Termite occlusal force accurate measurement and analysis system and use method thereof

Abstract

The invention discloses a termite occlusal force accurate measurement and analysis system and a use method thereof, and belongs to the technical field of biomechanical measurement, the termite occlusal force accurate measurement and analysis system comprises an occlusal force test module, the occlusal force test module comprises an upper occlusal sheet and a lower occlusal sheet, the lower occlusal sheet is arranged on a base, the base is rotatably connected with a balance plate, one end of the balance plate is connected with the upper occlusal sheet, and the other end of the balance plate is connected with the lower occlusal sheet. A vertically-arranged force sensor is connected between the other end of the upper meshing piece and the base, and the distance between the connecting point of the force sensor and the balance plate and the rotating point of the balance plate is smaller than the distance between the connecting point of the upper meshing piece and the balance plate and the rotating point of the balance plate; the termite fixing module comprises a moving platform located on one side of the base, and the moving platform is used for fixing termites and adjusting the positions of the termites; the observation module is arranged on one side of the base and used for collecting the biting behavior of the termites in real time. According to the invention, the bite force of the upper bite sheet is multiplied and transmitted to the force sensor, so that the extraction of a micro force value is realized, and meanwhile, the functions of high-precision force measurement and synchronous behavior observation are realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of biomechanical measurement, and particularly to an accurate measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites and its usage method. Background Art

[0002] Termites are important global pests that cause huge economic losses to buildings, forests, crops, etc. every year. As gnawing insects, the biting force of termites is a key indicator of their destructive ability, and it has important scientific and practical value for evaluating the damage degree of termites, studying their biological characteristics, and developing prevention and control technologies.

[0003] Existing technologies generally use general force sensors to test the biting force of animals. However, the biting force of termites is generally in the millinewton (mN) level, which is much lower than that of common insects. General force sensors are mostly designed to measure larger force values, and the sensitivity of the sensors is insufficient, making it difficult to meet the high-precision measurement requirements for such small force values. Moreover, it is difficult to synchronize measurement and behavior observation in existing biting force measurement devices, which is not convenient for corresponding mechanical data with specific biting behaviors.

[0004] Therefore, an accurate measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites and its usage method are proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of the present invention is to provide an accurate measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites, aiming to solve or improve at least one of the above technical problems.

[0006] To achieve the above purpose, the present invention provides the following solution: The present invention provides an accurate measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites, including:

[0007] A biting force test module, the biting force test module includes an upper occlusal piece and a lower occlusal piece. The lower occlusal piece is arranged on a base, and a balance plate is rotatably connected to the base. One end of the balance plate is connected to the upper occlusal piece, and a vertically arranged force sensor is connected between the other end of the balance plate and the base. The distance from the connection point of the force sensor and the balance plate to the rotation point of the balance plate is less than the distance from the connection point of the upper occlusal piece and the balance plate to the rotation point of the balance plate;

[0008] A termite fixing module, the termite fixing module includes a moving platform located on one side of the base. The moving platform is used to fix termites and adjust the positions of termites;

[0009] An observation module, the observation module is arranged on one side of the base, and the acquisition end of the observation module is aligned with the mouthparts of termites to collect the biting behaviors of termites in real time.

[0010] Preferably, both the upper occlusal piece and the lower occlusal piece protrude from one side of the base. A support rod is fixedly connected to the base. A sliding hole is formed in the balance plate. The support rod passes through the sliding hole and is rotatably connected to the sliding hole. The distance from the connection point of the force sensor and the balance plate to the sliding hole is less than the distance from the connection point of the upper occlusal piece and the balance plate to the sliding hole.

[0011] Preferably, the weight between the end of the balance plate close to the force sensor and the sliding hole is equal to the weight between the end of the balance plate close to the upper occlusal piece and the sliding hole.

[0012] Preferably, the balance plate and the force sensor are connected by a connecting piece. The connecting piece includes a first screw. The first screw is rotatably connected to the balance plate. A threaded hole is formed at the top of the outer shell of the force sensor. The first screw is threadedly connected to the threaded hole.

[0013] Preferably, the moving platform includes a horizontal base. A support rod is fixedly connected to the horizontal base. A lifting member is arranged on the support rod. The lifting end of the lifting member is fixedly connected to a support platform. A double-sided adhesive is bonded to the support platform. The double-sided adhesive is used to fix the abdomen of the termite.

[0014] Preferably, a transparent pressing piece is fixedly connected to the support platform. The transparent pressing piece is arranged opposite to the double-sided adhesive. The termite is located between the double-sided adhesive and the transparent pressing piece.

