Fabric sample measuring system with a translationally movable fabric tray carrier

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fabric sample measurement system for determining the properties of a fabric sample, wherein the fabric sample measurement system (10) comprises at least, - A lifting device that is translationally height-adjustable to different lifting positions so that a translational force can be applied to the fabric sample along the lift axis (H); - A fixed force applying means (14) for applying the translational force to the dough sample along the force application principal axis (K) as a result of the translational movement of the dough receiving device (16); - A dough receiving device (16) for supporting the dough sample, which is translatably movable along the longitudinal axis (T) of the dough receiving device, and is connected to the lift device (12) such that it is formed to be translatably movable along the longitudinal axis (T) of the dough receiving device (12) when the lift position of the lift device (12) changes along the lift axis (H), and - A load sensor system (18) for detecting the translational force along the load detection axis (L), which is at least indirectly connected to the force application means (14), It is equipped with.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fabric sample measurement system for determining the properties of a fabric sample.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for determining the properties of a fabric sample by means of the aforementioned fabric sample measurement system.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a computer program, a data carrier signal, and a computer-readable medium.

Background Art

[0004] So far, within the framework of elongation tests, fabric sample measurement systems and methods for determining the rheological properties of fabric samples, such as wheat flour fabric samples, for example, are known. The load-elongation curve recorded in that case is used for determining the general quality of cereal flour and the reaction to the addition of baking agents. These methods are preferably applicable for cereal flours consisting of wheat, such as the wheat species (Triticum aestivum L.).

[0005] For this purpose, it is contemplated that the fabric sample measurement system comprises a translatable force application means and a stationary fabric receiving device for supporting the fabric sample. Basically, the force application means and the fabric receiving device are designed such that both approach each other translationally in the vertical direction, in particular, such that they pass through each other by means of a corresponding geometric design of both components, or such that the force application means moves away from the fabric receiving device during its further movement.

[0006] Both the fabric receiving device and the fabric sample placed on it are separated from the load sensor system via a lever arm. As is known from measurement techniques, the degree of measurement inaccuracy increases with the number of factors influencing the measurement process. In this case, the influence of the lever arm significantly increases the measurement inaccuracy. In particular, since the cause of this error is a problem that has not been resolved to date, as it is due to factors originating from force and the lever arm, the fabric sample measurement system weighs the tare weight before every measurement is performed. In addition, the fabric receiving device, designed as a fabric tray, must be fixed together with the fabric sample before every measurement process because the lever arm significantly increases the measurement inaccuracy. The changing tearing behavior caused by the vertical movement of the fabric sample within the fabric receiving device has been found to be another variable influencing factor. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] Given this situation, the object of the present invention is to create an improved fabric sample measurement system that enables faster and therefore less expensive fabric sample measurement, despite having higher measurement quality. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The aforementioned problems of the present invention are solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous configurations are presented in the subordinate claims. To the extent technically possible, the teachings of the subordinate claims may be optionally combined with the teachings of the main claim and the subordinate claims.

[0009] In particular, according to this, the problem is solved by a fabric sample measurement system for determining the properties of fabric samples. For this purpose, the fabric sample measurement system comprises at least the following: - A lift device that is translationally height-adjustable to different lift positions along the lift axis, so that a translational force can be applied to a fabric sample depending on the lift position of the lift device as a result of translational relative movement between a fixed force-applying means and a translationally movable fabric receiving device; - A fixed force-applying means for applying a translational force to a dough sample along the force-applying principal axis as a result of the translational movement of the dough receiving device; - A fabric receiving device that is capable of translational movement along the longitudinal axis of the fabric receiving device for supporting and holding a fabric sample, A dough receiving device connected to a lifting device, such that it is formed to be able to translate along the longitudinal axis of dough receiving when the lifting position of the lifting device changes along the lifting axis; - A load sensor system for detecting translational force along a load detection axis, which is connected at least indirectly to a force application means.

[0010] The following describes advantageous embodiments of the fabric sample measurement system, and further, preferred modified embodiments of the fabric sample measurement system. In particular, descriptions of the advantages and definitions of features are substantially descriptive, preferred, but not limiting examples. Where a description is limiting, this is explicitly mentioned.

[0011] For example, the fabric sample being measured can be moved up and down together with the fabric receiving device itself (which preferably has a self-stabilizing effect through the influence of the weight of the fabric sample), thereby reducing the risk of undesirable lateral forces and / or moments acting on a stationary fabric sample.

[0012] Advantageously, in the case of brittle dough samples such as biscuits, for example, wobbling is reduced, and as a result, measurement quality is improved in this context as well.

[0013] Overall, the effects of horizontal forces have been found to be reduced when the fabric sample itself moves vertically, thereby stabilizing it in its position, particularly under the influence of its fixed weight.

[0014] The fabric sample measurement system contributes particularly to determining the rheological properties of fabric samples. The rheological properties to be determined include, in particular, their deformation and flow behavior. Rheology, in particular, relates to subdomains of elasticity theory, plasticity theory, and fluid dynamics.

[0015] In particular, the dough sample measurement system is used for compression tests in the case of hard dough samples, such as biscuits. For soft dough samples, such as flour-water mixtures, the dough sample measurement system is used specifically for tensile tests. In this case, the dough sample measurement system may be used for only one of the two test types, or it may be usable for both test types. For this purpose, the force application means and / or dough receiving device are preferably designed to be interchangeable, i.e., modular. A corresponding calculation system controls the corresponding experiment.

