Impact testing equipment

Abstract

This invention reduces the increase in power required to drive the impact table by providing an anti-tipping mechanism independently of the impact table. One aspect of the impact testing apparatus of this invention includes: a base (2); a trolley (20) capable of carrying a test sample (W); and an anti-tipping mechanism to prevent the test sample (W) from tipping over. The impact testing apparatus is configured such that the anti-tipping mechanism includes a first mechanism (50) independent of the trolley (20), the first mechanism (50) being movable relative to the base (2) in the traveling direction of the trolley (20). Another aspect of the impact testing apparatus of this invention includes: a trolley (20) capable of carrying a test sample (W); and an anti-tipping mechanism to prevent the test sample from tipping over. The anti-tipping mechanism includes a second mechanism (60) provided on the trolley (20), the second mechanism (60) including: multiple supports (64) erected on the trolley (20); and a linear member (66) supported on the multiple supports (64).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an impact testing device. Background Technology

[0002] Impact testing apparatus is used to evaluate the strength of products and the appropriateness of packaging design. The impact testing apparatus described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-35705 includes a support plate 36 to support the test specimen and prevent it from tipping over during testing. Figure 5 The support plate is mounted perpendicularly to the direction of travel on the traveling section (impact platform) where the test specimen is loaded. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0004] The impact testing apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-35705 increases the weight of the impact platform by placing a support plate on it. Furthermore, the large support plate, positioned perpendicular to the direction of travel of the impact platform, exerts strong wind pressure on it when the impact platform travels at high speeds. The increased weight of the impact platform and the increased wind pressure it experiences during travel (in other words, increased air resistance) due to the support plate increase the power required to drive the impact platform, leading to increased electricity consumption. Moreover, the increased power required to drive the impact platform necessitates a motor with a larger capacitor (i.e., a larger motor), resulting in increased cost and a larger testing apparatus.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to reduce the increase in power required to drive the impact platform caused by the adoption of a mechanism to prevent the test sample from tipping over.

[0006] Problem-solving methods

[0007] One aspect of the present invention provides an impact testing apparatus comprising: a traversable trolley loaded with a test sample; and an anti-tipping mechanism to prevent the test sample from tipping over; and the anti-tipping mechanism comprising a first mechanism independent of the trolley, the first mechanism being movable in the trolley's direction of travel.

[0008] The aforementioned impact testing device may also include a first mechanism comprising: a support body that supports the test specimen and prevents it from tipping over when the specimen is tilted; and a guiding mechanism that guides the support body to move in the direction of travel.

[0009] The aforementioned impact testing device may also include a base with a first mechanism, the first mechanism having a fixing mechanism that can detachably fix the support body relative to the base.

[0010] The aforementioned impact testing device may also include a first mechanism with a fixed guide mechanism, which serves as both a guide mechanism and a fixing mechanism. The fixed guide mechanism includes: a T-groove (T-slot) that is fixed relative to the base and extends in the direction of travel; a T-groove nut that is embedded in the T-groove; and a bolt that fixes the support body to the T-groove by being embedded in the T-groove nut through a through hole formed in the support body.

[0011] In the aforementioned impact testing device, the first mechanism may also include a support driving mechanism that drives the support in the direction of travel.

[0012] The aforementioned impact testing device may also include a support drive mechanism comprising: a drive module that generates power for driving the support; and a belt mechanism that transmits the power generated by the drive module to the support.

[0013] The aforementioned impact testing apparatus may also include: a trolley drive unit that drives a trolley; and a control unit that controls the support drive mechanism and the trolley drive unit; the control unit moves the support to a predetermined position determined according to the test conditions.

[0014] The aforementioned impact testing apparatus may also be configured to include an impact generating device that collides with a trolley to generate an impact on the test specimen. The impact testing apparatus may perform: a collision-type test, which imparts an impact to the test specimen by colliding the impact generating device with the trolley carrying the test specimen; and a non-collision-type test, which imparts an impact to the test specimen by transmitting the impact generated by the drive of the trolley drive unit to the trolley. In the collision-type test, the control unit controls the trolley drive unit to collide with the impact generating device with the trolley at a predetermined speed, and in the non-collision-type test, controls the trolley drive unit to drive the trolley according to a default impact waveform.

[0015] The aforementioned impact testing device may also include a trolley drive unit comprising: a frame (carriage, bracket, pallet) detachably connected to the trolley; and a trolley track that roamably supports the trolley and the frame; in a collision test, the frame is connected to the trolley, and in a non-collision test, the connection between the frame and the trolley is disconnected.

[0016] The aforementioned impact testing apparatus may also include an impact generating device comprising: a movable block; a first plastic programmer mounted on the surface of the movable block opposite to the trolley; a block track portion that can move in the direction of travel to support the movable block; and a vibration absorber that absorbs the vibration of the movable block; the block track portion having a linear guide rail, the linear guide rail having: a track; and a runner mounted on the movable block and capable of traveling on the track via a rotating body; and the trolley having a second plastic programmer mounted on the surface opposite to the movable block.

