Method for detecting coagulation properties and vicat apparatus

Abstract

The method for detecting condensation characteristics provided by this invention involves multiple tests on the same sample, with state parameter values ​​as variables. Each single test step involves first adjusting the test rod to the initial sinking position [M], then allowing the test rod to freely sink from the initial sinking position [Me] while a timer starts timing [Sr]. The timer stops timing [Sp] when the test rod sinks to the characteristic depth [Cd], and the timing value [Ti] is obtained as the sinking time for this test. Finally, the state parameter value of the measured characteristic point is calculated using the data sequence of the relationship between the measured sinking time at the characteristic depth and the state parameters. Compared with existing technologies, this invention replaces the method of measuring the sinking depth of the test rod within a fixed sinking time with the method of measuring the sinking time at a fixed sinking depth, improving the convenience and reducing the cost of error control. The Vicat apparatus developed accordingly is low-cost, simple to operate, and has lower error.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for detecting condensation characteristics and a Vicat apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Many materials, especially those used in construction or other fields requiring shaping, solidify from a fluid or semi-solid state to a solid state, thus taking shape and fulfilling their function, such as cement, gypsum, and asphalt. During the solidification process of these materials (hereinafter referred to as "materials") from a semi-solid state to a solid state, the degree of solidification is highly correlated with a certain state parameter of the material. The solidification characteristics of a material refer to the corresponding relationship between the degree of solidification and the change of this state parameter. The state parameter can be a physical quantity or time, such as the relationship between the degree of solidification of cement and gypsum and their age, or the relationship between the degree of solidification of asphalt and temperature. The age of cement and gypsum is the time counted from the moment the cement or gypsum is mixed with water to form a semi-solid state. The degree of solidification is usually measured using a measuring device called a Vicat apparatus. The method involves placing a test rod of specified mass, shape, and size vertically on the surface of the material and allowing it to sink freely vertically from a resting state. The depth to which the test rod sinks into the material (hereinafter referred to as the sinking depth) and the time taken to reach that depth (hereinafter referred to as the sinking time) are measured to characterize the solidification. The term "vertical free sinking" refers to the test rod sinking into the sample in a vertical position without external interference; it is also known as free sinking. Data on the relationship between the degree of solidification and state parameters of the material are obtained through multiple measurements, and the material's setting characteristics are then determined based on this data. Since the degree of solidification is characterized by two variables, "sinking depth" and "sinking time," to concisely express the material's setting characteristics, an appropriate fixed value is usually selected for "sinking time" in actual measurements. This simplifies the setting characteristics to be expressed as the relationship between "sinking depth" and state parameters, which can be measured multiple times using a Vicat apparatus at the same sinking time under different state parameters.

[0003] In most practical applications, only a few characteristic points of setting properties are needed. For example, cement and gypsum require two characteristic points: initial setting time and final setting time, while asphalt requires one characteristic point: softening point temperature. Therefore, only these characteristic points need to be measured. The characteristic points of setting properties refer to the state parameter values ​​when the degree of solidification of the material reaches a specific value, including age or temperature. For example, the Chinese national standard "Standard Consistency Water Requirement, Setting Time and Soundness Test Method for Cement" (GB / T1346-2011) stipulates that the initial setting time and final setting time of cement are the ages when the penetration depth is 36 mm and 0.5 mm respectively after a 30-second penetration time; that is, the initial setting time and final setting time of cement are the ages when the characteristic values ​​of the degree of solidification are 30s and 36 mm, and 30s and 0.5 mm respectively; the Vicat apparatus used for measurement has a test rod mass of 300g, and the measurement section (i.e., the penetration section) has a cross-sectional area of ​​1 mm². 2 A cylindrical object. The sinking depth and sinking time of a solidification characteristic point can be referred to as the characteristic depth and characteristic time, respectively.

[0004] Existing technologies for determining the characteristic points of material condensation properties all involve using a Vicat apparatus to measure the immersion depth multiple times at the same immersion time to obtain the variation data of the "immersion depth-state parameter" near the characteristic point, and then obtaining the state parameter value of the characteristic point through specified judgment conditions or mathematical models.

[0005] Taking the determination of cement initial setting time as an example, the Chinese national standard (GB / T1346-2011) stipulates that the sinking time for each measurement is 30 seconds, and "measurements should be taken every 5 minutes (or less) as the initial setting time approaches." When the measured sinking depth reaches the initial setting condition of 36 mm, a retest should be conducted immediately. If the retest results are the same, the initial setting state is determined. Since the sinking depth changes during the measurement of characteristic points of material setting properties using a Vicat apparatus, existing Vicat apparatuses must have the function of measuring the sinking depth of the test rod.

[0006] Existing Vicat apparatuses are subdivided into various specialized products and specifications based on different measurement applications, such as dedicated Vicat apparatuses for measuring cement setting time and dedicated Vicat apparatuses for measuring the softening point temperature of asphalt materials; they are also classified according to different operating functions and degrees of automation into manual Vicat apparatuses, semi-automatic Vicat apparatuses, and fully automatic Vicat apparatuses. They all share the same basic structure:

[0007] (1) Test rod: It has a specified mass (weight). The bottom section of the test rod is the measuring section. The measuring section has a specified shape and size, usually a cylinder. The mass and shape of the test rod vary depending on the purpose. The bottom end of the measuring section is called the measuring end. The measuring section is either made as a whole on the test rod or made separately and connected by a connecting mechanism.

[0008] (2) Frame: A support frame with a test rod position control mechanism. The test rod position control mechanism is mainly a mechanism that holds the test rod and allows the test rod to be released from the grip. It is used to control the position and state of the test rod and allows the test rod to sink freely and vertically during measurement.

[0009] (3) Mechanisms for measuring the depth of the test rod, such as pointer scales or displacement sensors;

[0010] (4) Timing device: Used to measure the time it takes for the test rod to sink freely. The timing device can also be independent, such as a stopwatch.

[0011] The basic steps for performing a single measurement using an existing Vicat apparatus are as follows:

[0012] (1) Move the test rod above the material to be tested, hold the test rod still and make the measuring end flush with the surface of the material to be tested;

[0013] (2) Allow the test rod to detach from the grip and sink freely into the sample under its own weight, while the timing device starts timing at the same time;

[0014] (3) When the predetermined sinking time is reached, measure the depth to which the test rod sinks into the surface of the object at that moment;

[0015] (4) The sinking time and the measured sinking depth of the test rod are the results of this single measurement.

[0016] Different Vicat apparatuses may have different implementation methods. For example, in step (3), when the sinking time is reached, in addition to the sensor measuring the sinking depth in real time during the free sinking of the test rod, the test rod can also be re-held (locked) to stop it from sinking, and then the sinking depth of the test rod can be measured.

[0017] The Vicat apparatus measurement consists of two independent elements: "penetration depth" and "penetration time." Taking the final setting time of cement as an example, the penetration time is 30 seconds, and the penetration depth is 0.5 mm. Generally, the measurement error of penetration depth is required to be less than 0.05 mm, i.e., a relative error of 10%. With current technology, even using the most basic electronic timing device with automatic trigger timing function, achieving a timing error of 10 ms is easily achievable, and the main error comes from the execution delay error of the timing control trigger signal. The timer itself has even higher precision, with a relative error of less than 10%. -6 The error relative to the depth of immersion is negligible. In other words, under current technology, the measurement error of the Vicat apparatus is actually determined by the error in the "depth of immersion".

[0018] Existing Vicat apparatuses require significant investment to achieve the required measurement error for the plunger penetration depth. For example, manually operated mechanical Vicat apparatuses for measuring cement setting time use a scale on the frame and a pointer fixed to the plunger for direct manual reading to determine penetration depth. However, the 1mm graduations on the scale are clearly insufficient to achieve the 0.05mm measurement error required for cement final setting time. To address this issue, the measuring section of the plunger is designed as interchangeable sections for initial and final setting times. The section for final setting time measurement includes a sharp, downward-pointing ring, with the ring opening 0.5±0.1mm higher than the measuring end of the plunger. During measurement, the visual impression left on the cement sample surface is used as the criterion for a penetration depth greater than 0.5mm, continuing until no ring impression appears, at which point the final setting time is determined. Obviously, this method cannot quantitatively determine the measurement error of the sinking depth, and it is also difficult to avoid human operation error. Therefore, it cannot ensure that the measurement error meets the requirements. Thus, in more important applications, it is usually necessary to verify the accuracy of the measurement results through retesting.

[0019] To avoid the shortcomings of manual Vicat apparatus in terms of measurement error and to improve the ease of operation and automation, automatic or semi-automatic Vicat apparatuses with automatic depth determination functions have been developed based on manual Vicat apparatuses. These apparatuses mostly use displacement sensors to determine the depth of the test rod and automatically calculate the measured value of the characteristic point using mathematical models (such as interpolation) by taking data from nearby feature points as samples. However, this also brings higher costs, mainly due to the following reasons:

[0020] (1) Since the test rod must be in a free state during the sinking process, the direct measurement method must use a non-contact or micro-contact displacement sensor to avoid the measuring device creating resistance to the sinking of the test rod. For example, the automatic Vicat apparatus provided in Chinese Patent Publication No. CN1763524A uses a non-mechanical contact capacitive displacement sensor. This type of sensor is relatively expensive and accounts for a high proportion of the cost of the Vicat apparatus product.

[0021] (2) The measuring device that is matched with the displacement sensor is relatively complex and also requires precision in machining, assembly and debugging to match the measurement accuracy.

[0022] (3) Measuring the penetration depth of the Vicat apparatus is a crucial aspect of quality control in product manufacturing and a necessary step in determining the normal operation of the equipment during actual use. To determine this error, a dedicated measuring device must be used to independently measure the stroke of the test rod, and then the measured value is compared with the Vicat apparatus's own measurement value. Especially for a measuring instrument like the Vicat apparatus, this step is costly and essential during equipment inspection, maintenance, and calibration during use, and is one of the significant factors restricting the widespread use of automatic Vicat apparatuses.

[0023] The technical solution of Chinese Patent ZL201811350694.6 achieves the measurement of the penetration depth of the test rod through the cooperation of the test rod clutch mechanism and the stroke control mechanism of the test rod seat. Its principle is to align the reference point on the height of the test rod with the reference point on the test rod seat mounted on the vertical lifting mechanism at the beginning and end points of the test rod's penetration stroke. Then, the height of the test rod seat at the two alignment points is subtracted to obtain the penetration depth value. This technical solution avoids the use of expensive non-contact displacement sensors, but it does not eliminate the measurement operation of the test rod penetration depth, which is essentially an alignment operation of the reference point. That is, the measurement error of the penetration depth comes not only from the error in the height position of the test rod seat but also from the error in the two alignment operations of the reference point. Compared to the Vicat apparatus that uses displacement sensors, the technical solution provided by ZL201811350694.6 reduces the number of displacement sensors. However, due to the addition of a lifting mechanism for the test rod holder and a mechanism for aligning the reference point, such as the "test rod locking device" added to achieve the end-point alignment function of the sinking stroke, the cost reduction is only limited after offsetting the reduction and addition.