[0015] Preferably, the upper occlusal piece and the lower occlusal piece are made of one of stainless steel sheets and titanium alloy sheets, and the thickness is between 0.05 mm and 0.2 mm.

[0016] Preferably, the observation module includes an image acquisition device, an illumination system and a display device. The image acquisition device includes an industrial camera. The illumination system includes an LED ring light source. The display device includes a high-definition display screen. The LED ring light source is installed around the lens of the industrial camera. The industrial camera is electrically connected to the high-definition display screen through an HDMI cable. The lens of the industrial camera is aligned with the mouthpart of the termite.

[0017] Preferably, a signal data processing module is further provided. The signal data processing module includes a signal acquisition device and a signal conversion device. The signal acquisition device includes a display controller. The display controller is electrically connected to the force sensor. The signal conversion device is used to convert the signal collected by the display controller into a data format recognizable by a computer and transmit it to data processing software; the data processing software has the functions of recording the change of the bite force value during the whole experiment process, extracting the effective biting time period from the data record, calculating the peak bite force, the biting time and the bite impulse.

[0018] There is also provided a method for using a precise measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites, including:

[0019] Start the system to ensure its normal operation;

[0020] Perform zero calibration and calibration on the force sensor to ensure measurement accuracy;

[0021] Select healthy individuals from the termite colony and fix them on the moving platform using double-sided tape;

[0022] Adjust the position of the termite so that its mouthpart aligns with the upper and lower occlusal plates for biting;

[0023] After the measurement is completed, remove the termite.

[0024] The present invention discloses the following technical effects: Since the distance from the connection point of the force sensor to the rotation point of the balance plate is less than the distance from the connection point of the upper occlusal plate to the rotation point of the balance plate, a lever structure is formed. When the termite bites the upper and lower occlusal plates, the biting force received by the upper occlusal plate will be transmitted to the force sensor in multiples, magnifying and measuring the biting force, realizing the extraction of tiny force values, and at the same time realizing the functions of high-precision force measurement and synchronous behavior observation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The drawings constituting a part of this application are used to provide a further understanding of this application. The schematic embodiments of this application and their descriptions are used to explain this application and do not constitute an improper limitation to this application. In the drawings:

[0026] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of Embodiment 1;

[0027] Figure 2 is a schematic structural diagram of the biting force test module in Embodiment 1;

[0028] Figure 3 is a schematic structural diagram of the termite fixing module in Embodiment 1;

[0029] Figure 4 is a data processing effect diagram in Embodiment 1;

[0030] Figure 5 is a schematic structural diagram of the connection structure between the balance plate and the first screw in Embodiment 2;

[0031] Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of Embodiment 3;

[0032] Figure 7 is a schematic structural diagram of the driving mechanism in Embodiment 3.

[0033] In the figure: 1, base; 2, support rod; 3, balance plate; 4, upper occlusal piece; 5, force sensor; 6, first screw; 7, slider; 8, horizontal base; 9, double-sided adhesive; 10, transparent pressing piece; 11, industrial camera; 12, adjustable bracket; 13, macro lens; 14, LED ring light source; 15, lower occlusal piece; 16, connecting block; 17, bearing block; 18, rotating block; 19, groove; 20, first connecting plate; 21, limiting block; 22, T-shaped block; 23, connecting bar; 24, rotating shaft; 25, screw; 26, tapered bar. Detailed implementation mode

[0034] Next, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative work shall fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0035] In order to make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more obvious and understandable, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific implementation modes.

[0036] Embodiment 1

[0037] Referring to Figures 1-4 , the present invention provides an accurate measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites, including:

[0038] The biting force test module, the biting force test module includes an upper occlusal piece 4 and a lower occlusal piece 15. The lower occlusal piece 15 is arranged on the base 1. A balance plate 3 is rotatably connected to the base 1. One end of the balance plate 3 is connected to the upper occlusal piece 4. A vertically arranged force sensor 5 is connected between the other end of the balance plate 3 and the base 1. The distance from the connection point of the force sensor 5 to the rotation point of the balance plate 3 is less than the distance from the connection point of the upper occlusal piece 4 to the rotation point of the balance plate 3;

[0039] The termite fixing module, the termite fixing module includes a moving platform on one side of the base 1. The moving platform is used to fix termites and adjust the positions of termites;

[0040] The observation module, the observation module is arranged on one side of the base 1. The acquisition end of the observation module is aligned with the mouthparts of termites, so as to collect the biting behavior of termites in real time.

[0041] Furthermore, the lower occlusal piece 15 is fixed on the base 1 through an adhesive, the upper occlusal piece 4 is fixed at one end of the balance plate 3 through an adhesive, and there is a gap between the lower occlusal piece 15 and the upper occlusal piece 4.