[0016] As a dough sample, a flour-water mixture such as flour dough, for example, wheat flour dough containing Triticum aestivum L. in particular, can be used. This flour dough can be subjected to tensile force by moving between a force-applying means and a dough receiving device, and can be stretched until it is torn.

[0017] One advantage of this dough sample measurement system is its wide applicability. For example, baked biscuits can be used as dough samples, which can be subjected to compression measurements instead of conventional tensile measurements involving movement between a force-applying means and a dough receiving device. In this case, it is particularly intended that the movable dough receiving device does not pass through a fixed force-applying means.

[0018] The fabric sample measurement system includes at least a lifting device, a force application means, a fabric receiving device, and a load sensor system for measuring fabric samples.

[0019] The lifting device is translationally height-adjustable to different lift positions along its lift axis. Since the dough sample rests on a dough receiving device connected to the lifting device, the translational movement of the dough receiving device, and consequently the dough sample, results from the translational movement of the lifting device. This can occur directly or indirectly. Exemplarily, a connecting means or transmission configuration may be positioned between the dough receiving device and the lifting device. The translational force acting on the dough sample ultimately results from the lifting movement of the lifting device, acting in the opposite direction to the fixed force application means via the lifting motion of the movable dough receiving device. The dough receiving device and the force application means are designed to be correlated so as not to collide during the vertical passage of the dough receiving device through the fixed force application means; as a result, any force flow that may occur between the dough receiving device and the force application means is transmitted through the dough sample positioned between them. The force application means transmits this force to a load sensor system for load detection. In other words, a translational force can be applied to the fabric sample, which should be detected according to the lift position of the lifting device as a result of translational relative movement between a fixed force-applying means and a translationally movable fabric receiving device.

[0020] The relative movement between the fixed force application means and the translationally movable fabric receiving device can be understood, in other words, as the fabric receiving device moving vertically toward the fixed force application means. In this case, the fabric sample remains as still as possible on the fabric receiving device. Deformation of the fabric sample is, in principle, intended only when the fabric sample collides with the fixed force application means. Under certain measurement conditions, it may be desirable, or at least appropriate, for the fabric sample to deform before contact. However, it is also possible to explicitly exclude this measurement condition.

[0021] To enhance the versatility of the fabric sample measurement system, a maximum lift of 80 centimeters for the lifting device is advantageously suitable. In effect, with respect to 10 percent upward or downward play, this corresponds preferably to a minimum-to-maximum lift of 72 centimeters and a maximum-to-maximum lift of 88 centimeters. Lifts below 72 centimeters have proven less advantageous for versatility, and lifts exceeding 88 centimeters lead to uneconomical additional costs for the fabric sample measurement system without significant added value. In particular, the maximum lift of the lifting device can be exactly 80 centimeters.

[0022] Preferably, the lifting device is designed to be retractable in order to enable a compact design for the fabric sample measurement system.

[0023] The force considered to be a translational force is, in particular, the force acting on each fabric sample by a fixed force-applying means. Structurally, the force-applying means is fixed, but the fabric sample rests on a movable fabric receiving device, which can move up and down along the longitudinal axis of the fabric receiving device, and thus can move closer to and further away from the force-applying means. As the fabric receiving device moves toward the force-applying means, from the moment of contact between the force-applying means and the fabric sample, a force acts on the fixed force-applying means by the moving fabric sample. Conversely, the fixed force-applying means exerts an interacting force on the fabric sample. Newton's third axiom, also known as the interaction principle, stipulates that both forces are equal in magnitude, and therefore permits the use of this embodiment of the formulation of translational forces acting on a fabric sample when the fabric sample interacts with a fixed force-applying means. Thus, a simplified embodiment of the formulation of translational forces is used here. It has been periodically found that there are no other influencing factors that act on the measurement results in a manner that may sometimes interfere.

[0024] In particular, it is contemplated that the fabric sample be manufactured within the framework of a defined process before being fixed within the fabric receiving device. This ensures, by way of example, that different measurement results do not arise from unintentionally different water contents between different fabric samples. Thus, by way of example, it can be ensured that the fabric samples always have the same weight, weight distribution and / or shape, so that gravity and / or other factors have the same influence on all results. These are merely examples to illustrate that it is effective to prepare the fabric samples under clearly defined conditions in advance. Needless to say, different fabric samples may have different component ratios, for example water and / or powder ratios, from one another if they correspond to the nature of the measurement series. The latter also applies to other fabric sample parameters.

[0025] The stationary force application means is intended to apply a translational force to the fabric sample along the force application spindle as a result of the translational movement of the fabric receiving device. In particular, the translational force in this sense can be understood as the reaction force to the force exerted by the moving fabric sample on the stationary force application means. By way of example, the stationary force application means can be designed as a hook-like or hook-shaped device, or as a plate structure having recesses for the passage of the fabric receiving device and / or for supporting the fabric sample while transmitting the force. In principle, other configurations of the force application means are also possible. Thus, the fabric sample receives the translational force by the stationary force application means opposing the moving fabric sample.

[0026] Furthermore, the fabric sample measurement system includes a fabric receiving device that is translatable along the fabric receiving longitudinal axis for carrying and supporting the fabric sample. By way of example, the fabric receiving device can be designed as a plate structure having recesses for the passage of the fabric receiving device and / or for simultaneously carrying and supporting the fabric sample. Preferably, the fabric receiving device is designed in a carrying manner such that the fabric sample does not deform under its own weight during the measurement process and unwanted movement of the fabric sample, such as lateral flow deformation, due to gravity during the movement of the fabric receiving device is avoided, thereby improving the measurement quality.

