel by boat to the sampling point. This method has many drawbacks. On the one hand, manual operation is close to the water surface, making it highly susceptible to the influence of weather, water flow, and other conditions, resulting in a high risk factor. On the other hand, it requires a large amount of manpower and time, involving costs related to boat usage and fuel, leading to high human and material costs. Furthermore, differences in individual habits during manual operation can easily lead to inconsistent sample collection quality, which is detrimental to water quality analysis and comparison. Especially when the sampling point is located in a narrow area or in shallow water, ordinary boats and personnel may find it difficult to reach and complete the sampling task.

[0003] With the development of technology, unmanned surface vessels (USVs) are increasingly being applied to water sampling. Prior to this, several technologies related to USV-based water sampling devices had been proposed. For example, prior art document CN 206704474 U discloses a USV-based water quality testing device that uses a collection tank and storage tank fixed to the stern of the vessel, and a drive mechanism to move the water storage components, enabling multiple, multi-point water sampling. However, this device has a relatively complex structure. In practical applications, the coordinated operation of the water storage components, drive mechanism, and related sealing and detection components places high demands on the stability and maintenance of the equipment. Moreover, during the water sampling process, the water sample needs to pass through multiple stages within the collection tank before being stored, which increases the risk of water sample contamination or deterioration. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an unmanned surface vessel (USV) water collection device and an USV using the same, to address the issues raised in the background art, such as the high requirements for equipment stability and maintenance when the water storage components, drive mechanism, and related sealing and detection components work together in practical applications. Furthermore, during water sample collection, the water sample needs to pass through multiple stages within the collection tank before storage, which increases the risk of water sample contamination or deterioration.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides an unmanned surface vessel (USV) water collection device and an USV using the same. The USV includes a collection component installed on its unmanned surface vessel and a water sample bottle installed on one side of the USV. The collection component is used to collect water samples from below the water surface and transport the collected water samples into the water sample bottle for collection. The collection component includes a housing, and a sampling pump is installed inside the housing. The inlet end of the sampling pump is connected to a sampling inlet pipe, and the end of the sampling inlet pipe penetrates the housing and extends below the water surface. The outlet end of the sampling pump is located inside the housing.

[0006] This setup utilizes the maneuverability of the unmanned vessel to navigate to the target water area. The sampling pump in the collection unit is powered on, generating negative pressure at the inlet. The underwater water sample is drawn into the sampling pump through the sampling inlet pipe, which is connected to the inlet and extends below the water surface. The sample is then discharged from the outlet located inside the outer casing, thus completing the process of transporting the water sample from below the water surface into the collection unit.

[0007] Preferably, the top of the unmanned vessel is provided with a groove, and the data collection component is placed in the groove.

[0008] This design features a recessed groove on the top of the unmanned surface vessel (USV) into which the data collection component is precisely positioned. The size and shape of the groove are adapted to the data collection component, and as the USV moves, the edges of the groove physically obstruct the component, limiting its horizontal displacement.

[0009] Preferably, the unmanned vessel is equipped with a handle on its upper part, and a lanyard is connected to one side of the water sample bottle, with the upper end of the lanyard being attached to the handle.

[0010] This feature includes a handle mounted on the upper part of the unmanned surface vessel, providing a fixed connection point for the sling. The sling is attached to one side of the water sample bottle. By attaching the upper end of the sling to the handle, the water sample bottle is suspended from the side of the unmanned surface vessel by the tension of the rope, and then hangs down naturally under gravity.

[0011] Preferably, a U-shaped support frame is installed on one side of the outer wall of the unmanned vessel, and the lower part of the water sample bottle is supported and limited by the support frame.

[0012] This setup involves installing a U-shaped support frame on one side of the unmanned surface vessel, with the lower part of the water sample bottle placed within the U-shaped groove. The U-shaped structure supports and limits the water sample bottle from both sides and the bottom, working in conjunction with the tension of the rigging rope to constrain the position of the water sample bottle in both vertical and horizontal directions.

[0013] Preferably, a sampling water outlet pipe is connected to the upper part of one side of the outer shell, and the outer end of the sampling water outlet pipe is connected to the water inlet pipe at the top of the water sample bottle.