[0042] Further, the force sensor 5 can be selected according to the type of termite to be measured. Generally, it is recommended that the maximum force does not exceed 5N and the resolution is not less than 0.001N to meet the accurate measurement requirements of tiny biting forces. The sensor type can be strain type, piezoelectric type or other types suitable for measuring tiny forces. In one embodiment, the force sensor 5 is a high-precision sensor with a maximum range of 3N and a resolution of 0.001N.

[0043] Further, the base 1 can be made of aluminum alloy, stainless steel, engineering plastic or other materials with sufficient stiffness to ensure stability during the measurement process. In one embodiment, the base 1 is made of aluminum alloy material and its surface is anodized, having good corrosion resistance and aesthetics.

[0044] In some alternative embodiments, both the upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15 protrude from one side of the base 1. A support rod 2 is fixedly connected to the base 1. A sliding hole is provided on the balance plate 3, and the support rod 2 passes through the sliding hole and is rotatably connected to the sliding hole. The distance from the connection point of the force sensor 5 and the balance plate 3 to the sliding hole is less than the distance from the connection point of the upper occlusal piece 4 and the balance plate 3 to the sliding hole.

[0045] Further, a groove is provided at the top of the base 1, and the groove penetrates through both side walls of the base 1. The balance plate 3 is located in the groove, and the upper occlusal piece 4 extends out of the groove.

[0046] Further, the support rod 2 is made of stainless steel with a diameter of 4mm, and its surface is polished to reduce friction. The connection between the support rod 2 and the base 1 can be fixed or detachable, facilitating the assembly and adjustment of the system.

[0047] In some alternative embodiments, the weight between the end of the balance plate 3 close to the force sensor 5 and the sliding hole is equal to the weight between the end of the balance plate 3 close to the upper occlusal piece 4 and the sliding hole.

[0048] With this setting, the influence of different weights on both sides on the force detection result can be avoided, improving the accuracy of force detection; and the balance plate 3 can be made of lightweight aluminum alloy or other lightweight and high-strength materials to further reduce the influence of its own weight on the measurement result. In one embodiment, the balance plate 3 is made of lightweight aluminum alloy material and is provided with a sliding hole matching the diameter of the support rod 2 to ensure that the balance plate 3 can rotate freely on the support rod 2 and reduce the influence of friction on the measurement result.

[0049] In some alternative embodiments, the balance plate 3 and the force sensor 5 are connected by a connecting piece. The connecting piece includes a first screw 6. The first screw 6 is rotatably connected to the balance plate 3. A threaded hole is provided at the top of the outer shell of the force sensor 5, and the first screw 6 is threadedly connected to the threaded hole.

[0050] Further, the screwing depth of the first screw 6 into the threaded hole can be finely adjusted, so as to finely adjust the inclination angle of the balance plate 3, and realize the adjustment of the distance between the upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15. In one embodiment, the first screw 6 is an internal hexagonal screw with an M3 specification, and its screwing depth is adjustable. By rotating the first screw 6, the distance between the two occlusal pieces can be precisely controlled to make it reach the optimal width that the termite mandibles can bite. In addition to internal hexagonal screws, other types of connecting elements can also be used for the connecting piece, such as a micro universal joint, an elastic connecting piece, etc., as long as a reliable connection between the balance plate 3 and the micro force sensor 5 can be achieved.

[0051] In some alternative embodiments, the mobile platform includes a horizontal base 8. A support rod is fixedly connected to the horizontal base 8. A lifting member is arranged on the support rod. A support platform is fixedly connected to the lifting end of the lifting member. A double-sided adhesive 9 is bonded to the support platform, and the double-sided adhesive 9 is used to fix the abdomen of the termite.

[0052] Further, the horizontal base 8 can move freely in the horizontal direction on the platform; the lifting member includes a connecting block 16 fixedly connected to the support rod. A chute is formed on one side of the connecting block 16 close to the support platform. A slider 7 is fixedly connected to the support platform, and the slider 7 is slidably connected to the chute. A second screw is threadedly connected to the connecting block 16. The second screw extends into the chute and abuts against the slider 7. A rotary cover is fixedly connected to the end of the second screw.

[0053] During use, the horizontal base 8 is placed in a suitable position. By rotating the rotary cover, the second screw rotates. The second screw rotates threadedly with the connecting block 16, so that the end of the second screw leaves the surface of the slider 7. At this time, the slider 7 is released from the limit, and the slider 7 can be moved up and down. After moving to a suitable height, the second screw is tightened again so that its end abuts against the surface of the slider 7 to lock the slider 7. Thus, the position of the termite is adjusted to accurately align the termite mandibles with the upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15.

