Animal limb measuring equipment with multiple positioning structures

Abstract

The invention discloses animal limb measuring equipment with a multi-positioning structure. The animal limb measuring equipment is convenient to operate and can improve the detection precision. The animal limb measuring equipment with the multi-positioning structure comprises a base; a detection platform is arranged in the middle of the base; one side of the detection platform is provided with a first column, and the other side is provided with a second column. A sliding guide rail is arranged on the second stand column; a first sliding block and a second sliding block are arranged on the sliding guide rail; a detection bracket is arranged below the first sliding block; a detachably connected distance detection device is mounted on the detection bracket; a telescopic transverse support is arranged at the upper end of the first stand column. A detachable overflow device is arranged on the transverse bracket; a detachable animal fixing device is arranged at the lower end of the second telescopic support. The animal limb measuring equipment with the multi-positioning structure is simple and convenient to operate, can record and trace the detection process, and can improve the detection effect and reduce damage to detected animals.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the field of experimental animal science, in particular to an animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure. Background Art

[0002] Animal limb volume measurement is widely used in medical experiments, mainly to evaluate pathological conditions, treatment effects, physiological changes or drug responses. Animal limb volume measurement is often used in experimental animal science.

[0003] The animal limb volume measurement device used in the experiment generally includes a detection bracket equipped with a fluid infusion device and a volume detection device, such as the Italian UGO BASILE limb swelling detection device sold by Guangzhou Kezhilan Instrument Co., Ltd.

[0004] The volume detection device includes two connected measuring cups, one measuring cup is used to place the animal's limb to be measured, and the other cup is used to detect volume changes through a gradient pressure sensor.

[0005] During an animal limb volume measurement, the experimenter first marks the immersion depth on the animal's limb. Liquid is then added to the measuring cup via the rehydration device until the liquid level reaches the marked level. The experimenter then holds the animal in place and slowly lowers the limb into the measuring cup until it reaches the marked depth. Because the two measuring cups are connected, the water levels in both cups change when the animal's limb is immersed. Existing methods measure the voltage between the upper and lower electrodes in the measuring cups to indicate limb swelling.

[0006] Since the existing technology requires manual positioning of the animal during animal limb swelling detection, it is not easy to operate. In addition, the experimenter needs to observe the test results and the position of the animal's limb immersed in the liquid while positioning the animal, which can easily cause operational errors and thus affect the test results. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure, which is easy to operate and can improve detection accuracy.

[0008] The technical solution adopted by the present invention to solve the technical problem is: an animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure, comprising a base; a detection platform is provided in the middle of the base;

[0009] A first column is provided on one side of the detection platform, and a second column is provided on the other side; a sliding guide rail is provided on the second column; a first slider and a second slider are provided on the sliding guide rail;

[0010] A first telescopic bracket is provided below the first slider; a second telescopic bracket is provided on the second slider; a detection bracket is provided at the lower end of the first telescopic bracket; a detachably connected distance detection device is installed on the detection bracket;

[0011] A retractable transverse bracket is provided at the upper end of the first upright column; a detachable overflow device is provided on the transverse bracket; a detachable animal fixing device is provided at the lower end of the second retractable bracket;

[0012] One end of the detection bracket is rotatably connected to the lower end of the first telescopic bracket; the distance detection device includes an annular mounting frame; the annular mounting frame is mounted with distance sensors evenly distributed along the circumference; the annular mounting frame is provided with an adjustment device for adjusting the distance measuring angle of the distance measuring sensor; an annular wiring plate is provided above the annular mounting frame; a horizontal support frame is provided on one side of the annular wiring plate; a vertical support frame is provided on the horizontal support frame, and a camera is mounted on the vertical support frame;

[0013] The animal fixing device is used to fix the animal to be tested; the overflow device is used to measure the volume of the animal's tested part using a water displacement method.

[0014] Furthermore, the annular mounting frame is provided with a mounting groove matching the ranging sensor, and the two sides of the ranging sensor are hinged to the side walls of the mounting groove through a rotating shaft; the rotating shaft on one side of the ranging sensor extends out of the annular mounting frame and is transmission-connected to the driving device.

[0015] Furthermore, the overflow device adopts a segmented overflow device; the overflow device includes a lower overflow pipe and an upper overflow pipe; the lower end of the lower overflow pipe is provided with a liquid inlet pipe; the liquid inlet pipe is provided with a valve; one end of the upper overflow pipe is inserted into the lower overflow pipe and is threadedly matched with the lower overflow pipe;

[0016] An overflow pipe is provided on one side of the upper overflow pipe; one end of the overflow pipe is connected to the upper overflow pipe, and an overflow liquid volume detection device is provided below the other end;

[0017] The upper overflow pipe is provided with pressure sensors evenly distributed vertically, and the position of the first pressure sensor at the upper end is lower than that of the overflow pipe.

[0018] Furthermore, a mounting groove is provided on the inner wall of the upper overflow pipe; a detachable mounting block is installed in the mounting groove; and the pressure sensors are installed on the mounting block and are evenly distributed vertically.