[0017] The aforementioned impact testing device may also include an anti-tipping mechanism comprising a second mechanism mounted on a trolley, the second mechanism comprising: multiple support columns erected on the trolley; and a linear component mounted on the multiple support columns.

[0018] Another aspect of the present invention provides an impact testing apparatus comprising: a movable trolley loaded with a test specimen; and an anti-tipping mechanism to prevent the test specimen from tipping over; the anti-tipping mechanism includes a second mechanism disposed on the trolley, the second mechanism comprising: a plurality of support columns erected on the trolley; and a linear member supported on the plurality of support columns.

[0019] The aforementioned impact testing device may also include one of the following: a linear component, comprising a strip-shaped component and a mesh-shaped component.

[0020] The effects of the invention

[0021] When one embodiment of the present invention is adopted, the increased power required to drive the impact table caused by the adoption of a sample-prevention mechanism can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a top view of the impact testing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a side view of the impact testing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a front view of the impact testing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a top view enlarged of the impact generating device in the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a magnified side view of the area near the impact generating device in the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the impact testing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a top view of the impact testing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the trolley drive unit.

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a modified example of the display driver module. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description, identical or corresponding items will be annotated with the same or corresponding symbols, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. Additionally, when multiple symbols are displayed in each figure for items common to all items, not all of these multiple displays will necessarily be annotated with symbols; instead, appropriate ellipses will be used for a portion of these multiple displays. Furthermore, in each figure, for ease of explanation, parts of the structure may be omitted or shown in cross-section.

[0032] (First Implementation)

[0033] Figure 1 -3 are, in sequence, a top view, a side view, and a front view of the impact testing device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The images shown are, in order, a top view and a side view of the area near the impact generating device 40, which will be described later in the description of the magnified impact testing device 1.

[0034] In the following explanation, Figure 1 The direction from left to right is defined as the X-axis, the direction from bottom to top is defined as the Y-axis, and the direction perpendicular to the paper from the back side to the front side is defined as the Z-axis. The X-axis and Y-axis are horizontal directions that are orthogonal to each other, and the Z-axis is a vertical direction. In addition, the positive X-axis is called the front, the negative X-axis is called the back, the positive Y-axis is called the left, and the negative Y-axis is called the right.

[0035] The impact testing apparatus 1 of the first embodiment of the present invention described below is configured to perform the following two testing methods: a conventional testing method in which the test specimen W is impacted by colliding an impact table loaded with the test specimen W with an impact waveform generating device (hereinafter referred to as "collision-type test"); and a novel testing method in which the test specimen W is impacted by transmitting the impact generated by the driving of a motor based on the impact waveform to the impact table (hereinafter referred to as "non-collision-type test").

[0036] The impact testing apparatus 1 includes: a trolley 20 (impact table) for loading the test specimen W; a trolley drive unit 30 for driving the trolley 20; a track section 10 (trolley track section) of a frame 32 (described later) that supports the trolley 20 and the trolley drive unit 30 in the X-axis direction; an impact generating device 40 (impact waveform generating device) that collides with the trolley 20 in a collision test to generate an impact on the test specimen W; and an anti-tipping mechanism to prevent the test specimen W from tipping over.

[0037] The track section 10 includes: a roadbed 11 disposed on the base 2 and extending in the X-axis direction; and a guide rail-shaped circulating linear bearing (hereinafter referred to as "linear guide rail") 12 disposed on the roadbed 11. In this embodiment, the track section 10 includes multiple sets (e.g., 3 sets) of roadbeds 11 and linear guide rails 12 arranged at equal intervals in the left and right directions (i.e., in the Y-axis direction). Alternatively, multiple roadbeds 11 can be integrally connected. For example, the track section 10 may also be configured to have multiple linear guide rails 12 disposed on a single roadbed 11.

[0038] Each linear guide rail 12 includes: a track 121 laid on the roadbed 11 (i.e., fixed relative to the base 2); and multiple (e.g., 7) moving wheels 122 that can travel on the track 121 via multiple rotating bodies. Figure 3 The rotating body is held within the circulating path formed within the moving wheels 122 and between the rails 121 and the moving wheels 122. A portion (e.g., five) of the multiple moving wheels 122 of each linear guide rail 12 are arranged, for example, at equal intervals in the X-axis direction and mounted on the underside of the trolley 20. Furthermore, the remaining (e.g., two) moving wheels 122 of each linear guide rail 12 are arranged, for example, at equal intervals in the X-axis direction and mounted on the underside of the frame 32 of the trolley drive unit 30 (described later). The trolley 20 and the frame 32 are guided to move in the X-axis direction via the linear guide rails 12. Additionally, the frame 32, the trolley 20, and the impact generating device 40 are arranged sequentially in the X-axis direction.

[0039] The trolley drive unit 30 includes: a frame 32 that can travel on the track unit 10; and a frame drive mechanism for driving the frame 32. The frame drive mechanism includes: a drive module 34 that generates power for driving the frame 32; and a belt mechanism (belt mechanism, conveyor belt mechanism) 35 that transmits the power generated by the drive module 34 to the frame 32.

