impact testing device and method for performing an impact test

Abstract

An impact testing device (1) comprising: A projectile guide (10) capable of guiding a projectile (60) in translation between at least a first projectile position and a second projectile position corresponding to an impact position; a detector (80) capable of determining that the projectile (60) occupies the second projectile position and of generating impact data representative of a determination by the detector that the projectile (60) occupies the second projectile position; an immobilization system (20) capable of immobilizing the projectile (60) in a third projectile position offset relative to the second projectile position, said third position corresponding to a projectile immobilization position;a control unit (90) capable of receiving, from the detector (80), said impact data generated by the detector (80), the control unit (90) being further capable of sending, to the immobilization system (20) and upon receipt of the impact data, control data in order to cause the immobilization system (20) to immobilize the projectile (60) in the third projectile position. Figure 2c;

Description

Title of the invention: impact testing device and method for carrying out an impact test Technical field

[0001] The invention, which belongs to the field of testing the robustness of objects, and in particular to that of testing the resistance to shocks and impacts of electronic devices, relates to an impact testing device having high reliability and high maneuverability and its operating method. Preamble

[0002] Products intended for commercialization must generally have a high degree of robustness and reliability, in order to guarantee their proper functioning over the long term, to enable them to achieve a satisfactory lifespan and to ensure consumer safety.

[0003] It is therefore necessary, before their marketing, to subject the products to different tests allowing their behavior to be evaluated in scenarios corresponding to normal operation or to more or less exceptional situations such as falls, shocks or even abnormal or inappropriate uses.

[0004] The testing phases of objects intended for marketing are therefore an integral part of their production process, and they generally take place after manufacturing, or even during different intermediate stages during manufacturing.

[0005] In particular, special attention must be paid to the reliability and safety of electrical and electronic devices. Indeed, these products, which include electronic components and circuits and which are intended to operate on battery power or by being connected to the mains, present additional risks and are likely to cause particularly significant damage in the event of shocks or misuse.

[0006] Indeed, significant falls or blows inflicted by means of heavy or blunt objects can not only damage or even render unusable an electrical or electronic device, by degrading its external appearance or some of its internal components, but also and above all cause significant electrical risks for users, or even the outbreak of fires or explosions.

[0007] For these reasons, electrical and electronic devices must generally undergo a battery of demanding and rigorous controls and tests before they can be marketed. In addition, the tests carried out on this type of device must comply with very specific rules and criteria in order to guarantee their reliability and the compliance of the tested devices with current standards and norms.

[0008] Among the tests to be carried out on electrical and electronic devices, impact tests, which make it possible to test the resistance of the casings of these devices to intentional or involuntary aggression, comply in particular with international standards IEC 60068-2-75 and IEC 62262. The production process for this type of product must therefore systematically and precisely include the various tests necessary for their certification with respect to these standards by guaranteeing their conformity to certain predefined resistance levels.

[0009] Impact tests generally consist of producing one or more impacts on a product to be tested, i.e. a target, by means of a projectile of a particular shape and of which the mass is known precisely.

[0010] In order to be able to certify the conformity of the tested products to the standards in force, it is also necessary to carry out impacts on the target in a controlled manner, that is to say that the manner in which and the precise number of times that the projectile impacts the target must correspond to certain well-defined criteria.

[0011] In particular, the speed reached by the projectile at the moment of impact, the trajectory of the projectile and the area of ​​the target struck by the projectile are parameters that must be monitored at all times.

[0012] Furthermore, when the projectile impacts the target for the first time, a rebound generally occurs, which means that the projectile is then likely to hit the target at least a second time in a completely uncontrolled manner. Such untimely impacts due to the rebound of the projectile on the target are undesirable as disruptive elements of the tests, and it is therefore appropriate to systematically avoid them.

[0013] While the importance of impact testing is obviously not in question, the inventors have noted that little attention has been paid, in the industry in general, to the usability, effectiveness and practicality of the tools and devices necessary for carrying out such impact tests.

[0014] Indeed, existing impact testing machines generally require the presence of at least two operators to carry out the tests, both for safety reasons and to ensure that the tests are carried out properly. This is not satisfactory and has a negative impact on team productivity.

[0015] Furthermore, some of the operations necessary for carrying out the tests, such as releasing the projectile or managing the rebound, are still carried out manually and are therefore likely to be disrupted by human errors or inaccuracies, which reduces the reliability of the tests and also creates significant risks for the safety of the operators.