[0019] Furthermore, the overflow liquid volume detection device adopts a vertical collecting cylinder with a scale; an exhaust pipe is provided at the upper end of the vertical collecting cylinder; and an openable and closable liquid discharge pipe is provided at the bottom of the vertical collecting cylinder;

[0020] Alternatively, the overflow liquid volume detection device adopts a weighing pan; the overflow pipe is provided with a solenoid valve; the upper overflow pipe is provided with an overflow water level gauge, and the solenoid valve is controlled to open and close by the water level gauge; the liquid outlet end of the overflow pipe discharges the liquid into the weighing pan;

[0021] The weighing plate is arranged on the detection platform, and an electronic scale is arranged below the weighing plate.

[0022] Furthermore, the animal fixing device adopts a bandage or comprises a transverse fixing tube, a head fixing block and a pressing plate; two symmetrical hind limb fixing grooves are provided below one end of the transverse fixing tube; a transverse sliding groove is provided above one end of the transverse fixing tube;

[0023] The head fixing block has a central air vent, and a sliding shaft is provided on the outer surface of the head fixing block; the sliding shaft is slidably installed in the transverse sliding groove and is provided with a locking nut;

[0024] A tightening bolt is provided above one end of the transverse fixing cylinder; the lower end of the tightening bolt is provided to rotate with the pressing plate;

[0025] The transverse fixing cylinder is provided with a fixing device; the fixing device includes a fixing plate; both ends of the fixing plate are provided with fixing rings matching the transverse fixing cylinder;

[0026] The fixing plate is provided with a hinged head; a connecting head is hingedly connected to the hinged head via a locking bolt; a second locking nut is provided at one end of the locking bolt; the connecting head is detachably connected to the second telescopic bracket.

[0027] Furthermore, the second connector is rotatably connected to a first magnetic connector;

[0028] A first magnetic joint is provided at the lower end of the second telescopic bracket; the first magnetic joint is detachably connected to the first magnetic joint.

[0029] Furthermore, the detection bracket is rotatably matched with the lower end of the first telescopic bracket through a rotating sleeve, and a second locking bolt is provided on the rotating sleeve;

[0030] A second magnetic joint is provided at one end of the horizontal support frame, and the second magnetic joint is provided with a protrusion; a second magnetic joint matching the second magnetic joint is provided at one end of the detection bracket; the second magnetic joint is magnetically connected to the second magnetic joint.

[0031] Furthermore, a third magnetic head is provided at one end of the horizontal bracket, and a clamp is provided on the lower overflow pipe; a connecting frame is provided on one side of the clamp; a third magnetic joint is provided on the connecting frame; a groove matching the third magnetic joint is provided on the third magnetic joint, and the second magnetic joint is inserted into the third magnetic joint and magnetically connected to the third magnetic joint.

[0032] Furthermore, a first linear drive device for driving the first slider to move, and a second linear drive device for driving the second slider to move are provided on the sliding guide rail; the first linear drive device and the second linear drive device are both screw drive devices.

[0033] The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: the animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure of the present invention has the following advantages:

[0034] 1. The animal limb measurement device with a multi-positioning structure described in the present invention is provided with a distance detection device, in which a ring array of distance sensors is provided, so that animal limbs can be detected in multiple dimensions and non-contact detection can be achieved; thus, the detection effect can be improved and the harm to the detected animal can be reduced.

[0035] 2. The animal limb measurement device with a multi-positioning structure described in the present invention is equipped with a segmented overflow device, and pressure sensors evenly distributed longitudinally can be set in the overflow device. Therefore, the segmented setting can facilitate the maintenance of the overflow device. At the same time, by detecting the gradient pressure in the overflow device, it can capture subtle movements of the measured limb, which can improve the detection accuracy.

[0036] 3. The animal fixing device of the animal limb measuring equipment with a multi-positioning structure described in the present invention is convenient for fixing the measured animal and adjusting the position of the measured animal's limb after fixation by providing a horizontal fixing cylinder and a hinged seat above the fixing cylinder.

[0037] 4. Furthermore, the distance detection device, overflow device and animal fixing device of the animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure described in the present invention are all connected by a magnetic quick-connect device, which is convenient for express installation and replacement and easy to operate.

[0038] In summary, the animal limb measurement equipment with a multi-positioning structure described in the present application is easy to operate and at the same time easy to improve detection accuracy. Three-dimensional modeling can be achieved through the detection of the distance sensor of the annular array; single non-contact detection can be achieved; the overflow device described in the present application adopts a segmented overflow device, and a longitudinally distributed pressure sensor is provided in the overflow device. The segmented setting is convenient for cleaning, and the longitudinally uniformly distributed pressure sensors are provided to realize the gradient detection of the pressure in the overflow pipe, thereby capturing the subtle movements of the animal limbs and improving the detection accuracy; the animal fixing device described in the present application can realize automatic fixing, avoid manual fixing by the experimenter, can ensure the stability during the animal experiment, and can improve the experimenter's concentration on the experimental process, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the experimental detection; it is easy to realize the positioning of the animal and easy to install and disassemble. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 is a three-dimensional diagram of an animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of an animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a front view of an animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4 is a top view of an animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 AA section view;

