Special environment simulation device and method
By integrating a special environmental simulation device that combines a vacuum container, a vacuum simulation system, a temperature simulation system, and a low gravity simulation system, the problems of low simulation accuracy and inconvenient operation in existing technologies have been solved. This device enables the simulation of a multi-factor coupled environment on the lunar surface, providing technical support for lunar exploration and deep space exploration.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CHINA BUILDING MATERIALS ACADEMY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-11-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-15
AI Technical Summary
Existing simulation devices cannot fully reflect the characteristics of the lunar surface environment, have low simulation accuracy, are complex, inconvenient to operate, and are difficult to simulate the real lunar surface environment.
A special environment simulation device is provided, including a vacuum container, a vacuum simulation system, a temperature simulation system, a low gravity simulation system, and a control system. By integrating low gravity simulation, temperature simulation, and low vacuum simulation technologies, it realizes the coupled environment simulation of multiple factors on the lunar surface and adopts a feedback control strategy for automated control.
It enables the simulation of lunar surface environmental conditions such as ultra-vacuum, low gravity, and large temperature difference on the ground, supporting the performance testing of lunar probes and engineering materials, and providing important technical support for the aerospace industry.
Smart Images
Figure CN2025133725_15052026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Special Environment Simulation Devices and Methods
[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411601968X, filed on November 11, 2024, entitled “Special Environment Simulation Device and Method”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This application relates to the fields of aerospace, aviation, materials, and construction technology, and specifically to special environment simulation devices and methods. Background Technology
[0003] With the continuous development of the space industry, lunar exploration and deep space exploration have become important directions for the development of the space industry. In order to ensure the reliability of lunar probes in orbit and on the lunar surface, and to test the performance of engineering materials that may be used on the lunar surface in the future, it is necessary to develop environmental simulation devices that simulate the real lunar environment.
[0004] Among related technologies, existing simulation devices suffer from problems such as limited simulation factors, inability to fully reflect the characteristics of the lunar surface environment, low simulation accuracy, difficulty in meeting actual needs, complex equipment, inconvenient operation, and difficulty in universal application and promotion, making it difficult to achieve realistic simulation of the lunar surface environment. Summary of the Invention
[0005] In view of this, this application provides a special environment simulation device and method to solve the problem of difficulty in simulating the real lunar environment.
[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a special environment simulation device, which includes a vacuum container, a vacuum simulation system, a temperature simulation system, a low gravity simulation system, and a control system.
[0007] The vacuum container consists of a vacuum chamber and an internal support. The vacuum chamber is used to contain the experimental sample to be simulated, and the internal support is used to fix and support the low gravity simulation system.
[0008] The vacuum simulation system is connected to the vacuum chamber and is used to adjust the vacuum level inside the vacuum container and collect the vacuum level inside the vacuum container in real time.
[0009] The temperature simulation system is installed inside the vacuum container and includes a heating and temperature control system and a cooling system. It is used to regulate the temperature inside the vacuum container through the heating and temperature control system and the cooling system, and to collect the vacuum level inside the vacuum container in real time.
[0010] The low gravity simulation system is installed inside the vacuum container to adjust the low gravity parameter values inside the vacuum container and to collect the low gravity parameter values inside the vacuum container in real time.
[0011] The control system is used to acquire the vacuum level, temperature, and low-gravity parameters inside the vacuum container; based on the vacuum level setpoint required for the experiment, it adjusts the vacuum level inside the vacuum container until it reaches the setpoint; based on the temperature setpoint required for the experiment, it adjusts the temperature inside the vacuum container until it reaches the setpoint; after the vacuum level and temperature inside the vacuum container reach the setpoints, it adjusts the low-gravity parameters inside the vacuum container based on the low-gravity parameter setpoints required for the experiment until they reach the setpoints.
[0012] In this application, an experimental sample is contained in a vacuum container. A vacuum simulation system adjusts the vacuum level inside the container, a temperature simulation system heats or cools the sample, and a low-gravity simulation system simulates a low-gravity environment. A control system adjusts these systems according to the set values required for the experiment, until the vacuum container reaches the set values. This creates simulated lunar surface conditions of ultra-vacuum, low gravity, and large temperature differences, facilitating lunar-related scientific research such as performance testing of lunar probes and lunar engineering materials. By integrating low-gravity, temperature, and low-vacuum simulation technologies, a coupled environment simulation of multiple factors on the lunar surface is achieved, providing crucial technical support for lunar exploration and deep space exploration. This effectively enables performance testing of lunar exploration equipment and engineering materials, as well as related scientific experiments, providing vital support for the development of the aerospace industry.
[0013] In one alternative implementation, the vacuum simulation system includes a vacuum pump, vacuum valves, and a vacuum measuring device.
[0014] The vacuum pump is connected to the vacuum chamber via a vacuum valve and is used to extract air from the vacuum chamber until the vacuum level inside the vacuum chamber reaches the set vacuum level.