[0024] To meet the needs of most applications and improve socio-economic benefits, it is necessary to propose a Vicat apparatus that is simpler to operate, has lower manufacturing costs, and meets measurement accuracy requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0025] To address the aforementioned shortcomings, this invention proposes a Vicat apparatus primarily for determining condensation characteristic points. It replaces the existing Vicat apparatus's "sinking depth measurement mechanism" with a "fixed sinking depth detection device" combined with a measurement method that "measures the time required to reach a fixed sinking depth." This invention provides a new method for detecting condensation characteristics and creates a Vicat apparatus that is simpler to operate and has a lower manufacturing cost while maintaining the same or higher measurement accuracy.

[0026] This invention provides a method for detecting condensation characteristics, which involves performing multiple tests on the same sample, each test under different state parameter values. Each single test step involves first aligning the measuring end of a test rod with the sample surface, then allowing the rod to freely sink vertically from rest, thereby measuring the depth and time of penetration of the rod into the sample under the current state parameter value. Finally, based on the relationship between the measured depth and time of penetration and the state parameters, the state parameter value of the measured characteristic point is calculated. Before each single test, the penetration depth of the test rod is predetermined as the characteristic depth of the measured characteristic point, and then the penetration time is measured. The state parameter value corresponding to the characteristic time is then calculated based on the data sequence of the relationship between each penetration time and the state parameters obtained from multiple tests; this value represents the state parameter value of the measured characteristic point characterized by the characteristic depth and characteristic time.

[0027] The method for detecting condensation characteristics provided by this invention determines the sinking depth of a single measurement at a measured characteristic depth. By measuring the sinking time to reach this characteristic depth under different state parameter values, the sinking time-state parameter relationship at that characteristic depth is obtained, and the state parameters of the characteristic point are calculated. Compared with existing technologies, this invention avoids measuring the sinking depth, thus the measurement error is reflected in the error of the sinking time measurement. In existing technologies, even using the most common electronic timing device with automatic trigger timing function, achieving a timing error of 10ms for a standard 30s sinking time is easy, resulting in a relative error of 1 / 10. 6 The measurement error relative to the sinking depth is negligible.

[0028] Based on the method of this invention, the following two series of Vicat apparatus solutions are proposed.

[0029] The Vicat apparatus provided by this invention includes a frame, a test rod, and a timer.

[0030] I. It has a test rod holder; the test rod and the test rod holder are slidably connected by a vertical guide rail mechanism; the test rod holder is fixedly mounted on the frame;

[0031] II. A flushing state detection device is provided to provide feedback on the flushing state of the test rod measuring end. The flushing state detection device is used to sense the flushing state through components or visual inspection.

[0032] Its characteristics are

[0033] III. A test rod position control mechanism is provided, and a suspension mechanism is provided between the test rod and the test rod position control mechanism. The suspension mechanism enables the test rod to switch between static fixation and detachment from static fixation. When statically fixed, the test rod is suspended on the test rod position control mechanism and is at a specific height position relative to the frame. The specific height positions include: a ready position, a level position, and a stop position. The stop position is not higher than the height position when the test rod freely sinks to the measured characteristic depth.

[0034] IV. A fine-tuning mechanism is provided to achieve alignment of the test rod when it is suspended in a level position. When the test rod is aligned, it is in the initial sinking position. The fine-tuning operation of the fine-tuning mechanism is performed automatically or manually.

[0035] V. It has a detachment and sinking start position detection device. The detachment and sinking start position detection device is connected to the timer. When the test rod detaches from the sinking start position and begins to sink freely, it sends a sinking start signal. The timer starts timing according to the sinking start signal.

[0036] VI. It has a characteristic depth position detection device, which is connected to the timer. When the test rod sinks to the characteristic depth, it sends an arrival signal and the timer stops counting according to the arrival signal.

[0037] VI. The detachment sinking starting position detection device and the characteristic depth position detection device consist of a position signal point and a position signal detection element. The vertical distance between the flush position signal point and the characteristic depth position signal point is fixed and equal to the characteristic depth.

[0038] The preparation position is the position where the bottom end (measuring end) of the test rod is higher than the highest point of the sample (including the container holding the sample) to facilitate sample placement. The level position is the predetermined position where the test rod is expected to be level. The stop position is the position where the test rod is stopped from sinking further after reaching the measured depth. The characteristic depth position is the position below the level position, one height difference from the measured characteristic depth. Therefore, the preparation position, level position, characteristic depth position, and stop position of the test rod are arranged from top to bottom. When a device is provided at the characteristic depth position to prevent the test rod from sinking further, the characteristic depth position and the stop position can be the same position.

[0039] Due to variations in sample fabrication or the nature of the sample material, the surface height of the sample may differ. Therefore, when the test rod is lowered to the predetermined flush position, the height relationship between the measuring end of the test rod and the sample surface will also differ. When this difference affects the measurement more than the allowable error, a flush fine-tuning mechanism is needed to adjust the test rod to achieve flush alignment at the initial sinking position. This flush fine-tuning mechanism consists of a flush state detection device and a position fine-tuning device. The flush state detection device performs visual inspection, while the position fine-tuning device performs manual adjustment. The position fine-tuning mechanism is located on the sample base, the frame base, between the test rod body and the measuring section, or on the test rod position control mechanism. Depending on the location of the position fine-tuning mechanism, the positional state between the measuring end and the sample plane can be changed by adjusting the height of the sample, the frame base, the measuring section of the test rod on the test rod body, or the height of the position control mechanism relative to the frame, thus achieving test rod flush alignment.

[0040] The "flush" state describes the height relationship between the measuring end of the test rod and the surface of the sample, and includes three states: not reaching, flush, and exceeding. The position where the test rod is flush with the sample and in a suspended state, and can be detached from the suspension to a suspended state, is the starting position for the test rod to sink freely, called the sinking starting position.

[0041] The position of the test rod detected by the detachment from the sinking starting position detection device is the sinking starting position, and the position of the test rod detected by the characteristic depth position detection device is the position of the measured characteristic depth.

[0042] The deflection and sinking starting position detection device and the characteristic depth position detection device are typically contact or non-contact position or state detection switches, such as contact switches, photoelectric switches, and sensors. The trigger signal is generally an electronic signal transmitted through a wire, but it can also be a wirelessly transmitted signal such as a photoelectric signal or an electromagnetic signal. The position signal point and the position signal detection element are the two trigger components that activate the detection switch. One of them is set on the test rod, and the other is set in a relatively fixed position. Usually, the one without a wire connection is set on the test rod. This relatively fixed position means that the position does not change in the height direction relative to a fixed reference point during the measurement process. The fixed reference point is a reference position shared by the deflection and sinking starting position detection device and the characteristic depth position detection device, used to express the sinking depth of the test rod.

[0043] The steps for a single test using the aforementioned Vicat apparatus are as follows:

[0044] (1) Place the material to be tested into the mold as a test sample according to the test sample preparation requirements;

[0045] (2) Confirm that the test rod is in the ready position and that the test rod and the test rod position control mechanism remain statically fixed;

[0046] (3) Place the sample under the test rod, with the measuring end of the test rod aligned with the test position on the sample surface;

[0047] (4) Move the test rod downwards to suspend it at the same level, and the test rod and the test rod position control mechanism are in a static fixed position;

[0048] (5) The test rod and the test rod position control mechanism are kept statically fixed. The leveling state of the test rod is sensed by the leveling state detection device and the leveling fine adjustment mechanism is used to adjust and achieve the leveling of the test rod. At this time, the test rod is in the sinking start position.

[0049] (6) Remove the test rod from the static fixation. The test rod starts to sink freely from the initial sinking position from the static state. At the same time, the detection device at the initial sinking position sends a sinking start signal and the timer starts counting.

[0050] (7) When the depth to which the test rod sinks is equal to the measured characteristic depth, the characteristic depth position detection device sends an arrival signal to trigger the timer to stop timing. The timer's timing value is the result of this test, and this sinking test is completed.

[0051] The test rod eventually reaches the stop position or is stopped sinking due to obstruction by the specimen.

[0052] Determining a feature point requires multiple measurements on the same sample. Subsequent measurements begin from step (2), and new test positions should be a certain distance away from previously tested positions to avoid errors in subsequent measurements. The test position is the point where the measuring end freely sinks into the sample.

[0053] By using the same predetermined characteristic depth under different state parameters, a data sequence of the relationship between "sinking time and state parameters" at the measured characteristic depth can be obtained through multiple measurements. Then, the state parameter values ​​of the characteristic points can be obtained through appropriate mathematical models (such as interpolation). For example, the sinking depth of the initial setting time characteristic point can be used to determine the initial setting time, and the sinking depth of the final setting time characteristic point can be used to determine the final setting time.

[0054] The suspension mechanism that suspends the test rod and the test rod seat is recommended in this invention in two types: slotted and tongue-type.

[0055] The slotted design involves a horizontally extending crossbar on the test rod, a longitudinal control plate on the test rod base, and a vertical slot connecting multiple horizontal slots to form a control groove. The crossbar passes through the control groove to form a test rod position control mechanism. The horizontal slots are located at least in the ready position and the flush position, with the lowest point of the vertical slot at the stop position. When the crossbar is in the horizontal slot, the test rod is suspended in the horizontal slot for static fixation; when the crossbar is in the vertical slot, the test rod is suspended and no longer statically fixed. A simplified slot arrangement is F-shaped, with the previous horizontal slot representing the ready position, the next horizontal slot representing the flush position, and the lowest point of the vertical slot representing the stop position. The trigger components of the characteristic depth position detection device are installed on both sides between the test rod and the control plate.

[0056] During measurement, the crossbar is first placed in the previous horizontal slot, suspending the test rod in the ready position. After the sample is in place, the crossbar is moved to the next horizontal slot, suspending the test rod in a level position. Then, without changing the crossbar's position, adjustments are made to achieve levelness, suspending the test rod at the initial sinking position. Next, the crossbar is moved into the vertical slot, allowing the test rod to sink freely until it rests at the bottom of the vertical slot, suspending in the stop position. During free sinking, the initial sinking detection device sends a start-sinking signal, and the characteristic depth position detection device sends an arrival signal when the sample reaches the characteristic depth to be measured.

[0057] The tongue-type design involves a suspension section on the test rod with a diameter larger than that of the main rod. A suspension tongue is mounted on the test rod base. The suspension tongue has an upward-facing blocking surface that interacts with the downward-facing step of the suspension section, creating two states: blocking or disengaging from the blocking surface, thus forming a test rod position control mechanism. The suspension tongue is positioned at least in a ready position, a flush position, and a characteristic depth position. In the blocking state, the blocking surface of the suspension tongue is located along the path of the test rod's suspension section's vertical movement. When the test rod descends to the point where the downward-facing step of the suspension section presses against the blocking surface of the suspension tongue, it stops at the position of the suspension tongue, achieving static fixation. In the disengaging state, the blocking surface of the suspension tongue moves away from the path of the test rod's suspension section's vertical movement, no longer obstructing the test rod, thus disengaging from static fixation.