[0016] Finally, the accuracy of existing impact testing machines is not satisfactory, since the management of the point of impact of the projectile on the target is approximate. This is problematic when the tests consist of impacting the target several times at the same precise location. Summary of the invention

[0017] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0018] In particular and according to a first aspect of the invention, the present application relates to an impact testing device capable of causing impacts on a target by means of a projectile, said device comprising:

[0019] - A projectile guide capable of guiding the projectile in translation between at least one first projectile position and a second projectile position corresponding to an impact position of the projectile on the target;

[0020] - a detector capable of determining that the projectile occupies the second position of projectile and generating impact data representative of a determination by the detector that the projectile occupies the second projectile position;

[0021] - an immobilization system capable of immobilizing the projectile in a third projectile position offset from the second projectile position;

[0022] - a control unit capable of receiving, from the detector, said data impact data generated by the detector, the control unit also being able to send, to the immobilization system and upon receipt of the impact data, control data in order to cause the immobilization system to immobilize the projectile in the third projectile position.

[0023] By virtue of the provisions of the invention, the control unit causes the immobilization system to immobilize the projectile after impact, during the rebound of the projectile, in a third projectile position corresponding to a projectile immobilization position. In this way, only one impact is caused on the target, and a second impact following the rebound of the projectile on the target is systematically avoided.

[0024] In addition, the third projectile position corresponding to the projectile immobilization position is offset, i.e. located at a distance, from the second projectile position. Thus, the projectile is not in contact with the target when it is immobilized, which allows the projectile to be released easily at a later date without the need to move or manipulate the target.

[0025] By automating the management of the rebound of the projectile on the target, the device of the invention also makes it possible to reduce the number of operators required to carry out an impact test, without impacting the safety or reliability of the tests. Automating the management of the rebound, by no longer using human resources to prevent the unwanted second impact, makes it possible to improve both the reliability than the safety of the tests, since a possible human failure is no longer an issue.

[0026] Thus, in addition to enabling a gain in productivity by reducing the human resources required to implement impact tests, the device of the invention not only enables the risks of accidents involving the device to be reduced and / or but also improves the integrity of the device.

[0027] According to one possibility, the target comprises an object whose robustness and / or impact resistance needs to be tested.

[0028] According to one possibility, the target comprises an object intended to be marketed.

[0029] According to one possibility, the target comprises an electronic device.

[0030] According to one possibility, the target comprises an electronic payment terminal or a ATM.

[0031] According to one possibility, the impact testing device comprises a target support capable of receiving at least one target to be tested.

[0032] According to one possibility, the target support is movable, and is in particular able to occupy at least a first target support position in which the target support is arranged close to the impact testing device, and at least a second target support position in which the target support is distant from the impact testing device.

[0033] According to one possibility, the at least one first target support position corresponds to a use position in which, when a target is actually received by the target support, the projectile impacts the target when it is in the second projectile position.

[0034] In other words, when a target is received by the target support in the use position, the projectile impacts the target when it reaches the second projectile position. It is also understood that, in this case, the at least one first projectile position is further from the target than the second projectile position.

[0035] According to one possibility, the device comprises a target support position adjustment system capable of modifying the target support position.

[0036] According to one possibility, the target support comprises a receptacle within which the target to be tested can be arranged.

[0037] According to one possibility, the guide is adapted to guide the projectile between a plurality of first target positions and the second projectile position.

[0038] According to one possibility, the projectile comprises a main body of substantially circular section having a constant diameter and extending along a longitudinal axis of the projectile.

[0039] According to one possibility, the projectile has a substantially cylindrical shape over at least part of its length along the longitudinal axis of the projectile.

[0040] According to one possibility, the projectile comprises at least one end having a domed shape.

[0041] According to one possibility, the projectile comprises at least one end having a dome shape.

[0042] According to one possibility, the projectile has a weight of between 1 and 20 kilograms (kg).

[0043] According to one possibility, the projectile has a weight of between 3 and 10 kg.

[0044] According to one possibility, the projectile weighs approximately 5 kg.

[0045] The control unit is capable of communicating with the detector, and can in particular receive data from the detector.

[0046] The control unit is also capable of communicating with the immobilizer system on the other hand, and can in particular send data, and in particular control data to an immobilizer system actuator.

[0047] According to one possibility, the control unit comprises a programmable controller.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the projectile guide is arranged to guide the projectile in translation between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position on a projectile trajectory, the third projectile position being arranged on said projectile trajectory between the first projectile position and the second projectile position.

[0049] According to the invention, the projectile is guided along the projectile trajectory between the first projectile position corresponding to an initial projectile position and the second projectile position corresponding to the impact position of the projectile on the target. After the impact, the projectile rebounds on the target and the projectile is then guided by the projectile guide along the projectile trajectory but in the opposite direction, i.e. towards the first projectile position corresponding to the initial projectile position.