[0027] It has been found that stable and repeatable measurement results can be obtained when the fabric receiving device is moved at a speed of 14.5 mm / s ± 0.5 mm / s.

[0028] Advantageously, after the measurement is completed, the fabric receiving device automatically returns to its original position. Optionally, it can be contemplated that the drive motor for moving the fabric receiving device can be manually switched off after the fabric sample has been torn off. In principle, the drive motor can be switched to reverse manually or automatically to return the fabric receiving device to its original position.

[0029] Preferably, the fabric sample can be clamped within the fabric receiving device or, alternatively, fixed in some other way, for example by being perforated in a fixed manner. Additionally or alternatively, it is also possible that the fabric receiving device is shaped in a concave manner so that the fabric sample is placed in such a way that there is no risk of it falling horizontally from the fabric receiving device before and / or during the measurement. Depending on the measurement method and the fabric sample, the concave configuration can be configured in different ways.

[0030] In principle, the fabric receiving device can approach the force application means from above or below and, if necessary, pass through it. The passage requires that the components of the fabric receiving device and the force application means do not intersect during the vertical passage, and as a result, the fabric receiving device and the force application means can be configured accordingly or are configured. For this purpose, the fabric receiving device and / or the force application means can have one or more recesses.

[0031] If the dough sample is exemplary a biscuit and only compression testing is intended, and as a result the force applying means does not pass through the dough receiving device, then recesses are not required in the force applying means and the dough receiving device. For example, the dough receiving device can be a plate with a recessed receiving area, especially for biscuits, and the fixed force applying means can be designed exemplary in a plunger-like manner. If no recess is provided, the measurement ends at the latest when the force applying means and the dough receiving device collide. However, the plate may also have a recess for a plunger-like force applying means, and as a result the fixed force applying means can extend through the moving dough receiving device. This may be useful when performing compression tests on highly extensible dough samples.

[0032] The dough receiving device is connected to the lifting device in such a way that, in particular, when the lifting position of the lifting device changes along the lifting axis, the dough receiving device moves translationally along the longitudinal axis of the dough receiving.

[0033] The load sensor system contributes to the detection of translational forces along the load detection axis. Particularly preferably, the longitudinal axis of the fabric receiving and the load detection axis correspond to each other and therefore extend coaxially. If the longitudinal axis of the fabric receiving and the load detection axis do not extend coaxially, they are preferably formed at least parallel to each other. Exemplarily, if a fabric sample is placed on a movable fabric receiving device and a fixed force applying means is designed as a hook above it, the stretching fabric sample pulls on the force applying means. As a direct result, the fabric sample or the force applying means pulls on the load sensor system, and consequently, the translational force is determined as a tensile force until the movement of the fabric receiving device ends or the fabric sample is torn off.

[0034] The load sensor system is connected to the force application means, at least indirectly, and preferably directly. Direct connection has the advantage of minimizing measurement influences that degrade the quality of the measurement results.

[0035] A load sensor system can be designed as a force transducer, such as a load cell, force measuring ring, or small or S-shaped sensor. Other force transducers that function similarly are also possible. It is also possible to combine different force transducers to improve the quality of measurement data by, for example, better identifying, excluding, and / or compensating for outliers.

[0036] In the first example, the lower dough tray is equipped as a translationally movable dough receiving device that holds a longitudinally woven grain dough piece as a dough sample. At the start of measurement, the lifting device is always moved vertically upward in the direction of the force applying means above, thereby moving the dough receiving device together in the direction of the force applying means. From a certain lifting position, the dough sample comes into contact with a tow hook designed as a fixed force applying means. The tow hook is directly coupled to a load sensor system, and as a result, the grain dough piece pulls the load sensor system with a translational force via the tow hook. In this process, elongation occurs within the grain dough piece depending on the path of movement. The translational force measured by the load sensor system is continuously detected and recorded in the diagram along the path of movement until the grain dough piece is torn.

[0037] In the second example, the dough receiving device is positioned vertically below the force-applying means, which is designed as a stamp, before the measurement begins. The biscuit rests on the dough receiving device. Here, the dough receiving device rises until the biscuit collides with the stamp and breaks. A load sensor system is directly connected to the stamp and senses the translational force acting on the force-applying means.

[0038] The fabric sample measurement system preferably allows for direct force measurement on the load-sensing principal axis corresponding to the tension axis, resulting in no lever arm, or at most a very small one, that would negatively affect the measurement data. Relatively long lever arms have historically always generated increasing moments, thus negatively impacting the accuracy and credibility of the measurement results.

[0039] Preferably, the fabric receiving device is modularly constructed and may have a variable shape to hold and support the fabric sample.

[0040] Preferably, the load sensor system is fixedly attached to the fabric sample measuring system such that a hook, plate, or similar geometric means can be detachably fixed onto the load sensor system via a modular interface as a force application means.

[0041] Preferably, the dough receiving device is detachably connected to the dough sample measuring system. This facilitates the assembly of the dough receiving device, in that the lifting device can be moved so that the dough receiving device is easily accessible to the machine operator. It is possible to assemble the dough receiving device independently and then secure the dough sample later. Alternatively, the dough receiving device may be secured with the dough sample first, and then connected together with the dough sample measuring system.