[0058] The suspension tongue can be categorized into dual-state, single-state, and fixed types. Dual-state suspension tongues maintain their state after switching between blocking and unblocking states until the next switch. Single-state suspension tongues maintain one of their normal states and automatically return to the normal state after a certain delay after switching to the other state; the normal state is usually the blocking state. Fixed suspension tongues remain fixed in the blocking state. The state switching of the suspension tongue is driven by a mechanical or electromechanical mechanism. The single-state suspension tongue, with the blocking state as its normal state, also has a special unidirectional switching drive method. This method combines a sensor and an operation controller so that when the suspension tongue switches from the blocking state to the unblocking state, the test rod moves downward, and the suspension tongue, blocked by the suspension section of the test rod, does not return to the normal state until the test rod moves upward to a position higher than the suspension tongue's current position during subsequent operations, at which point it automatically returns to the normal state. Generally, the special unidirectional switching single-state suspension tongue is used in the preparation and flush positions, the fixed suspension tongue is used in the stop position or at the maximum characteristic depth position, and the dual-state suspension tongue is used in other characteristic depth positions. A test rod suspension status detection device can also be installed between the suspension tongue and the test rod. For the suspension tongue set at the characteristic depth position, this sensor can also serve as the characteristic depth position detection device. The suspension tongue is usually fixedly mounted on the test rod seat, but for the suspension tongue at the stop position or the maximum characteristic depth position and the suspension tongue at the ready position, it can be a dual-state suspension tongue mounted on the vertical movement device.

[0059] During measurement, the test rod is first suspended statically on the suspension tongue at the preparation position. After placing the sample, the test rod is lowered to the suspension tongue at the level position and held statically. Adjustments are then made to ensure the test rod is level, thus suspending it at the initial sinking position. Before free sinking, the suspension tongue at the characteristic depth position to be measured must be set to the blocking state, and the suspension tongue at the characteristic depth position above the current measurement must be set to the unblocked state, thus limiting the maximum sinking depth of the test rod to the current measurement characteristic depth. The suspension tongue at the level position is then switched to the unblocked state, allowing the test rod to sink freely until it is suspended on the suspension tongue at the current measurement characteristic depth position. Simultaneously, the initial sinking position detection device sends a start sinking signal when the suspension tongue at the level position is switched to the unblocked state. When the test rod is suspended on the suspension tongue at the current measurement characteristic depth position, the characteristic depth position detection device sends an arrival signal.

[0060] Similarly, the suspension tongue type can also evolve into a suspension fit where the movable cross pin engages with the hole or step on the test rod. When the cross pin is inserted into the hole or step, the test rod is suspended in a specific position and becomes statically fixed. When the cross pin is moved outward, the test rod is disengaged from the suspension and loses its static fixation.

[0061] The Vicat apparatus provided by this invention incorporates a detachment sinking start position detection device and a characteristic depth position detection device in the test rod position control mechanism. These devices trigger a timer to start and stop when the test rod begins its free descent and reaches the measured characteristic depth, respectively. This allows for the measurement of the sinking time taken for the test rod to sink from its level position to the measured characteristic depth. By conducting multiple measurements under different state parameters, a data sequence of the "sinking time - state parameters" relationship at the measured characteristic depth can be obtained. Then, the state parameter values ​​of the characteristic point are derived using an appropriate mathematical model.

[0062] The Vicat apparatus provided by this invention includes a frame, a test rod, and a timer.

[0063] I. It has a test rod holder and a test rod holder drive device;

[0064] i. The test rod and the test rod seat are slidably connected by a vertical guide rail mechanism;

[0065] ii. The test rod holder is mounted on the frame via a test rod holder drive device;

[0066] II. A status / position detection device, including

[0067] i. A preparation status detection device that provides feedback on preparation status information and issues a preparation position confirmation signal when the test rod holder is in the preparation state; the preparation status is perceived by sensors or visual inspection in the preparation status detection device, and when the preparation status is perceived visually, the preparation status information and the preparation status confirmation signal are transmitted in a human-computer interaction manner.

[0068] ii. A test rod flush state detection device that provides feedback on the flush state of the test rod measuring end and sends a flush signal when the test rod measuring end is flush with the sample surface; the flush state detection device senses the flush state by means of components or visual inspection, and when the flush state is sensed by visual inspection, the flush state information and the flush signal are transmitted in a human-computer interaction manner.

[0069] III. Has an operation controller

[0070] i. The signal transmission terminal of the operation controller is connected to:

[0071] (1) Status / position detection device;

[0072] (2) A human-computer interaction device, wherein the human-computer interaction device includes a test result output terminal;

[0073] (3) Timer;

[0074] (4) Test bar seat drive device, the operation controller is connected to the test bar seat drive device to send control signals to drive the test bar seat to rise or stop, the control signals include movement signals and stop signals, wherein the movement signals contain movement direction, stroke and speed control information;

[0075] ii. The operation controller has a leveling fine-tuning mechanism that adjusts the test rod to be level when the test rod holder is moved to the level position, and when the test rod and test rod holder are adjusted to be level, the test rod and test rod holder are in the sinking start position;

[0076] Its characteristics are:

[0077] iii. The operation controller stores the feature depth of each feature point and the minimum speed limit for the feature depth descent.

[0078] iv. The operation controller has a start timing signal generator and a stop timing signal generator. The trigger signal of the start timing signal generator is the start characteristic depth descent signal, and the trigger signal of the stop timing signal generator is the suspension state signal emitted from the measured characteristic depth position.

[0079] IV. A suspension mechanism is provided between the test rod and the test rod base.

[0080] i. The suspension mechanism, the test rod seat, and the test rod seat drive device constitute a test rod position control mechanism;

[0081] ii. The suspension mechanism is a structure that prevents the test rod from sliding down between the test rod and the test rod seat. It consists of a downward end fixedly connected to the test rod and an upward end fixedly connected to the test rod seat. The end on the test rod seat is located directly below the end on the test rod. The upper and lower ends form an end-abutting structure with two states: rigid abutting and non-abutting.

[0082] iii. When the two ends of the suspension mechanism are rigidly abutting each other, the test rod is in a suspended state, that is, the test rod and the test rod seat are statically fixed; while when the two ends of the suspension mechanism are not abutting each other, the test rod is in a suspended state, that is, the test rod and the test rod seat are no longer statically fixed.

[0083] V. The status / position detection device further includes a suspension status detection device.

[0084] i. The suspension state detection device is a signal generating device installed on the test rod and the test rod base respectively for sensing the suspension state of the test rod;

[0085] ii. The suspension state detection device outputs a corresponding suspension state signal or a suspended state signal according to the suspension state of the test rod, which respectively correspond to the state of the end abutment structure being abutted or not abutted;

[0086] iii. When the test rod holder is at the characteristic depth position, the suspension state detection device also serves as the characteristic depth position detection device.

[0087] The guide rail mechanism uses the columnar rod portion of the test rod as a slider and the guide hole on the test rod seat as a slide rail, with the guide hole and the columnar rod portion of the test rod making sliding contact; the suspension mechanism is that the test rod has a suspension section with a lateral dimension larger than the slider portion above the guide hole; the end abutment structure consists of a step on the test rod and a step on the test rod seat, wherein the step on the test rod is located at the lower end of the suspension section with its end facing downwards, and the step on the test rod seat is located at the upper end of the guide hole with its end facing upwards.

[0088] In the suspended state, the test rod is suspended from the test rod holder by the upward force of the test rod holder and its own weight, maintaining a fixed relative position. In the suspended state, when the test rod moves downward with the test rod holder but is obstructed by the specimen, and the downward speed of the test rod holder is higher than the free sinking speed of the test rod when obstructed by the specimen, the test rod no longer moves downward synchronously with the test rod holder. The test rod loses the upward force of the test rod holder, causing the two to disengage. In other words, there are two states between the test rod and the test rod holder: "suspended" and "suspended." The position of the test rod relative to the test rod holder is higher in the suspended state than in the suspended state. In the suspended state, the test rod's own weight has only one opposing force: the resistance of the specimen.

[0089] The operation controller, based on manually issued or software-set operation commands and signals from the detection device, reads information from the storage device to calculate the required movement and stopping actions of the test rod holder and outputs this data to the lifting control device. The lifting control device, according to the received movement and stop signals and based on the direction, stroke, and speed information in the movement signals, controls the test rod holder to move and stop at the ready position, move to the level position and stop at the sinking start position, and then begin a rapid descent from the sinking start position to the characteristic depth position and stop at the measured characteristic depth position, thus completing the state control of the test rod throughout the entire measurement process. Especially during the free descent of the test rod, the rapid descent of the test rod holder to the characteristic depth ensures that the downward speed of the test rod holder exceeds the minimum limit for the characteristic depth descent required by the current measurement, guaranteeing that the test rod remains suspended.

[0090] The process of moving towards the level position and stopping at the sinking start position is achieved through adjustment. If the leveling state detection device (1) automatically detects the leveling state, the direct approach is to move the test rod seat at a constant speed towards the leveling position and stop when the leveling signal is detected. However, the commonly used approach is to first move down at a constant speed to near the predetermined leveling position and then decelerate and move down until the leveling signal is detected, stopping at the sinking start position. If the leveling state is perceived visually, the test rod seat is first moved down to the predetermined leveling position, and then, based on the visual result, the test rod seat is manually adjusted upward or downward by controlling the test rod seat drive mechanism to make fine adjustments and stop at the sinking start position when the test rod is determined to be level.

[0091] The Vicat apparatus provided by this invention has a test rod holder mounted on a frame via a test rod holder drive mechanism and connected to an operation controller. The test rod is mounted on the test rod holder via a guide rail mechanism and a suspension mechanism and connected to a suspension state detection device. The suspension mechanism allows the test rod to be suspended on the test rod holder with its ends touching, and from this suspension state, it can slide upwards relative to the test rod holder by a distance exceeding the maximum characteristic depth to be measured; that is, the length of the slider portion below the suspension section of the test rod exceeds the maximum characteristic depth to be measured by a distance. There are two suspension state points for the test rod: one is the height point where the test rod is at rest with the test rod holder when the test rod holder is at the same level, maintaining the suspension state (i.e., the initial sinking position suspension state point); the other is the height point where the test rod sinks to the characteristic depth and abuts against the test rod holder, resulting in suspension (i.e., the characteristic depth position suspension state point). The height difference between these two points is the sinking depth of the characteristic point to be measured. The test rod holder reaches the suspension point at the measured characteristic depth before the test rod. This is to ensure that the test rod will not catch up with the test rod holder before sinking to the characteristic depth, thus violating the condition for the test rod to sink freely. It also ensures that when the test rod sinks to the measured characteristic depth, the suspension state detection device, which acts as a characteristic depth position detection device, transmits a timing termination signal.