[0015] The vacuum measuring device is used to collect the vacuum level inside the vacuum container in real time and send the vacuum level inside the vacuum container to the control system.
[0016] In this approach, a vacuum simulation system is used to control and monitor the ultra-vacuum environment inside the vacuum container in real time, thereby simulating a low-vacuum environment and ensuring that the simulated vacuum level matches the lunar surface environment.
[0017] In one alternative embodiment, the heating and temperature control system includes: a heating cage, a temperature controller, and a heat distributor.
[0018] The heating cage is installed on the inner wall of the vacuum chamber and is used to heat the air inside the vacuum chamber or the sample to be simulated during the experiment.
[0019] The temperature controller is used to adjust the power of the heating cage according to a preset temperature curve;
[0020] A heat distributor is used to evenly distribute the temperature inside a vacuum chamber.
[0021] In this method, the extreme temperature changes on the lunar surface are simulated through a heating and temperature control system, simulating the high-temperature environment of the lunar surface. Precise temperature control is achieved through a temperature controller, and uniform temperature distribution within the vacuum chamber is ensured through a heat distributor.
[0022] In one alternative implementation, the heating cage can be a heater.
[0023] The heating cage is located inside the vacuum chamber and is used to adjust the heating voltage, using radiation to heat the air inside the vacuum chamber or the sample to be simulated.
[0024] In this method, the air or the sample to be simulated in the vacuum chamber is heated by radiation through a heating cage set inside the vacuum chamber, which can achieve more uniform heating of the vacuum chamber.
[0025] In one alternative implementation, the refrigeration system includes a refrigeration unit, refrigerant piping, and a temperature sensor.
[0026] The refrigeration unit is connected to the vacuum chamber through refrigerant pipes. It absorbs heat from the chamber through the evaporation of refrigerant, thereby reducing the temperature inside the vacuum chamber.
[0027] Temperature sensors are used to monitor the temperature inside the vacuum chamber in real time and transmit the temperature to the control system.
[0028] In this method, the refrigeration system simulates the low-temperature environment of the lunar surface. By working in conjunction with the heating system, the extreme environment of the lunar surface is simulated. Refrigeration is achieved through the refrigeration unit and refrigerant pipelines. Combined with the indication of temperature sensors, precise refrigeration control is achieved.
[0029] In one alternative implementation, the low gravity simulation system includes a rotating platform mounted on an internal support. By adjusting the rotation speed and radius of the rotating platform, gravity compensation is performed on the sample to be simulated.
[0030] In this method, the rotating platform can rotate around a central axis. By adjusting the rotation speed and radius, gravity compensation for the experimental object can be achieved, thereby simulating a low-gravity environment similar to the surface of the moon, and achieving a stable and adjustable rotation speed.
[0031] In one optional implementation, the control system employs a feedback control strategy to generate a first control variable for the vacuum level inside the vacuum container, and uses the first control variable to regulate the vacuum level inside the vacuum container; it also employs a feedback control strategy to generate a second control variable for the temperature inside the vacuum container, and uses the second control variable to regulate the temperature inside the vacuum container; and finally, it employs a feedback control strategy to generate a third control variable for the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container, and uses the third control variable to regulate the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container.
[0032] In this approach, the control system employs a feedback control strategy, comparing the real-time vacuum level, temperature, and low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container with set values to generate control quantities. This enables control of the vacuum simulation system, temperature simulation system, and low gravity simulation system, further improving the accuracy of vacuum level, temperature, and low gravity parameter simulations and forming a closed-loop control.
[0033] In one alternative embodiment, the device further includes a safety system, which includes over-temperature protection and a three-phase power failure alarm.
[0034] Over-temperature protection equipment is used to automatically shut down the special environment simulation device and issue an alarm when the temperature inside the vacuum container exceeds the preset upper temperature limit.
[0035] The three-phase power failure alarm is used to monitor the changes in the three-phase current and voltage of the circuit of the special environment simulation device in real time. Based on the changes in the three-phase current and voltage, it determines whether the circuit of the special environment simulation device is working properly. When the current or voltage of a certain phase is abnormal, it controls the special environment simulation device to automatically shut down and issue an alarm.
[0036] In this approach, by setting up a safety system, potential safety risks are monitored and addressed during the simulation experiment, and alarms are triggered, thereby improving the safety level of the special environment simulation device and further enhancing the user experience.
[0037] Secondly, this application provides a special environment simulation method, applied to a special environment simulation device as described in any of the first aspects, the device including a vacuum container, a vacuum simulation system, a temperature simulation system, a low gravity simulation system, and a control system, the method including:
[0038] The sample to be simulated is placed on the low gravity simulation system, and the low gravity simulation system is placed inside the vacuum container.
[0039] Close the vacuum container's hatch and obtain the vacuum level, temperature, and low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container;
[0040] Using the control system, the vacuum level inside the vacuum container is adjusted based on the vacuum level setpoint required for the experiment until the vacuum level inside the vacuum container reaches the setpoint.