[0042] Preferably, conventional path measurement systems are not required to determine the translational distance. Instead, the translational distance can be derived from the operation of the motor and / or transmission, for example, from the required motor current and / or the rotation of the transmission components.

[0043] The fabric sample measurement system also allows for a compact device design, and therefore small packaging dimensions.

[0044] Preferably, the lifting device can be located within or at any location within the device, and as a result, the fabric sample measurement system can be flexibly configured. Advantageously, the lifting device and the fabric receiving device are intended to be directly or indirectly connected to each other such that a change in the lifting position of the lifting device results in a change in the lift of the fabric receiving device, and therefore the fabric sample.

[0045] Preferably, the movement paths of the lifting device and / or the fabric receiving device are coverable and / or optionally extendable. This expands the applicability of the fabric sample measurement system. For example, the lifting device may initially have only a maximum lift of 72 centimeters. However, if a maximum lift of 88 centimeters is required for a particular measurement, an extension device of at least 16 centimeters can be added. To further ensure a compact design for the fabric sample measurement system, the extension device can be removed as soon as the required series of measurements are completed. To avoid injury or other damage, the lifting device may be optionally covered with a similarly extendable covering.

[0046] It has been found that disconnecting the load sensor system from the fabric receiving device reduces the error rate.

[0047] Advantageously, the dough tray carrier does not need to be fixed in place. However, depending on the measurement method, it may be necessary.

[0048] If the force application mechanism is designed as a hook, this allows for a short lever arm. If the force application mechanism is configured modularly, it can be easily replaced, and the fabric sample measurement system can be used in a wide range of applications.

[0049] The wide applicability of the fabric sample measurement system is particularly evident in its ability to enable different measurement characteristics, for example, with respect to tensile or compressive measurements.

[0050] Advantageously, compared to prior art fabric sample measurement systems, it eliminates the need for additional tare weighing.

[0051] A further advantage is that multiple measurements can be taken within a single movement sequence, thereby expanding the measurement area.

[0052] Preferably, there are modular, interchangeable tension / compression modules. Thus, for example, after changing the crispness of a biscuit, the same dough sample measuring system can be used to measure and determine the extensibility of the flour-water mixture.

[0053] The fixed force application means and the translationally movable dough receiving device are designed so that the moving dough receiving device first approaches the force application means in a translationally perpendicular direction. Beyond a certain point in time, the dough receiving device and the force application means do not interfere with each other, and the dough receiving device passes the force application means, because the dough receiving device and the force application means have correlated geometric configurations, particularly recesses, that allow the dough receiving device to pass the fixed force application means. In the further movement path of the dough receiving device, the dough receiving device moves away from the force application means in a translationally perpendicular direction.

[0054] Typically, a dough receiving device passes a fixed force-applying means from bottom to top for the measurement process of an unheated flour dough sample. For this purpose, the dough receiving device has, for example, two support sections on the sides, and the flour dough sample extends across both support sections. Between the support sections, the dough receiving device has a material recess. Similarly, a force-applying means, exemplary as a traction hook, is designed and positioned so that during the upward translational movement of the dough receiving device, the force-applying means remains between the two support sections and does not collide with the dough receiving device. When the dough receiving device is activated, it carries the flour dough sample. As soon as the flour dough sample collides with the force-applying means, e.g., the traction hook, it is stretched accordingly. This causes a translational force to act on the flour dough sample, which acts similarly on the dough receiving device and the force-applying means for force conservation and is therefore detected by the load sensor system.

[0055] According to the modified embodiment, the fabric sample measuring system is intended to comprise a frame configuration in which a fabric receiving device, a load sensor system, and / or force applying means are directly or indirectly arranged. In the sense of indirect arrangement, the fabric receiving device is connected to the frame configuration in a non-fixed manner so as to be height-adjustable according to at least the lift position of the lift device. The force applying means may, exemplary, be arranged in the frame configuration via the load sensor system. The frame configuration may be a sheet metal configuration, a truss configuration, or a combination thereof. Other configurations are also possible.

[0056] According to the modified embodiment, the lifting device is connected to the frame configuration, and the dough receiving device is positioned on the frame configuration via the lifting device. The use of the lifting device allows for precise height adjustment of the dough receiving device. To transmit the lift from the lifting device to the dough receiving device, the dough receiving device is preferably connected to the cover of the lifting device.

[0057] According to the modified embodiment, the load sensor system is connected to the frame configuration, and the force application means is positioned on the frame configuration via the load sensor system. Such a configuration enables measurements that are less susceptible to interference compared to conventional fabric sample measurement systems.

[0058] According to the modified embodiment, the load sensor system and force application means are intended to be designed and arranged such that the force application axis and the load detection axis extend parallel to each other, preferably coaxially. Parallel axis guides allow for a constant flow of force between the components involved. If they are arranged at an angle, this will affect the measurement results to a corresponding degree. Independently and preferably, but particularly preferably in combination, the force application means are substantially non-flexible. Non-flexibility has the advantage that the parallelism, especially coaxiality, of the axes is maintained even under a given load and does not change due to deformation of the material. In this case, substantially non-flexible means to those skilled in the art that a minimum degree of flexibility is generally acceptable to prevent undesirable brittle fracture of the force application means. The force application means may be formed from, for example, metal or rigid plastic. Particularly flexible plastics are referred to as soft plastics. These include, among others, soft PVC and polyolefins, particularly polyethylene. In contrast, relatively hard plastics are called rigid plastics, while elastomers are called (synthetic) rubber. Plastics referred to as rigid plastics may belong to the group of thermoplastics and thermosetting materials, but most thermosetting materials are rigid plastics. Metallic force-applying means may consist, in particular, of steel.