[0050] According to the invention, at a time t0, the projectile leaves the at least one first projectile position. Then, the projectile moves along the projectile trajectory to the second projectile position corresponding to the impact position, which is reached by the projectile at time tb. The projectile then rebounds on the target and heads again towards the at least one first projectile position following the projectile trajectory, until reaching the third projectile position in which the projectile is immobilized at a time t2 by the immobilization system, and this before heading again towards the target. In this way, it is ensured that the projectile cannot, after the rebound, impact the target a second time.

[0051] Obviously, the time difference between the instant ti and the instant t2 is sufficiently short to prevent any risk of a second impact of the projectile on the target. In particular, said time difference is configurable, and is for example between 75 milliseconds and 125 milliseconds.

[0052] According to one possibility, the device comprises a projectile guide support adapted to maintain the projectile guide in at least one use position, i.e. a position in which the projectile guide is adapted to cause a projectile to move on the projectile trajectory between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position.

[0053] According to this possibility, the projectile guide is movably mounted on the projectile guide support, i.e. the projectile guide is movable and capable of occupying a plurality of operating positions while being held by the projectile guide support.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the projectile guide comprises a guide tube within which the projectile is able to move in translation on the projectile trajectory between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position.

[0055] According to one possibility, the guide tube is a hollow tube comprising a wall.

[0056] According to one possibility, the guide tube is hollow and has a circular section. whose diameter is slightly greater than the diameter of the projectile. Thus, the projectile is able to move within the guide tube without generating any friction on the internal surface of the wall of the guide tube. In addition, the guide tube extends along a longitudinal guide axis between a first guide tube end and a second guide tube end, and the second projectile position is located near the second guide tube end so that the projectile is still partly disposed inside the guide tube when the second projectile position is reached, i.e. the position in which the projectile impacts the target.

[0057] According to one possibility, the projectile trajectory is parallel to the longitudinal guide axis.

[0058] According to one possibility, the projectile guide support comprises a frame, and for example a rigid frame, capable of holding the guide tube in at least one position of use in which the guide tube is capable of guiding the projectile along the projectile trajectory between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position.

[0059] According to one possibility, the chassis comprises a platform capable of supporting the target support and at least one column capable in particular of supporting elements for holding the guide tube.

[0060] According to one possibility, the guide tube is movable, and the device comprises a guide tube position adjustment system capable of modifying the position of use occupied by the guide tube. According to this possibility, the guide tube is able to occupy a plurality of positions of use.

[0061] According to one possibility, the distance between the second end of the guide tube and the target arranged in the receptacle of the target support in the use position is substantially equal to 10 millimeters.

[0062] According to one possibility, the distance between the second end of the guide tube and the target arranged in the receptacle of the target support in the use position is substantially equal to 20 millimeters.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the projectile guide is capable of causing the projectile to perform a free fall in a substantially vertical direction between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position.

[0064] According to one possibility, the projectile guide comprises a hollow guide tube extending along a longitudinal guide axis, said hollow tube being held by the projectile guide support in a position of use in which the longitudinal guide axis is substantially perpendicular to the ground.

[0065] By floor is meant the substantially horizontal floor of a room in which the impact testing device is normally located. Thus, the projectile guide comprises a hollow guide tube held perpendicular to a horizontal floor so that the at least one first projectile position is further from the floor than the second projectile position corresponding to the impact position of the projectile on the target. In other words, the at least one first projectile position corresponds to a high position and the second projectile position to a low position, and when the projectile moves from the at least one first projectile position to the second projectile position, the projectile performs a free fall to the extent that the internal diameter of the hollow tube is at least slightly greater than the diameter of the projectile so as to prevent any friction.

[0066] Furthermore, the hollow guide tube comprises a first guide tube end remote from the ground, and a second guide tube end closer to the ground than the first guide tube end.

[0067] In this embodiment, the projectile moves via free fall between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position so as to impact the target at the second guide tube end. In other words, the second projectile position corresponding to the impact position is located proximate to the second guide tube end such that the projectile is still at least partially disposed within the guide tube when it impacts the target.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the detector comprises an impact detector capable of determining that the projectile impacts the target.

[0069] According to one possibility, the detector comprises a piezoelectric sensor, which is for example capable of detecting an electrical signal representative of a force generated by an impact of the projectile on the target.

[0070] According to one possibility, the detector comprises an amplification unit capable of amplifying the electrical signal representative of the force generated by the impact in order to facilitate its detection by the detector.

[0071] According to one possibility, the detector comprises a data generation system, which is in particular capable of generating the impact data representative of a determination by the detector that the projectile has impacted the target.