[0044] Figure 6 is an exploded view of an animal limb measurement device with a multi-positioning structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a distance detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 8 is a top view of a distance detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 BB cross-sectional view;

[0048] Figure 10 is a bottom-up perspective view of a distance detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 11is a perspective view of an overflow device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 12 is an exploded schematic diagram of an overflow device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 13 1 is a schematic structural diagram of an overflow device in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 14 is an exploded schematic diagram of an animal securing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 15 is a perspective view of an animal securing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 16 is a top view of an animal securing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 CC cross-sectional view;

[0056] Figure 18 Schematic diagram of the principle of volume change using gradient pressure technology in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 19 Schematic diagram of the principle of detecting the volume of animal limbs in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Markings in the figure: 100-base, 200-detection platform, 300-first slider, 400-second slider, 500-distance detection device, 600-animal fixing device, 700-overflow device, 800-first linear drive device, 900-second linear drive device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples.

[0060] like Figures 1 to 17 As shown, the animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to the present invention includes a base 100 ; a detection platform 200 is provided in the middle of the base 100 .

[0061] The main function of the detection platform 200 is to install the detection data processing module. Specifically, the detection platform 200 is made of lightweight aluminum alloy with a thickness of 2mm and a size of 30cm (length) × 20cm (width) × 40cm (height). It integrates the control circuit and power supply module. Furthermore, a display screen for displaying the detection results is provided on one side of the detection platform 200. The data processing module in the detection platform 200 adopts the STM32H743 main control chip; specifically, the STM32H743 main control chip runs the real-time operating system FreeRTOS. The display screen adopts an IPS touch screen with a resolution of 480×272, which displays the volume curve and measurement parameters in real time. Furthermore, a Bluetooth 5.0 chip and a CC2640R2F chip are set in the detection platform 200 to support data transmission to a mobile phone APP or a PC.

[0062] The detection platform 200 is provided with a first column 110 on one side and a second column 120 on the other side; a sliding guide rail 130 is provided on the second column 120; a first slider 300 and a second slider 400 are provided on the sliding guide rail 130;

[0063] The first column 110 and the second column 120 both play a supporting role, making it easier to install corresponding components above the first column 110 and the second column 120 .

[0064] Specifically, the first column 110 and the second column 120 can both be made of stainless steel. Preferably, the first column 110 and the second column 120 are telescopic columns, specifically, electric telescopic rods, hydraulic cylinders, or pneumatic cylinders.

[0065] A first telescopic bracket 310 is provided below the first slider 300; a second telescopic bracket 410 is provided on the second slider 400; a detection bracket is provided at the lower end of the first telescopic bracket 310; a detachably connected distance detection device 500 is installed on the detection bracket;

[0066] The main function of the first slider 300 and the second slider 400 is to realize linear movement in the horizontal direction. Specifically, the first slider 300 and the second slider 400 can be moved manually or automatically by setting a corresponding driving device.

[0067] When setting up a driving device to realize its automatic movement, specifically, a vertical mounting plate is welded on one end of the sliding guide rail 130, and a first linear driving device 800 for driving the first slider 300 to move, and a second linear driving device 900 for driving the second slider 400 to move are installed on the vertical mounting plate; the first linear driving device 800 and the second linear driving device 900 are both screw driving devices.

[0068] The first linear drive device 800 includes a first drive motor and a first drive screw 810; the first drive screw 810 passes through the first slider 300 and the second slider 400, and the first drive screw 810 is threadedly engaged with the first slider 300, and the first drive screw 810 is slidingly engaged with the second slider 400.

[0069] The second linear drive device 900 includes a second drive motor and a second drive screw 910. The second drive screw 910 passes through the first slider 300 and the second slider 400. The second drive screw 910 is slidably engaged with the first slider 300 and threadedly engaged with the second slider 400. The first drive motor and the second drive motor are both mounted on the vertical mounting plate via bolts.

[0070] A retractable transverse support 111 is provided at the upper end of the first upright 110; a removable overflow device 700 is mounted on the transverse support 111; a removable animal securing device 600 is mounted at the lower end of the second retractable support 410. The transverse support 111 primarily supports the overflow device 700; the transverse position of the overflow device 700 is adjusted by retracting and extending the transverse support 111. The transverse support 111 can be a telescopic column or an electrically operated telescopic rod.

[0071] The main function of the animal restraint device 600 is to secure the animal; the animal restraint device 600 can be a bandage. To facilitate automatic adjustment of the animal's position, in this embodiment, the animal restraint device 600 includes a transverse fixing tube 610, a head fixing block 620, and a pressing plate 690. Two symmetrical hind limb fixing grooves 612 are provided below one end of the transverse fixing tube 610; a transverse sliding groove 611 is provided above one end of the transverse fixing tube 610.