[0059] According to the modified embodiment, the force application means is intended to be hook-shaped, with an upper hook section for applying a translational force to a fabric sample along the force application axis as a result of the translational movement of the fabric receiving device, and a lower hook section for guiding the translational force acting on the fabric sample to the load sensor system along the load detection axis. In principle, a single hook can be used, or multiple hooks can be joined laterally to combine a force application means consisting of multiple single hook segments. Such a force application means has the advantage of being quickly available for measurement of a fabric sample. The hook shape allows the fabric sample to be supported in such a way that it is securely supported on the one hand, while minimizing interaction with the force application device on the other hand, resulting in a higher level of hygiene.

[0060] According to the modified embodiment, the upper hook section comprises a horizontal extension component, and the upper hook section is intended to have an arch shape along the horizontal extension component to apply a translational force to the fabric sample in the arch-shaped upper region as a result of the translational movement of the fabric receiving device along the force application principal axis. The arch shape ensures reliably reproducible tensile loads.

[0061] According to the modified embodiment, the lower hook section is intended to include a horizontal extension component. Preferably, the lower hook section has an arc shape along the horizontal extension component. The preferred arc shape may extend particularly in the direction of the force application axis in order to reduce the amount of acting moment and thus eliminate disturbances. Particularly preferably, the arc shape is designed as an S-shape to guide the translational force acting on the fabric sample into the load sensor system along the load detection principal axis and the force application principal axis. This ensures that no moments are generated that would adversely affect the measurement results. It should be noted that since the moment is always the product of the load and the distance, the distance should be kept as small as possible to reduce disturbances.

[0062] According to the modified embodiment, the lifting device is intended to include a drive system, a lifting column, and a calculation system. The drive system preferably includes a transmission device. The lift column is preferably infinitely adjustable by a drive system having connecting means. The connecting means is positioned for translational movement, connected between the lift column and the dough receiving device. Preferably, the connecting means is located at the end of the lift column for this purpose. Furthermore, the fabric sample measurement system preferably includes a calculation system designed to derive the lift distance of the lifting device from the operation data of the lifting column. The operation data is, in particular, the current for driving the drive motor and / or the change in position of the transmission device.

[0063] According to the modified embodiment, the fabric receiving device and / or force application means are intended to be detachably arranged in the fabric sample measurement system. This modular solution allows for the use of different fabric receiving devices and force application means. Thus, the same fabric sample measurement system can be used for tensile and compression tests on fabric samples after changing the fabric receiving device and / or force application means. Preferably, additionally, but essentially independently of the above features, the force application means is intended to be designed as a traction hook or a pressure body. Thus, this combination of features extends the versatility of the fabric sample measurement system.

[0064] In addition, an advantage is a method for determining the properties of a fabric sample using a fabric sample measurement system having the above-described features of at least partially the modified embodiments described above. This method preferably includes at least the following steps: - A step of placing a dough sample inside a dough receiving device; - A step of moving the dough receiving device along the longitudinal axis of the dough receiving device in the direction of the force applying means; - A step in which the fabric sample collides with the force application means; - A step of moving the dough receiving device further in a certain direction along the longitudinal axis of the dough receiving; - A load sensor system detects the translational force acting on the fabric sample;

[0065] For example, this method can be used to investigate the properties of dough pieces placed in a dough tray. For this purpose, a fabric tray equipped with vertically woven fabric pieces is placed inside the carrier. At the start of measurement, the lift column always moves vertically upward, and the fabric comes into contact with the tow hook. The tow hook is directly coupled to the load sensor. Depending on the path of movement, stretching occurs in the fabric pieces. The measured load is continuously detected and recorded in the graph along the path of movement until the sample is torn.

[0066] The placement of the fabric sample within the fabric receiving device is intended to ensure that the fabric sample is fitted for inspection so that it does not fall out of the device during the determination of its properties. In this process, the fabric sample may be placed on the fabric receiving device as an example, or alternatively, clamped. Further options include perforation or through-perforation with a fixing agent, a combination of the above-described means, and fundamentally different fixing options.

[0067] The movement of the dough receiving device along the longitudinal axis of the dough receiving device in the direction of the force application means is, advantageously, carried out at a uniform speed. Uneven and excessive acceleration should preferably be avoided, as this can lead to, for example, inertia distorting the measurement results.

[0068] The collision between the fabric sample and the force-applying means is understood to be the moment when there is physical contact between the fabric sample and the force-applying means. Subsequently, an exchange of force takes place between the fabric sample and the force-applying means, which is detected as a translational force by the load sensor system.

[0069] Next, the fabric receiving device is moved further in a specific direction along the longitudinal axis of the fabric receiving device. During this process step, measurement data is detected due to the behavior of the fabric sample caused by translational forces. As soon as the fabric sample is destroyed, for example, in the case of destruction during a compression test or crack formation during a tensile test, physical contact between the fabric sample and the force applying means ends, and as a result, the load sensor system no longer detects any further translational forces. Alternatively, the further movement of the fabric receiving device may end after a specified time or specified fabric sample behavior.