[0041] Based on the temperature setpoint required for the experiment, the temperature inside the vacuum container is adjusted until the temperature inside the vacuum container reaches the setpoint.
[0042] Once the vacuum level inside the vacuum container reaches the set vacuum level value and the temperature inside the vacuum container reaches the set temperature value, the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container are adjusted based on the low gravity parameter settings required for the experiment until the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container reach the set low gravity parameter values.
[0043] This application integrates technologies such as low gravity simulation, temperature simulation, and low vacuum simulation to achieve coupled environment simulation of multiple factors on the lunar surface. By presetting and adjusting the environmental parameters of the simulation experiment, automated control of special environment simulation is achieved. This can effectively conduct performance testing of lunar exploration equipment and engineering materials, as well as related scientific experiments, providing important support for the development of the aerospace industry.
[0044] In one optional implementation, the vacuum level inside the vacuum container is adjusted based on the required vacuum level setpoint for the experiment, including:
[0045] A feedback control strategy is adopted to generate a first control quantity for the vacuum level inside the vacuum container, and the vacuum level inside the vacuum container is regulated using the first control quantity.
[0046] Based on the temperature setpoint required for the experiment, the temperature inside the vacuum container is regulated, including:
[0047] A feedback control strategy is adopted to generate a second control quantity for the temperature inside the vacuum container, and the temperature inside the vacuum container is regulated by the second control quantity.
[0048] Based on the low-gravity parameter settings required for the experiment, the low-gravity parameters inside the vacuum container were adjusted, including:
[0049] A feedback control strategy is adopted to generate a third control variable for the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container, and the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container are adjusted using the third control variable.
[0050] In this approach, a feedback control strategy is used to compare the real-time vacuum level, temperature, and low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container with the set values to form control quantities. This enables the control of the vacuum simulation system, temperature simulation system, and low gravity simulation system, gradually bringing the real-time vacuum level, temperature, and low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container to the set values. This further improves the accuracy of the simulation of vacuum level, temperature, and low gravity parameters, forming a closed-loop control. Attached Figure Description
[0051] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0052] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a special environment simulation device according to an embodiment of this application.
[0053] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a special environment simulation device and its internal structure according to an embodiment of this application.
[0054] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a special environment simulation device according to an embodiment of this application.
[0055] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a special environment simulation device according to an embodiment of this application.
[0056] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a special environment simulation device according to an embodiment of this application.
[0057] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a special environment simulation method according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation
[0058] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0059] Among related technologies, existing simulation devices suffer from problems such as limited simulation factors, inability to fully reflect the characteristics of the lunar surface environment, low simulation accuracy, difficulty in meeting actual needs, complex equipment, inconvenient operation, and difficulty in universal application and promotion, making it difficult to achieve realistic simulation of the lunar surface environment.
[0060] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a special environment simulation device. This device is suitable for use in lunar probe performance testing, astronaut training, and lunar-related scientific research. The device utilizes a vacuum container to hold experimental samples. A vacuum simulation system adjusts the vacuum level inside the container, a temperature simulation system heats or cools the sample, and a low-gravity simulation system simulates a low-gravity environment. A control system adjusts these systems according to the set values required for the experiment, adjusting them until the vacuum container reaches the set values. This creates simulated lunar surface conditions of supervacuum, low gravity, and large temperature differences, facilitating performance testing of lunar probes and lunar engineering materials, as well as other lunar-related scientific research. By integrating low-gravity, temperature, and low-vacuum simulation technologies, it achieves coupled simulation of multiple factors on the lunar surface, providing crucial technical support for lunar exploration and deep space exploration. It effectively tests the performance of lunar exploration equipment and engineering materials, and conducts related scientific experiments, providing vital support for the development of the aerospace industry.
[0061] The vacuum degree refers to the rarefaction of the gas inside the vacuum container, that is, the degree to which its pressure is lower than standard atmospheric pressure. It is a key measured and controlled parameter in this special environment simulation device. In this embodiment, the vacuum degree can be understood as the low pressure state that needs to be achieved and maintained in the vacuum chamber of the simulation device to realize the lunar surface environment simulation. Its value is monitored by the vacuum simulation system and precisely regulated by the control system according to the set value.
[0062] According to an embodiment of this application, a special environment simulation device is provided. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the special environment simulation device according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the special environment simulation device includes: a vacuum container 10, a vacuum simulation system 20, a temperature simulation system, a low gravity simulation system 40, and a control system 50. The vacuum container 10 includes a vacuum chamber 11 and an internal support 12. The vacuum chamber 11 is used to contain the experimental sample to be simulated, and the internal support 12 is used to fix and support the low gravity simulation system 40. The vacuum simulation system 20 is connected to the vacuum chamber 11 and is used to adjust the vacuum level inside the vacuum container 10 and to collect the vacuum level inside the vacuum container 10 in real time. A temperature simulation system, located inside the vacuum container, includes a heating and temperature control system 31 and a cooling system 32. It regulates the temperature inside the vacuum container 10 using these systems and collects real-time data on the vacuum level inside the container. A low-gravity simulation system 40, also installed inside the vacuum container 10, adjusts the low-gravity parameters inside the container and collects these parameters in real-time. A control system 50 acquires the vacuum level, temperature, and low-gravity parameters inside the vacuum container 10. The system is set based on the required vacuum level for the experiment. The vacuum level inside the vacuum container 10 is adjusted until it reaches the set value. The temperature inside the vacuum container 10 is adjusted based on the required temperature setting until it reaches the set temperature setting. Once both the vacuum level and temperature inside the vacuum container 10 have reached their set values, the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container 10 are adjusted based on the required low gravity parameter setting until they reach their set values.