[0040] The trolley drive unit 30 of this embodiment includes: four drive modules 34 (34FL, 34BL, 34FR, 34BR) respectively disposed near the four corners of the base 2; and two sets of belt mechanisms 35 (35L, 35R) on the left and right sides. The left belt mechanism 35L is driven by a pair of drive modules 34FL and 34BL on the left side, and the right belt mechanism 35R is driven by a pair of drive modules 34FR and 34BR on the right side.

[0041] like Figure 3 As shown, the drive module 34 includes: a frame 341, a servo motor 342, a belt mechanism 343, a shaft 344, and multiple bearings 345. The servo motor 342 is mounted on the upper part of the frame 341 with its shaft 342b oriented towards the Y-axis. The shaft 344 is arranged below parallel to the shaft 342b of the servo motor 342 and is rotatably supported by multiple bearings 345 mounted on the frame 341.

[0042] The belt mechanism 343 includes: a drive pulley 343a coupled to the shaft 342b of the servo motor 342; a driven pulley 343c coupled to the shaft 344; and a toothed belt 343b wound around the drive pulley 343a and the driven pulley 343c. The drive pulley 343a and the driven pulley 343c are each a toothed pulley with teeth adapted to the toothed belt 343b. In this embodiment, because the driven pulley 343c has more teeth than the drive pulley 343a (i.e., a larger pitch circle diameter), the belt mechanism 343 functions as a speed reducer, amplifying the torque output from the servo motor 342 and transmitting it to the shaft 344.

[0043] The belt mechanism 35 includes: a pair of drive pulleys 351; a toothed belt (toothed belt, toothed conveyor belt) 352 wound around the pair of drive pulleys 351; and a belt clamp (belt clip) 353 (winding intermediate node fixing tool) that fixes the toothed belt 352 to the frame 32. The drive pulleys 351 are connected to the shafts 344 of each drive module 34.

[0044] Toothed belts 352 and 343b have steel wire cores. Alternatively, toothed belts 352 and 343b can also use cores made of materials such as carbon fiber, aramid fiber, or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber. By using lightweight and high-strength cores such as carbon fiber, even with a relatively low-output servo motor 342, the frame 32 and trolley 20 can still be driven with high acceleration, thus miniaturizing the impact testing device 1. Furthermore, when using a servo motor 342 with the same output, by using lightweight toothed belts 352 and 343b with cores made of materials such as ultra-high molecular weight fibers, a greater acceleration impact can be delivered to the test specimen W.

[0045] The pair of drive pulleys 351 of the left-side belt mechanism 35L are respectively connected to the shafts 344 of the left-side drive modules 34FL and 34BL. The pair of drive pulleys 351 of the right-side belt mechanism 35R are respectively connected to the shafts 344 of the right-side drive modules 34FR and 34BR.

[0046] The frame 32 is detachably connected to the rear end of the trolley 20 via a coupling mechanism 321 (e.g., bolts or electromagnets). Specifically, the frame 32 is integrated with the trolley 20 during non-collision testing and separated from the trolley 20 during collision testing.

[0047] The trolley 20 includes: a worktable 21; and a plastic programmer device (hereinafter referred to as "pad") 22 for a first impact adjustment mechanism mounted on the front of the worktable 21. The trolley 20 of this embodiment includes four pads 22 arranged at equal intervals in the Y-axis direction.

[0048] like Figure 4 As shown, the impact generating device 40 includes: a movable block 41; a track portion 42 (block track portion) that supports the movable block 41 in the X-axis direction; a pad 43 mounted on the back side of the movable block 41 (the side opposite to the trolley 20); and two pairs of vibration absorbers 44 and 45 disposed on the left and right sides of the movable block 41. The vibration absorbers 44 and 45 are, for example, hydraulic dampers.

[0049] The track section 42 includes: a roadbed 421 disposed on the base 2 and extending in the X-axis direction; and linear guide rails 422 disposed on the roadbed 421. In this embodiment, the track section 42 includes multiple sets (e.g., three sets) of roadbeds 421 and linear guide rails 422 arranged at equal intervals on the left and right sides. Alternatively, multiple roadbeds 421 can be integrally connected. For example, the track section 42 may also be configured such that multiple linear guide rails 422 are disposed on a single roadbed 421.

[0050] Each linear guide rail 422 includes: a track 422a laid on the roadbed 421; and multiple (e.g., four) movable wheels 422b that can travel on the track 422a. The multiple movable wheels 422b are arranged at equal intervals in the X-axis direction, for example, and are installed under the movable block 41. The movable block 41 is guided to move in the X-axis direction by the linear guide rail 422.

[0051] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, a pair of linear encoders 744 are installed in the center of the moving range of the trolley 20, and on both the left and right sides of the trolley 20. The bodies of the linear encoders 744 are mounted on the roadbed 11. The scales 744b of the linear encoders 744 are installed on the left and right sides of the trolley 20. The position and speed of the trolley 20 are detected by the linear encoders 744.

[0052] The impact generating device 40 has pads 43 of a second impact adjustment mechanism, which are the same number as the pads 22 of the trolley 20. The pads 43 are paired with the pads 22 and are mounted on the back of the movable block 41 at positions opposite to the corresponding pads 22.