[0072] According to one possibility, the detector comprises a communication module capable of transmitting at least one piece of data to the control unit, and in particular the impact data signaling that the detector has determined that the projectile has impacted the target.

[0073] According to one possibility, the impact data generated by the detector is sent to the control unit within a very short, or even negligible, period of time following the instant during which the impact detection occurs.

[0074] In other words, the transmission of the signal representative of the determination of the impact by the detector is carried out in real time, which means that the control unit receives said signal immediately after the production of the impact of the projectile on the target.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the immobilization system is capable of occupying a release position in which the immobilization system releases the projectile, and an immobilization position in which the immobilization system immobilizes the projectile.

[0076] According to one possibility, the immobilization system is mounted on the projectile guide support, and for example on at least one of the columns of the frame of the projectile guide support.

[0077] According to one possibility, the immobilization system comprises at least one cylinder, and for example a pneumatic cylinder, which is capable of moving the immobilization system from the release position to the immobilization position, and vice versa. According to this possibility, the immobilization system comprises an immobilization system actuator capable of actuating the at least one cylinder so as to automatically move the immobilization system from the release position to the immobilization position and vice versa.

[0078] According to these provisions, the control unit is able to communicate with the immobilizer system actuator, and can in particular send data, and in particular control data, to the immobilizer system actuator so as to cause the latter to automatically move the immobilizer system from the release position to the immobilizer position and in- payment.

[0079] According to one possibility, the immobilization system comprises an immobilization element adapted to immobilize the projectile in the third projectile position when the immobilization system occupies the immobilization position. According to this possibility, the immobilization element contacts the projectile when the immobilization system occupies the immobilization position, and the immobilization element moves away from the projectile when the immobilization system occupies the release position.

[0080] According to this possibility, the wall of the guide tube comprises a first opening capable of allowing the immobilizing element of the immobilizing system to come into contact with the projectile in order to immobilize it when the immobilizing system occupies the immobilizing position. Thus, the immobilizing element is capable of moving through said first opening of the wall of the guide tube.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the device further comprises a blocking system 30 capable of immobilizing the projectile 60 in at least one first projectile position.

[0082] According to one possibility, the locking system 30 is mounted on the projectile guide support, and for example on at least one of the columns of the chassis of the projectile guide support. According to this possibility, the locking system is movable along the at least one of the columns of the chassis of the projectile guide support.

[0083] The blocking system is capable of occupying an unlocking position in which the blocking system releases the projectile, and a blocking position in which the blocking system immobilizes the projectile.

[0084] According to one possibility, the locking system comprises at least one cylinder, and for example a pneumatic cylinder, which is capable of moving the locking system from the unlocking position to the locking position, and vice versa. According to this possibility, the locking system comprises a locking system actuator capable of actuating the at least one cylinder so as to automatically move the locking system from the unlocking position to the locking position and vice versa.

[0085] According to these provisions, the control unit is able to communicate with the locking system actuator, and can in particular send data, and in particular control data, to the locking system actuator so as to cause the latter to automatically move the locking system from the unlocking position to the locking position and vice versa.

[0086] According to one possibility, the blocking system comprises a blocking element adapted to immobilize the projectile in the at least one first projectile position when the blocking system occupies the blocking position. According to this possibility, the blocking element comes into contact with the projectile when the blocking system occupies the blocking position, and the blocking element moves away from the projectile when the immobilization system occupies the unlocking position.

[0087] According to this possibility, the wall of the guide tube comprises at least one second opening capable of allowing the blocking element of the blocking system to come into contact with the projectile in order to immobilize it when the blocking system occupies the blocking position. Thus, the blocking element is capable of moving through the at least one second opening of the wall of the guide tube.

[0088] According to one possibility, the blocking system is mobile, and for example mobile in translation along a direction parallel to the projectile trajectory so as to be able to immobilize the projectile in a plurality of first projectile positions.

[0089] According to one possibility, the at least one second opening extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the projectile guide, between a first lower projectile position located at a minimum distance from the second projectile position, and a first upper projectile position located at a maximum distance from the second projectile position.

[0090] According to one possibility, the minimum distance is substantially equal to 200 millimeters, and the maximum distance is substantially equal to 600 millimeters.

[0091] According to another possibility, the wall of the guide tube comprises a plurality of second openings corresponding to the plurality of first projectile positions.

[0092] Thanks to these arrangements, with a single impact testing device according to the invention, it is possible to vary the distance between the first projectile position and the second projectile position, in order to be able to carry out different impact tests corresponding to different distances between the starting point of the projectile and the target.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the device further comprises a sighting system arranged so as to precisely establish a point of impact between the projectile and the target.