[0070] Similarly, the load sensor system performs a step of detecting the translational force acting on the fabric sample. This process step does not necessarily have to be understood chronologically, as it is a step after further movement of the fabric receiving device, and this is not impossible. Preferably, the detection is performed before or at the time of the collision of the fabric sample with the force applying means. For example, detection can also be initiated at the moment of the collision of the fabric sample with the force applying means, due to the load sensor system being permanently switched on and only then being able to transmit data.

[0071] According to the modified procedure, the step of further moving the fabric receiving device in a certain direction along the longitudinal axis of the fabric receiving device continues until material fracture of the fabric sample occurs, for example, by tearing the fabric sample. This allows for the detection of the most complete data possible of the fabric sample characteristics from the start to the end of physical contact between the fabric sample and the force applying means.

[0072] According to the modified measures, the calculation system, particularly the aforementioned calculation system, is intended to generate force-displacement diagrams. The load-elongation curves generated by the calculation system provide information about the rheological properties of the fabric sample.

[0073] An additional advantage is a computer program that includes instructions that instruct the computer to partially or completely perform the steps of the method described above when the computer program is executed by the computer. Under the use of a appropriately adapted computer program, not only tensile motion or measurement, but also compressive motion or measurement can be performed.

[0074] Another advantage is the data carrier signal used to transmit the aforementioned computer program.

[0075] An additional advantage is a computer-readable medium that, when executed by the computer, contains instructions that instruct the computer to partially or completely perform the steps of the method described above.

[0076] In the following, a fabric sample measurement system will be described in more detail based on a preferred embodiment, with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0077] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of a fabric sample measurement system based on prior art. [Figure 2] This is a schematic side view of a fabric sample measurement system according to a first preferred embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic perspective view of a fabric sample measurement system according to a second preferred embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the fabric sample measurement system. [Figure 5] This is a schematic side view of a fabric sample measurement system according to a third preferred embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0078] The described embodiments are merely examples of fabric sample measurement systems that can be modified and / or supplemented in various ways within the scope of the claims. Each feature described for a particular embodiment of the fabric sample measurement system may be used alone or in combination with other features in any other embodiment of the fabric sample measurement system. Each feature described for an embodiment of a particular claim category may also be used in a corresponding manner in an embodiment of another claim category.

[0079] Figure 1 shows a prior art fabric sample measurement system 10. This is a fabric sample measurement system 10 for determining the properties of a fabric sample. For this purpose, the fabric sample measurement system 10 comprises at least the following components. A known fabric sample measuring system 10 includes a lifting device 12 that is translationally height-adjustable to different lift positions along a lift axis H. The height adjustment function is implemented so that a translational force can be applied to the fabric sample as a result of translational relative movement between a translationally movable force applying means 14 and a fixed fabric receiving device 16, depending on the lift position of the lifting device 12. Furthermore, the fabric sample measuring system 10 includes a translationally movable force applying means 14 to apply a translational force to the fabric sample as a result of the translational movement of the force applying means 14 relative to the fixed fabric receiving device 16 along a force application principal axis K. In addition, the fabric sample measuring system 10 includes a fabric receiving device 16 fixed along the longitudinal axis T of the fabric receiving device to support the fabric sample. In this case, the force applying means 14 is connected to the lifting device 12 so as to be translationally movable along the longitudinal axis T of the fabric receiving device when the lift position of the lifting device 12 changes along the lift axis H. Similarly, the fabric sample measurement system 10 includes a load sensor system 18 for detecting translational force along a load detection axis L, the load sensor system 18 being connected at least indirectly to a fabric receiving device 16. The fabric receiving device 16 includes fixing means 34 designed to hold the fabric sample in place during measurement so as not to degrade the quality of the measurement results. Furthermore, known fabric sample measurement systems 10 include a lever system 36 for transmitting translational force from the fabric receiving device 16 to the load sensor system 18. The distance traveled by the recognizable levers may increase the accuracy of the measurement in some cases. The measurement data detected by the load sensor system 18 is transmitted directly to a recorder 38 that generates a force-displacement diagram, exemplarily. Furthermore, the fabric sample measurement system 10 includes a damping system 40 to reduce the effect of error influences introduced into the measurement process by the number of levers, exemplarily.

[0080] Figures 2-5 show a fabric sample measurement system 10 for determining the properties of a fabric sample. For this purpose, the fabric sample measurement system 10 comprises at least the following components. For example, the fabric sample measuring system 10 includes a lifting device 12 that is translationally height-adjustable to different lift positions along a lift axis H. The height adjustment function is implemented so that a translational force can be applied to the fabric sample as a result of translational relative movement between a fixed force applying means 14 and a translationally movable fabric receiving device 16, depending on the lift position of the lifting device 12. Furthermore, the fabric sample measuring system 10 includes a fixed force applying means 14 to apply a translational force to the fabric sample as a result of the translational movement of the fabric receiving device 16 along a force applying principal axis K. In addition, the fabric sample measuring system 10 includes a fabric receiving device 16 that is translationally movable along the longitudinal axis T of the fabric receiving device to support the fabric sample. The fabric receiving device 16 is connected to the lifting device 12 in such a way that it is configured to be translationally movable along the longitudinal axis T of the fabric receiving device when the lift position of the lifting device 12 changes along the lift axis H. Similarly, the fabric sample measurement system 10 includes a load sensor system 18 for detecting translational force along the load detection principal axis L, the load sensor system 18 being connected at least indirectly to the force application means 14.