[0072] The head fixing block 620 has a central air vent, and a sliding shaft 621 is provided on the outer surface of the head fixing block 620; the sliding shaft 621 is slidably installed in the horizontal sliding groove 611 and is provided with a locking nut 622;

[0073] A tightening bolt 630 is provided above one end of the transverse fixing cylinder 610; the lower end of the tightening bolt 630 is provided to rotatably engage with the pressing plate 690;

[0074] The transverse fixing tube 610 is provided with a fixing device 640 ; the fixing device 640 includes a fixing plate 641 ; both ends of the fixing plate 641 are provided with fixing rings 642 that match the transverse fixing tube 610 ; specifically, the fixing ring 642 can be a rubber ring or a clamp.

[0075] The fixing plate 641 is provided with a hinged joint 643; a connector 650 is hingedly connected to the hinged joint 643 via a locking bolt 670; a second locking nut 680 is provided at one end of the locking bolt 670; the connector 650 is detachably connected to the second telescopic bracket 410. Furthermore, the second connector 650 is provided with a rotatable connector; the rotatable connector is detachably connected to the second telescopic bracket 410.

[0076] Specifically, in this embodiment, the mouse's head is placed into the transverse fixing cylinder 610, with its two hind legs passing through the hind limb fixing slots 612. The head is secured in place by the head fixing block 620, and the tail is pressed against the pressing plate 690 by tightening the tightening bolt 630, thereby securing the mouse.

[0077] When the angle needs to be adjusted, it can be fixed by rotating the hinge joint 643 and then tightening the second locking nut 680. At the same time, the angle can be adjusted by rotating the connector and the left and right positions can be adjusted by the second slider 400.

[0078] Furthermore, a forelimb fixing groove is provided at the other end of the hindlimb fixing groove 612 provided on the transverse fixing cylinder 610. The forelimb fixing groove is used to position the forelimbs of the mouse.

[0079] In the above embodiment, the overflow device 700 mainly functions to detect the volume of the animal's limbs through the Archimedes principle.

[0080] Specifically, the overflow device 700 can adopt an integral overflow cup, with an overflow pipe provided on one side of the overflow cup. The overflow pipe is introduced into a collection tank with a scale, and the volume of the overflowed water is read through the collection tank. Thus, the volume of the measured limb is detected. In order to facilitate the cleaning of the overflow device 700, the overflow device 700 in this embodiment adopts a segmented overflow device; the overflow device 700 includes a lower overflow pipe 710 and an upper overflow pipe 720; the lower end of the lower overflow pipe 710 is provided with a liquid inlet pipe; the liquid inlet pipe is provided with a valve 711; one end of the upper overflow pipe 720 is inserted into the lower overflow pipe 710 and is threadedly engaged with the lower overflow pipe 710; an overflow pipe 740 is provided on one side of the upper overflow pipe 720; one end of the overflow pipe 740 is connected to the upper overflow pipe 720, and an overflow liquid volume detection device is provided below the other end.

[0081] The overflow liquid volume detection device can be implemented by weighing the overflow liquid, that is, the overflow liquid volume detection device uses a weighing pan 220; the weighing pan 220 is set above the detection platform 200; the detection platform 200 is provided with an electronic scale 210, and the weighing pan 220 is placed on the scale 210. The overflow pipe 740 is provided with a solenoid valve; the upper overflow pipe 720 is provided with an overflow water level gauge, and the solenoid valve is controlled to open and close by the water level gauge; the liquid outlet end of the overflow pipe 740 discharges the liquid into the weighing pan 220. Specifically, during operation, the water level at which the overflow water level gauge controls the opening of the solenoid valve is first set as the initial water level. This can be achieved by directly raising the water level to the overflow water level gauge detection position, that is, the overflow water level gauge just touches the water level, and the water level detected at this time is the original water level. Then, after the animal's limb to be measured is immersed in the upper overflow pipe 720, the liquid level in the upper overflow pipe 720 rises, so that the water level is higher than the position where the overflow water level gauge detects the water level. Then the overflow water level gauge controls the solenoid valve to open, and the overflow pipe 740 starts to discharge liquid, and the discharged liquid flows into the weighing pan 220; when the water level drops to the original water level, the overflow water level gauge controls the solenoid valve to close, and at this time all the discharged liquid enters the weighing pan 220, and the volume of the discharged liquid is calculated by weighing; thereby obtaining the volume of the animal's limb.

[0082] To simplify the operation, in this embodiment, the overflow liquid volume detection device adopts a vertical collecting tube 750 with a scale; an exhaust pipe 751 is provided at the upper end of the vertical collecting tube 750; and an openable and closable liquid discharge pipe 752 is provided at the bottom of the vertical collecting tube 750.

[0083] In a specific application process, the liquid level in the upper overflow pipe 720 is first aligned with the overflow port of the overflow pipe 740. The liquid in the vertical collection barrel 750 is then drained through the drain pipe 752. Specifically, the valve 711 on the liquid inlet pipe at the lower end of the lower overflow pipe 710 is opened, and liquid is continuously replenished into the lower overflow pipe 710 through the liquid replenishment device until the liquid level reaches the overflow port of the overflow pipe 740. Liquid replenishment is then stopped, and the excess liquid in the upper overflow pipe 720 is discharged through the overflow pipe 740 into the vertical collection barrel 750, and then emptied through the drain pipe 752 at the lower end of the vertical collection barrel 750.