[0014] This setup involves connecting a sampling outlet pipe to the upper part of one side of the collection component's outer casing, and a receiving pipe at the top of the water sample bottle. When the two are connected, under the action of the sampling pump, the water sample inside the collection component flows from the sampling outlet pipe into the receiving pipe of the water sample bottle through the pressure difference, and then enters the water sample bottle to complete the water sample collection.

[0015] Preferably, the height of the water sample bottle is lower than the height of the sampling outlet tube.

[0016] This setup is based on the principle of communicating vessels. When the height of the water sample bottle is lower than the height of the sampling outlet pipe, the water sample in the collection component will flow more smoothly from the sampling outlet pipe into the water sample bottle under the action of gravity, without the need for additional power equipment to assist the water sample flow.

[0017] Preferably, a drain pipe is provided on the upper side of the outer casing.

[0018] This feature allows you to remove residual water, impurities, and potentially microorganisms from inside the collection component by opening the drain pipe after the water sample collection task is completed, or before restarting the device after a long period of inactivity.

[0019] Preferably, a sediment filter screen is installed inside the outer casing between the water outlet and the sampling water pipe.

[0020] This feature involves installing a sediment filter screen inside the casing between the water outlet and the sampling outlet pipe. When the water sample drawn by the sampling pump flows out from the water outlet, larger impurities such as sediment and particles carried in the water will be intercepted by the filter screen as it flows towards the sampling outlet pipe. Only water samples that meet the filtration standards can pass through the filter screen and enter the sampling outlet pipe.

[0021] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0022] The unmanned surface vessel (USV) water sampling device and the USV using it are equipped with a sampling pump, a sampling inlet pipe, and a sampling outlet pipe. The sampling inlet pipe extends below the water surface, and the sampling pump can quickly extract underwater water samples and accurately deliver them to the water sample bottle through the pipeline. No manual operation is required, which greatly improves the efficiency of water sample collection. It is especially suitable for inaccessible water areas or large-scale water sample collection scenarios.

[0023] Secondly, it ensures the accuracy and purity of water sample collection. An internal filter screen, installed between the outlet and the sampling pipe, effectively filters out impurities such as sediment from the water sample, preventing them from interfering with subsequent water quality testing results. This ensures the collected water sample more closely resembles the actual water condition, improving the reliability of the test data. Simultaneously, the drain pipe facilitates the timely removal of residual wastewater or impurities from the device, further guaranteeing the purity of each collected water sample.

[0024] Furthermore, the overall stability and safety of the device are improved. The collection component is placed in a groove on the top of the unmanned vessel, which limits and fixes the collection component, reducing the risk of displacement or damage due to shaking during the unmanned vessel's movement. The water sample bottle is attached to the handle by a hanging rope and supported and limited by a U-shaped support frame at the bottom. This double fixing method ensures that the water sample bottle is not easily detached when the unmanned vessel moves, avoiding water spillage and ensuring the stability and safety of the collection process.

[0025] In addition, the device enhances operational convenience and flexibility. The handle installed on the upper part of the unmanned surface vessel not only facilitates the attachment of the water sample bottle's lanyard but also makes it easy for operators to move or transport the unmanned surface vessel. The water sample bottle is lower than the sampling outlet pipe, allowing gravity to help the water sample flow smoothly into the bottle without requiring additional power, thus simplifying the device structure and operating procedures. The sampling components and the water sample bottle are connected via pipelines, making disassembly and assembly convenient and facilitating future maintenance, cleaning, and component replacement. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a side view of the structure of this utility model;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a top view of the structure of this utility model;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the acquisition component in this utility model;

[0029] The meanings of the labels in the diagram are as follows:

[0030] 1. Unmanned surface vessel; 11. Groove; 12. Handle; 13. Support frame; 2. Data collection component; 21. Outer shell; 22. Sampling pump; 221. Water outlet; 222. Water inlet; 23. Sampling inlet pipe; 24. Sampling outlet pipe; 25. Sewage pipe; 26. Sediment filter screen; 3. Water sample bottle; 31. Water inlet pipe; 32. Mounting rope. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0032] This utility model provides an unmanned surface vessel (USV) water collection device and an USV using the same, as shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3. It includes an USV 1, on which a collection component 2 is installed. A water sample bottle 3 is installed on one side of the USV 1. The collection component 2 is used to collect water samples from below the water surface and transport the collected water samples into the water sample bottle 3 for collection. The collection component 2 includes a housing 21, inside which a sampling pump 22 is installed. The inlet end 222 of the sampling pump 22 is connected to a sampling inlet pipe 23. The end of the sampling inlet pipe 23 penetrates the housing 21 and extends below the water surface. The outlet end 221 of the sampling pump 22 is located inside the housing 21.

[0033] Utilizing the maneuverability of the unmanned vessel 1, it is driven to the target water area. The sampling pump 22 in the collection unit 2 is powered on, generating negative pressure at the inlet end 222. The underwater water sample is drawn into the sampling pump 22 through the sampling inlet pipe 23, which is connected to the inlet end 222 and extends below the water surface. The sample is then discharged from the outlet end 221 located inside the outer casing 21, thus completing the process of transporting the water sample from below the water surface into the collection unit 2. This achieves remote and automated underwater water sampling, eliminating the need for manual operation near the water surface, reducing the risk of sampling in harsh aquatic environments, and significantly improving the efficiency of water sampling. It can quickly cover a large area of ​​water for sampling.

[0034] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the top of the unmanned vessel 1 is provided with a groove 11, and the data collection component 2 is placed in the groove 11.

[0035] The unmanned surface vessel 1 has a recess 11 on its top, in which the data collection component 2 is precisely placed. The size and shape of the recess 11 are adapted to the data collection component 2. During the movement of the unmanned surface vessel 1, the edge of the recess 11 physically obstructs the data collection component 2, limiting its horizontal displacement. This enhances the stability of the data collection component 2 mounted on the unmanned surface vessel 1, effectively reducing the risk of the data collection component 2 shaking, shifting, or even falling off when the unmanned surface vessel 1 is bumpy, turning, or impacted by water currents. This ensures that the data collection component 2 can operate normally in complex water surface environments, guaranteeing the continuity and accuracy of water sample collection.

[0036] Specifically, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, a handle 12 is installed on the upper part of the unmanned boat 1, and a mounting rope 32 is connected to one side of the water sample bottle 3. The upper end of the mounting rope 32 is tied to the handle 12.

[0037] A handle 12 is installed on the upper part of the unmanned surface vessel 1, providing a fixed connection point for the mounting rope 32. The water sample bottle 3 is connected to the mounting rope 32 on one side. By attaching the upper end of the mounting rope 32 to the handle 12, the water sample bottle 3 is suspended from one side of the unmanned surface vessel 1 by the tension of the rope, and naturally hangs down under gravity. This facilitates the installation and removal of the water sample bottle 3, making it simple and convenient to replace or process it. At the same time, this mounting method allows the water sample bottle 3 to move smoothly with the unmanned surface vessel 1 during its movement, reducing the risk of damage from collisions and ensuring the safety of water sample collection.

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, a U-shaped support frame 13 is installed on one side of the outer wall of the unmanned vessel 1, and the lower part of the water sample bottle 3 is supported and limited by the support frame 13.

[0039] A U-shaped support frame 13 is installed on one side of the unmanned surface vessel 1, and the lower part of the water sample bottle 3 is placed in the U-shaped groove. The U-shaped structure supports and limits the water sample bottle 3 from both sides and the bottom, and works in conjunction with the tension of the mounting rope 32 to constrain the position of the water sample bottle 3 in both vertical and horizontal directions. This further enhances the stability of the water sample bottle 3 fixed on the unmanned surface vessel 1, prevents the water sample bottle 3 from shaking or tipping over significantly during the vessel's movement, effectively avoids water sample spillage, ensures that the collected water sample is intact and free from external interference, and provides a reliable sample for subsequent water quality analysis.

[0040] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, a sampling water outlet pipe 24 is connected to the upper part of one side of the outer shell 21, and the outer end of the sampling water outlet pipe 24 is connected to the top water inlet pipe 31 of the water sample bottle 3.

