A telescopic adjustable quadrat
By designing a scalable and adjustable quadrature frame, the problems of inaccurate boundary control and inconvenience in carrying quadrature frames during field surveys were solved, achieving a stable, easy-to-operate, and efficient use of quadrature frames.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ANHUI UNIV
- Filing Date
- 2025-06-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-24
Smart Images

Figure CN224552733U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of ecological sampling devices, specifically a telescopic and adjustable sample frame. Background Technology
[0002] In ecological field surveys, quadrats are a fundamental tool for delineating study areas. Their size and application vary depending on the research objectives, ecosystem type, and biological groups. Small quadrats (typically 0.25–1 m) are used. 2 Due to their flexibility and efficiency, such as 50×50cm or 1×1m, they are widely used in scenarios that require high resolution or rapid sampling, such as surveys of the cover, density, and diversity of herbaceous plant communities (e.g., grasslands, tundra); distribution studies of small invertebrates (insects, soil animals); and short-term rapid assessment or high-precision sampling (e.g., urban green spaces, artificial lawns).
[0003] When the number of subjects being surveyed is small and the workload is not heavy, tools such as tape measures and measuring ropes are generally used to measure the distances, orientations, and four sides of the survey plot. In this case, it is not easy to accurately control the boundary lines and orientations, which can easily lead to incomplete quadrat boundary lines, irregular quadrats, inaccurate survey data, cumbersome operation, and low work efficiency.
[0004] When there are many subjects to be investigated and the workload is huge, the commonly used quadrats are fixed square iron or wooden frames, which are heavy, bulky, and costly, and are inconvenient to carry in the field. There are also detachable or foldable quadrats that are easy to carry, but they are inconvenient to assemble or disassemble, components are easy to lose, and irregular corners are easy to be damaged, thus affecting the efficiency of field investigation. Utility Model Content
[0005] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a template frame that is retractable and adjustable, structurally stable, easy to assemble and disassemble, and easy to carry.
[0006] The objective of this utility model can be achieved through the following technical solutions:
[0007] A telescopic adjustable template includes an outer tube, an inner tube, T-joints, and locking strips. The number of outer tubes, inner tubes, and T-joints is at least four. The inner tube is fitted inside the outer tube. The right end of the T-joint is connected to one end of the outer tube. The left end of the T-joint has a first locking groove and is fitted outside one end of the inner tube. One end of the inner tube has a second locking groove. The other end of the inner tube is connected to the bottom end of another T-joint. The other end of the outer tube is slidably connected to the inner tube and has a third locking groove. Multiple locking strips are included, with one end of each strip abutting into the second locking groove and the other end pressed against the inner tube.
[0008] In a further embodiment, the card strip is V-shaped and elastic, the V-shaped card strip is elastically connected inside the inner tube, and one end of the V-shaped card strip extends out of the second card slot for pressing the card strip.
[0009] In a further embodiment, the distance from the left end of the T-shaped connector to the bottom end of the T-shaped connector is greater than the minimum distance from the third slot to the other outer tube.
[0010] In a further design, the T-joint is sealed off at the end furthest from the inner tube.
[0011] In a further embodiment, multiple outer tubes, inner tubes, and T-joints are combined to form the sample frame.
[0012] In a further embodiment, the area adjustment range of the quadrat frame is 0.25m. 2 -1m 2 .
[0013] In a further embodiment, the right end of the T-shaped connector is interference-fitted with one end of the outer tube.
[0014] In a further embodiment, the inner tube and the outer tube, as well as the inner tube and the T-joint, are all clearance-fitted.
[0015] In a further embodiment, the outer wall of the inner tube is provided with graduations.
[0016] In a further embodiment, the outer tube, inner tube, and T-joint are made of plastic.
[0017] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:
[0018] This utility model features a telescopic connection between the outer and inner tubes, allowing for easy adjustment of the sample frame's area to match the sample area. The use of a snap-lock connection ensures the inner tube is easily fixed after telescopic movement, forming a stable structure. It also facilitates detachable connection with the outer tube and T-joint, making the sample frame easy to carry.
[0019] The T-shaped connector makes it easy to place and pick up the sample frame. The V-shaped elastic clip makes it easy to install inside the inner tube and automatically springs back into the second slot, facilitating the sliding of the inner tube. When it encounters the first and third slots, it pops out to achieve a detachable connection of the inner tube, making it easy to operate. Attached Figure Description
[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a stretchable and adjustable template in one embodiment;
[0022] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;
[0023] In the diagram: 1. Outer tube; 2. Inner tube; 3. T-joint; 4. Clip; 5. First slot; 6. Second slot; 7. Third slot. Detailed Implementation
[0024] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.