[0063] In one example, the special environment simulation device includes a vacuum container 10, a vacuum simulation system 20, a cooling system 32, a heating and temperature control system 31, a rotating platform, a control system 50, and a data acquisition system. The vacuum container 10 includes a vacuum chamber 11 and an internal support 12, serving as a simulated environmental space for achieving an ultra-vacuum environment and regulating the temperature inside. A rotating platform and monitoring equipment are installed inside. The vacuum simulation system 20 includes a vacuum pump 21, valves, pipelines, and vacuum measuring devices, used to control the realization of the ultra-vacuum environment inside the vacuum container 10 and perform real-time monitoring. The cooling system 32 is used to lower the temperature of the internal environment of the vacuum container 10. The heating and temperature control system 31 includes a heating cage 60, vacuum-sealed heating electrodes, a transformer, a voltage regulating module, and a temperature controller, used to regulate and control the temperature of the internal environment of the vacuum container 10. The rotating platform, controlled by a servo motor, is used to simulate the low-gravity environment inside the vacuum container 10. The control system 50 and data acquisition system include a cabinet, an industrial computer, and a touchscreen controller, used to achieve multi-parameter control of the internal environment of the vacuum container 10.
[0064] In one optional embodiment, the vacuum simulation system 20 includes a vacuum pump 21, a vacuum valve, and a vacuum measuring device. The vacuum pump 21 is connected to the vacuum chamber 11 via the vacuum valve and is used to extract air from the vacuum chamber 11 until the vacuum level inside the vacuum chamber 11 reaches a set vacuum level. The vacuum measuring device is used to collect the vacuum level inside the vacuum container 10 in real time and send the vacuum level inside the vacuum container 10 to the control system.
[0065] In one example, the vacuum simulation system 20 includes a vacuum pump 21, valves, piping, and a vacuum measuring device for controlling and monitoring the realization of an ultra-high vacuum environment inside the vacuum container 10. The vacuum simulation system 20, used to simulate the low vacuum environment of the lunar surface, includes a vacuum chamber 11, vacuum pump 21, vacuum valves, and vacuum sensors. The vacuum chamber 11 contains the experimental object to be simulated. The vacuum pump 21, connected to the vacuum chamber 11 via vacuum valves, is used to extract air from the vacuum chamber 11 to achieve the simulated low vacuum environment. The vacuum sensors monitor the pressure inside the vacuum chamber in real time to ensure that the simulated vacuum level matches the lunar surface environment.
[0066] Specifically, the vacuum gauge monitors the air pressure inside the chamber in real time and feeds it back to the control system. The control system then controls the vacuum pump 21 and the valve body to evacuate the chamber, gradually reaching the set value and forming a closed-loop control.
[0067] In this approach, a vacuum simulation system is used to control and monitor the ultra-vacuum environment inside the vacuum container in real time, thereby simulating a low-vacuum environment and ensuring that the simulated vacuum level matches the lunar surface environment.
[0068] In one optional embodiment, the heating and temperature control system 31 includes a heating cage 60, a temperature controller, and a heat distributor. The heating cage 60 is installed on the inner wall of the vacuum chamber 11 and is used to heat the air inside the vacuum chamber 11 or the sample to be simulated during the experiment. The temperature controller is used to adjust the power of the heating cage 60 according to a preset temperature curve. The heat distributor is used to evenly distribute the temperature inside the vacuum chamber.
[0069] In one alternative embodiment, a heating cage 60 is disposed inside the vacuum chamber 11 to adjust the heating voltage and heat the air or the experimental sample to be simulated inside the vacuum chamber 11 by radiation.
[0070] In one example, the heating and temperature control system 31 is used to simulate extreme temperature variations on the lunar surface, including high-temperature environments. The heating electrodes of the heating and temperature control system 31 work in conjunction with a heating cage to achieve uniform heating of the interior of the vacuum container. The heating and temperature control system 31 consists of a heating cage 60, a temperature controller, and a heat distributor. The heating cage 60 is installed on the inner wall of the vacuum chamber and is used to heat the air or experimental object during the experiment. The temperature controller adjusts the power of the heating cage 60 according to a preset temperature curve to achieve precise temperature control. The heat distributor ensures uniform temperature distribution within the vacuum chamber 11.