[0041] The upper part of one side of the outer shell 21 of the collection component 2 is connected to the sampling outlet pipe 24, and the top of the water sample bottle 3 is equipped with a water receiving pipe 31. When the two are connected, under the action of the sampling pump 22, the water sample in the collection component 2 flows from the sampling outlet pipe 24 into the water receiving pipe 31 of the water sample bottle 3 through the pressure difference, and then enters the water sample bottle 3 to complete the water sample collection. A closed channel specifically for water sample transportation is constructed, which reduces the chance of water sample contact with the external environment during transportation, reduces the risk of water sample contamination, ensures the purity of water sample, and helps to improve the accuracy of subsequent water quality test results.

[0042] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the height of the water sample bottle 3 is lower than the height of the sampling outlet tube 24.

[0043] Based on the principle of communicating vessels, when the height of the water sample bottle 3 is lower than the height of the sampling outlet pipe 24, the water sample in the collection component 2 will flow more smoothly from the sampling outlet pipe 24 into the water sample bottle 3 under the action of gravity, without the need for additional power equipment to assist the water sample flow. This simplifies the water sample collection process, reduces energy consumption, and further ensures the stability and efficiency of water sample delivery, avoiding water sample collection difficulties due to insufficient power or equipment failure, and improving the reliability of the entire water collection device.

[0044] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, a drain pipe 25 is provided on the upper side of the outer casing 21.

[0045] A drain pipe 25 is provided on the upper side of the outer casing 21. After the water sample collection task is completed, or before the device is restarted after a long period of inactivity, the drain pipe 25 can be opened to use water flow or pressure to discharge any residual water sample, impurities, and potentially breeding microorganisms inside the outer casing 21 of the collection component 2. This keeps the inside of the outer casing 21 of the collection component 2 clean, effectively preventing residual substances from contaminating subsequent water samples, extending the service life of the device, ensuring that each collected water sample accurately reflects the water quality of the target water area, and improving the accuracy and reliability of water sample collection.

[0046] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, a sediment filter screen 26 is installed inside the outer casing 21 between the water outlet 221 and the sampling water outlet pipe 24.

[0047] An internal sediment filter 26 is installed between the outlet 221 and the sampling outlet pipe 24 inside the outer casing 21. When the water sample drawn by the sampling pump 22 flows out of the outlet 221, larger impurities such as sediment and particles carried in the water are intercepted by the sediment filter 26 as it flows towards the sampling outlet pipe 24. Only water samples that meet the filtration standards can pass through the sediment filter 26 and enter the sampling outlet pipe 24. This greatly improves the purity of the water sample, effectively prevents impurities such as sediment from entering the water sample bottle 3, and prevents them from causing blockages, wear, or other damage to subsequent water quality testing equipment. This ensures the normal operation of the testing equipment, improves the accuracy of water quality test results, and provides more reliable data support for water quality analysis.

[0048] The unmanned surface vessel (USV) water collection device of this utility model and the USV using it first undergo a preparation phase. The collection component 2 is placed in the groove 11 on the top of the USV 1. The size of the groove 11 is adapted to the collection component 2, providing stable positioning and preventing displacement during subsequent operation. Next, the upper end of the mounting rope 32 on one side of the water sample bottle 3 is attached to the handle 12 on the upper part of the USV 1. Simultaneously, the lower part of the water sample bottle 3 is placed into the U-shaped support frame 13 on the outer wall of one side of the USV 1. Through the tension of the mounting rope 32 and the support of the support frame 13, the water sample bottle 3 is securely installed on one side of the USV 1, ensuring that the height of the water sample bottle 3 is lower than the height of the sampling outlet pipe 24 on the outer shell 21 of the collection component 2. Finally, the outer end of the sampling outlet pipe 24 is precisely connected to the water receiving pipe 31 on the top of the water sample bottle 3, completing the assembly preparation of the device.

[0049] The next step is the water sampling phase. The unmanned vessel 1 is maneuvered to the target water area. The water pump 22 inside the sampling unit 2 is activated. After the water pump 22 is powered on, a negative pressure is generated at its inlet 222, drawing underwater water samples into the pump 22 through the connected sampling inlet pipe 23 (the end of which is pre-inserted below the water surface). After being pressurized by the pump 22, the water sample is discharged from the outlet 221 into the outer casing 21.