[0092] The single test procedure for the aforementioned Vicat apparatus is as follows:

[0093] (1) Place the material to be tested into the mold as a test sample according to the test sample preparation requirements;

[0094] (2) Suspend the test rod on the test rod holder in the suspended state, start the operation controller, and stop the test rod holder in the ready position;

[0095] (3) Place the sample under the test rod, with the measuring end of the test rod aligned with the test position on the sample surface;

[0096] (4) Keep the test rod in a suspended state. When the test rod seat drive device is controlled by the operation controller to drive the test rod seat downward to the level position or above the level position by a certain amount, the position of the test rod seat is adjusted to the level position of the test rod with the cooperation of the test rod level state detection device. When the level signal sent by the test rod level state detection device is received, the test rod seat is stopped. At this time, the position of the test rod and the test rod seat is the sinking start position.

[0097] (5) The operation controller controls the test rod holder drive device to start the rapid descent of the test rod holder to the characteristic depth. The test rod holder arrives at the characteristic depth position to be measured earlier than the test rod and remains in a stopped state. The characteristic depth position is the position obtained by adding one characteristic depth downward from the sinking starting position.

[0098] While the operation controller sends a command to the test bar holder drive device to drive the test bar holder to start the characteristic depth rapid descent, it also sends a start timing signal to the timer, and the timer starts timing.

[0099] While the controller controls the test rod holder drive device to drive the test rod holder to start the rapid descent to the characteristic depth, the test rod starts to sink freely from the initial sinking position from a stationary state.

[0100] (6) When the depth of the test rod sinking is equal to the measured characteristic depth, the test rod and the test rod seat are in contact with each other through the end abutment structure, and the test rod changes from a suspended state to a suspended state. The test rod stops sinking due to the obstruction of the test rod seat.

[0101] When the test rod changes from a suspended state to a suspended state, the characteristic depth position detection device sends an arrival signal;

[0102] Upon receiving the arrival signal, the operation controller sends a stop signal to the timer, and the timer stops counting.

[0103] (7) The time value from the start to the stop of the timer is the sinking time of the test rod in this test. This sinking test is now complete.

[0104] To complete the determination of a feature point, multiple measurements need to be performed on the same sample. Subsequent measurements should begin from step (2). New test positions should be a certain distance away from previously tested positions to avoid causing errors in subsequent measurements.

[0105] By using the same predetermined characteristic depth under different state parameters, a data sequence of the relationship between "sinking time and state parameters" at the measured characteristic depth can be obtained through multiple measurements. Then, the state parameter values ​​of the characteristic points can be obtained through appropriate mathematical models (such as interpolation). For example, the sinking depth of the initial setting time characteristic point can be used to determine the initial setting time, and the sinking depth of the final setting time characteristic point can be used to determine the final setting time.

[0106] Before the first measurement after powering on the Vicat apparatus, the coordinate position of the test rod holder needs to be initialized. This involves establishing a correspondence between the actual position of the test rod holder and the coordinate values ​​used in the operating controller to represent its position. Specifically, a fixed reference point for the test rod holder position is set on the frame; this reference point is called the reset position. A test rod holder reset status detection device outputs "higher" / "lower" directional signals when the current position of the test rod holder is higher / lower than the reset position, indicating the directional relationship between the test rod holder position and the reset position. The operating controller controls the test rod holder drive device to move the test rod holder towards the reset position based on this directional relationship. When a change in the reset position directional signal is detected, the movement immediately stops. The stopped position of the test rod holder is the reset position. Simultaneously, the operating controller sets the current position coordinates of the test rod holder to 0, completing the initialization of the test rod holder coordinate position.

[0107] After initialization, the current position of the test rod holder can be obtained by accumulating the stroke, thus establishing a mapping relationship between the current position coordinates of the test rod holder and the actual position.

[0108] After initializing the test rod holder's coordinate position, it needs to be moved to the ready position for placing the sample and starting the measurement. The coordinates of the ready position are stored in the operation controller. Depending on the needs, the ready position can coincide with the reset position; that is, the reset position required for initializing the test rod holder's coordinate position can be set to the ready position, thus completing the initialization and movement to the ready position in one step, reducing one action. Alternatively, the coordinate position of the fixed reference point can also be set to other values, such as 10 or 100.

[0109] Because of uncertainties in the preparation and condition of the specimen (e.g., surface settlement in cement specimens), when the test rod holder is moved to the predetermined flush position stored in the operating controller, the measuring end of the test rod may not have reached or may have exceeded the required flush position. In other words, the test rod may not be flush when the test rod holder is in the flush position. Therefore, during the test, there is a step to adjust the position of the test rod holder to achieve the initial sinking position for flush testing. After adjustment, the test rod is suspended on the test rod holder with its measuring end flush with the specimen surface. The position of the test rod holder at this point is defined as the initial sinking position. Adjusting the test rod holder to the initial sinking position and adjusting the test rod to the initial sinking position have the same meaning, because when the test rod is suspended on the test rod holder, their relative positions are fixed. This adjustment step can be done automatically using the operating controller or through human-computer interaction. During automatic adjustment, the rod is first moved down to a position close to the preset level, and then slowly approaches the level under the monitoring of the leveling detection device, stopping when a leveling signal is received. During human-computer interaction adjustment, the rod is first moved down to the preset level position, and then the leveling state of the test rod is visually tested. Based on the observed difference between the measuring end and the sample surface, the test rod seat is moved by the manual test rod seat drive device (or leveling fine adjustment mechanism), approaching the level under visual monitoring and stopping when the test rod is level.

[0110] When the flushing state is perceived by visual inspection in the flushing state detection device, the flushing fine adjustment is performed by the test rod holder driven by the human-machine interaction control test rod holder drive device, or by the manual operation mechanism set on the test rod holder drive device.

[0111] In this scheme, the flushing fine-tuning mechanism is not necessarily a standalone mechanism, but is usually combined with the operation controller and the test rod seat drive device.

[0112] The two Vicat apparatus technical solutions provided by this invention differ in the implementation of adjusting the test rod / test rod holder to the initial sinking position to achieve test rod flushness. In the former solution, the adjustment process involves first moving the test rod to the predetermined flush position, and then adjusting the relative position between the measuring end of the test rod and the sample while keeping the test rod and test rod position control mechanism statically fixed to achieve test rod flushness. In the latter solution, the adjustment process involves first moving the test rod holder suspending the test rod to the predetermined flush position, and then using the position where the test rod is flush as the endpoint of adjusting the movement of the test rod holder.

[0113] The characteristic depth descent speed refers to the operation process where, during the initial free-fall of the test rod in the measurement process, the test rod holder moves downward from the initial position at a speed not lower than the characteristic depth descent speed limit, stopping after the current measured characteristic depth. When the test rod begins to move downward with the test rod holder from the initial position, it is hindered by the resistance of the sample, causing its sinking speed within the sample to be relatively sluggish. Therefore, the test rod holder can be controlled to descend at a speed faster than the test rod's sinking speed, ensuring that the test rod remains suspended throughout the entire free-fall stroke, thus meeting the measurement requirements for free-fall. The characteristic depth descent speed limit is the minimum speed at which the test rod holder descends to ensure that the test rod remains suspended throughout the entire free-fall stroke required to determine the current characteristic point.

[0114] The characteristic depth descent rate limit varies for different characteristic points, depending on two measurement parameters: penetration depth and minimum effective penetration time. To determine the characteristic time at a specific point, multiple individual measurements near that point are needed to obtain the relationship between the characteristic time and state parameters at that depth. The minimum effective penetration time is the minimum value of the required penetration time range, while the characteristic depth descent rate limit is the minimum speed required to keep the test rod suspended during its free penetration stroke at that characteristic depth within this minimum effective penetration time. Taking the determination of cement final setting time as an example, the standard characteristic depth for cement final setting time is 0.5 mm, and the characteristic time is 30 s. Assuming a cement's theoretical final setting time is 6 hours, several tests can be conducted within a period before and after 6 hours of age. The test results show a penetration depth of 0.5 mm at this characteristic point, with the required effective penetration time range from 20 s to 35 s. In this scenario, the minimum speed limit for the characteristic depth descent is the minimum speed required to keep the test rod suspended throughout its 0.5mm free-descent stroke when the sinking time is 20s. The sinking speed of the test rod gradually decreases during free-descent; therefore, this minimum speed limit can be determined by adding a certain guarantee value to the measured experimental value, which is typically 1.5 to 2 times the average speed.

[0115] The characteristic depth descent speed limit is stored in the operation controller for retrieval during measurement. Individual characteristic depth descent speed limits can be set for each characteristic point measurement, or the fastest of the lowest characteristic depth descent speed limits for all characteristic points can be used to simplify the operation control of the test rod holder's characteristic depth descent.

[0116] After the test pole holder is adjusted to the initial sinking position and held for a certain period of time, the operation controller sends a movement signal to the test pole holder drive device to move down to the sinking depth. This signal includes travel (characteristic depth), direction (downward), and speed (not lower than the characteristic depth descent speed limit) data. There are many options for determining the travel endpoint in existing technologies, but two commonly used methods are: One is to store a coordinate mathematical model in the operation controller. The coordinate system described by this mathematical model is a number axis with the frame as the reference. The coordinates on the number axis correspond to the height position of the test pole holder, and specific coordinates on the number axis correspond to the fixed reference point position of the test pole holder. This fixed reference point is determined as the coordinate origin or other specific point, linking the test pole holder position to the coordinates. The coordinate position of the initial sinking position is determined by accumulating the direction and travel of each movement of the test pole holder, and the coordinate point after adding a characteristic depth is used as the travel endpoint. Secondly, a position sensor is installed between the test rod holder and the frame. After initialization, the position of the test rod holder is directly read from the position sensor. That is, when the stroke data in the command matches the actual stroke data calculated based on the data read by the sensor, it indicates that the test rod holder has reached the characteristic depth position.

[0117] The Vicat apparatus is equipped with a sample temperature sensor, and a temperature-time recorder is connected to the temperature sensor, which can calculate the characteristic softening temperature of the sample.

[0118] The Vicat apparatus provided by this invention replaces the existing Vicat apparatus method of measuring the depth of a test rod within a fixed depth by measuring the sinking time of the test rod at a fixed sinking depth. In other words, it replaces length measurement with time measurement.

[0119] The Vicat apparatus measurement consists of two independent elements: penetration depth and penetration time. Taking the final setting time of cement as an example, the penetration time is 30 seconds, and the penetration depth is 0.5 mm. Generally, the measurement error of penetration depth is required to be less than 0.05 mm, i.e., a relative error of 10%. With current technology, even using the most basic electronic timing device with automatic trigger timing function, achieving a timing error of 10 ms is easily achievable, and the main error comes from the execution delay error of the timing control trigger signal. The timer itself has even higher precision, with a relative error of less than 10%. -6 The error relative to the depth of immersion is negligible. In other words, under current technology, the measurement error of the Vicat apparatus is actually determined by the error in the depth of immersion.