[0054] In some alternative embodiments, a transparent pressing piece 10 is fixedly connected to the support platform. The transparent pressing piece 10 is arranged opposite to the double-sided adhesive 9, and the termite is located between the double-sided adhesive 9 and the transparent pressing piece 10.

[0055] The double-sided adhesive 9 is used to fix the termite, and the transparent pressing piece 10 is used to limit the position of the termite to prevent the termite from changing its position. The double-sided adhesive 9 should be selected to be harmless to the termite and have a moderate viscosity, which can firmly fix the termite without causing harm to it. The transparent pressing piece 10 can be made of transparent acrylic or other transparent materials, and the thickness is preferably not more than 1 mm to ensure that the observation effect is not affected.

[0056] Further, the method for fixing the termite is as follows: First, use the double-sided adhesive 9 to stick to the abdomen of the termite, and then use the transparent pressing piece 10 to prevent the termite from changing its position. By adjusting the position of the horizontal base 8 and the height of the slider 7, the termite mandibles are accurately approximated to the two occlusal pieces.

[0057] Furthermore, other implementation methods can also be selected for fixing the termites. For example, a micro gripper can be designed to fix the position of the termite by slightly gripping its chest; or a special fixing groove can be designed, and the termite is placed in the groove and fixed with a small amount of glue; a negative pressure adsorption device can also be designed to fix the termite at a specific position through weak negative pressure. Different fixing methods can be selected according to experimental requirements and termite species.

[0058] In some alternative embodiments, the upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15 are made of one of stainless steel sheets and titanium alloy sheets, and the thickness is between 0.05 mm and 0.2 mm.

[0059] Furthermore, the upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15 are made of a stainless steel sheet with a thickness of 0.1 mm, and the surfaces are polished. The upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15 are firmly bonded to the corresponding positions on the balance plate 3 and the base 1 respectively through an oily original glue.

[0060] Furthermore, the head shapes of the upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15 can be trapezoidal, pointed or other shapes. The size of the foremost end is usually about 3 mm, which is specifically designed according to the size and structural characteristics of the termite mouthpart to ensure that the termite can effectively perform the biting action.

[0061] In some alternative embodiments, the observation module includes an image acquisition device, an illumination system and a display device. The image acquisition device includes an industrial camera 11, the illumination system includes an LED ring light source 14, and the display device includes a high-definition display screen. The LED ring light source 14 is installed around the lens of the industrial camera 11. The industrial camera 11 is electrically connected to the high-definition display screen through an HDMI cable, and the lens of the industrial camera 11 is aligned with the mouthpart of the termite.

[0062] Furthermore, the pixels of the industrial camera 11 are not less than 20 million, it uses a CMOS color sensor, supports dual outputs of HDMI and USB, and the video recording frame rate is not less than 30 frames per second; a macro lens 13 is equipped on the industrial camera 11. The macro lens 13 supports continuous zoom function and has sufficient magnification to enable it to clearly observe the tiny structure and biting process of the termite mouthpart; the LED ring light source 14 is installed around the macro lens 13, and the light source brightness is adjustable to provide sufficient illumination to ensure high-definition image quality. The light source brightness can be adjusted to adapt to different observation needs; the industrial camera 11 is electrically connected to the high-definition display screen through an HDMI cable for real-time observation of the termite biting process and assisting in positioning; the system can perform image calibration according to the known size of the occlusal piece to achieve accurate length measurement.

[0063] In one embodiment, the industrial camera 11 is a high-definition camera with no less than 60 million pixels, equipped with a CMOS color sensor, and supports dual outputs of HDMI and USB. The industrial camera 11 is installed on an adjustable bracket 12, and the bracket base is designed in a heavy-duty manner to ensure stability. The adjustable bracket 12 has the ability to adjust in multiple degrees of freedom and can perform precise positioning, facilitating the adjustment of the observation angle and distance. The industrial camera 11 is equipped with a macro lens 13 that supports continuous zoom function. In one embodiment, the maximum magnification can reach 10 times, enabling clear observation of the tiny structure and biting process of the termite mouthparts. The selection of the macro lens 13 should consider parameters such as its working distance, depth of field, and resolution to ensure clear images can be obtained at an appropriate working distance. The video frame rate of the industrial camera 11 can reach 60 frames per second in one embodiment, ensuring the capture of the instantaneous movements of termite biting.