[0071] Specifically, the heating and temperature control system 31 uses radiation heating, specifically infrared heating cage heating. The heating cage 60 is under overall control, and the heating voltage can be automatically adjusted via a voltage regulation module, thereby regulating the heating power. A single temperature controller is used for control, with one movable temperature control point (temperature sensor) placed inside the container to monitor the temperature in real time and provide feedback to the control system, which then automatically controls the heating power. The temperature can be set once via the touchscreen, making operation convenient.
[0072] In this method, a heating and temperature control system simulates the extreme temperature changes on the lunar surface, mimicking the high-temperature environment of the moon. A temperature controller enables precise temperature control, and a heat distributor ensures uniform temperature distribution within the vacuum chamber. A heating cage positioned inside the vacuum chamber heats the air or the experimental sample being simulated through radiation, achieving more uniform heating of the vacuum chamber's interior.
[0073] In one alternative embodiment, the refrigeration system 32 includes a refrigeration unit, refrigerant pipes, and a temperature sensor: the refrigeration unit is connected to the vacuum chamber via the refrigerant pipes and absorbs heat from the chamber through the evaporation of the refrigerant, thereby reducing the temperature inside the vacuum chamber; the temperature sensor is used to monitor the temperature inside the vacuum chamber in real time and transmit the temperature to the control system.
[0074] In one example, Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a special environment simulation device and its internal structure according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, the refrigeration system 32 lowers the ambient temperature inside the vacuum container 10 to an ultra-low temperature state through liquid nitrogen 33, an infrared heat sink disposed inside the vacuum container 10, and a main heat sink. The refrigeration system 32 works in conjunction with the heating and temperature control system 31 to simulate the low-temperature environment of the lunar surface. The refrigeration system 32 includes a refrigeration unit, refrigerant pipes, and a temperature sensor. The refrigeration unit is connected to the evaporator inside the vacuum chamber through the refrigerant pipes, absorbing heat from the chamber through the evaporation of the refrigerant and lowering the temperature inside the vacuum chamber 11. The temperature sensor is used to monitor and provide feedback on the real-time temperature inside the vacuum chamber 11 to achieve precise refrigeration control.
[0075] In this method, the refrigeration system simulates the low-temperature environment of the lunar surface. By working in conjunction with the heating system, the extreme environment of the lunar surface is simulated. Refrigeration is achieved through the refrigeration unit and refrigerant pipelines. Combined with the indication of temperature sensors, precise refrigeration control is achieved.
[0076] In one alternative implementation, the low gravity simulation system 40 includes a rotating platform mounted on an internal support 12. By adjusting the rotation speed and radius of the rotating platform, gravity compensation is performed on the sample to be simulated.
[0077] In one example, the gravity of the lunar surface is simulated by a low-gravity simulation system 40 inside a vacuum container 10, placing the experimental sample to be simulated on the low-gravity simulation system 40 in a low-gravity state. The rotating platform is controlled by a precise servo motor system to achieve rotation at different speeds and angles to simulate different low-gravity environments.
[0078] Specifically, the rotating platform employs a mechanical rotation method, primarily consisting of two horizontally and vertically arranged rotating mechanisms, powered by high and low temperature resistant motors. It utilizes continuous cyclic motion along the X and Y axes, ensuring the simulated experimental sample remains in a low-gravity environment. Under high vacuum and large temperature difference conditions, equipment with components whose performance and number are minimally affected by the environment is selected. Since the only component affected by the environment in mechanical rotation equipment is the motor, a dedicated high- and low-temperature resistant and vacuum-resistant motor is used to eliminate this influence, ensuring the low-gravity simulation system 40 can operate normally under high vacuum and large temperature difference conditions. The software automatically adjusts the direction and speed of the X and Y axes. By adjusting the speed and direction, low-gravity simulation is achieved. Users can directly set the low-gravity value and determine the rotation speed and angle based on the set low-gravity value.
[0079] In this method, the rotating platform can rotate around a central axis. By adjusting the rotation speed and radius, gravity compensation for the experimental object can be achieved, thereby simulating a low-gravity environment similar to the surface of the moon, and achieving a stable and adjustable rotation speed.
[0080] In one optional implementation, the control system 50 employs a feedback control strategy to generate a first control quantity for the vacuum level inside the vacuum container 10, and uses the first control quantity to regulate the vacuum level inside the vacuum container 10; employs a feedback control strategy to generate a second control quantity for the temperature inside the vacuum container 10, and uses the second control quantity to regulate the temperature inside the vacuum container 10; employs a feedback control strategy to generate a third control quantity for the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container 10, and uses the third control quantity to regulate the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container 10.
[0081] In one example, the control system 50 and data acquisition system also include a data storage device for storing monitored environmental parameter data. The control system 50 is the core of the lunar environment simulation device, used to integrate and manage the various subsystems. This system includes a central processing unit, input / output interfaces, a data display screen, and operating software. The central processing unit receives data from monitoring devices such as vacuum sensors and temperature sensors, analyzes and processes it through the operating software, and then controls the operation of the vacuum pump 21, heating cage 60, refrigeration unit, and rotating platform through the output interfaces. The data display screen is used to display the system status and experimental data in real time, facilitating monitoring and adjustments by operators.