[0050] Next comes the water sample filtration and transportation stage. Inside the outer casing 21, between the outlet 221 and the sampling outlet pipe 24, a sediment filter 26 filters the water sample discharged from the outlet 221, intercepting larger impurities such as sediment and particles to ensure the purity of the water sample. The filtered water sample, under the pressure difference generated by the water pump 22 and the effect of gravity, flows through the sampling outlet pipe 24 into the water inlet pipe 31 of the water sample bottle 3, ultimately entering the water sample bottle 3 for collection, since the height of the water sample bottle 3 is lower than that of the sampling outlet pipe 24.

[0051] Finally, the cleanup phase begins. After water sample collection is complete, water pump 22 is turned off, and the unmanned vessel 1 is maneuvered back. The water sample bottle 3 is removed for subsequent testing. At the same time, the drain pipe 25 on the upper side of the outer casing 21 can be opened to drain any remaining water sample, impurities, etc., from inside the casing 21, keeping the inside of the device clean and preparing for the next collection.

[0052] Finally, it should be noted that the electronic components in the above-mentioned components, such as the sampling pump 22 in this embodiment, are all general standard parts or parts known to those skilled in the art. Their structure and principle can be learned by those skilled in the art through technical manuals or conventional experimental methods. In the idle part of this device, all the above-mentioned electrical components are connected by wires. The specific connection method should refer to the working order between each electrical component in the above working principle to complete the electrical connection. All of these are technologies known in the art.

[0053] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of this utility model. Those skilled in the art should understand that this utility model is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely preferred examples and are not intended to limit the utility model. Various changes and modifications can be made to this utility model without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the claimed utility model. The scope of protection of this utility model is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An unmanned vessel water intake device and an unmanned vessel using the same, comprising an unmanned vessel (1), characterized in that: The unmanned vessel (1) is equipped with a collection component (2), and a water sample bottle (3) is installed on one side of the unmanned vessel (1). The collection component (2) is used to collect water samples below the water surface and transport the collected water samples to the water sample bottle (3) for collection. The collection component (2) includes a shell (21). A sampling pump (22) is installed inside the shell (21). The inlet end (222) of the sampling pump (22) is connected to a sampling inlet pipe (23). The end of the sampling inlet pipe (23) penetrates the shell (21) and extends below the water surface. The outlet end (221) of the sampling pump (22) is located inside the shell (21).

2. The unmanned vessel water intake device and the unmanned vessel using the same as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The top of the unmanned vessel (1) is provided with a groove (11), and the collection component (2) is placed in the groove (11).

3. The unmanned vessel water intake device and the unmanned vessel using the same as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The unmanned boat (1) is equipped with a handle (12) on its upper part, and a mounting rope (32) is connected to one side of the water sample bottle (3). The upper end of the mounting rope (32) is tied to the handle (12).

4. The unmanned vessel water intake device and the unmanned vessel using the same as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The unmanned vessel (1) has a U-shaped support frame (13) installed on one side of its outer wall, and the lower part of the water sample bottle (3) is supported and limited by the support frame (13).

5. The unmanned vessel water intake device according to claim 1 and the unmanned vessel using the same, characterized in that: A sampling water outlet pipe (24) is connected to the upper part of one side of the outer shell (21), and the outer end of the sampling water outlet pipe (24) is connected to the top water inlet pipe (31) of the water sample bottle (3).

6. The unmanned vessel water intake device according to claim 5 and the unmanned vessel using the same, characterized in that: The height of the water sample bottle (3) is lower than the height of the sampling outlet pipe (24).

7. The unmanned vessel water intake device according to claim 1 and the unmanned vessel using the same, characterized in that: A drain pipe (25) is provided on the upper side of the outer casing (21).

8. The unmanned vessel water intake device according to claim 7 and the unmanned vessel using the same, characterized in that: Inside the outer shell (21), between the water outlet (221) and the sampling water outlet pipe (24), a mud and sand filter screen (26) is installed.

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