[0064] The LED ring light source 14 is installed around the macro lens 13 to provide stable and uniform illumination, ensuring image clarity and contrast. The brightness of the light source is adjustable to adapt to different observation requirements. In addition to the ring light source, the lighting system can also adopt other forms, such as side light sources, backlight sources, or combined light sources, and select the appropriate lighting method according to actual observation needs. The high-definition display screen is connected to the industrial camera 11 through an HDMI cable for real-time display of the termite biting process captured by the industrial camera 11. The selection of the display screen should consider parameters such as its resolution, color reproduction ability, and response speed to ensure the observation effect. The real-time observation system needs to be calibrated for length before the experiment. Since the thickness of the upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15 is 0.1 mm, this can be used as a reference value for length dimension calibration to ensure that the observed image size is consistent with the actual size.

[0065] In some alternative embodiments, a signal processing module is further provided. The signal processing module includes a signal acquisition device and a signal conversion device. The signal acquisition device includes a display controller, and the display controller is electrically connected to the force sensor 5. The signal conversion device is used to convert the signal collected by the display controller into a data format recognizable by a computer.

[0066] Further, the display controller is used for collecting, amplifying, and processing the signals of the force sensor 5, supports the Modbus RTU communication protocol, the sampling rate can be adjusted between 10 - 5000 times per second, meets different experimental requirements, and has the functions of displaying real-time data and parameter calibration. The signal conversion device can be a data acquisition card, a serial port converter, or other suitable devices. In this embodiment, the signal conversion device is an RS485 - USB adapter. The display controller is connected to the computer through the RS485 - USB adapter and transmits the processed data to the data processing software. The image and data acquisition adopt a synchronous acquisition method, and the force value data and image data are recorded simultaneously to ensure the time consistency of the data. It is possible to ensure the accurate correspondence between the mechanical data and the image data through timestamps, trigger signals, or other synchronization methods.

[0067] Further, the data processing software has the following functions: recording the change of the biting force value during the entire experimental process; extracting the time period of effective biting from the data record; calculating parameters such as the peak biting force, biting time, and biting impulse.

[0068] Further, the data processing software extracts effective biting through the following method: setting a reference force value threshold, when the measured force value exceeds this threshold and lasts for a certain time, it is determined that the effective biting starts; when the force value drops below the threshold and lasts for a certain time, it is determined that the effective biting ends.

[0069] Further, the data processing software identifies the force - unloading point during the biting process, that is, the time point when the biting force starts to decline, by taking the derivative of the curve and finding the inflection point.

[0070] In one embodiment, the data processing part includes the host computer software and the data analysis algorithm. The host computer software is designed based on a graphical interface and has functions such as data acquisition, display, storage, and analysis. The data processing process mainly includes the following steps:

[0071] 1. Data acquisition and storage: Record the change of the biting force value and the corresponding high - definition video during the entire experimental process, and the data is stored in a time - series form; different sampling frequencies can be set during the experiment, and it is generally recommended not to be less than 10 times per second to ensure that the instantaneous changes during the biting process can be captured.

[0072] 2. Extraction of effective biting: Since the biting behavior of termites is random, a large amount of invalid data is included in the experimental record. The system uses an adaptive threshold method to extract the time period of effective biting from the biting force test data record. The specific method is: setting a reference force value threshold, when the measured force value exceeds this threshold and lasts for a certain time, it is determined that the effective biting starts; when the force value drops below the threshold and lasts for a certain time, it is determined that the effective biting ends. This method can effectively filter out noise and invalid signals and improve the accuracy of data analysis.

[0073] 3. Peak extraction: For each segment of valid bite data, use the peak detection algorithm to find the peak of the bite force during a single bite, and record the peak value and the corresponding time point. Peak detection can be implemented using local maximum search, curve fitting, or other suitable algorithmic methods.

[0074] 4. Release point identification: Identify the release point during the biting process by taking the derivative of the curve and finding the inflection point, that is, the time point when the bite force starts to decline, which corresponds to the moment when the termite releases the bite. Release point identification is of great significance for accurately calculating the biting time and analyzing the characteristics of termite biting behavior.

[0075] 5. Parameter calculation: Calculate the following parameters based on the extracted data:

[0076] Peak bite force: The maximum force value during a single bite, reflecting the upper limit of the termite's biting ability;

[0077] Biting time: The time interval from the start of the bite to the release point, reflecting the termite's ability to maintain the bite;

[0078] Biting impulse: The area under the bite force-time curve, a comprehensive indicator reflecting the combination of bite force and duration;

[0079] Biting speed: Calculate the closing speed of the termite's mouthparts through video analysis, reflecting the dynamic characteristics of the termite's bite.