[0120] Existing Vicat apparatuses require the measurement of the plunger depth. The source of depth error consists of at least two factors: measurement error and related mechanical error. The former is a variable, differing from measurement to measurement, while the latter is a fixed quantity, remaining essentially the same for each measurement. For example, most automatic Vicat apparatuses use non-contact displacement sensors to measure the plunger depth. In this case, the measurement error is the displacement sensor's measurement error, and the related mechanical error is the mechanical error associated with the sensor's installation and measurement.

[0121] The Vicat apparatus provided by this invention avoids measuring the sinking depth, thus reducing the sources of error in sinking depth measurement compared to existing Vicat apparatuses, resulting in a fixed error in sinking depth. Operationally, existing Vicat apparatuses require measuring a predetermined sinking time and sinking depth, meaning two physical quantities—time and length—must be measured. In contrast, the Vicat apparatus provided by this invention only requires measuring the sinking time parameter, i.e., only the time physical quantity is measured.

[0122] The Vicat apparatus provided by this invention has a fixed error in penetration depth, allowing for precise control during product manufacturing. Specifically, in the first type of Vicat apparatus provided by this invention, the penetration depth error is equal to the distance error between the detected positions of the initial penetration position detection device and the characteristic depth position detection device, determined by assembly error and precisely controlled through inspection and adjustment during the assembly process. In the second type of Vicat apparatus provided by this invention, the penetration depth error is equal to the stroke error of the rapid descent operation of the test rod holder at the characteristic depth, primarily determined by adjustment error, and generally achieved through compensation of the control parameters of the test rod holder's movement stroke. The technical level of the means used to achieve the above error control is the same as that required for manufacturing existing Vicat apparatus products.

[0123] The aforementioned changes have brought about significant progress. Compared with existing technologies, this invention has the advantages of high measurement accuracy, ease of operation, and significantly reduced costs. Specifically, this is reflected in:

[0124] (1) Improved measurement accuracy

[0125] Compared with existing technologies, ① the measurement error term is reduced from the sources of sinking depth error. This error term is usually the main source of sinking depth error in existing Vicat apparatuses, and reducing this error term itself reduces the sinking depth error. ② In particular, the reduced error term is a variable, while the related mechanical error, which is usually a fixed quantity, is controlled within about 1 / 3 of the total error requirement. That is, under the same requirements for the related mechanical error of existing Vicat apparatuses, the sinking depth error of the Vicat apparatus provided by this invention is reduced to within about 1 / 3 without additional cost.

[0126] Taking the determination of cement final setting time as an example, the measurement error of the penetration depth is generally required to be less than 0.05 mm. If automatic measurement technology is used, a displacement sensor with an accuracy of 0.02 mm must be selected, and the relevant mechanical error must also be controlled below 0.02 mm. The Vicat apparatus provided by this invention has the same level of mechanical error control as existing Vicat apparatuses, below 0.02 mm, thus the penetration depth error is 0.02 mm.

[0127] (2) Easier to operate

[0128] Existing Vicat apparatuses require the measurement of two parameters: timing and sinking depth. In contrast, the Vicat apparatus provided by this invention only requires the measurement of one parameter: sinking time. The advantages are obvious: ① It reduces one measurement operation; ② In particular, the measurement operation of the reduced sinking depth is simpler than that of the timing measurement.

[0129] The ease of operation is particularly evident in manually operated or semi-automatic Vicat apparatuses.

[0130] (3) Significantly reduced manufacturing and usage costs

[0131] The significant cost reduction effect is mainly reflected in automatic or semi-automatic Vicat apparatuses with automatic measurement functions.

[0132] The main manufacturing cost of existing automatic or semi-automatic Vicat apparatuses with automatic measurement functions lies in the implementation of two functions: automatic depth measurement and automatic leveling adjustment. Therefore, when the cost of eliminating the depth measurement function is eliminated without adding other extra costs, the advantage is obvious, especially for semi-automatic Vicat apparatuses without automatic leveling adjustment.

[0133] Specifically, compared with most existing technologies that use non-contact displacement sensors to measure sinking depth, such as the automatic Vicat apparatus provided by Chinese Patent Publication No. CN1763524A, this technology not only eliminates the expensive displacement sensor but also reduces the number of components required to construct the mechanical structure of the sinking depth measuring device. Compared with the improved technical solution provided by Chinese Patent ZL201811350694.6, it reduces the mechanical parts and electromechanical components required to align the test rod with the reference point on the test rod seat. However, due to the high technical requirements for controlling the sinking depth measurement error, its manufacturing cost is higher.

[0134] In particular, existing Vicat apparatuses require the measurement of penetration depth, and determining the measurement error of the Vicat apparatus's penetration depth is a crucial aspect of quality control in product manufacturing and a necessary step in determining the normal operation of the equipment during actual use. To measure this error, a dedicated measuring device must be used to independently measure the stroke of the test rod, and then the measured value is compared with the Vicat apparatus's own measurement value. For a Vicat apparatus, as a measuring instrument, this step is costly and necessary during equipment inspection, maintenance, and calibration during use. However, the Vicat apparatus provided by this invention, because the penetration depth error is a fixed quantity, only requires general-purpose measuring tools to directly measure the positional or stroke error of relevant components, eliminating the need for a dedicated measuring device to measure the test rod's stroke, thus reducing this significant cost. Attached Figure Description

[0135] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the method steps of the present invention. In the diagram: C - calculation of detection results, Es1, Es2, Es3, Esi, Esi+1 - multiple single detections, each single detection corresponds to a state parameter value, Ms - sample preparation;

[0136] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a single detection step in the method of the present invention. In the figure: Cd - the test rod sinks to the characteristic depth, D - the test rod sinks freely, M - the test rod moves towards the level position, Me - the test rod starts to sink freely from the sinking starting position, R - enters the preparation state, Sp - stops timing, Sr - starts timing, T - timing, Ti - timing value;

[0137] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the device of the present invention. Figure 4 for Figure 3 View from A in the middle, Figure 5 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of area B in the middle. In the figure: 1-Test rod seat one, 2-Test rod main section one, 3-Frame one, 4-Measuring section connector, 5-Measuring section, 6-Control board, 71-Preparation position horizontal slot, 72-Flush position horizontal slot, 73-Vertical slot, 80-Photoelectric switch, 81-Annular groove one, 82-Annular groove two, 9-Horizontal bar;

[0138] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the device of the present invention. In the figure: 21-test rod seat two, 22-electromagnet, 23-telescopic suspension tongue, 24-suspension section two, 25-fixed suspension tongue;

[0139] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the device of the present invention. In the figure: 22-electromagnet, 23-telescopic suspension tongue, 24-suspension section two, 26-longitudinal moving device, 27-moving suspension tongue, 28-test rod seat three, 29-feature depth telescopic suspension tongue;

[0140] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the device of the present invention. In the figure: 4-measuring section connector, 5-measuring section, 10-frame four, 11-test rod seat four, 12-test rod seat drive device, 13-operation controller, 14-test rod main section four, 15-tactile sensor (position signal detection point of suspension state detection device), 16-suspension section four.

[0141] Figure 9 The following is a circuit block diagram of an embodiment of the device of the present invention, in which: 12-test rod holder driving device, 13-operation controller, 17-human-machine interaction device, 18-position / state detection device, 19-timer, 20-other driving devices. Detailed Implementation

[0142] 1. For example Figure 1 , 2 As shown, a sample is first prepared according to requirements and placed under the test rod to complete the sample preparation Ms. Then, according to the test plan, several state parameter values ​​near the characteristic state parameter are selected for testing on the sample. First, a state parameter value is selected for the first test Es1, followed by different state parameter values ​​for the second test Es2, the third test Es3, the i-th test Esi, and even the (i+1)-th test Esi+1. The penetration depth of each test is the characteristic depth of the measured characteristic point (e.g., the initial setting depth of cement is 36mm), and the penetration time obtained is the result of each test, corresponding to the state parameter value of that test. Finally, the test result C is calculated. The relationship data sequence of state parameter-penetration time obtained from each test is used as a sample, and the state parameter value of the characteristic point is obtained through a mathematical model. The steps for each single test are as follows: The test rod is suspended in the preparation position, the sample is placed under the test rod, and the test enters the preparation state R. Then, the test rod is moved and adjusted to make it level, so that the test rod is suspended at the sinking start position M. Then, the test rod starts to sink freely into Me from the sinking start position while the timer starts timing Sr. During the process of the test rod sinking freely into D, the timer times T. When the test rod sinks to the characteristic depth Cd, the timer stops timing Sp. The obtained timing value Ti is the result of this test.

[0143] 2. For example Figure 3 , 4As shown in Figure 5, this is a Vicat apparatus used to measure the setting time and standard consistency of cement. A test rod holder 1 is fixed on the frame 3. The test rod holder 1 has two cantilever arms, each with a circular hole on the same vertical line. The cylindrical main section 2 of the test rod is slidably connected to the two circular holes on the test rod holder 1, forming a vertical guide rail mechanism. A horizontally extending crossbar 9 is on the test rod. A longitudinal control plate 6 is also installed on the test rod holder 1. The control plate has a control slot assembly, which consists of one longitudinal and two transverse slots connected in an F-shape. The transverse slots include an upper horizontal slot 71 for the preparation position and a lower horizontal slot 72 for the flush position. The longitudinal slots are vertical slots 73. The verticality is to ensure that the longitudinal slots are on the same plane as the test rod axis, preventing interference with the free sinking of the test rod. The crossbar passes through the slot combination on the control panel. When the crossbar rests on the bottom of the upper transverse slot, the lower transverse slot, and the longitudinal slot, suspending the test rod, the height positions of the test rod correspond to the "ready position," "flush position," and "stop position," respectively. The crossbar on the test rod and the slot combination on the control panel constitute the test rod position control mechanism. The test rod position control mechanism can be regarded as a combination of a suspension mechanism and a test rod movement mechanism that support the movement of the test rod between various height positions. When the crossbar rests in the transverse slot and the bottom of the longitudinal slot, the test rod and the test rod position control mechanism are in a statically fixed suspension engagement. When the crossbar is in the longitudinal slot and not touching the bottom, the test rod and the test rod position control mechanism are in a suspended engagement, no longer statically fixed.

[0144] The cross groove also has a suspension status switch. When the crossbar on the test rod is hooked into the upper / lower cross groove, it outputs a suspension status signal indicating the ready position / level position, respectively. When the crossbar is drawn out of the cross groove, the ready position / level position outputs a suspension status signal. That is, there is a switch on the upper cross groove that acts as a ready position detection device, and there is a switch on the lower cross groove that acts as a level position detection device. The suspension status switch on the lower cross groove also serves as a switch for detecting the starting position of detachment and sinking. When the crossbar is drawn out of the lower cross groove, it sends a signal to start sinking, triggering the timer to start timing.