[0084] Then, close the drainage tube 752 and immerse the animal's limb to be measured in the liquid in the upper overflow tube 720. After immersing it to the marked part, wait for the overflow tube 740 to overflow the liquid, and then read the volume data of the overflowed liquid through the scale on the vertical collection tube 750 to obtain the volume of the animal's limb to be measured.

[0085] To correct for subtle movements of the animal's limbs during the detection process, which causes the water level in the upper overflow pipe to rise and excess liquid to overflow, in this embodiment, the upper overflow pipe 720 is provided with pressure sensors 760 evenly distributed vertically, with the first pressure sensor 760 at the upper end positioned lower than the overflow pipe 740. Specifically, a mounting groove 721 is provided on the inner wall of the upper overflow pipe 720; a detachable mounting block 730 is mounted within the mounting groove 721; the pressure sensors 760 are mounted on the mounting block 730 and evenly distributed vertically.

[0086] By setting up evenly distributed pressure sensors 760 and detecting the gradient pressure of the liquid in the upper overflow pipe 720, the volume of the liquid in the upper overflow pipe 720 is measured, and the height h is calculated according to the formula P = ρgh. Since the cross-sectional area of the upper overflow pipe 720 is uniformly S, the pressure F1 detected by the uppermost pressure sensor 760 is = P1S. The pressures detected by the pressure sensors from top to bottom are set as F1, F2, F3, F4...Fn. Since the pressure sensors are evenly distributed, the distance between two adjacent pressure sensors is a fixed value d. The following formula is used:

[0087] Fn=Pn×S;

[0088] Pn=ρ×g×hn;

[0089] Where Fn is the pressure of the nth pressure sensor, Pn is the pressure detected by the nth sensor, hn is the height of the water level above the nth sensor; ρ is the liquid density; g is the acceleration due to gravity;

[0090] like Figure 18 As shown, the x values before and after detection can be calculated:

[0091]

[0092] Where n is the total number of pressure sensors, and d is the vertical distance between two adjacent sensor brackets.

[0093] By using x before the test and x after the test, the change value of x, Δx, can be obtained;

[0094] The changed volume is ΔV, ΔV=ΔX×S, where S is the cross-sectional area of the upper overflow pipe 720. Therefore, the corrected volume, ΔV, can be obtained.

[0095] A gradient-set pressure sensor measures the difference in volume between the upper overflow tube 720's original volume before testing and the volume within the upper overflow tube 720 after the animal's limb is placed and the animal is at rest. The volume detected by the overflow device is then subtracted from ΔV to obtain the corrected measured volume. This revision of the detected animal limb volume eliminates detection errors caused by subtle movements of the animal's limb and improves detection accuracy.

[0096] One end of the detection bracket is rotatably connected to the lower end of the first telescopic bracket 310; the distance detection device 500. The main function of the distance detection device 500 is to achieve non-contact three-dimensional detection of the limbs of the detected animal.

[0097] To improve detection accuracy, in this embodiment, the distance detection device 500 includes an annular mounting frame 520; the annular mounting frame 520 is mounted with distance sensors 560 evenly spaced along the circumference; the annular mounting frame 520 is provided with an adjustment device 570 for adjusting the distance measuring angle of the distance sensors 560; an annular wiring plate 510 is provided above the annular mounting frame 520; a horizontal support frame 530 is provided on one side of the annular wiring plate 510; a vertical support frame is provided on the horizontal support frame 530, and a camera 550 is mounted on the vertical support frame 540;

[0098] The state of the animal's limbs can be observed in real time through the camera 550; the position of the animal's limbs is adjusted according to the state of the animal's limbs so that the animal's limbs are coaxial with the array circle of the ranging sensors 560 that are evenly arrayed along the circumference; that is, the animal's limbs are located at the center of the array ranging sensors 560.

[0099] During the inspection process, the animal's limb moves downward under the action of the second telescopic support 410. The circular array of ranging sensors 560 detects this position change and transmits the data to the data processing module within the inspection platform, enabling 3D modeling and volumetric measurement of the animal's limb. The camera 550 records the inspection process in real time and stores the image data for easy traceability.

[0100] Specifically, the distance measuring sensor 560 adopts a TOF (Time-of-Flight) laser sensor (VL53L0X) or a laser triangulation distance measuring sensor (Keyence IL-300) with an accuracy of ±0.01mm.

[0101] To facilitate installation of the distance sensor 560 and adjustment of the measurement angle of the distance sensor 560, in this embodiment, the annular mounting frame 520 is further provided with a mounting slot 521 that matches the distance sensor 560. Both sides of the distance sensor 560 are hinged to the sidewalls of the mounting slot 521 via a rotating shaft 561. The rotating shaft 561 on one side of the distance sensor 560 extends out of the annular mounting frame 520 and is in transmission connection with a drive device 570. Specifically, the drive device 570 employs a drive motor.