[0094] Thus, the device of the invention makes it possible to carry out impacts with very high precision and perfect control of the point of impact of the projectile on the target. This advantage notably implies the fact of being able to carry out several impacts in succession on the same area of ​​the target, in order in particular to test the resistance of the target to a repetition of identical impacts, that is to say all carried out at the same point of impact.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the aiming system comprises a laser aiming device comprising a laser pointer and a laser pointer holder.

[0096] According to this possibility, the laser aiming device is in particular capable of marking a point on a target corresponding to a point of impact of the projectile on the target.

[0097] According to one possibility, the laser pointer holder is adapted to hold the laser pointer in a use position in which the laser pointer is adapted to mark a point on a target placed on a target support in the use position.

[0098] According to a second aspect, the present application relates to a laser aiming device capable of marking a point on a target intended to be impacted by a projectile, at an impact point corresponding to the point marked by the laser aiming device, said projectile being capable of moving between at least a first projectile position and a second projectile position corresponding to an impact position within a projectile guide of an impact testing device.

[0099] According to one possibility, when the laser pointer occupies the use position, the laser aiming device is arranged close to the projectile guide, and in particular close to one end of the projectile guide.

[0100] According to one possibility, when the projectile guide of the impact testing device comprises a hollow guide tube, the laser pointer holder comprises a disc having a diameter at least equal to the diameter of the guide tube and a receptacle adapted to receive the laser pointer.

[0101] According to this possibility, when the laser pointer occupies the use position, the laser aiming device is arranged at the first end of the guide tube opposite the second end of the guide tube near which the second projectile position is located.

[0102] In particular, when the longitudinal axis of the hollow guide tube extends parallel to the vertical, the disc of the laser pointer holder is arranged on the guide tube, at the first guide tube end.

[0103] According to one possibility, the disc of the laser pointer support comprises at least one opening arranged so that, when the laser pointer occupies the position of use, an operator can observe through said at least one opening the point marked on the target by the laser pointer in operation.

[0104] According to a third aspect, the present application relates to a method for implementing an impact test using the impact test device previously described, said method comprising the following steps:

[0105] - A step of arranging a target on a target support occupying a position of use in which a projectile moving in the projectile guide of the impact testing device is capable of impacting the target disposed on the target support;

[0106] - A step of arranging a projectile in a first projectile position;

[0107] - A step of releasing the projectile so as to allow the projectile to move from the first projectile position to the second projectile position;

[0108] - A step of determining, by the detector of the impact testing device, that the projectile occupies the second projectile position corresponding to the impact position of the projectile on the target;

[0109] - A step of generation, by the detector, of impact data representative of the determination by the detector that the projectile occupies the second projectile position;

[0110] - A step of transmission, by the detector, of the impact data to the unit of impact test device control;

[0111] - A sending step, by the control unit and upon receipt of the impact data, of a control data to the immobilization system of the impact test device in order to cause the immobilization system to immobilize the projectile in a third projectile position offset from the second projectile position.

[0112] According to one possibility, the method of implementing an impact test comprises a step of arranging the locking system of the impact test device in a locking position in order to immobilize the projectile in the first projectile position.

[0113] According to one possibility, the step of releasing the projectile comprises a step of placing the locking system of the impact testing device in an unlocking position in order to release the projectile.

[0114] According to one possibility, the method of implementing an impact test comprises a step of arranging the target support in the use position, and a step of arranging a target on the target support in the use position.

[0115] According to one possibility, the method for implementing an impact test comprises a step of arranging the laser aiming device as described previously so that the laser pointer is in the position of use, that is to say in a position in which it is capable of marking an impact point on the target arranged on the target support in the position of use. Brief description of the figures

[0116] The invention will be better understood upon reading the detailed description, which is given below in relation to the figures, among which:

[0117] [Fig. 1a] represents a front view in longitudinal section of an impact testing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0118] [Fig. 1b] represents a longitudinal sectional profile view of the impact testing device of [Fig.1a];

[0119] [Fig.2a] represents a view of a lower part of the impact test device of the [Fig.1a], of a target, of an example of the production of a target support and of an example of the production of a projectile occupying a first projectile position;

[0120] [Fig.2b] represents a view of a lower part of the impact test device of the [Fig.1a], of the target, the target support and the projectile occupying the second projectile position or impact position;

[0121] [Fig.2c] represents a view of a lower part of the impact test device of the [Fig.1a], of the target, the target support and the projectile occupying the third projectile position;

[0122] [Fig.3a] represents a perspective view of a sighting system according to an example of realization;

[0123] [Fig.3b] represents a perspective view of the aiming system of [Fig.3a] occupying a use position, the laser sight pointer support being arranged at the first end of the guide tube;