[0082] Specifically, the control system 50 employs a PID feedback control strategy, consisting of three parts: proportional, integral, and derivative. PID control controls the system by performing proportional, integral, and derivative operations on the system's feedback error signal, then linearly combining the results to form a control quantity, thereby controlling the system to eliminate the error. The basic principle is to calculate the error between the actual output value and the desired target value of the system. This error signal is then processed through proportional, integral, and derivative operations, and the results are linearly combined to form a control quantity used to adjust the system's behavior and reduce the error. Specifically: Proportional (P): The proportional part directly adjusts the control quantity according to the magnitude of the error; the larger the error, the larger the adjustment. The proportional parameter determines the control sensitivity. Integral (I): The integral part is responsible for eliminating the accumulation of error. When the system has a persistent error, the integral part gradually adjusts the control quantity until the error is zero. The integral parameter determines the system's long-term response to the error. Derivative (D): The derivative part predicts the trend of error changes and adjusts the control quantity in advance to reduce overshoot and oscillation. Differential parameters determine the system's response speed and stability to changes.
[0083] In this approach, the control system employs a feedback control strategy, comparing the real-time vacuum level, temperature, and low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container with set values to generate control quantities. This enables control of the vacuum simulation system, temperature simulation system, and low gravity simulation system, further improving the accuracy of vacuum level, temperature, and low gravity parameter simulations and forming a closed-loop control.
[0084] In an optional embodiment, the above-mentioned device further includes a safety system, which includes an over-temperature protection device and a three-phase power failure alarm: the over-temperature protection device is used to control the special environment simulation device to automatically shut down and issue an alarm when the temperature inside the vacuum container 10 exceeds the preset upper temperature limit; the three-phase power failure alarm is used to monitor the changes in the three-phase current and voltage of the circuit of the special environment simulation device in real time, and to determine whether the circuit of the special environment simulation device is working normally based on the changes in the three-phase current and voltage, and to control the special environment simulation device to automatically shut down and issue an alarm when the current or voltage of a certain phase is abnormal.
[0085] In one example, the safety system is used to monitor and handle potential safety risks during a simulation experiment, including: Over-temperature protection: An over-temperature alarm temperature sensor is installed, with a set over-temperature limit. When the detected temperature exceeds the set limit, the equipment automatically shuts down and triggers an audible and visual alarm. Three-phase power failure alarm: Real-time monitoring of changes in the three-phase current and voltage on the circuit determines whether the circuit is operating normally. If an abnormality in the current or voltage of any phase is detected, the alarm will be triggered, providing an audible or visual alarm and shutting down the equipment.
[0086] In this approach, by setting up a safety system, potential safety risks are monitored and addressed during the simulation experiment, and alarms are triggered, thereby improving the safety level of the special environment simulation device and further enhancing the user experience.
[0087] In one implementation scenario, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a special environment simulation device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a special environment simulation device according to an embodiment of this application; and Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the principle of a special environment simulation device according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 5, the special environment simulation device includes: a vacuum container 10, including a vacuum chamber 11 and an internal support 12. The vacuum chamber 11 serves as a simulation environment space, used to achieve an ultra-vacuum environment and perform temperature control inside. A rotating platform and monitoring equipment are installed inside; and a vacuum simulation system 20, including a vacuum pump 21 and valves. The system includes: a pipeline and vacuum measuring device for controlling the realization of the ultra-vacuum environment inside the vacuum container 10 and performing real-time monitoring; a cooling system 32 for reducing the temperature of the internal environment of the vacuum container 10; a heating and temperature control system 31, including a heating cage 60, a vacuum-sealed heating electrode, a transformer, a voltage regulating module, and a temperature controller, for regulating and controlling the temperature of the internal environment of the vacuum container 10; a rotating platform controlled by a servo motor for simulating the low-gravity environment inside the vacuum container 10; and a control system 50 and a data acquisition system, including a cabinet, an industrial computer, and a touch screen controller, for multi-parameter control of the internal environment of the vacuum container 10.
[0088] The special environment simulation device provided in this embodiment uses a vacuum container to hold experimental samples. A vacuum simulation system adjusts the vacuum level inside the container, a temperature simulation system heats or cools the sample, and a low-gravity simulation system simulates a low-gravity environment. A control system adjusts these systems according to the set values required for the experiment, until the vacuum container reaches the set values. This creates simulated lunar surface conditions of supervacuum, low gravity, and large temperature differences, facilitating lunar probe performance testing, performance testing of lunar engineering materials, and other lunar-related scientific research. By integrating low-gravity, temperature, and low-vacuum simulation technologies, it achieves coupled simulation of multiple factors on the lunar surface, providing crucial technical support for lunar exploration and deep space exploration. It can effectively conduct performance testing of lunar exploration equipment and engineering materials, as well as related scientific experiments, providing vital support for the development of the aerospace industry.