[0145] The main section 2 of the test rod has two annular grooves, with their upper and lower edges perpendicular to the rod's axis. The groove 81, closer to the measuring end, is 0.5 mm wide. Above groove 81 is another groove 82, and the distance between the lower edges of the two grooves is 36 mm. A photoelectric switch 80 is located inside the test rod base and control panel. The light from the photoelectric switch passes through the gaps formed on the main section of the test rod by the annular grooves. As the test rod slides relative to the test rod base with the guide rail mechanism, the main section of the test rod and its annular grooves cause the light path of the photoelectric switch to change between conduction and interruption. When the test rod moves downwards, the photoelectric switch signal sequentially detects the on / off transitions at the lower edge of the annular groove, the upper edge of the first annular groove, and the lower edge of the second annular groove, corresponding to the test rod's height position ("flush position"), the final setting characteristic depth of 0.5 mm, and the initial setting characteristic depth of 36 mm, respectively. The lower edge of annular groove 81 is mainly used for calibrating the installation position of the photoelectric switch. During installation and debugging, when the test rod is suspended in the lower horizontal groove, the height of the lower edge of the annular groove is exactly at the on / off transition point of the photoelectric switch's optical path, corresponding to the initial sinking position of the test rod. The on / off transition of the upper edge of annular groove 1 / the on / off transition of the lower edge of annular groove 2 are the arrival signals for the final / initial solidification sinking depth. That is, the upper edge of annular groove 1 / the lower edge of annular groove 2, which serves as the position signal point, and the photoelectric switch, which serves as the position signal detection element, constitute a characteristic depth position detection device. When the transition occurs, an arrival signal is generated and sent, and the timer is instructed to stop counting. Before the measurement begins, the corresponding transition signal is selected as the characteristic depth arrival signal according to the characteristic point setting of the current measurement. For example, when measuring the initial solidification time, the on / off transition of the lower edge of annular groove 2 is set as the arrival signal before the measurement. The electronic controller receives the on / off transition signal of the lower edge of annular groove 2 as the arrival signal according to the setting.

[0146] The lower end of the main section 2 of the test rod has a threaded connection, and the upper end of the measuring section 5 has a threaded connection. The two are connected by a nut-type measuring section connector 4 to form a complete test rod. This connector allows for the replacement of the probes as required and also adjusts the height of the measuring end on the test rod (the distance between the measuring end and the annular groove 81), thus functioning as a leveling fine-tuning mechanism. Probes include those for standard consistency testing and those for setting time determination, which can be selected and assembled according to the testing items. All probes are of the same length. The total mass of the test rod and probes, as well as the cross-sectional area of ​​the probes, meet the requirements of the testing procedure.

[0147] For the alignment fine-tuning mechanism used to align the test rods, besides adjusting with the measuring section connector, a control plate can be mounted on the test rod holder via an adjustable vertical movement device. Adjusting the height of the control plate allows the test rod, already suspended in the alignment position, to achieve alignment. Alternatively, an adjustable height device can be installed on the platform where the sample is placed, allowing alignment to be achieved by adjusting the sample's height. Among these methods, adjusting the measuring section connector is the simplest. The alignment fine-tuning mechanism can also be equipped with an independent control mechanism for adjustment.

[0148] The Vicat apparatus has an electronic controller with the following main functions: (1) receiving electrical switch signals and identifying slit photoelectric switch signals according to preset test items; (2) timer function; (3) digital display screen showing test status and timing values; and (4) connecting to the operation panel to accept human-machine interaction operation to select and set the current test item.

[0149] Taking the initial setting time measurement as an example, the steps for measuring a single sinking depth are as follows:

[0150] (1) Place the material to be tested into the mold as a test sample according to the test sample preparation requirements;

[0151] (2) Before the test, operate the horizontal bar to move the test rod to the ready position and slide it into the horizontal groove. The test rod and the test rod position control mechanism are kept statically fixed. Replace the initial setting probe and select "Initial Setting Time Measurement" as the current test on the operation panel. At this time, the electronic controller receives the suspension status signal of the ready position and the test enters the ready state.

[0152] (3) Place the sample under the test rod, with the measuring end of the test rod aligned with the test position on the sample surface;

[0153] (4) The operating bar moves the test rod downward to the level position horizontal groove, and the test rod and the test rod position control mechanism are in a static fixed state; at this time, the electronic controller receives the suspension status signal of the level position and enters the start state;

[0154] (5) The test rod and the test rod position control mechanism are kept statically fixed. The leveling state of the test rod is sensed by the leveling state detection device and adjusted to make the test rod level by the leveling fine adjustment mechanism.

[0155] (6) When the sinking test begins, push the horizontal bar to the straight groove to release the test rod from the static fixation. The test rod begins to sink freely from the static state. The suspension status switch at the level position sends a signal to release the suspension. The electronic controller recognizes this signal as the start of sinking signal and the timer starts counting.

[0156] (7) The test rod remains in a free-sinking state, and the timer continues to keep the timer running;

[0157] (8) When the test rod reaches the measured characteristic depth during its sinking stroke, the characteristic depth position detection device sends an arrival signal to trigger the timer to stop timing. The timer's value is the result of this test, and the sinking test is complete. The electronic controller, due to the "Initial Setting Time Measurement" option, stops timing when it receives the second photoelectric switch switching signal (the first is due to the on / off switching at the upper edge of the first annular groove, used for the final setting time measurement option; the second is due to the off / on switching at the lower edge of the second annular groove, used for the initial setting time selection option). This indicates that the test rod has sunk to a depth of 36mm, reaching the initial setting characteristic depth, and the timing value is displayed as the sinking time for this test.

[0158] To achieve the function of "early" termination of the sinking and avoid unnecessary long waiting times for the test rod to reach the sinking position, the test is terminated if the timer reaches the predetermined termination value (e.g., 40s), indicating that the sinking time is >40s.

[0159] The operation of the crossbar on the test rod is usually done manually, but it can also be achieved by setting up an independent control mechanism.

[0160] 3. The difference between this example and the previous one is that a different type of test rod position control device was designed, such as... Figure 6 As shown. The test rod holder 21 slides into the test rod in the same manner. Between the upper and lower cantilever arms of the test rod holder 2 is a suspension section 24, which is a cylindrical section coaxial with the main body of the test rod and with a larger diameter. A telescopic suspension tongue 23, driven by an electromagnet 22, is also installed between the upper and lower cantilever arms of the test rod holder. A fixed suspension tongue 25 is located at a characteristic depth below the telescopic suspension tongue. A tactile sensor is installed between the lower end face of the suspension section and the upper surface of the suspension tongue; the two conduct when in contact and disconnect when separated.

[0161] The telescopic suspension tongue is set at the flush position. After the test rod is lowered from the ready position to the flush position, it is finely adjusted. The ready position can be set separately for the telescopic suspension tongue, or it can be determined by manually lifting the upper end face of the suspension section until it touches the upper cantilever of the test rod seat. After the test rod is adjusted to be flush, this flush position becomes the sinking starting position. When the electromagnet receives the signal to retract from the sinking starting position, the test rod sinks freely, and the timer starts timing. When the test rod sinks to the suspension section and is suspended by the fixed suspension tongue, the test rod has sunk a characteristic depth. When the lower end face of the suspension section touches the upper plane of the suspension tongue, it sends an arrival signal to the timer to stop timing.

[0162] Both the detachment and sinking starting position detection device and the characteristic depth position detection device are tactile sensors installed on the suspension tongue.

[0163] 4. For example Figure 7As shown, the cylindrical main section of the test rod serves as the slider, and the two circular holes on the test rod seat 28 form a vertical guide rail mechanism, which is slidably connected. A telescopic suspension tongue 23 driven by an electromagnet 22 is installed on the test rod seat 3. The telescopic suspension tongue has two states: extended and retracted. When extended, it forms a suspension engagement with the suspension section 24 on the test rod, which has a diameter larger than that of the main rod, corresponding to a flush position. When retracted, it does not obstruct the suspension section.

[0164] Several telescopic suspension tongues are arranged at different heights, each corresponding to a different characteristic depth at its contact point with the suspension section, as shown in the figure for characteristic depth telescopic suspension tongue 29. Suspension tongues at similar heights are installed at different insertion angles with the test rod axis as the center to avoid spatial conflicts. A contact switch, i.e., two forked contact electrodes, is arranged at the front end of the suspension tongue, forming a contact switch with the suspension section made of conductive material, outputting a conduction signal during suspension.

[0165] The longitudinal moving device 26 is a motor-driven conveyor belt that can move up and down. A movable suspension tongue 27 is fixed on the conveyor belt, serving as the mechanism for driving the test rod to move up and down. Before testing, all telescopic suspension tongues are retracted, and the test rod is suspended on the movable suspension tongues of the conveyor belt. The movable suspension tongues are driven to rise to the ready position and stop, at which point the test rod is at the ready position. To begin testing, the telescopic suspension tongue 23 is extended first, and then the movable suspension tongue is driven to descend to the stop position. During this process, the test rod is stopped at a level position by the suspension tongue 23. After adjusting to achieve a level position, the sinking test begins. The telescopic suspension tongue 29 is extended at the characteristic depth of the "initial setting sinking depth," and then retracted to the "level position." The test rod begins to sink freely, and the timer starts counting, entering the sinking state. When the test rod descends to contact the sinking depth blocking block, a conduction signal is emitted, indicating that the sinking depth of the test rod is 36mm. The timer stops, and the sinking time is displayed. Alternatively, the timer can stop when the count reaches a predetermined termination value (e.g., 40s). Stop timing; the display shows the sinking time > 40 seconds, invalid. After this test, first drive the movable suspension tongue to rise to the ready position, then retract all the telescopic suspension tongues to prepare for the next test.

[0166] like Figure 8 , 9As shown, a Vicat apparatus for measuring cement setting time and standard consistency includes a test rod holder 11 mounted on a frame 10 via a test rod holder drive device 12. The test rod drive mechanism is a screw-slider mechanism driven by a stepper motor. The frame supports the overall structure of the Vicat apparatus, and its bottom typically has a platform for placing the test sample. The test rod is located above the measuring platform. The screw axis in the screw-slider mechanism is vertical, and a nut that mates with the screw is fixed to the test rod holder 4. One end of the screw is coaxially connected to the stepper motor, allowing the test rod holder 4 to be connected to the frame 4 by a vertically moving guide rail. When the screw in the screw-slider mechanism connecting the test rod holder 4 and the frame 4 rotates under the drive of the stepper motor, the test rod holder 4 rises and falls. The rotation angle of the screw is proportional to the height of the rise and fall of the test rod holder 4, and the rotation direction of the screw determines the movement direction of the test rod holder 4.