[0124] [Fig.3c] represents a perspective view of what an operator sees looking at the through one of the openings in the aiming pointer holder;

[0125] [Fig.4] represents a perspective view of the impact test device according to the embodiment of [Fig.1a] and the aiming system in the position of use;

[0126] [Fig.5] schematically represents the electronic elements in common Layout of the impact test device according to the embodiment example of [Fig. 1a]. Detailed description

[0127] The impact testing device 1, which is capable of causing impacts on the target 70 by means of the projectile 60, comprises a projectile guide 10 capable of guiding the projectile 60 in translation between at least a first projectile position, which is visible in [Fig.2a], and a second projectile position, visible in [Fig.2b], corresponding to an impact position of the projectile 60 on the target 70.

[0128] The impact testing device 1 comprises a detector 80, shown schematically in [Fig.5], which is capable of determining that the projectile 60 occupies the second projectile position and of generating impact data representative of a determination by the detector 80 that the projectile 60 occupies the second projectile position.

[0129] The impact test device 1 also comprises an immobilization system 20 capable of immobilizing the projectile 60 in a third projectile position offset relative to the second projectile position, said third projectile position being visible in [Fig.2c].

[0130] The impact testing device 1 also comprises a control unit 90 shown schematically in [Fig. 5], which is capable of receiving, from the detector 80, said impact data generated by the detector 80, the control unit 90 being further capable of sending, to the immobilization system 20 and upon receipt of the impact data, a control data item in order to cause the immobilization system 20 to immobilize the projectile 60 in the third projectile position visible in [Fig. 2c].

[0131] As shown in Figures 2a to 2c in particular, the projectile 60 comprises a main body of substantially circular section and constant diameter and extends along a longitudinal projectile axis. In addition, the projectile 60 has a substantially cylindrical shape over most of its length, and comprises an end having a domed shape.

[0132] As shown in [Fig.2b], the projectile impacts the target at its end having a domed shape.

[0133] As shown in Figures 2a to 2c, the target 70 is arranged on a target support 71, and in particular on a receptacle 72 of the target support 71 in the use position, that is to say occupying a position in which the projectile 60 impacts the target 70 arranged within the receptacle 72 when the projectile occupies the second projectile position.

[0134] As shown in [Fig.5], the control unit 90 is able to communicate with the detector 80, and can in particular receive data from the detector.

[0135] The control unit 90 is also capable of communicating with the immobilization system 20, and in particular with an immobilization system actuator 23, and can in particular send data, and in particular control data to said immobilization system actuator 23.

[0136] The projectile guide 10 is arranged to guide the projectile 60 in translation between at least the first projectile position corresponding to the initial position of the projectile visible in [Fig.2a] and the second projectile position corresponding to the impact position visible in [Fig.2b] on a projectile trajectory on which the third projectile position visible in [Fig.2c] is arranged. Thus, the third projectile position is located between the first projectile position and the second projectile position.

[0137] Indeed, after the impact corresponding to the second projectile position visible in [Fig.2b], the projectile 60 rebounds on the target 70 and is then guided by the projectile guide 10 along the projectile trajectory but in the opposite direction, i.e. towards the first projectile position or initial position of the projectile.

[0138] It is understood that if the projectile reaches the second projectile position or impact position at a time tb, the time t2 at which the immobilization system 20 immobilizes the projectile in the third projectile position is sufficiently close to ti so that any risk of a second impact of the projectile 60 on the target 70 is avoided.

[0139] The impact testing device 1 comprises a projectile guide support adapted to hold the projectile guide 10 in a use position, i.e. a position in which the projectile guide 10 is adapted to cause a projectile to move on the projectile trajectory between the at least one first position of projectile and the second projectile position.

[0140] The projectile guide 10 comprises a guide tube 11 within which the projectile 60 is able to move in translation on the projectile trajectory between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position.

[0141] The guide tube 11 is a hollow tube comprising a wall and having a circular section whose diameter is slightly greater than the diameter of the projectile 60. Thus, the projectile 60 is able to move within the guide tube 11 without generating any friction on the internal surface of the wall of the guide tube.

[0142] In addition, the guide tube 11 extends along a longitudinal guide axis between a first guide tube end 14 and a second guide tube end 15, and the second projectile position is located near the second guide tube end 15 such that the projectile 60 is still partly disposed inside the guide tube 11 when the second projectile position is reached, i.e. the position in which the projectile 60 impacts the target 70.

[0143] Indeed, as can be seen in [Fig.2b], only the end of the projectile 60 having a domed shape is located outside the guide tube 11 when the projectile occupies the second projectile position.

