Automatic Falling-Off Device for Profiling Float Diversion Shell
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Solution Overview
Problem
The self-sinking and floating type profiling float diversion shell currently requires manual removal, which is difficult and time-consuming, affecting the acquisition of ocean observation data and limiting deployment to areas inaccessible by ships.
Innovation Solution
An automatic falling-off device utilizing pressure changes within an airbag to open a locking hook, allowing the diversion shell to disengage and fall off, comprising a locking device with a locking hook plate and core plate, and an unhooking device with a buoyancy airbag that inflates to drive the locking hook plate upwards, releasing the shell.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual removal of the diversion shell is used, then the shell can be removed, but the process is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking hook plate is pre-positioned with locking hooks that engage with the locking core plate before deployment. The airbag is pre-installed and connected to the locking mechanism, so that when inflated, it automatically triggers the unlocking sequence without requiring manual intervention during the critical removal phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical removal process is replaced by an automated pneumatic system. The airbag inflation creates mechanical force that automatically actuates the locking hook plate to disengage from the locking core plate, eliminating the need for manual tools and operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the diversion shell is kept on the float, then the float can be deployed to hard-to-reach areas, but the shell interferes with profiling after deployment
Solution Approach 1:
The diversion shell is designed as a separate removable component from the float body. The locking mechanism allows the shell to be securely attached during deployment but easily separated afterward, enabling the float to transition from a protected deployment state to an unobtrusive profiling state.
Solution Approach 2:
The diversion shell serves its protective and streamlining function temporarily during deployment, then is automatically discarded (removed) after deployment is complete. The shell is recovered as a separate component while the float continues its profiling mission without interference.
3Reliability
If the locking hook plate is held down by gravity, then the shell remains locked, but the shell cannot be automatically released
Solution Approach 1:
The airbag provides an upward buoyant force that counteracts the downward gravitational force on the locking hook plate. When the airbag is inflated, it generates sufficient counter-force to overcome gravity and lift the locking hook plate, causing the locking hooks to disengage from the locking core plate and release the shell automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
A pneumatic system using an inflatable airbag is employed to actuate the locking mechanism. The airbag connects to the locking hook plate and, when inflated with air, creates the necessary mechanical force to lift the plate and trigger automatic release, replacing gravity-dependent passive locking with active pneumatic control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the smooth deployment of profiling floats to hard-to-reach areas and automatic disengagement of the diversion shell after deployment, without interfering with the profiling process, facilitating continuous data acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
Through pressure change inside and outside an airbag, the automatic falling-off device on the float diversion shell is started to open a locking hook
Implementation Method 2
the buoyancy airbag is mounted between the base and the locking hook plate; and when the buoyancy airbag is inflated, the locking hook plate is driven to move upwards
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an automatic falling-off device for a self-sinking and floating type profiling float diversion shell and the diversion shell. An automatic falling-off device for a self-sinking and floating type profiling float diversion shell, comprises a locking device and an unhooking device; the locking device comprises a locking hook plate and a locking core plate; the locking hook plate is provided on one half diversion shell, and the locking core plate is fixed on another half diversion shell; a locking hook at a front end of the locking hook plate fits with a locking ring at a front end of the locking core plate for locking; the unhooking device comprises a base and a buoyancy airbag; and the base is provided below the locking hook plate, and the buoyancy airbag is mounted between the base and the locking hook plate.