[0102] When the measuring angle needs to be adjusted, the driving device 570 drives the rotating shaft 561 to rotate, thereby achieving the adjustment of the measuring angle.

[0103] Specifically, during application, the distance sensor 560 in the distance detection device 500 is first calibrated using a laser distance sensor. The radius R of the circular array, i.e., the distance from the mounting point of the distance sensor 560 to the center of the circular array, is determined. Furthermore, through a zero-point calibration function, the mounting point of the distance sensor 560 is set as a virtual reference point. The distance detected by the distance sensor 560 is now relative to the mounting point of the distance sensor 560.

[0104] The animal under test is then secured using the animal securing device 600; in this embodiment, the hind limbs of a mouse are tested. The hinged joint 643 is rotated and the second locking nut 680 is tightened to adjust the animal's tilt angle and secure it. Rotating the connector on the animal securing device 600 allows the animal under test to rotate about the vertical axis, adjusting the angle of the limb under test. The left-right position of the animal's limb is adjusted by moving the second slider 400, ensuring that the limb under test is in a vertical orientation.

[0105] By rotating the detection bracket and moving the first slider 300 , the animal's limb is made coaxial with the array circle of the distance measuring sensors 560 that are evenly arrayed along the circumference; that is, the animal's limb is located at the center of the array distance measuring sensors 560 .

[0106] Then, the second telescopic bracket 410 is started to slowly extend and retract downward at a speed v, so that the animal limb slowly passes through the distance detection device 500. The distance detection device 500 is turned on for real-time detection, and the entire process of the animal limb passing through the array distance sensor 560 is detected.

[0107] During the detection process, when the real-time detection distance of at least three adjacent distance measuring sensors 560 in the array distance measuring sensor 560 is greater than 0, it is determined that the animal's limbs begin to penetrate the array distance measuring sensor 560.

[0108] Then, data collection is started at a fixed frequency of 100 Hz to collect the distance values d detected by the six distance measuring sensors 560 in real time. nt The data is processed by the data module provided in the detection platform 200. For example, the radius detected by each ranging sensor 560 is calculated by the collected real-time data. Specifically:

[0109] r nt =Rd nt ;

[0110] Where r nt represents the radius detected by the ranging sensor 560 at the corresponding time t, that is, the distance from the surface point of the animal's limb to the center of the array; d nt represents the value detected by the ranging sensor 560 at the corresponding time t, R is the radius of the circular array of the ranging sensor 560, where n is the number of the ranging sensor 560, n=1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6.

[0111] Calculate the cross-sectional area of the animal's limb at each moment:

[0112] In this embodiment, the annular array has six sensors evenly distributed in a circular pattern. Therefore, the cross-section detected by the array sensors approximates a hexagon. Based on the sensor detection radii r1, r2, r3, r4, r5, and r6, the hexagon can be divided into six triangles with a vertex angle of 60°. The area of each triangle is:

[0113]

[0114] Where a and b are the lengths of the two sides of the vertex angle.

[0115] Therefore, the cross-sectional area S(t) of the hexagon is calculated using the following formula:

[0116]

[0117] In the formula, r1 represents the radius detected by the first ranging sensor 560 , r2 represents the radius detected by the second ranging sensor 560 , and so on, r6 represents the radius detected by the sixth ranging sensor 560 .

[0118] Stop detecting until the length of the animal's limb passing through the distance detection device 500 reaches the marked value;

[0119] The volume of the animal's limb is then calculated by the data processing module. The volume V is obtained by integrating the cross-sectional area and displacement at each time point:

[0120]

[0121] Where k is the number of sampling times, Δt is the sampling time interval, v is the speed at which the animal's limbs move downward, S tk is the cross-sectional volume of the limb obtained during the k-th data collection.

[0122] Furthermore, the animal's limbs can be three-dimensionally reconstructed through SketchUp based on the data collected by the laser ranging sensor.

[0123] After the detection is completed, the distance detection device 500 is turned off, and then the second telescopic bracket 410 is retracted to remove the animal's measured limb from the distance detection device 500. Then, the detection bracket is rotated to move the distance detection device 500 away from the bottom of the animal fixing device 600.

[0124] Then, the position of the mobile overflow device 700 is adjusted by adjusting the length of the transverse bracket 111 so that the upper overflow pipe 720 of the overflow device 700 is substantially coaxial with the limb of the animal being tested.

[0125] Then, the second telescopic bracket 410 is started to slowly extend downward so that the animal limb to be tested is immersed in the upper overflow pipe 720; the volume of the animal limb is detected in the upper overflow pipe 720 by the overflow method, and the specific method is as described in the working principle of the overflow device described above.

[0126] In addition, the gradient pressure is detected by vertically evenly distributed pressure sensors in the overflow pipe 720 at the upper end of the overflow device, thereby correcting the detection error. The specific working principle is introduced above.