[0144] As can be seen in Figures 2a and 2b in particular, the projectile trajectory is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guide.

[0145] The projectile guide support comprises a rigid frame 50 capable of holding the guide tube in a use position in which the guide tube 11 is held in a use position in which the longitudinal guide axis is substantially perpendicular to the ground. In this way, the guide tube 11 is capable of causing the projectile 60 to perform a free fall in a substantially vertical direction between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position.

[0146] As can be seen in [Fig. 4], the chassis 50 comprises a platform capable of supporting the target support 71, four columns capable in particular of supporting elements for holding the guide tube 11, and a support element capable of supporting a housing 55 in which the control unit 90 is arranged in particular.

[0147] The detector 80 comprises an impact detector capable of determining that the projectile impacts the target and a communication module capable of transmitting in real time to the control unit 90 the impact data signaling that the detector 80 has determined that the projectile 60 has impacted the target 70.

[0148] The immobilization system 20 is capable of occupying a release position, visible in FIGS. 2a and 2b, in which the immobilization system releases the projectile, and an immobilization position, visible in [Fig.2c], in which the immobilization system immobilizes the projectile.

[0149] As can be seen in Figures 2a to 2c, the immobilization system 20 is mounted on the chassis 50, and in particular on one of the four columns of the chassis 50 and comprises a system of jacks comprising three jacks 22 capable of moving the immobilization system 20 from the release position visible in Figures 2a and 2b to the immobilization position visible in [Fig.2c], and vice versa.

[0150] The immobilization system comprises an immobilization system actuator 23, shown schematically in [Fig.5], capable of actuating the three cylinders 22 so as to automatically move the immobilization system 20 from the release position to the immobilization position and vice versa.

[0151] As shown schematically in [Fig.5], the control system 90 of the impact test device 1 is capable of sending control data to the immobilization system actuator 23 so as to cause the latter to automatically move the immobilization system 20 from the release position to the immobilization position and vice versa.

[0152] As can be seen in Figures 2a to 2c, the immobilization system 20 comprises an immobilization element 21 capable of immobilizing the projectile 60 in the third projectile position when the immobilization system 20 occupies the visible immobilization position. As shown in [Fig.2c], the immobilization element 21 comes into contact with the projectile when the immobilization system 20 occupies the immobilization position.

[0153] As shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the immobilizing element 21 is moved away from the projectile 60 when the immobilizing system 20 occupies the release position, that is to say in particular that the immobilizing element 21 is no longer in contact with the projectile 60 when the immobilizing system 20 occupies the release position.

[0154] To allow the immobilizing element 21 to come into contact with the projectile 60 to immobilize it when the immobilizing system 20 occupies the immobilizing position visible in [Fig.2c], the wall of the guide tube 11 comprises a first opening 12.

[0155] The immobilizing element 21 is able to move through said first opening 12 of the wall of the guide tube 11.

[0156] The impact test device 11 further comprises a blocking system 30 capable of immobilizing the projectile 60 in the first projectile position as can be seen in particular in [Fig.2a].

[0157] The locking system 30 is mounted on the chassis 50, and in particular on one of the four columns of the chassis 50.

[0158] The blocking system 30 is capable of occupying an unlocking position, visible in Figures 2b and 2c, in which the blocking system 30 releases the projectile 60, and a blocking position, visible in [Fig.2a], in which the blocking system 30 immobilizes the projectile 60.

[0159] The locking system comprises a cylinder system comprising three cylinders 32 capable of moving the locking system 30 from the unlocking position to the locking position, and vice versa.

[0160] The locking system 30 comprises a locking system actuator 33, shown schematically in [Fig.5], capable of actuating said three cylinders 32 so as to automatically move the locking system 30 from the unlocking position to the locking position and vice versa.

[0161] As shown in [Fig.5], the control unit 90 is capable of sending control data to the locking system actuator 33 so as to cause the latter to automatically move the locking system 30 from the unlocking position to the locking position and vice versa.

[0162] As visible in Figures 2a to 2c, the blocking system 30 comprises a blocking element 31 capable of immobilizing the projectile 60 in the at least one first projectile position when the blocking system 30 occupies the blocking position.

[0163] As particularly visible in [Fig.2a], the blocking element 31 comes into contact with the projectile 60 so as to form a stop and to immobilize the projectile 60 when the blocking system 30 occupies the blocking position.

[0164] As visible in figures 2b and 2c, the blocking element 31 is moved away from the projectile when the immobilization system 30 occupies the unlocking position.

[0165] The wall of the guide tube 11 comprises a second opening 13 capable of allowing the blocking element 31 of the blocking system 30 to come into contact with the projectile 60 when the blocking system 30 occupies the blocking position.