[0167] The main section 4 of the test rod is cylindrical. This cylinder slides vertically into the cylindrical hole on the test rod seat 4. The axis of the cylindrical hole is vertical. The test rod uses the cylinder of the main section 4 as a slider and the cylindrical hole of the test rod seat 4 as a guide rail to form a guide rail mechanism. That is, the test rod and the test rod seat 4 are slidably connected by a vertical guide rail mechanism. The function of the guide rail mechanism is to constrain the direction of movement of the test rod and ensure that the test section of the test rod sinks freely into the sample in a vertical state.

[0168] The upper section of the test rod is equipped with a suspension section four 16. The diameter of the suspension section four is larger than the cylindrical hole on the test rod seat four, and it is located on the main section four of the test rod above the test rod seat four. The upper end face of the cylindrical hole on the test rod seat four and the lower end face of the suspension section form an end-abutment structure to allow the test rod to be suspended from the test rod seat. This suspension mechanism, which prevents the test rod from sliding down due to the end-abutment structure, allows for two states of suspension between the test rod and the test rod seat: when the ends are rigidly abutted, the test rod is in a suspended state, i.e., the test rod and the test rod seat are statically fixed; when the ends are not abutted, the test rod is in a suspended state, i.e., the test rod is no longer statically fixed from the test rod seat. This suspension mechanism, together with the test rod seat and the test rod seat drive device, constitutes the test rod position control mechanism.

[0169] The lower end of the main section of the test rod is connected to the upper end of the probe (measuring section) 5 via a threaded connection through the measuring section connector 4, allowing the probe to be replaced as needed for the measured item. The length of the slider section from the lower end of the fourth suspension section on the test rod to the upper end of the measuring section connector is greater than the sum of the Vicat instrument's measuring stroke and the height of the fourth test rod seat, allowing the fourth test rod seat to slide downwards relative to the test rod a distance greater than the maximum measurable characteristic depth. A tactile sensor 15, serving as the position signal trigger for the suspension state detection device, is located on the abutting surface (the annular area around the upper end of the cylindrical hole) of the upper end face of the fourth test rod seat, which forms the end abutting structure. It engages with the lower end face of the fourth suspension section on the test rod (the position signal point of the suspension state detection device) to detect the suspension state of the test rod and output a status signal. When the test rod abuts against the fourth test rod seat, the tactile sensor detects contact and outputs a suspension signal; when not abutting, the tactile sensor detects no contact and outputs a suspension signal. Suspension status detection devices typically use contact-type sensing devices, such as contact sensors, contact switches, force sensors, etc. A common implementation method is to arrange a set of cross-distributed contact electrodes on the contact surface of the test rod holder and form a contact switch with the conductor on the contact surface of the test rod.

[0170] The suspension / suspended signal output by the suspension status detection device is primarily used to trigger the timer to stop timing. It can also be used for other purposes, such as as an auxiliary signal for measuring the error in the travel of the test rod holder during the manufacturing or inspection of the Vicat apparatus. The specific measurement method is as follows:

[0171] (1) With the test rod in a suspended state, place a reference plane (such as a glass plate) on the platform below the test rod, and move the test rod seat to a position flush with the reference plane; use the suspension signal obtained at this time as the flush detection signal.

[0172] (2) Then place a height standard block between the test rod and the reference plane. At this time, the test rod is pushed up by the height of the reference block.

[0173] (3) Move the test rod seat upwards until a suspension signal is detected. The difference between the recorded upward stroke and the height of the reference gauge block is the error of the stroke.

[0174] (4) Downward measurement can also be performed, based on the same principle.

[0175] (5) If the error exceeds the allowable standard, the error can be brought under control by compensating and calibrating the parameters of the drive system.

[0176] The fourth rack also has a test rod holder fourth ready state detection switch, which is a dual-state switch. The output indicates whether the test rod holder fourth is above or below the ready position, and the switching point of its output state is the ready position.

[0177] The Vicat apparatus is equipped with a test rod flushing state detection device as described in Chinese patent ZL201811350694.6, which is used to provide feedback on the flushing state information of the test rod. When the measuring end of the test rod is flush with the surface of the sample, a flushing signal is emitted.

[0178] The Vicat instrument has an operation controller 13, whose main functions include: (1) receiving equipment status signals such as test rod suspension status signal, test rod seat preparation position signal, and leveling signal; (2) controlling the stepper motor operation status; (3) operating the timer; and (4) connecting the operation panel and display screen to realize human-machine interaction. A human-machine interaction device 17 that accepts various control commands and outputs various information, a test rod seat drive device and other drive devices 20, various position / status detection devices 18 such as test rod leveling status detection device, suspension status detection device, and preparation status detection device, and a timer 19 are connected to the signal transmission terminal of the operation controller.

[0179] In addition to storing test programs and result calculation programs, the operation controller also stores coordinate coefficient mathematical models, characteristic depths of each feature point, and the rate of characteristic depth descent. The operation controller sends control signals to the test rod holder drive device to drive the test rod holder up and down or stop. These control signals include movement and stop signals, with the movement signal containing movement direction, stroke, and speed control information. This enables the test rod drive device to have the functions of driving the test rod holder up and down and stopping, and to control the lifting stroke, with the stroke control accuracy meeting the measurement accuracy requirements of the sinking depth; it also has the function of controlling the lifting speed to meet the needs of various operational functions. The stroke control of the test rod holder is generally achieved by constructing a coordinate system for the test rod holder position to facilitate the measurement of multiple different sinking depths. This coordinate system is a number axis, with the origin set at the preparation position of the test rod holder, which is also the fixed reference point for the movement of the test rod. The operation controller determines the current position coordinates and the distance between the fixed position and the fixed position by adding or subtracting the stroke from the fixed reference point. It also uses the coordinate system to determine the movement direction and stroke commands sent to the test rod holder drive device to reach the target position.

[0180] When the operating controller sends a start characteristic depth descent signal (i.e., start sinking signal) to the test rod holder drive device, it triggers a start timing signal, and the timer starts timing upon receiving the start timing signal. When the operating controller receives a suspension status signal (i.e., arrival signal) from the characteristic depth position detection device, it triggers a stop timing signal, and the timer stops timing upon receiving the stop timing signal. The characteristic depth position detection device is a suspension status detection device composed of tactile sensors between the test rod and the test rod holder. This suspension status detection device functions as the characteristic depth position detection device when the test rod holder reaches the measured characteristic depth position.

[0181] The combination of the operation controller and the test rod holder drive device also serves as the middle adjustment mechanism of the leveling fine adjustment mechanism. When the test rod holder is moved to the leveling position according to the sensing result of the leveling state detection mechanism, the test rod is leveled through adjustment.

[0182] Characteristic point determination is achieved by measuring the sinking time multiple times. The sinking depth measured each time is the characteristic depth of that characteristic point. Taking the determination of initial setting time as an example, the general steps are as follows:

[0183] Prepare the sample according to GB / T1346-2011 requirements, select a immersion depth of 36 mm, and conduct the first measurement at the predetermined age. Under normal circumstances, the immersion time for the first measurement should be less than 30 seconds. If it is greater than 30 seconds, the age for the first measurement should be advanced.

[0184] Then, the test was repeated at certain intervals, with the intervals becoming closer as the time approached 30 seconds, until the sinking time was measured to be more than 30 seconds, and then the test was repeated several times. In other words, the sinking time was measured multiple times under different state parameter values ​​to determine the sinking depth as the characteristic depth.

[0185] Finally, the data from several tests closest to 30 seconds (data on the relationship between settling time and age) are used as samples. The age when the settling time equals 30 seconds is calculated using a mathematical model (usually a regression method after removing outliers). This age is the initial setting time of the tested sample.

[0186] The steps for measuring a single dive depth are as follows:

[0187] (1) Place the material to be tested into the mold as a test sample according to the test sample preparation requirements;

[0188] (2) With the test rod suspended on the test rod holder, activate the operation controller to stop the test rod holder in the ready position, and replace the initial setting probe. The ready position is achieved through the following procedure: ① Check the test rod holder's starting position signal. If the current state is higher / lower than the starting position, control the motor to move the test rod holder down / up; ② When the starting position signal of the test rod holder is detected to be reversed, stop moving. At this time, the test rod is in a suspended state, and the bottom of the probe is higher than the sample by a certain height to facilitate sample placement.

[0189] (3) Place the sample under the test rod, with the measuring end of the test rod aligned with the test position on the sample surface;

[0190] (4) At the start of the test, move the test rod holder to the sinking starting position and keep the test rod suspended. Use the controller to control the test rod holder drive device to move the test rod holder downward to the level position or above the level position by a certain amount. With the cooperation of the test rod leveling state detection device, adjust the position of the test rod holder to move to the level position of the test rod. When the leveling signal is received from the test rod leveling state detection device, stop the test rod holder and record the current position of the test rod holder as the sinking starting position.

[0191] (5) When the sinking test begins, the operation controller controls the test rod holder drive device to drive the test rod holder to start the rapid descent to the characteristic depth. The control information such as the downward stroke (i.e. the currently measured characteristic depth) and the moving speed are read from the memory of the operation controller, so that the test rod holder arrives earlier than the test rod and stays at the characteristic depth position, that is, the position obtained by adding one initial setting time (36mm) below the sinking starting position.

[0192] Simultaneously, the test rod encounters resistance from the specimen and separates from the test rod seat, and the test rod suspension status signal outputs a suspended state signal; the test rod begins to sink freely from its initial sinking position from a stationary state.

[0193] At the same time, the operation controller sends a start signal to the timer, and the timer starts counting;

[0194] ⑹ When the test rod sinks to the characteristic depth (36mm) of the initial setting time, the test rod and the test rod seat come into contact with each other through the end abutment structure and change from a suspended state to a suspended state. The test rod stops sinking due to the obstruction of the test rod seat.

[0195] When the test rod changes from a suspended state to a suspended state, the suspension state detection device sends a suspension state signal, which is also the arrival signal sent by the characteristic depth position detection device.

[0196] Upon receiving the arrival signal, the operation controller sends a stop signal to the timer, and the timer stops counting.

[0197] (7) The time value from the start to the stop of the timer is the sinking time of the test rod in this test. This sinking test is now complete.

[0198] There are two situations in which the timer stops timing. First, it stops when the operating controller issues a stop timing command (the suspension status signal of the test rod is output). If the timing value is greater than 15 seconds, the measurement result is recorded as: (timing value, current age); if the timing value is less than 15 seconds, the measurement result is recorded as: (<15 seconds, current age). Second, the timer stops timing when the timing value reaches a predetermined termination value (e.g., 40 seconds) and notifies the operating controller. The timing value for this measurement is recorded as: (>40 seconds, current age).