[0127] In summary, the technical solution described in this application can achieve non-contact detection through the distance detection device 500, and can achieve overflow method volume detection through the overflow device 700, and correct the detection results through gradient pressure. This can improve detection accuracy. When processing the results, the volume detected by the distance detection device 500 and the volume detected by the overflow method can be weighted and fused to obtain the final result, thereby further improving detection accuracy. The specific weighted fusion is:

[0128] V=0.7Vlaser+0.3Voverflow; where Vlaser represents the volume detected by the distance measuring device; Voverflow represents the volume detected by the overflow method.

[0129] In a feasible embodiment, in order to facilitate quick installation and quick replacement, the second connector 650 is rotatably connected to the first magnetic connector 660;

[0130] A first magnetic connector 411 is provided at the lower end of the second telescopic bracket 410 ; the first magnetic connector 411 is detachably connected to the first magnetic connector 660 .

[0131] The detection bracket is rotatably engaged with the lower end of the first telescopic bracket 310 via a rotating sleeve 320, which is provided with a second locking bolt. A second magnetic joint is provided at one end of the horizontal support frame 530, and the second magnetic joint is provided with a bump. A second magnetic joint is provided at one end of the detection bracket to match the second magnetic joint. The second magnetic joint is magnetically connected to the second magnetic joint. A third magnetic head 112 is provided at one end of the horizontal bracket 111, and a clamp 771 is provided on the lower overflow pipe 710. A connecting frame 770 is provided on one side of the clamp 771. A third magnetic joint is provided on the connecting frame 770. The third magnetic joint 112 is provided with a groove that matches the third magnetic joint. The second magnetic joint is inserted into the third magnetic joint 112 and magnetically connected to the third magnetic joint 112.

[0132] That is, the animal fixing device 600, the overflow device 700 and the distance detection device 500 are all connected to the bracket by magnetic connection, so that they are easy to install and disassemble quickly and easy to maintain.

[0133] The animal limb measurement device with a multi-positioning structure described in this application can be applied to the following fields:

[0134] 1. Edema and inflammation research

[0135] Applications: To assess limb swelling due to trauma, infection, or medication side effects.

[0136] Experimental model:

[0137] Acute inflammation model: injection of carrageenan induces hind limb edema in rodents.

[0138] Chronic edema model: long-term swelling caused by damage to the lymphatic system or venous obstruction.

[0139] The volume of the hind limbs of experimental mice is detected by using the animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure disclosed by the present invention.

[0140] 2. Orthopedics and Trauma Repair

[0141] Applications: Monitoring fracture healing, bone defect repair, or tissue response around implants.

[0142] Experimental model:

[0143] Fracture Model: Tibial fractures were surgically induced in mice / rats, and limb volume was measured regularly to assess callus formation and soft tissue swelling.

[0144] Bone regeneration experiment: When using biomaterials or stem cells to repair bone defects, volume changes reflect the regeneration efficiency.

[0145] The volume of the limbs of experimental mice is detected by using the animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure disclosed by the present invention.

[0146] 3. Muscle diseases and sports medicine

[0147] Applications: Evaluation of muscle wasting (eg, disuse atrophy), hypertrophy (eg, exercise training), or muscular dystrophy.

[0148] Experimental model:

[0149] Muscle atrophy model: Muscle atrophy of the hind limbs of mice was induced by cast immobilization.

[0150] Limb volume monitoring in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) animal models.

[0151] The volume of the hind limbs of experimental mice is detected by using the animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure disclosed by the present invention.

[0152] 4. Oncology research

[0153] Application: To evaluate the volume changes of subcutaneous transplanted tumors (such as tumors in the limbs).

[0154] Experimental model:

[0155] Xenograft models: Human tumor cells are implanted into the hind limbs of mice, and tumor volume is measured to assess drug efficacy.

[0156] The volume of the hind limbs of experimental mice is detected by using the animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure disclosed by the present invention.

Claims

1. An animal limb measurement device with a multi-positioning structure, characterized in that: It comprises a base (100); a detection platform (200) is provided in the middle of the base (100); The detection platform (200) is provided with a first column (110) on one side and a second column (120) on the other side; a sliding guide rail (130) is provided on the second column (120); a first slider (300) and a second slider (400) are provided on the sliding guide rail (130); A first telescopic bracket (310) is provided below the first slider (300); a second telescopic bracket (410) is provided on the second slider (400); a detection bracket is provided at the lower end of the first telescopic bracket (310); a detachably connected distance detection device (500) is installed on the detection bracket; The upper end of the first upright post (110) is provided with a retractable transverse support (111); the transverse support (111) is provided with a detachable overflow device (700); the lower end of the second retractable support (410) is provided with a detachable animal fixing device (600); One end of the detection bracket is rotatably connected to the lower end of the first telescopic bracket (310); the distance detection device (500) includes an annular mounting frame (520); the annular mounting frame (520) is mounted with distance sensors (560) evenly distributed along the circumference; the annular mounting frame (520) is provided with an adjustment device (570) for adjusting the distance measuring angle of the distance sensor (560); an annular wiring plate (510) is provided above the annular mounting frame (520); a horizontal support frame (530) is provided on one side of the annular wiring plate (510); a vertical support frame is provided on the horizontal support frame (530), and a camera (550) is installed on the vertical support frame (540); The animal fixing device (600) is used to fix the animal to be tested; the overflow device (700) is used to measure the volume of the part of the animal to be tested using a water displacement method.