[0053] like Figure 4As shown, a pair of pressure plates 411, each having two planes (operating surfaces 411a and 411b) perpendicular to the X-axis, protrude from the left and right sides of the movable block 41. A vibration absorber 44 is disposed adjacent to the front of the pressure plate 411 with its piston rod 442 facing towards it. A vibration absorber 45 is disposed adjacent to the back of the pressure plate 411 with its piston rod 452 facing towards it. The cylinder 441 of the vibration absorber 44 and the cylinder 451 of the vibration absorber 45 are fixed relative to the base 2. Furthermore, the front end of the piston rod 442 abuts against the operating surface 411a formed on the front of the pressure plate 411, and the front end of the piston rod 452 abuts against the operating surface 411b formed on the back of the pressure plate 411.

[0054] The movement of the movable block 41 in the positive X-axis direction is mainly attenuated by the vibration absorber 44, while the movement in the negative X-axis direction is mainly attenuated by the vibration absorber 45. By using a pair of vibration absorbers 44 and 45 configured in opposite directions, the impact (vibration) of the movable block 41 can be attenuated more effectively.

[0055] Furthermore, this embodiment uses hydraulic dampers as vibration absorbers 44 and 45; however, pneumatic dampers can also be used instead of hydraulic dampers. Additionally, hydraulic dampers and pneumatic dampers (or elastic components such as air springs and coil springs) can be used in a vertical or lateral combination. For example, the McPherson strut suspension system in automobiles can also be configured by coaxially arranging vibration absorbers and coil springs (i.e., by passing the vibration absorber through the hollow portion of the coil spring) and laterally combining them.

[0056] In the collision test, the trolley 20, moving inertial motion, collides with the impact generating device 40, thus imparting an impact to both the trolley 20 and the test specimen W. At this time, the worktable 21 of the trolley 20 collides with the movable block 41 of the impact generating device 40 via pads 22 and 43. Furthermore, the vibration (impact) generated by the collision on the movable block 41 is absorbed and attenuated by vibration absorbers 44 and 45. Therefore, the impact waveform imparted to the test specimen W by the impact generating device 40 varies depending on the characteristics of the vibration absorbers 44 and 45 (first buffer mechanism) and the pads 22 and 43 (second buffer mechanism). The characteristics of the vibration absorbers 44 and 45 (first buffer mechanism) and the pads 22 and 43 (second buffer mechanism) are adjusted by imparting the determined waveform of the impact to the test specimen W.

[0057] The anti-tipping mechanism of this embodiment includes: a first support 50 (first mechanism) independently mounted on the base 2 and the trolley 20; and a second support 60 (second mechanism) mounted on the trolley 20.

[0058] The first support 50 includes: a generally gate-shaped support body 51; and a pair of track portions 52 (support body track portions) extending from the support body 51. When the sample W loses its balance and tilts, the support body 51 prevents the sample W from tipping over by contacting the sample W.

[0059] In non-collision tests, the position where the specimen W flips over (i.e., the position in the X-axis direction where a large impact is applied to the specimen W) changes depending on the test conditions. Therefore, the first bracket 50 of this embodiment constitutes a variable support 51 in the X-axis direction.

[0060] like Figure 3 As shown, the support 51 includes: a beam 513 (connecting portion) extending left and right; a pair of legs 512 hanging down from the left and right ends of the beam 513; a pair of feet 511 extending forward from the lower end of each leg 512; and two pairs of ribs 514 connecting the legs 512 and the feet 511. In addition, in this embodiment, the beam 513 and the pair of legs 512 are integrally formed by cutting from a single flat plate. Figure 3 As shown in the enlarged view surrounded by the two-point chain line, a plurality of vertically penetrating through holes 511a are formed in the foot 511. The plurality of through holes 511a are formed in a row at equal intervals in the X-axis direction, for example.

[0061] A rectangular notch 51n is formed at the lower part of the support body 51, surrounded by a beam 513 and a pair of legs 512. The width (Y-axis dimension) and height (Z-axis dimension) of the notch 51n are larger than those of the trolley 20, allowing the trolley 20 to pass through the notch 51n. That is, when the sample W is not loaded on the trolley 20, the front-to-back relationship (configuration order in the X-axis direction) between the trolley 20 and the support body 51 can be changed.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown, a pair of track sections 52 are disposed at the left and right ends of the base 2. Figure 3 As shown in the enlarged view, the track section 52 includes: a guide rail 521, a T-groove nut 522, and a bolt 523. The guide rail 521 is an elongated member (so-called a T-groove track) with a T-groove extending in the X-axis direction. Multiple T-groove nuts 522 are embedded in the T-groove of the guide rail 521.

[0063] The support body 51 is releasably fixed to the track portion 52 by inserting the bolt 523 through the through hole 511a of the support body 51 into the T-groove nut 522. That is, the track portion 52 functions as a fixing mechanism for fixing the support body 51 relative to the base 2.