[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, a telescopic adjustable template includes an outer tube 1, an inner tube 2, a T-joint 3, and locking strips 4. The number of the outer tube 1, inner tube 2, and T-joint 3 is at least four. The inner tube 2 is fitted inside the outer tube 1. The right end of the T-shaped connector 3 is connected to one end of the outer tube 1. The left end of the T-shaped connector 3 is provided with a first locking groove 5 and is fitted outside one end of the inner tube 2. One end of the inner tube 2 is provided with a second locking groove 6. The other end of the inner tube 2 is connected to the bottom end of another T-joint 3. The other end of the outer tube 1 is slidably connected to the inner tube 2. The other end of the outer tube 1 is provided with a third locking groove 7. There are multiple locking strips 4. One end of the locking strip 4 abuts in the second locking groove 6, and the other end of the locking strip 4 is pressed against the inner tube 2.
[0026] Its working principle is as follows: an outer tube 1 and an inner tube 2 form a sliding connecting tube. The outer tube 1 and the inner tube 2 are further limited in their sliding positions by a retaining strip 4 and a third limiting groove on the outer tube 1. One end of this sliding connecting tube connects the inner tube 2 to the left end of the T-shaped connector 3 via the retaining strip 4. The other end of this sliding connecting tube connects the bottom end of another T-shaped connector via the outer tube 1. The connection method can be a fixed connection between the inner tube 2 and the bottom end of another T-shaped connector, or a detachable threaded connection or interference fit connection. The detachable connection method allows for further disassembly and assembly, facilitating replacement and carrying. Four or more outer tubes 1, inner tubes 2, and connectors are connected in the above manner to form a sample frame. Since the area of the sample frame is fixed and the structure is stable, the measurement unit can be obtained more quickly during the measurement and sampling process. Compared with measuring the area using dimensions, it is faster and more convenient in the field, and the measurement error is smaller. Pressing the clip 4 pulls out the inner tube 2 and clips it into the third slot 7 of the outer tube 1, which can realize the side length of the sample frame being magnified by 2 times and the area being magnified by 4 times.
[0027] Based on the above working principle, some embodiments or implementation structures are provided:
[0028] In some embodiments, the locking strip 4 is V-shaped and elastic. The V-shaped locking strip 4 is elastically connected inside the inner tube 2, and one end of the V-shaped locking strip 4 extends out of the second locking slot 6 for pressing the locking strip 4. In this way, the locking strip 4 can be pre-made inside the inner tube 2, which is convenient for carrying and assembly. Unlike ordinary locking strips 4, which need to be manually inserted and fastened to limit the position of the inner tube 2 when the second locking slot 6 corresponds to the first locking slot 5 and the third locking slot 7, the V-shaped elastic locking strip 4 can automatically pop out and fasten when the second locking slot 6 corresponds to the first locking slot 5 and the third locking slot 7, without affecting the sliding of the inner tube 2.
[0029] In some embodiments, the distance from the left end to the bottom end of the T-shaped connector is greater than the minimum distance from the third slot to the other outer tube. This allows the extended distance of the left end of the T-shaped connector to offset the backward scaling distance limited by the third slot position. This enables the sampling side length of the entire sample frame to double when the inner tube is stretched to its maximum position and the V-shaped elastic clip 4 is engaged in the third slot 7. Additionally, the T-shaped connector 3 facilitates holding the sample frame from all sides without requiring hands to be inserted into the sample frame, thus preventing sample area damage and sample collection disruption.
[0030] In some embodiments, the T-joint is closed off at the end away from the inner tube 2. This prevents the inner tube 2 from falling out.
[0031] In some embodiments, multiple outer tubes 1, inner tubes 2, and T-joints 3 are arranged to form the quadrature frame. Using a quadrature frame facilitates the counting of the sampling area. It is conceivable that other frames with specific area and shape could also be used, simply by converting the T-joints into corresponding connecting joints. However, in practice, quadrature frames are commonly used because their area is easy to calculate.
[0032] In some embodiments, the area adjustment range of the quadrat frame is 0.25m. 2 -1m 2 This area facilitates manual sampling.
[0033] In some embodiments, the right end of the T-shaped connector 3 is press-fitted to one end of the outer tube 1. This ensures a reliable connection to one end of the outer tube 1. It is conceivable that this press-fit could be a slight press-fit, as that would facilitate the disassembly of the T-shaped connector 3.