2. The animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The annular mounting frame (520) is provided with a mounting groove (521) matching the distance measuring sensor (560), and both sides of the distance measuring sensor (560) are hinged to the side walls of the mounting groove (521) via a rotating shaft (561); the rotating shaft (561) on one side of the distance measuring sensor (560) extends out of the annular mounting frame (520) and is transmission-connected to the driving device (570).

3. The animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The overflow device (700) is a segmented overflow device; the overflow device (700) comprises a lower overflow pipe (710) and an upper overflow pipe (720); a liquid inlet pipe is provided at the lower end of the lower overflow pipe (710); a valve (711) is provided on the liquid inlet pipe; one end of the upper overflow pipe (720) is inserted into the lower overflow pipe (710) and is threadedly engaged with the lower overflow pipe (710); An overflow pipe (740) is provided on one side of the upper overflow pipe (720); one end of the overflow pipe (740) is connected to the upper overflow pipe (720), and an overflow liquid volume detection device is provided below the other end; The upper overflow pipe (720) is provided with pressure sensors (760) evenly distributed in the vertical direction, and the position of the first pressure sensor (760) at the upper end is lower than that of the overflow pipe (740).

4. The animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to claim 3, characterized in that: A mounting groove (721) is provided on the inner wall of the upper overflow pipe (720); a detachable mounting block (730) is installed in the mounting groove (721); and the pressure sensors (760) are installed on the mounting block (730) and are evenly distributed in the vertical direction.

5. The animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to claim 3, characterized in that: The overflow liquid volume detection device adopts a vertical collecting tube (750) with a scale; an exhaust pipe (751) is provided at the upper end of the vertical collecting tube (750); and an openable and closable liquid discharge pipe (752) is provided at the bottom of the vertical collecting tube (750); Alternatively, the overflow liquid volume detection device adopts a weighing pan (220); the overflow pipe (740) is provided with a solenoid valve; an overflow water level gauge is provided in the upper overflow pipe (720), and the solenoid valve is controlled to open and close by the water level gauge; the liquid outlet end of the overflow pipe (740) discharges the liquid into the weighing pan (220); The weighing plate (220) is arranged on the detection platform (200), and an electronic weighing device is arranged below the weighing plate (220).

6. The animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The animal fixing device (600) adopts a bandage or comprises a transverse fixing tube (610), a head fixing block (620) and a pressing plate (690); two symmetrical hind limb fixing grooves (612) are provided below one end of the transverse fixing tube (610); a transverse sliding groove (611) is provided above one end of the transverse fixing tube (610); The head fixing block (620) has a central air vent, and a sliding shaft (621) is provided on the outer surface of the head fixing block (620); the sliding shaft (621) is slidably installed in the transverse sliding groove (611) and is provided with a locking nut (622); A tightening bolt (630) is provided above one end of the transverse fixing cylinder (610); the lower end of the tightening bolt (630) is provided to rotate with the pressing plate (690); The transverse fixing cylinder (610) is provided with a fixing device (640); the fixing device (640) includes a fixing plate (641); both ends of the fixing plate (641) are provided with fixing rings (642) that match the transverse fixing cylinder (610); The fixing plate (641) is provided with a hinged joint (643); a connecting head (650) is hingedly connected to the hinged joint (643) via a locking bolt (670); a second locking nut (680) is provided at one end of the locking bolt (670); the connecting head (650) is detachably connected to the second telescopic bracket (410).

7. The animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to claim 6, characterized in that: The second connector (650) is rotatably connected to a first magnetic connector (660); A first magnetic joint (411) is provided at the lower end of the second telescopic bracket (410); the first magnetic joint (411) is detachably connected to the first magnetic joint (660).

8. The animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The detection bracket is rotatably engaged with the lower end of the first telescopic bracket (310) via a rotating sleeve (320), and a second locking bolt is provided on the rotating sleeve (320); One end of the horizontal support frame (530) is provided with a second magnetic joint, and the second magnetic joint is provided with a protrusion; one end of the detection bracket is provided with a second magnetic joint matching the second magnetic joint; the second magnetic joint is magnetically connected to the second magnetic joint.

9. The animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: A third magnetic head (112) is provided at one end of the transverse bracket (111); a clamp (771) is provided on the lower overflow pipe (710); a connecting frame (770) is provided on one side of the clamp (771); a third magnetic joint is provided on the connecting frame (770); a groove matching the third magnetic joint is provided on the third magnetic joint (112); the second magnetic joint is inserted into the third magnetic joint (112) and is magnetically connected to the third magnetic joint (112).

10. The animal limb measuring device with a multi-positioning structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sliding guide rail (130) is provided with a first linear drive device (800) for driving the first slider (300) to move, and a second linear drive device (900) for driving the second slider to move; the first linear drive device (800) and the second linear drive device (900) are both screw drive devices.

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