[0064] Furthermore, when bolt 523 is loosened, the support body 51 is released from its fixation relative to the track portion 52, allowing the support body 51 to move in the X-axis direction. At this time, because bolt 523 has not disengaged from the T-groove nut 522, the foot 511 of the support body 51 remains connected to the T-groove nut 522 via bolt 523. Since the T-groove nut 522 is embedded in the T-groove, the T-groove nut 522 (and the support body 51 connected to it) can only move in the X-axis direction, which is the extension direction of the T-groove. In other words, when the support body 51 is released from its fixation relative to the track portion 52, the track portion 52 functions as a guide mechanism to guide the support body 51 to move in the X-axis direction.

[0065] In addition, the track section 52 in this embodiment is configured as both a fixing mechanism for fixing the support 51 relative to the base 2 and a guide mechanism for guiding the support 51 to move in the X-axis direction (the travel direction of the trolley 20). However, the fixing mechanism and the guide mechanism can also be configured to be independent of each other.

[0066] The second support 60 includes: four poststands 62 located near the four corners of the worktable 21 on the trolley 20; four supports 64 detachably held by each poststand 62; and a net 66 (wire member) supported by the four supports 64. The poststands 62 are vertically extending cylindrical members, and the lower parts of the supports 64 are inserted into the hollow parts of the poststands 62.

[0067] The net 66 is formed into a box-shaped (cubic) shape with the opening facing downwards, covering four sets of supports 64 and pillars 62, and is fixed to the supports 64, pillars 62, or worktable 21 by fixing members not shown. The net 66 is, for example, set to be lower than the height of the sample W. As a result, because the upper part of the sample W is in contact with the net 66, it is elastically and gently held in place by the net 66, thus preventing it from tipping over.

[0068] The second support 60 is constructed from relatively thin components such as the support column 64 and the mesh 66 (or components that connect thin components into a mesh). By arranging these thin components at intervals (e.g., intervals larger than the thickness of each component), the weight of the second support 60 can be reduced. Furthermore, when the trolley 20 moves, the air resistance experienced by the second support 60 can be reduced. As a result, the power required to drive the trolley 20 can be reduced, and the capacitor of the servo motor 342 can be reduced, thus saving power consumption and miniaturizing the impact testing device 1.

[0069] When the height of the sample W is low, the support column 64 may not be used, and the net 66 may be fixed to the column base 62 or the workbench 21.

[0070] In addition, it can replace mesh components such as mesh 66 with strip components such as rubber bands or ropes as linear components. Furthermore, it can replace elastomers with linear components made of materials with general elasticity (elastomers) such as polypropylene and steel.

[0071] Alternatively, inelastic linear members can be used, and fixed members can be used to elastically fix the linear members to the support column 64 or the trolley 20.

[0072] Figure 6 This is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the control system 1a of the impact testing device 1. The control system 1a includes: a control unit 72 that controls the operation of the entire device; a measurement unit 74 that performs various measurements; and an interface unit 76 that exchanges inputs and outputs with the outside world.

[0073] The control unit 72 is connected to the servo motors 342 of each drive module 34 via the servo amplifier 342a. The servo motor 342 has a built-in rotary encoder RE. The phase information of the shaft 342b of the servo motor 342 detected by the rotary encoder RE is input to the control unit 72 via the servo amplifier 342a.

[0074] The control unit 72 is communicatively connected to each servo amplifier 342a via optical fiber, enabling high-speed feedback control between the control unit 72 and each servo amplifier 342a. This allows for more precise (specifically, high-resolution and high-accuracy control of multiple servo motors 342) synchronous control.

[0075] The interface section 76 includes, for example, a user interface for input / output with the user, a network interface for connecting to various networks such as LAN (Local Area Network), and one or more communication interfaces such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) or GPIB (General Purpose Interface Bus) for connecting to external devices. Furthermore, the user interface may include, for example, one or more input / output devices such as various operation switches, displays, LCD (liquid crystal display) and other display devices, various pointing devices such as mice and touchpads, touch screens, video cameras, printers, scanners, buzzers, speakers, amplifiers, memory card readers, etc.

[0076] The measurement unit 74 includes an acceleration sensor 742 and a linear encoder 744 mounted on the trolley 20. It amplifies and digitally converts the signals from the acceleration sensor 742 and the linear encoder 744 to generate measurement data, which is then transmitted to the control unit 72. Alternatively, an acceleration sensor 742 mounted on the test specimen W can be added to the measurement unit 74 to measure the impact applied to the test specimen W during testing.

[0077] The control unit 72 synchronously controls the driving of the servo motors 342 of each drive module 34 based on control conditions such as the impact waveform (e.g., acceleration waveform) input via the interface unit 76 and measurement data input from the measurement unit 74. Furthermore, in this embodiment, two servo motors 342 are driven in phase (strictly speaking, they are driven in opposite phases [reversed], with the servo motors 342 of the left drive modules 34FL and 34BL and the servo motors 342 of the right drive modules 34FR and 34BR driven in reverse phase).

[0078] As described above, the impact testing apparatus 1 of this embodiment can perform both collision-type and non-collision-type tests. Next, the content and steps of each test will be explained.