[0034] In some embodiments, the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 1, as well as the inner tube 2 and the T-joint 3, are all clearance-fitted.
[0035] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the inner tube 2 is provided with graduations. When the inner tube 2 is pulled out of the outer tube 1 and corresponds to the corresponding graduation, the corresponding area can be calculated or displayed for easy reading by the user. It is conceivable that the inner tube 2 and the outer tube 1 can be connected with a slight interference fit, such as by using a V-shaped elastic buckle to achieve frictional resistance, so that when the inner tube 2 is pulled out, it is in a relatively stable state with the outer tube 1, thus making it less likely for the inner tube 2 to fall out.
[0036] In some embodiments, the outer tube 1, inner tube 2, and T-connector 3 are plastic tubes. Plastic tubes are easy to connect and carry.
[0037] The method for using this spline box is as follows:
[0038] 1. 0.25m 2 Specifications: In the contracted state, both ends of the inner and outer tubes 1 are fully inserted into the T-type connector 3. The force applied by hand is used to tighten the insertion. The V-shaped elastic strip 4 inside the inner tube 2 coincides with the first limiting groove of the T-type connector 3. In this state, the sample frame structure is stable, and the size of the inner frame is exactly 50cm x 50cm.
[0039] 2.1m 2 Specifications: Pull the inner tube 2 outward until the V-shaped buckle coincides with the third slot 7 on the outer tube 1, and the sample frame is in a fully stretched and stable state. The size of the inner frame is exactly 100cm x 100cm.
[0040] 3. Other specifications: During the extension and retraction of the inner tube 2 along the outer tube 1, the presence of the V-shaped buckle creates a certain amount of friction, keeping the sample frame in a relatively stable state. By reading the scale on the tube wall, 0.25m can be obtained. 2-1m 2 A spline frame of arbitrary size within a given interval.
[0041] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this application described herein.
[0042] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "an embodiment," "example," "specific example," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0043] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of this utility model. Those skilled in the art should understand that this utility model is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely illustrative of the principles of this utility model. Various changes and modifications can be made to this utility model without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the claimed utility model.
Claims
1. A telescopically adjustable spline frame, characterized in that, The device includes an outer tube (1), an inner tube (2), a T-shaped connector (3), and a retaining strip (4). The number of the outer tube (1), inner tube (2), and T-shaped connector (3) is at least four. The inner tube (2) is fitted inside the outer tube (1). The right end of the T-shaped connector (3) is connected to one end of the outer tube (1). The left end of the T-shaped connector (3) is provided with a first retaining groove (5) and is fitted outside one end of the inner tube (2). One end of the inner tube (2) is provided with a second retaining groove (6). The other end of the inner tube (2) is connected to the bottom end of another T-shaped connector (3). The other end of the outer tube (1) is slidably connected to the inner tube (2). The other end of the outer tube (1) is provided with a third retaining groove (7). There are multiple retaining strips (4). One end of the retaining strip (4) abuts in the second retaining groove (6), and the other end of the retaining strip (4) is pressed against the inner tube (2).
2. The telescopic adjustable spline frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The card strip (4) is V-shaped and elastic. The V-shaped card strip (4) is elastically connected inside the inner tube (2), and one end of the V-shaped card strip (4) extends out of the second card groove (6) for pressing the card strip (4).
3. The telescopic adjustable spline frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The distance from the left end of the T-shaped connector (3) to the bottom end of the T-shaped connector is greater than the minimum distance from the third slot (7) to the other outer tube (1).
4. The telescopic adjustable spline frame according to claim 3, characterized in that, The T-shaped connector is closed off at the end away from the inner tube (2).
5. The telescopic adjustable spline frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple outer tubes (1), inner tubes (2), and T-joints (3) are combined to form the sample frame.
6. The telescopic adjustable spline frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The area adjustment range of the quadrat frame is 0.25m. 2 -1m 2 .
7. The telescopic adjustable spline frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The right end of the T-shaped connector (3) is interference-fitted with one end of the outer tube (1).
8. The telescopic adjustable spline frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner tube (2) and the outer tube (1), as well as the inner tube (2) and the T-joint (3), are all clearance-fitted.
9. A telescopic adjustable spline frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner tube (2) has graduations on its outer wall.
10. A telescopic adjustable spline frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer tube (1), inner tube (2) and T-type connector (3) are plastic tubes.