[0080] The data processing part can automatically complete curve segmentation and extraction of the release point during a single bite process, greatly improving the efficiency and accuracy of data analysis. Display the bite force-time curve, valid bite segments, and release points through a visualization interface, enabling researchers to intuitively understand the characteristics of termite biting behavior.

[0081] The present invention also provides a method for using a precise measurement and analysis system for termite bite force, including the following steps:

[0082] Start the system to ensure its normal operation;

[0083] Perform zero calibration and calibration on the force sensor 5 to ensure the measurement accuracy;

[0084] Select healthy individuals from the termite colony and fix them on the moving platform using double-sided tape 9;

[0085] Adjust the position of the termite so that its mouthparts are accurately aligned with the upper bite piece 4 and the lower bite piece 15 for biting;

[0086] After the measurement, remove the termite.

[0087] Furthermore, the specific method for using this precise measurement and analysis system for termite bite force is as follows:

[0088] 1. System preparation: Connect each module, start the system, and check whether each part is working properly. Conduct system self-check and preheating to ensure that devices such as sensors and cameras are in the best working condition.

[0089] 2. Device adjustment: Adjust the spacing between the upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15 by rotating the first screw 6 or other connecting parts to make it suitable for the size of the termite mouthpart. The spacing adjustment should follow the principle of "not too loose, not too tight", so that the termite can bite smoothly without being unable to bite due to too large a spacing, or the measurement being inaccurate due to too small a spacing.

[0090] 3. Sensor calibration: Calibrate the zero point and calibration of the force sensor 5 to ensure the measurement accuracy. Calibration can be carried out using standard weights or special calibrators. It is recommended to calibrate before each experiment or regularly to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the measurement data.

[0091] 4. Termite preparation: Select healthy individuals from the termite colony. Different termite stages (such as soldier termites, worker termites) or different termite species can be selected according to the research purpose. Fix the termite on the support platform with double-sided tape 9. Note that the fixing position should be selected on the abdomen of the termite to avoid affecting the activities of its head and chest.

[0092] 5. Position adjustment: Adjust the position of the horizontal base 8 and the height of the slider 7. With the assistance of the high-definition display screen, make the termite mouthpart accurately align with the upper occlusal piece 4 and the lower occlusal piece 15. Position adjustment is the key to the success of the experiment and requires careful operation to ensure that the termite mouthpart can naturally contact the occlusal piece without generating additional pressure or tension.

[0093] 6. Data acquisition: Start the data acquisition system and record the force value data and high-definition video simultaneously. The measurement time is usually 5 - 10 minutes to ensure that multiple effective bites can be captured. During the measurement process, the stability of the experimental environment should be maintained to avoid external interference affecting the measurement results.

[0094] 7. Data analysis: After the measurement is completed, use data processing software to analyze the collected data, extract effective bites, and calculate relevant parameters. Data analysis can be customized according to research needs, such as adjusting threshold parameters, selecting different statistical methods, etc.

[0095] Compared with the prior art, the present application has the following remarkable advantages and beneficial effects:

[0096] 1. This system adopts high-precision measurement technology and can accurately capture the minute force changes during the termite biting process. By using a micro-force sensor with a resolution of 0.001 N or higher, combined with a lever structure and adopting special signal processing technology, the measurement accuracy of the system is significantly improved, and it can reliably record the bite force changes at the millinewton level.

[0097] 2. This system adopts a test device specifically designed according to the characteristics of termite mouthparts. The thickness, material, and installation method of the bite plate are optimized specifically for the characteristics of termite mouthparts. Together with the termite fixing device, it ensures the accuracy and repeatability of the measurement process, enabling termites to fully display their natural biting ability.

[0098] 3. This system realizes the integration of measurement, observation, and analysis. It integrates mechanical measurement, high-definition image acquisition, real-time observation, and data processing, achieving synchronous recording and analysis of termite biting force and biting behavior, enabling researchers to comprehensively understand the mechanical characteristics of termite biting behavior.

[0099] 4. This system provides the ability to analyze multi-dimensional parameters. It can not only measure the maximum biting force, but also obtain various parameters such as biting time, biting speed, and biting impulse. Through specially developed data processing algorithms, it can automatically extract effective biting events from long-term records, identify the force release points, calculate parameters such as biting impulse, comprehensively evaluate the biting ability of termites, and improve the efficiency and accuracy of data analysis.

[0100] 5. This system establishes a standardized method for measuring termite biting force. With the assistance of a real-time observation system, it helps the operator accurately position the termite mouthparts, improves the experimental efficiency and success rate, makes the experimental results of different researchers comparable, and provides a unified technical platform for termite biting force research.