[0079] [Collision Test]

[0080] The collision test is conducted with the trolley 20 disconnected from the frame 32 of the trolley drive unit 30. Furthermore, the collision test applies a forward tipping force to the test specimen W when the trolley 20 collides with the impact generating device 40. Therefore, when using the first support 50, the support body 51 of the first support 50 (more specifically, the beam 513) for example... Figure 1 As shown, it is located near the rear end of the impact generating device 40 (i.e., the pad 43). In addition, the position of the support body 51 of the first bracket 50 is appropriately adjusted according to the size, shape, weight distribution, etc. of the sample W.

[0081] The crash test first moves the frame 32 to a starting position S, for example, near the rear end of the drivable range (the range of movement of the trolley 20 in the X-axis direction), via the drive module 34. Next, for example, it is manually moved to a position where the trolley 20 contacts the frame 32, and the test specimen W is loaded onto the worktable 21 of the trolley 20. When using the second support 60, the test specimen W is held on the worktable 21 by the second support 60.

[0082] Once the test sample W is loaded onto the trolley 20, for example, when a user outputs a command to start the test via operation of the touch screen (interface unit 76), the accelerometer 742 installed on the trolley 20 begins to measure continuous impacts. The detection results of the accelerometer 742 are accumulated and stored in the memory 721 connected to the control unit 72, and the impact waveform (e.g., acceleration waveform) is graphically displayed on the display device (interface unit 76).

[0083] Next, the drive module 34 gradually accelerates the frame 32 forward. At this time, the trolley 20 is pushed by the frame 32 and travels at the same speed as the frame 32. When the frame 32 reaches the preset collision speed, the frame 32 is decelerated. As the frame 32 decelerates, the trolley 20 separates from the frame 32 and travels with inertia at the collision speed, subsequently colliding with the impact generating device 40.

[0084] The impact test applies the impact generated by the collision between the trolley 20 and the impact generating device 40 to the specimen W placed on the trolley 20. Furthermore, the collision exerts a forward-falling force on the specimen W. Therefore, although the specimen W tilts forward, it is prevented from tipping over because it is in contact with the support 51 of the first bracket 50 located near the front end of the trolley 20.

[0085] After the collision, the measurement by the acceleration sensor 742 is stopped after a specified time. The test specimen W is then removed from the trolley 20, and the first collision test is completed.

[0086] [Non-collision test]

[0087] Non-collision tests are conducted by means of mechanism 321 when the frame 32 and the trolley 20 are connected as one unit.

[0088] Non-collision type testing uses test conditions (impact waveform, etc.) to predict the position where the test specimen W will tip over (predicted tipping position). When using the first support 50, the support body 51 of the first support 50 is placed near the predicted tipping position.

[0089] Next, the trolley 20, connected to the frame 32, is moved to the starting position by driving the drive module 34. Alternatively, the starting position for the non-collision test can be set at a different position than the starting position S for the collision test (e.g., near the center of the trolley 20's travel range). At the starting position, the test specimen W is loaded onto the worktable 21 of the trolley 20. When using the second support 60, the test specimen W is held on the worktable 21 by the second support 60.

[0090] Once the test sample W is loaded onto the trolley 20, and the user outputs a start test command to the interface 76, continuous impact measurement begins via the acceleration sensor 742 installed on the trolley 20.

[0091] Secondly, based on the pre-set waveform data of the impact waveform (e.g., acceleration waveform), the drive modules 34 drive the servo motors 342. The impact generated by each drive module 34 is transmitted to the frame 32 and the trolley 20 through the belt mechanism 35, and applied to the sample W placed on the trolley 20.

[0092] Because the impact applied to the sample W causes a force to fall forward, the sample W tilts forward. However, because the sample W is in contact with the support body 51 of the first bracket 50 located near the front end of the trolley 20, the sample W is prevented from tipping over.

[0093] After applying an impact to the test specimen W, the measurement by the acceleration sensor 742 is stopped after a specified time. The test specimen W is then removed from the trolley 20, and one non-collision test is completed.

[0094] (Second Implementation)

[0095] Next, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The impact testing apparatus 2000 of the second embodiment is capable of automatically moving the first support. Hereinafter, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be mainly described, while the common configurations with the first embodiment will be omitted from repeated descriptions.

[0096] Figure 7 This is a top view of the impact testing apparatus 2000 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The first support 2500 of the impact testing apparatus 2000 includes: a support body 2510; a track portion 2520 that supports the support body 2510 in the X-axis direction; and a support body drive mechanism for driving the support body 2510. The support body drive mechanism includes: four drive modules 2540 (2540FL, 2540FR, 2540BL, 2540BR) that generate power for driving the support body 2510; and two sets of belt mechanisms 2550 (2550R, 2550L) that transmit the power generated by the drive modules 2540 to the left and right sides of the support body 2510. The support body 2510 is driven in the X-axis direction by the power generated by the drive modules 2540.

[0097] Four drive modules 2540 are respectively disposed near the four corners of the base 2. The left belt mechanism 2550L is driven by a pair of drive modules 2540FL and 2540BL on the left, and the right belt mechanism 2550R is driven by a pair of drive modules 2540FR and 2540BR on the right. Furthermore, since the configuration of the drive modules 2540 is the same as that of the drive module 34 in the first embodiment, its description is omitted.