[0081] From the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 2 and 5, it can be seen that the fabric sample measurement system 10 comprises a frame configuration 20. A fabric receiving device 16 is arranged in the frame configuration via a lift device 12, and a force applying means 14 is arranged via a load sensor system 18. The lift device 12 is connected to the frame configuration 20 so that the fabric receiving device 16 is positioned in the frame configuration 20 via the lift device 12. Furthermore, the load sensor system 18 is connected to the frame configuration 20, and the force applying means 14 is positioned in the frame configuration 20 via the load sensor system 18.

[0082] From the exemplary embodiments in Figures 3 and 4, which are modified compared to Figures 2 and 5, it can be seen that the fabric sample measuring system 10 also comprises a frame configuration 20. A fabric receiving device 16 is positioned in this frame configuration via a lift device 12. The lift device 12 is connected to the frame configuration 20 so that the fabric receiving device 16 is positioned in the frame configuration 20 via the lift device 12. A force applying means 14 is connected to a load sensor system 18, which may be positioned exemplary on a fixed foundation, for example, on a table. The fixing of the load sensor system 18 is not shown in detail.

[0083] To transmit the lift from the lifting device 12 to the dough receiving device 16, the dough receiving device 16, as shown in Figures 2-5, is preferably connected to the cover 12a of the lifting device 12. The connection of the dough receiving device 16 to the cover 12a of the lifting device 12 can be made directly or indirectly. This allows for a compact design of the dough sample measuring system 10 because additional, space-consuming components can be reduced. This feature can be combined with other features of the embodiment or used independently of the embodiment.

[0084] The load sensor system 18 and the force application means 14 are designed and arranged such that the force application axis K and the load detection axis L extend coaxially according to the embodiments in Figures 3, 4, and 5, and parallel to each other according to the embodiment in Figure 2.

[0085] As shown exemplarily in Figure 5, the force application means 14 is designed in a hook shape, including an upper hook section 22, to apply a translational force to the dough sample along the force application axis K as a result of the translational movement of the dough receiving device 16. Furthermore, the force application means 14 includes a lower hook section 24 to guide the translational force acting on the dough sample during measurement to the load sensor system 18 along the load detection axis L.

[0086] Preferably, the upper hook section 22 includes a horizontal extension component, and the upper hook section 22 has an arch shape 26 in particular along the horizontal extension component. This allows the dough sample to receive a translational force in the upper region 26a of the arch shape 26, along the force application axis K, as a result of the translational movement of the dough receiving device 16.

[0087] Furthermore, preferably, the lower hook section 24 is intended to include a horizontal extension component. This lower hook section 24 preferably has an arc shape 28 along the horizontal extension component. This arc shape 28 is particularly preferably designed as an S shape to guide the translational force acting on the fabric sample into the load sensor system 18 along the load detection principal axis L and along the force application principal axis K.

[0088] Figures 2-5 show a fabric sample measuring system comprising each lift device 12. The lift device comprises a drive system (not shown in detail) and a lift column 30 having connecting means 32 and being position-adjustable by the drive system. The drive system preferably comprises a transmission device (not shown in detail). The lift column 30 is preferably infinitely adjustable in position. The connecting means 32 is positioned for its translational movement, connected between the lift column 30 and the fabric receiving device 16. For this purpose, the connecting means 32 is preferably located at the end of the lift column 30. Furthermore, the fabric sample measuring system 10 preferably comprises a calculation system (not shown in detail). This is designed to derive the lift distance of the lift device 12 from operational data of the lift column 30. Appropriate operational data includes, in particular, the current for driving the drive motor and / or the position change of the transmission device.

[0089] Although not shown in detail, it is preferable in principle that the dough receiving device 16 and / or force applying means 14 are detachably arranged in the dough sample measuring system 10. Regardless of other features, this can be exemplary as screws, magnets, and / or bayonet locks. Other solutions are also possible.

[0090] Furthermore, Figures 2-5 show that the force application means 14 is designed as a towing hook. Optionally, the force application means 14 may also be designed as a pressurizing body. If the force application means 14 is removable and therefore modularly designed, the fabric sample measurement system 10 can be used for different applications. Optionally, in combination with or independently of other features, the fabric sample measurement system 10 having a pressurizing body corresponding to the force application means 14 may be used exclusively for compression measurement.

[0091] To determine the properties of a fabric sample using the fabric sample measurement system 10, at least the following process steps are performed. First, the fabric sample is placed in the fabric receiving device 16. This can be done, for example, by piercing the fabric sample with the fixing means 34, so that the fabric sample is not likely to fall unintentionally from the fabric receiving device 16 due to the influence of small forces. Next, the dough receiving device 16 is moved upward along the longitudinal axis T of the dough receiving device, in the direction of the force applying means 14. As it approaches, the dough sample collides with the force applying means 14. From this moment on, the load sensor system 18 can detect a vertical load acting on it, which is collectively called a translational force, and the physical law of action and reaction applies in this case. Following the collision between the fabric sample and the force application means 14, further movement of the fabric receiving device 16 in a constant direction along the longitudinal axis T of the fabric receiving device occurs, particularly uniformly, i.e., without delay. This further movement of the fabric receiving device 16 in a constant direction along the longitudinal axis T of the fabric receiving device causes the fabric sample to stretch and continues until material fracture of the fabric sample occurs, for example, by tearing the fabric sample.

[0092] The calculation system, not shown in the diagram, generates a force-displacement diagram that provides information about the properties of the fabric sample.