[0089] This embodiment provides a special environment simulation method, which can be used in the aforementioned special environment simulation device. The device includes: a vacuum container, a vacuum simulation system, a temperature simulation system, a low gravity simulation system, and a control system. Figure 6 is a flowchart of the special environment simulation method according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 6, the method includes:
[0090] Step S601: Place the experimental sample to be simulated on the low gravity simulation system, and place the low gravity simulation system inside the vacuum container.
[0091] Step S602: Close the door of the vacuum container and obtain the vacuum level, temperature and low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container.
[0092] Step S603: Using the control system, the vacuum level inside the vacuum container is adjusted based on the vacuum level set value required for the experiment until the vacuum level inside the vacuum container reaches the set value.
[0093] In one alternative implementation, a feedback control strategy is employed to generate a first control quantity for the vacuum level inside the vacuum container, and the vacuum level inside the vacuum container is regulated using the first control quantity.
[0094] Step S604: Based on the temperature setpoint required for the experiment, adjust the temperature inside the vacuum container until the temperature inside the vacuum container reaches the setpoint.
[0095] In one alternative implementation, a feedback control strategy is employed to generate a second control quantity for the temperature inside the vacuum container, and the temperature inside the vacuum container is regulated using the second control quantity.
[0096] Step S605: After the vacuum degree inside the vacuum container reaches the set vacuum degree value and the temperature inside the vacuum container reaches the set temperature value, the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container is adjusted based on the low gravity parameter setting value required for the experiment until the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container reaches the set low gravity parameter value.
[0097] In one alternative implementation, a feedback control strategy is employed to generate a third control variable for the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container, and the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container are adjusted using the third control variable.
[0098] In one example, simulating the lunar environment using a special environmental simulation device may include: Step 1: Mounting the experimental sample to be simulated onto the low gravity system 70. Placing the low gravity system 70 on the test platform inside the vacuum container.
[0099] Step 2: Close the container door and tighten the door clamping mechanism.
[0100] Step 3: Turn on the vacuum chamber, set the required temperature and vacuum level on the controller, start the equipment, and begin temperature control and vacuuming.
[0101] Step 4: After the temperature and vacuum level reach the set values, set the required low gravity parameters for the low gravity system and start the low gravity system. Begin the experiment.
[0102] Specifically, the control system employs a PID feedback control strategy, consisting of three parts: proportional, integral, and derivative. PID control controls the system by performing proportional, integral, and derivative operations on the system's feedback error signal, then linearly combining the results to form the control quantity, thereby controlling the system to eliminate the error. The basic principle is to calculate the error between the actual output value and the desired target value of the system. This error signal is then processed through proportional, integral, and derivative operations, and the results are linearly combined to form the control quantity, which is used to adjust the system's behavior to reduce the error. Specifically: Proportional (P): The proportional part directly adjusts the control quantity according to the magnitude of the error; the larger the error, the larger the adjustment. The proportional parameter determines the control sensitivity. Integral (I): The integral part is responsible for eliminating the accumulation of error. When the system has a persistent error, the integral part gradually adjusts the control quantity until the error is zero. The integral parameter determines the system's long-term response to the error. Derivative (D): The derivative part predicts the trend of error changes and adjusts the control quantity in advance to reduce overshoot and oscillation. Differential parameters determine the system's response speed and stability to changes.
[0103] The special environment simulation method provided in this embodiment integrates low-gravity simulation, temperature simulation, and low-vacuum simulation technologies to achieve coupled simulation of multiple factors on the lunar surface. By preset and adjusting the environmental parameters of the simulation experiment, automated control of the special environment simulation is achieved. This method can effectively conduct performance testing of lunar exploration equipment and engineering materials, as well as related scientific experiments, providing important support for the development of the aerospace industry. Through a feedback control strategy, the real-time vacuum level, temperature, and low-gravity parameters inside the vacuum container are compared with set values to form control quantities. This enables control of the vacuum simulation system, temperature simulation system, and low-gravity simulation system, gradually bringing the real-time vacuum level, temperature, and low-gravity parameters inside the vacuum container to the set values, further improving the accuracy of the vacuum level, temperature, and low-gravity parameter simulations and forming a closed-loop control.