[0098] The track section 2520 includes: a pair of roadbeds 2521 disposed on the base 2 and extending in the X-axis direction; and a pair of linear guide rails 2522 respectively disposed on each roadbed 2521. Each linear guide rail 2522 includes: a track 2522a laid on the roadbed 2521; and multiple (e.g., two) moving wheels 2522b capable of traveling on the track 2522a. The moving wheels 2522b are mounted under the feet 2511 of the support body 2510 and guide the support body 2510 to move in the X-axis direction via the linear guide rails 2522.

[0099] The belt mechanism 2550 includes: a pair of drive pulleys 2551; a toothed belt 2552 wound around the pair of drive pulleys 2551; and a belt clamp 2553 (a winding medium joint fixing device) for fixing the toothed belt 2552 to the support body 2510. The drive pulleys 2551 are coupled to the shafts 2544 of each drive module 2540. The support body 2510 has a horizontally arranged flat clamp mounting portion 2515 protruding from the left and right outer sides of each foot 2512. The toothed belt 2552 is mounted in the clamp mounting portion 2515 via the belt clamp 2553. The support body 2510 is driven back and forth (in the X-axis direction) by the power transmitted by the drive module 2540.

[0100] like Figure 6 As shown, the control unit 72 is connected to the servo motors 2542 of each drive module 2540 via the servo amplifier 2542a. A rotary encoder RE is built into the servo motor 2542. The phase information of the shaft of the servo motor 2542 detected by the rotary encoder RE is input to the control unit 72 via the servo amplifier 2542a.

[0101] The following describes two embodiments of the drive control of the support body 2510 of the first bracket 2500 of the impact testing device 2000 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] (Example 1)

[0103] Example 1 automates the movement and fixation of the support body 51 of the first bracket 50, which is performed manually in the first embodiment. Specifically, before the impact test begins (e.g., before the test specimen W is placed on the trolley 20), the control unit 72 synchronously controls the four drive modules 2540 (servo motors 2542) of the support body drive mechanism, and moves the support body 2510 to a predetermined position determined by the test conditions.

[0104] In collision-type tests, the support structure is positioned, for example, in front of the trolley 20 at the very front of its travel range (i.e., near the rear end of the impact generating device 40). Furthermore, in non-collision-type tests, the support structure is positioned either in front of the trolley 20 at the very front of its travel range or behind the trolley 20 at its very rear. For example, when the sign of the maximum acceleration (or the integral value of acceleration) of the impact waveform is positive (i.e., when a forward impact is applied), the support structure is positioned in front of the travel range of the trolley 20; when the sign is negative (i.e., when a rearward impact is applied), the support structure is positioned behind the travel range of the trolley 20.

[0105] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the support 2510 was not driven during the test and remained in its designated support position. In other words, the support drive mechanism functioned as a fixing mechanism that could releasably fix the support 2510 to the base 2 during the test.

[0106] (Example 2)

[0107] Example 2 involves driving the trolley 20 and the support 2510 while maintaining a roughly equidistant distance during the test without keeping the support 2510 stationary. Specifically, the control unit 72 synchronously controls the four drive modules 34 (specifically, servo motors 342) of the frame drive mechanism and the four drive modules 2540 (specifically, servo motors 2542) of the support drive mechanism based on the impact waveform.

[0108] Furthermore, the four drive modules 2540 of the support drive mechanism can also be controlled based on the impact waveform that has been smoothed (e.g., a simple moving average). By controlling the drive based on the smoothed impact waveform, the acceleration applied to the support 2510 is mitigated, and the power consumption of the servo motor 2542 is reduced.

[0109] When employing the various embodiments of the present invention described above, by separating the first supports 50 and 2500 from the trolley 20, the increased weight of the trolley 20 and the increased air resistance during travel caused by the use of the anti-tipping mechanism are reduced, as is the increased power required to drive the trolley 20. Therefore, a motor with a smaller capacitor can be used to drive the trolley 20. Furthermore, because the reduction in the trolley 20's driving characteristics (e.g., accuracy and stability of driving speed) and changes in impact characteristics (e.g., the impact waveform imparted to the test specimen W) caused by the use of the anti-tipping mechanism is reduced, the reduction in test accuracy is suppressed. Moreover, in non-collision type tests, by suppressing the increase in the weight of the trolley (impact table) and / or air resistance, a greater impact (acceleration) can be imparted to the test specimen W.

[0110] The above describes exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those described above and various modifications are possible. Suitable combinations of, for example, the embodiments exemplified herein and / or those understood by those skilled in the art from the description herein are also included in the embodiments of this application.

[0111] The above-described embodiments are configured to perform both collision-type and non-collision-type tests by separating the trolley 20 and the frame 32. However, the trolley 20 and the frame 32 can also be configured as a single unit for use as a device dedicated to non-collision-type tests.

[0112] The various embodiments described above include an anti-tipping mechanism comprising both a first support 50 (first support 2500) and a second support 60. However, the anti-tipping mechanism may also consist of only either the first support or the second support.

[0113] In the various embodiments described above, the toothed belt 352 is wound around a pair of drive pulleys 351. However, one of the pulleys wound around the toothed belt 352 can also be used as the driven pulley. In this case, neither drive module 34FL (34FR) nor 34BL (34BR) is required. This configuration can also be applied to the belt mechanism 2550 of the support drive mechanism.