[0093] Although not shown in the figures, computer programs, data carrier signals, and computer-readable media are intended to be considered individually or as a whole within the framework of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0094] 1 Fabric sample 10 Fabric Sample Measurement System 12 Lifting device 12a Cover for the lifting device 14 Force application means 16. Dough receiving device 18. Load Sensor System 20-frame configuration 22 Upper hook section of force application means 24 Lower hook section of force application means 26. Arch shape of the upper hook section 26a Arch-shaped upper region of the upper hook section 28. Arc shape of the lower hook section 30 Lift support column for lifting equipment 32 Connection means 34 Fixing means 36 Lever System 38 Recorder 40 Damping System H Lifting device lift axis K Force application means force application main axis T Fabric receiving device fabric receiving longitudinal axis L Load sensor system load detection main axis

Claims

1. A fabric sample measurement system for determining the characteristics of a fabric sample, - A lifting device (12) that is translationally height-adjustable to different lifting positions along a lift axis (H) such that, depending on the lifting position of the lifting device (12), a translational force is applied to the dough sample as a result of translational relative movement between a fixed force-applying means (14) and a translationally movable dough receiving device (16); - A fixed force applying means (14) for applying the translational force to the dough sample along the force application principal axis (K) as a result of the translational movement of the dough receiving device (16); - A dough receiving device (16) for supporting the dough sample, which is capable of translational movement along the longitudinal axis (T) of the dough receiving device, and is connected to the lift device (12) such that it is formed to be capable of translational movement along the longitudinal axis (T) of the dough receiving device (16) when the lift position of the lift device (12) changes along the lift axis (H), and - A load sensor system (18) for detecting the translational force along the load detection axis (L), the load sensor system (18) being connected at least indirectly to the force application means (14). A fabric sample measurement system (10) comprising at least the following:

2. The fabric sample measurement system (10) according to claim 1, further comprising a frame configuration (20) in which the fabric receiving device (16), the load sensor system (18), and / or the force applying means (14) are indirectly or directly arranged.

3. The fabric sample measuring system according to claim 2, wherein the lifting device (12) is connected to the frame configuration (20), and the fabric receiving device (16) is positioned on the frame configuration (20) via the lifting device (12).

4. The fabric sample measurement system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the load sensor system (18) is connected to the frame configuration (20), and the force applying means (14) is arranged on the frame configuration (20) via the load sensor system (18).

5. The fabric sample measurement system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the load sensor system (18) and the force applying means (14) are designed and arranged such that the force applying main axis (K) and the load detection main axis (L) extend parallel to each other, preferably coaxially.

6. The fabric sample measuring system according to claim 5, wherein the force applying means (14) is formed in a hook shape, comprising an upper hook section (22) for applying the translational force to the fabric sample along the force applying main axis (K) as a result of the translational movement of the fabric receiving device (16), and a lower hook section (24) for guiding the translational force acting on the fabric sample to the load sensor system (18) along the load detection main axis (L).

7. The fabric sample measuring system according to claim 6, wherein the upper hook section (22) comprises a horizontal extension component, and the upper hook section (22) preferably has an arch shape (26) along the horizontal extension component, which is for applying the translational force to the fabric sample in the upper region (26a) of the arch shape (26) as a result of the translational movement of the fabric receiving device (16) along the force application principal axis (K).

8. The fabric sample measurement system according to claim 6, wherein the lower hook section (24) comprises a horizontal extension component, and the lower hook section (24) has an arc shape (28), preferably an S shape, along the horizontal extension component, designed to guide the translational force acting on the sample to the load sensor system (18) along the load detection principal axis (L) and along the force application principal axis (K).

9. The aforementioned lifting device (12) - Preferably a drive system having a transmission device, - A lift support column (30) having a connecting means (32), which is preferably infinitely adjustable in position by the drive system. Equipped with, The connecting means (32) is positioned for translational movement while connected between the lift column (30) and the dough receiving device (12), and the connecting means (32) is preferably positioned at the end of the lift column (30). The fabric sample measurement system (10) preferably includes a calculation system designed to derive the lift distance of the lift device (12) from the operation data of the lift support column (30), The aforementioned operation data includes, in particular, the current for driving the drive motor and / or the position change of the transmission device. A fabric sample measurement system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The dough receiving device (12) and / or the force applying means (14) are detachably located in the dough sample measuring system (10), and / or The force applying means (14) is designed as a towing hook or a pressurizing body. A fabric sample measurement system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

11. A method for determining the properties of a fabric sample using a fabric sample measurement system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least, - A step of placing the dough sample in the dough receiving device (16); - A step of moving the dough receiving device (16) along the longitudinal axis (T) of the dough receiving device in the direction of the force applying means (14); - The fabric sample collides with the force application means (14); - A step of further moving the dough receiving device (16) in a certain direction along the longitudinal axis (T) of the dough receiving device; - A step of detecting the translational force acting on the fabric sample using the load sensor system (18); A method for determining the properties of a fabric sample, including the properties of a fabric sample.

12. The method for determining the properties of a fabric sample according to claim 11, wherein the step of further moving the fabric receiving device (16) in a certain direction along the longitudinal axis (T) of the fabric receiving is continued, for example, until material destruction of the fabric sample occurs by tearing the fabric sample.

13. A computer program, which includes an instruction that, when a computer executes the computer program, instructs the computer to perform the method according to claim 11.

14. A data carrier signal for transmitting the computer program described in claim 13.

15. A computer-readable medium comprising, when executed by a computer, an instruction that commands the computer to perform the method according to claim 11.

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