[0101] In summary, the precise measurement and analysis system for termite biting force provided by the present invention not only solves the technical defects such as insufficient measurement accuracy, lack of special devices, and separation of measurement and observation in the prior art, but also provides a more comprehensive method for evaluating termite biting force through multi-parameter analysis, provides important technical support for termite biology research and control technology development, and has broad application prospects.

[0102] Example 2:

[0103] Refer to Figure 5 , the difference from Example 1 is that the first screw 6 is not directly connected to the balance plate 3, but a bearing block 17 is slidably connected to the balance plate 3. The bearing block 17 slides along the length direction of the balance plate 3. A rotating block 18 is rotatably connected to the bearing block 17. The rotating shaft of the rotating block 18 is perpendicular to the first screw 6, and the first screw 6 passes through the rotating block 18 and is rotatably connected to the rotating block 18.

[0104] Furthermore, a sliding groove is opened on the balance plate 3. The bearing block 17 slides in the sliding groove. A trapezoidal block is fixedly connected to the side wall of the bearing block 17, and a trapezoidal groove is opened on the side wall of the sliding groove. The trapezoidal block slides in the trapezoidal groove for positioning.

[0105] When changing the screwing depth of the first screw 6, it will cause a slight inclination of the balance plate 3. At this time, a slight change occurs in the position corresponding to the force sensor 5 and the balance plate 3. Through this setting, when the first screw 6 is being screwed, the position of the first screw 6 on the balance plate 3 can be changed by the sliding of the bearing block 17. By rotating the rotating block 18, the first screw 6 can always be kept in the vertical direction, improving the adjustment convenience.

[0106] Embodiment 3:

[0107] Referring to Figures 6-7 , the difference from Embodiment 1 is that the lower occlusal piece 15 is not adhered to the base 1, but a groove 19 is opened at the top of the base 1. The balance plate 3 is located in the groove 19, and a first connecting plate 20 is arranged in the groove 19. The lower occlusal piece 15 is adhered to the first connecting plate 20. Limiting blocks 21 are fixedly connected to the two side walls of the first connecting plate 20. Limiting grooves are opened on the two opposite side walls of the groove 19. The two limiting blocks 21 are respectively slidably connected to the two limiting grooves. The limiting blocks 21 slide in the limiting grooves in the vertical direction, so that the adjustment of the lower occlusal piece 15 in the vertical position can be realized;

[0108] A driving mechanism for driving the lifting of the lower occlusal piece 15 is arranged on the base 1. The driving mechanism includes a T-shaped groove opened at the bottom of the first connecting plate 20. A T-shaped block 22 is slidably connected in the T-shaped groove. One end of a connecting bar 23 is rotatably connected to the bottom of the T-shaped block 22. The connecting bar 23 is rotatably connected to the side wall of the groove 19 through a rotating shaft 24. The rotating shaft 24 is located at a position close to the T-shaped block 22 in the middle of the connecting bar 23. A driving component for adjusting the rotation of the connecting bar 23 around the rotating shaft 24 is arranged on the base 1.

[0109] The driving component includes an adjusting screw hole opened on the side wall of the base. The adjusting screw hole communicates with the groove 19. A screw rod 25 is threadedly connected in the adjusting screw hole. One end of the screw rod 25 close to the groove 19 is fixedly connected with a tapered bar 26 through a connecting rod. The top of the tapered bar 26 contacts the bottom of the connecting bar 23. The tapered bar 26 is located at an end of the connecting bar 23 far from the T-shaped block 22. The connecting bar 23 is inclined and the end connected to the tapered bar 26 is the low-end part. The distance from the contact point of the tapered bar 26 and the connecting bar 23 to the rotating shaft 24 is greater than the distance from the rotating shaft 24 to the T-shaped block 22.

[0110] By rotating the screw rod 25 to drive the horizontal displacement of the tapered bar 26 in the groove 19, so that different height positions of the tapered bar 26 contact the connecting bar 23, making the connecting bar 23 rotate, changing the inclination angle of the connecting bar 23, and further driving the T-shaped block 22 to slide back and forth in the T-shaped groove. At the same time, the limiting blocks 21 slide up and down in the limiting grooves, realizing the adjustment of the position of the lower occlusal piece 15. And through this structure, a lever structure adjustment form is formed, improving the adjustment accuracy and realizing the adjustment of the minute change of the lower occlusal piece 15.

[0111] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "longitudinal", "transverse", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing the present invention, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the present invention.