[0114] The various embodiments described above drive the frame 32 via two toothed belts 352; however, it is also possible to drive the frame 32 via one or more toothed belts 352. This configuration can also be applied to a support drive mechanism.

[0115] Figure 8 This is a top view that roughly shows an example of the configuration of the frame 32 driven by four toothed belts 352. (See example...) Figure 8 As shown, the length (number of teeth) of each toothed belt 352 can also be the same. By making the lengths of the toothed belts 352 consistent, the transmission characteristics of multiple toothed belts 352 can be uniformized, and the drive frame 32 can be driven more stably. This configuration can also be applied to the belt mechanism 2550 of the support drive mechanism. In addition, by arranging the drive modules 34 adjacent to each other in the front and rear (that is, staggered in the front and rear positions), the volume of the impact testing device can be reduced.

[0116] Alternatively, the pitch circle diameter (number of teeth) of each drive pulley 351 can be made the same. Furthermore, the reduction ratio of the belt mechanism 343 built into each drive module 34 can be made the same. Therefore, since the ratio of the drive amount (rotation angle of shaft 342b) of each servo motor 342 to the movement amount of the toothed belt 352 is equal, each servo motor 342 can be driven with the same drive amount. This configuration can also be applied to support drive mechanisms.

[0117] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a modified example of the display driver module 34. (See diagram below.) Figure 9 As shown, the drive module 34 may also have multiple (e.g., two) servo motors 342. Figure 9 A modified example involves connecting the shafts 342b of a pair of servo motors 342 to both ends of the shaft 344 via couplers 346. This allows the pair of servo motors 342 to drive a single drive pulley 351. Alternatively, a configuration combining a single shaft 344 with multiple drive pulleys 351 (with mechanism 35) can be used. Because this configuration allows for changing the ratio of servo motors 342 to drive pulleys 351 connected to the shaft 344, the performance of both the servo motors 342 and the toothed belt 352 can be effectively utilized.

[0118] The above-described embodiment uses a linear member with rubber elasticity, but a linear member made of a highly elastic material such as polyamide resin or steel can also be used.

Claims

1. An impact testing device, comprising: A movable trolley loaded with samples; and An anti-tipping mechanism prevents the sample from tipping over. The anti-tipping mechanism includes a first mechanism independent of the trolley. The first mechanism is capable of moving in the direction of travel of the trolley. The first organization possesses: A support body that supports the sample and prevents it from tipping over when the sample is tilted; A guiding mechanism that guides the support to move in the direction of travel; and A support drive mechanism drives the support in the travel direction. The impact testing device also features: The trolley drive unit drives the trolley; and The control unit controls the support drive mechanism and the trolley drive unit. The control unit moves the support body to a predetermined position determined according to the test conditions. It also includes an impact generating device that collides with the trolley to generate an impact on the sample. The impact testing device is capable of performing the following: A collision test, which imparts an impact to the test specimen by colliding the trolley carrying the specimen with the impact generating device; and Non-collision testing imparts the impact to the test specimen by transmitting the impact generated by the drive of the trolley to the trolley. During the collision test, the control unit controls the trolley drive unit to cause the trolley to collide with the impact generating device at a predetermined speed. In the non-collision test, the trolley drive unit is controlled in a manner that drives the trolley according to a preset impact waveform.

2. The impact testing apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein, It has a base on which the first mechanism is mounted. The first mechanism has a fixing mechanism that can be detachably fixed to the support relative to the base.

3. The impact testing apparatus as described in claim 2, wherein, The first mechanism includes a fixed guiding mechanism, which serves as both the guiding mechanism and the fixed mechanism. This fixed guiding mechanism has the following features: A T-shaped groove, which is fixed relative to the base and extends in the direction of travel; T-groove nut, which is embedded in the T-groove; and A bolt, which is inserted into the T-groove nut through a through hole formed in the support, secures the support to the T-groove.

4. The impact testing apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein, The support driving mechanism includes: A drive module that generates power for driving the support; and The belt mechanism transmits the power generated by the drive module to the support.

5. The impact testing apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein, The trolley drive unit includes: The frame, which is detachably connected to the trolley; and The trolley track section provides steerable support for the trolley and the frame. In the crash test, the connection between the chassis and the trolley is disconnected. In the non-collision test, the frame is connected to the trolley.

6. The impact testing apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The impact generating device includes: Active block; A first plastic process device is installed on the side of the movable block opposite to the trolley; A block track section that movably supports the movable block in the direction of travel; and A vibration absorber that absorbs the vibration of the moving block. The block track section is equipped with a linear guide rail. The linear guide rail has the following features: Orbit; and A driving wheel, mounted on the movable block, can travel on the track via a rotating body. The trolley is equipped with a second plastic program device, which is mounted on the surface opposite to the movable block.

7. The impact testing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The anti-tipping mechanism includes a second mechanism disposed on the trolley. The second organization possesses: Multiple support pillars, which stand upright on the trolley; and A linear component, which is mounted on the multiple support pillars.

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