[0104] Although embodiments of this application have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of this application, and all such modifications and variations fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A special environment simulation device, characterized in that, The device includes a vacuum container, a vacuum simulation system, a temperature simulation system, a low gravity simulation system, and a control system. The vacuum container includes a vacuum chamber and an internal support. The vacuum chamber is used to contain the experimental sample to be simulated, and the internal support is used to fix and support the low gravity simulation system. The vacuum simulation system is connected to the vacuum chamber and is used to adjust the vacuum level inside the vacuum container and collect the vacuum level inside the vacuum container in real time. The temperature simulation system is installed inside the vacuum container and includes a heating and temperature control system and a cooling system. It is used to adjust the temperature inside the vacuum container through the heating and temperature control system and the cooling system, and to collect the vacuum level inside the vacuum container in real time. The low gravity simulation system is installed inside the vacuum container and is used to adjust the low gravity parameter values inside the vacuum container and collect the low gravity parameter values inside the vacuum container in real time. The control system is used to acquire the vacuum level, temperature, and low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container; adjust the vacuum level inside the vacuum container based on the vacuum level setpoint required for the experiment until the vacuum level inside the vacuum container reaches the setpoint; adjust the temperature inside the vacuum container based on the temperature setpoint required for the experiment until the temperature inside the vacuum container reaches the setpoint; after the vacuum level and temperature inside the vacuum container reach the setpoint, adjust the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container based on the low gravity parameter setpoint required for the experiment until the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container reach the setpoint.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vacuum simulation system includes a vacuum pump, vacuum valves, and a vacuum measuring device; The vacuum pump is connected to the vacuum chamber via the vacuum valve and is used to extract air from the vacuum chamber until the vacuum level inside the vacuum chamber reaches the set vacuum level value. The vacuum measuring device is used to collect the vacuum level inside the vacuum container in real time and send the vacuum level inside the vacuum container to the control system.
3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating and temperature control system includes: a heating cage, a temperature controller, and a heat distributor. The heating cage is installed on the inner wall of the vacuum chamber and is used to heat the air inside the vacuum chamber or the experimental sample to be simulated during the experiment. The temperature controller is used to adjust the power of the heating cage according to a preset temperature curve; The heat distributor is used to uniformly distribute the temperature inside the vacuum chamber.
4. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The heating cage is located inside the vacuum chamber and is used to adjust the heating voltage and heat the air inside the vacuum chamber or the experimental sample to be simulated by radiation.
5. The apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The refrigeration system includes a refrigeration unit, refrigerant piping, and temperature sensors. The refrigeration unit is connected to the vacuum chamber through the refrigerant pipe, and absorbs heat from the chamber through the evaporation of the refrigerant, thereby reducing the temperature inside the vacuum chamber. The temperature sensor is used to monitor the temperature inside the vacuum chamber in real time and transmit the temperature to the control system.
6. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The low gravity simulation system includes a rotating platform mounted on an internal support. By adjusting the rotation speed and radius of the rotating platform, gravity compensation is performed on the sample to be simulated.
7. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control system employs a feedback control strategy to generate a first control variable for the vacuum level inside the vacuum container, and uses the first control variable to regulate the vacuum level inside the vacuum container; it also employs a feedback control strategy to generate a second control variable for the temperature inside the vacuum container, and uses the second control variable to regulate the temperature inside the vacuum container; and finally, it employs a feedback control strategy to generate a third control variable for the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container, and uses the third control variable to regulate the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container.
8. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device also includes a safety system, which includes over-temperature protection and a three-phase power failure alarm. The over-temperature protection device is used to control the special environment simulation device to automatically stop and issue an alarm when the temperature inside the vacuum container exceeds the preset temperature limit. The three-phase power failure alarm is used to monitor the changes in the three-phase current and voltage of the circuit of the special environment simulation device in real time, and to determine whether the circuit of the special environment simulation device is working properly based on the changes in the three-phase current and voltage. When the current or voltage of a certain phase is abnormal, the special environment simulation device is controlled to automatically shut down and issue an alarm.
9. A special environment simulation method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a special environment simulation device as described in any one of claims 1-8, the device comprising a vacuum container, a vacuum simulation system, a temperature simulation system, a low gravity simulation system, and a control system, the method comprising: The sample to be simulated is placed on the low gravity simulation system, and the low gravity simulation system is placed inside the vacuum container; Close the door of the vacuum container and obtain the vacuum level, temperature and low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container; Using the control system, the vacuum level inside the vacuum container is adjusted based on the vacuum level set value required for the experiment until the vacuum level inside the vacuum container reaches the set value. Based on the temperature setpoint required for the experiment, the temperature inside the vacuum container is adjusted until the temperature inside the vacuum container reaches the setpoint. After the vacuum level inside the vacuum container reaches the set vacuum level value and the temperature inside the vacuum container reaches the set temperature value, the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container is adjusted based on the low gravity parameter setting value required for the experiment until the low gravity parameter inside the vacuum container reaches the set low gravity parameter value.
10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The process of adjusting the vacuum level inside the vacuum container based on the required vacuum level setting for the experiment includes: A feedback control strategy is adopted to generate a first control quantity for the vacuum level inside the vacuum container, and the vacuum level inside the vacuum container is regulated using the first control quantity. The temperature control of the vacuum container based on the temperature setpoint required for the experiment includes: A feedback control strategy is adopted to generate a second control quantity for the temperature inside the vacuum container, and the temperature inside the vacuum container is regulated by the second control quantity. The adjustment of the low-gravity parameters inside the vacuum container based on the low-gravity parameter settings required for the experiment includes: A feedback control strategy is adopted to generate a third control variable for the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container, and the low gravity parameters inside the vacuum container are adjusted using the third control variable.