[0112] The above-described embodiments are only descriptions of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Without departing from the design spirit of the present invention, various deformations and improvements made by those of ordinary skill in the art to the technical solutions of the present invention shall fall within the protection scope determined by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. An accurate measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites, characterized in that, Comprising: A bite force testing module, the bite force testing module includes an upper occlusal piece (4) and a lower occlusal piece (15), the lower occlusal piece (15) is arranged on a base (1), a balance plate (3) is rotatably connected to the base (1), one end of the balance plate (3) is connected to the upper occlusal piece (4), and a vertically arranged force sensor (5) is connected between the other end of the balance plate (3) and the base (1). The distance from the connection point of the force sensor (5) and the balance plate (3) to the rotation point of the balance plate (3) is less than the distance from the connection point of the upper occlusal piece (4) and the balance plate (3) to the rotation point of the balance plate (3). A termite fixing module, the termite fixing module includes a moving platform on one side of the base (1), and the moving platform is used for fixing termites and adjusting the positions of termites. An observation module, the observation module is arranged on one side of the base (1), and the acquisition end of the observation module is aligned with the mouthparts of termites, so as to collect the biting behaviors of termites in real time.

2. The termite bite force precise measurement and analysis system according to claim 1, characterized in that: Both the upper occlusal piece (4) and the lower occlusal piece (15) protrude from one side of the base (1). A support rod (2) is fixedly connected to the base (1). A sliding hole is formed in the balance plate (3), and the support rod (2) penetrates through the sliding hole and is rotatably connected to the sliding hole. The distance from the connection point of the force sensor (5) and the balance plate (3) to the sliding hole is less than the distance from the connection point of the upper occlusal piece (4) and the balance plate (3) to the sliding hole.

3. The precise measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites according to claim 2, wherein: The weight between the end of the balance plate (3) close to the force sensor (5) and the sliding hole is equal to the weight between the end of the balance plate (3) close to the upper occlusal piece (4) and the sliding hole.

4. The precise measurement and analysis system for termite biting force according to claim 1, characterized in that: The balance plate (3) and the force sensor (5) are connected by a connecting piece. The connecting piece includes a first screw (6). The first screw (6) is rotatably connected to the balance plate (3). A threaded hole is formed in the top of the outer shell of the force sensor (5), and the first screw (6) is threadedly connected to the threaded hole.

5. The precise measurement and analysis system for termite biting force according to claim 1, wherein: The moving platform includes a horizontal base (8). A support rod is fixedly connected to the horizontal base (8). A lifting member is arranged on the support rod. The lifting end of the lifting member is fixedly connected to a support table. A double-sided tape (9) is adhered to the support table, and the double-sided tape (9) is used for fixing the abdomen of termites.

6. The precise measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites according to claim 5, characterized in that: A transparent pressing piece (10) is fixedly connected to the support table. The transparent pressing piece (10) is arranged opposite to the double-sided tape (9), and the termite is located between the double-sided tape (9) and the transparent pressing piece (10).

7. The precise measurement and analysis system for termite biting force according to claim 1, characterized in that: The materials of the upper occlusal piece (4) and the lower occlusal piece (15) are one of stainless steel sheets and titanium alloy sheets, and the thickness is between 0.05 mm and 0.2 mm.

8. The precise measurement and analysis system for termite biting force according to claim 1, wherein: The observation module includes an image acquisition device, an illumination system, and a display device. The image acquisition device includes an industrial camera (11), the illumination system includes an LED ring light source (14), the display device includes a high-definition display screen. The LED ring light source (14) is installed around the lens of the industrial camera (11). The industrial camera (11) is electrically connected to the high-definition display screen through an HDMI cable. The lens of the industrial camera (11) is aligned with the mouthparts of termites.

9. The precise measurement and analysis system for the biting force of termites according to claim 1, characterized in that: A signal data processing module is further provided. The signal data processing module includes a signal acquisition device and a signal conversion device. The signal acquisition device includes a display controller. The display controller is electrically connected to the force sensor (5). The signal conversion device is used to convert the signal collected by the display controller into a data format recognizable by a computer and transmit it to data processing software. The data processing software has the functions of recording the change of bite force values during the whole experiment process, extracting the time period of effective bites from the data record, calculating the peak bite force, bite time, and bite impulse.

10. A method for using a termite bite force precise measurement and analysis system, according to the termite bite force precise measurement and analysis system as claimed in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that: Start the system to ensure its normal operation; Perform zero calibration and calibration on the force sensor (5) to ensure the measurement accuracy; Select healthy individuals from the termite colony and fix them on the moving platform using double-sided tape (9); Adjust the position of the termite so that its mouthparts are aligned with the upper occlusal piece (4) and the lower occlusal piece (15) for biting; After the measurement is completed, remove the termite.

Images