[0199] This embodiment, when used for a semi-automatic Vicat apparatus requiring manual visual alignment, achieves very low manufacturing costs and has high implementation value. The alignment adjustment process is as follows: first, the probe holder is lowered to the alignment position and then stopped; this alignment position is where the bottom of the probe is slightly higher than the sample surface. Then, the position of the probe holder is finely adjusted through human-machine interaction until the bottom of the probe is flush with the sample surface, and then stopped.

[0200] The components for sensing the flush state described in this invention include various electronic components used in the prior art that utilize the conductivity of the sample and the resistance of the sample to the test rod, specially developed detection devices, and electronic observation systems based on image analysis.

Claims

1. A method for detecting coagulation characteristics, which detects the same sample multiple times, each time at a different state parameter value; wherein the single detection step is to first align the measuring end of the test rod with the surface of the sample, and then make the test rod vertically free sink from rest, so as to measure the sinking depth and sinking time of the test rod in the sample at the current state parameter value; finally, the state parameter value of the measured characteristic point is calculated according to the relationship between the sinking depth and sinking time of the sample measured at each state parameter value and the state parameter; characterized in that The pre-determined depth of the test rod is the characteristic depth of the measured feature point before each single detection, and then the sinking time of the test rod is measured; and then the state parameter value corresponding to the characteristic time is obtained according to the data sequence of the relationship between the sinking time and the state parameter obtained through multiple detections, that is, the state parameter value of the measured feature point characterized by the characteristic depth and the characteristic time.

2. A Vicat apparatus, comprising a frame, a test rod and a timer, I. The test rod is slidably connected to the test rod seat through a vertical guide mechanism; and the test rod seat is fixedly arranged on the frame; II. The apparatus comprises a level detection device for detecting the level of the test rod; the level detection device detects the level of the test rod through components or visual observation; III. The apparatus comprises a test rod position control mechanism; the test rod is suspended on the test rod position control mechanism through a suspension mechanism; the suspension mechanism enables the test rod to be statically fixed on the test rod position control mechanism or to be released from the static fixation; when the test rod is statically fixed on the test rod position control mechanism, the test rod is suspended on the test rod position control mechanism at a specific height position relative to the frame; the specific height position includes a preparation position, a level position and a stop position; the stop position is not higher than the height position of the test rod when the test rod freely sinks to the measured characteristic depth; IV. The apparatus comprises a level fine adjustment mechanism for adjusting the test rod to be level when the test rod is suspended on the level position; when the test rod is adjusted to be level, the test rod is at a sinking start position; the fine adjustment of the level fine adjustment mechanism is automatically or manually performed; V. The apparatus comprises a sinking start position release detection device; the sinking start position release detection device is signal-connected to the timer; when the test rod is released from the sinking start position and starts to freely sink, the sinking start position release detection device sends a start sinking signal; the timer starts to count time according to the start sinking signal; VI. The apparatus comprises a characteristic depth position detection device; the characteristic depth position detection device is signal-connected to the timer; when the test rod sinks to the characteristic depth, the characteristic depth position detection device sends an arrival signal; the timer stops counting time according to the arrival signal; VI. The sinking start position release detection device and the characteristic depth position detection device are composed of position signal points and position signal detection components; the vertical distance between the level position signal point and the characteristic depth position signal point is fixed and equal to the characteristic depth. The steps for single test using the apparatus are as follows:

3. The Vicat apparatus of claim 2, wherein (1) The measured material is placed in a test mold as a test sample according to the requirements of the test sample preparation; (2) The test rod is confirmed to be at the preparation position; the test rod is statically fixed on the test rod position control mechanism; (3) The test sample is placed below the test rod; the measurement end of the test rod is aligned with the test position on the surface of the test sample; (4) The test rod is suspended to the level position by moving downward; the test rod is statically fixed on the test rod position control mechanism; (5) The test rod is statically fixed on the test rod position control mechanism; the level of the test rod is sensed through the level detection device; the level of the test rod is adjusted to be level through the level fine adjustment mechanism; at this time, the test rod is at the sinking start position; (6) The test rod is released from the static fixation; the test rod starts to freely sink from the static state at the sinking start position; the sinking start position release detection device sends a start sinking signal; the timer starts to count time. ​ ⑺When the depth of the test rod sinking is equal to the measured characteristic depth, the characteristic depth position detection device sends a reaching signal to trigger the timer to stop timing, and the timing value of the timer is the result of this test, and the sinking test is completed.

4. The Vicat apparatus of claim 2 wherein The suspension mechanism for suspension cooperation between the test rod and the test rod seat is a slot hole structure: the test rod is provided with a horizontal outwardly extending cross rod, the test rod seat is provided with a longitudinal control plate, the longitudinal control plate is provided with a vertical slot hole connected with a plurality of horizontal slot holes to form a control slot, and the cross rod is worn in the control slot to form a test rod position control mechanism; the horizontal slot hole is arranged at least in the preparation position and the flush position, and the bottom of the vertical slot hole is lowest in the stop position.

5. The Vicat apparatus of claim 2 wherein The suspension mechanism for suspension cooperation between the test rod and the test rod seat is a suspension tongue structure: the test rod is provided with a suspension section with a diameter larger than that of the main rod, and the test rod seat is provided with a suspension tongue, the suspension tongue has an upward blocking surface and a downward step of the end surface of the test rod suspension section, and the two states of blocking and unblocking form a test rod position control mechanism; the suspension tongue is arranged at least in the preparation position, the flush position and the characteristic depth position.

6. A Vicat apparatus, comprising a frame, a test rod and a timer, I. a test rod seat and a test rod seat driving device; i. the test rod and the test rod seat are connected by a vertical guide rail mechanism for sliding connection; ii. the test rod seat is installed on the frame by the test rod seat driving device; II. a state / position detection device, comprising i. a preparation state detection device, which feeds back preparation state information and sends a preparation position confirmation signal when the test rod seat is in the preparation state; the sensing of the preparation state in the preparation state detection device is carried out by a sensor or visual observation, and when the preparation state is sensed by visual observation, the preparation state information and the preparation state confirmation signal are transmitted in a man-machine interactive manner; ii. a test rod flush state detection device, which feeds back the flush state of the test rod measuring end and sends a flush signal when the test rod measuring end is flush with the sample surface; the sensing of the flush state in the flush state detection device is carried out by a component or visual observation, and when the flush state is sensed by visual observation, the flush state information and the flush signal are transmitted in a man-machine interactive manner; III. an operation controller i. the signal transmission end of the operation controller is connected with: ⑴ the state / position detection device; ⑵ the manual interaction device, which comprises a test result output terminal; ⑶ the timer; ⑷ the test rod seat driving device, which is connected with the operation controller to send a control signal for driving the test rod seat to move or stop, the control signal comprising a moving signal and a stop signal, wherein the moving signal contains direction, distance and speed control information; ii. the operation controller has a flush fine adjustment mechanism for adjusting the test rod to be flush when the test rod seat moves to the flush position, and the test rod and the test rod seat are in the sinking starting position when the test rod is adjusted to be flush; characterized in that: iii. the operation controller stores the characteristic depth and the minimum speed limit of the characteristic depth speed drop of each characteristic point; iv. The operation controller has a start timing signal generating device and a stop timing signal generating device, the trigger signal of the start timing signal generating device is a start feature depth rapid reduction signal, and the trigger signal of the stop timing signal generating device is a hanging state signal emitted at the measured feature depth position; IV. The test rod and the test rod seat have a hanging mechanism i. The hanging mechanism, the test rod seat and the test rod seat driving device constitute a test rod position control mechanism; ii. The hanging mechanism is a structure arranged between the test rod and the test rod seat to prevent the test rod from sliding downward, which is composed of a downward end fixedly connected to the test rod and an upward end fixedly connected to the test rod seat, the end on the test rod seat is located directly below the end on the test rod, and the upper and lower ends form an end abutting structure in two states of rigid abutment and non-abutment; iii. When the two ends of the hanging mechanism rigidly abut, the test rod is in a hanging state, i.e. the test rod and the test rod seat are statically fixed; when the two ends of the hanging mechanism do not abut, the test rod is in a suspended state, i.e. the test rod and the test rod seat are not statically fixed; V. The state / position detection device further comprises a hanging state detection device i. The hanging state detection device is a signal generating device installed on the test rod and the test rod seat respectively for sensing the hanging state of the test rod; ii. The hanging state detection device outputs corresponding hanging state signals or suspended state signals according to the hanging state of the test rod, corresponding to the abutting or non-abutting state of the end abutting structure; iii. The hanging state detection device serves as a feature depth position detection device when the test rod seat is at the feature depth position.

7. The Vicat apparatus of claim 6 wherein The guide rail mechanism takes the columnar rod part of the test rod as a sliding block and a guide hole on the test rod seat as a sliding rail, the guide hole and the columnar rod part of the test rod are in sliding cooperation; the hanging mechanism is a hanging section provided on the upper part of the rod part of the test rod above the guide hole, which has a transverse dimension greater than the sliding block part; the end abutting structure is a step on the test rod and a step on the test rod seat, wherein the step on the test rod is arranged at the lower end of the hanging section with its end face downward, and the step on the test rod seat is arranged at the upper end of the guide hole with its end face upward.

8. A vicat apparatus as claimed in claim 6 or 7, characterised in that The steps for a single test using the same are as follows: (1) Put the measured material into the test mold as a test sample according to the test sample production requirements; (2) Hang the test rod on the test rod seat in a hanging state, start the operation controller, and stop the test rod seat at the preparation position; (3) Place the test sample below the test rod, and align the measurement end of the test rod with the test position on the surface of the test sample; (4) Keep the test rod in a hanging state, operate the test rod seat driving device to drive the test rod seat to move downward to the flush position or a pre-advance position above the flush position, adjust the position of the test rod seat to the flush position of the test rod under the cooperation of the test rod flush state detection device, and stop the test rod seat when receiving the flush signal from the test rod flush state detection device, at which time the positions of the test rod and the test rod seat are the sinking start position; ⑸The operation controller controls the test rod base driving device to drive the test rod base to start the characteristic depth rapid descent, and the test rod base reaches the characteristic depth position of the present test earlier than the test rod and keeps a stop state. The characteristic depth position is the position obtained by adding a characteristic depth to the sinking starting position. The operation controller sends a start timing signal to the timer while sending a command to the test rod base driving device to drive the test rod base to start the characteristic depth rapid descent, and the timer starts timing. The test rod starts free sinking from the static state from the sinking starting position while the operation controller controls the test rod base driving device to drive the test rod base to start the characteristic depth rapid descent. ⑹When the sinking depth of the test rod is equal to the measured characteristic depth, the test rod and the test rod base are in contact in the end-to-end structure and are changed from the suspended state to the hanging state, and the test rod is stopped from sinking by the test rod base. When the test rod is changed from the suspended state to the hanging state, the characteristic depth position detection device sends a reaching signal. The operation controller sends a stop timing signal to the timer while receiving the reaching signal, and the timer stops timing. ⑺The timing value of the timer from the start timing to the stop timing is the test rod sinking time of the present test, and the present sinking test is completed.

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