[0166] The locking element 31 is able to move through the second opening 13 of the wall of the guide tube 11.

[0167] It is noted that [Fig.2a] represents the projectile 60 in a first possible projectile position among a plurality of first projectile positions that the projectile 60 can occupy. In fact, the blocking system 30 is movable in translation along a direction parallel to the projectile trajectory so as to be able to immobilize the projectile in a plurality of first projectile positions.

[0168] Thus, the second opening 13 extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal guide axis of the guide tube 11, between a first lower projectile position located at a minimum distance from the second projectile position, and a first upper projectile position located at a maximum distance from the second projectile position.

[0169] The impact testing device 1 also comprises a sighting system 40 arranged so as to precisely establish a point of impact between the projectile 60 and the target 70.

[0170] The aiming system 40 comprises a laser aiming device 40 capable of marking a point on a target corresponding to a point of impact of the projectile 60 on the target 70, which is in particular visible in [Fig.3c].

[0171] As shown in [Fig.3a], the laser aiming device comprises a laser pointer 41 and a laser pointer holder 42 adapted to hold the laser pointer 41 in a use position in which the laser pointer is adapted to mark a point on a target arranged on a target holder in the use position, which is particularly visible in [Fig.3c].

[0172] The laser pointer holder 42 comprises a disc having an external diameter slightly greater than the diameter of the guide tube 11 and a receptacle capable of receiving the laser pointer 4L

[0173] Thus and as shown in [Fig.3b] and in [Fig.4], the disc of the laser pointer support 42 is able to be arranged on the guide tube 11, at the first end 14 of the guide tube 11. In this way, when the laser pointer 41 is arranged in the receptacle of the laser pointer support 42 thus arranged on the guide tube, the laser pointer 41 is in a position of use in which it is able to mark an impact point on the target 70.

[0174] The laser pointer support 42 comprises four openings arranged so that, when the laser pointer occupies the position of use, an operator can observe through at least one of said four openings the point marked on the target by the laser pointer in operation. This is notably visible in [Fig.3c].

[0175] The main steps of a method for implementing an impact test carried out using the impact test device 1 are now described in relation to FIGS. 2a to 2c.

[0176] In [Fig.2a], the target 70 is arranged within the receptacle 72 of the target support 71, which occupies a use position in which the projectile 60 moving in the projectile guide 11 of the impact testing device 1 is able to impact the target 70 arranged on the target support 72. In addition, the projectile 60 is arranged in a first projectile position and the blocking system 30 occupies the blocking position in which the blocking element 31 immobilizes the projectile 60 in said first projectile position. As shown in [Fig. 4], the laser aiming device is arranged on the guide tube 11, at the first end of the guide tube 14 so that the laser pointer 41 is in the use position, i.e. the position in which it is able to mark an impact point on the target 70 arranged on the target support 71 in the use position.

[0177] At time to, the locking system 30 is then caused to move from the position of blocking visible in [Fig.2a] to the unlocking position visible in [Fig.2b], which causes the projectile 60 to be released and move towards the second projectile position, the direction of movement of the projectile 60 being visible in [Fig.2b] by means of the vertical arrow.

[0178] In [Fig.2b], the projectile 60 reaches the second projectile position at time ti and impacts the target 70 at the point of impact previously determined by the laser pointer 41. The detector 80 of the impact testing device 1 then determines that the projectile 60 occupies the second projectile position corresponding to the impact position of the projectile 60 on the target 70, and generates an impact datum representative of the determination by the detector 80 that the projectile 60 occupies the second projectile position.The detector 80 then transmits the impact data to the control unit 90 of the impact testing device 1, and the control unit 90 sends control data to the immobilization system 20 of the impact testing device 1 in order to cause the immobilization system 20, at time t2, to immobilize the projectile 60 in a third projectile position offset relative to the second projectile position as shown in [Fig.2c].

[0179] The invention is obviously not limited to the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures and encompasses all the variant embodiments conceivable for those skilled in the art upon reading the present patent application.

[0180] In particular, the impact testing device shown in the figures may naturally take other shapes or configurations without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, both the frame and the projectile guide of the impact testing device shown may naturally have a different size, dimensions and configuration.

[0181] Likewise, both the projectile and the target support shown are only examples of embodiments among others, and the target support in particular may have other shapes and other dimensions.

[0182] Similarly, the immobilization system and the blocking system as shown in Figures 2a to 2c are only examples of embodiment and other systems, capable respectively of immobilizing the projectile in the third projectile position and of blocking the projectile in the first projectile position, are obviously possible and usable without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0183] Finally, the laser aiming device shown in Figures 3a to 3c is only one example of an embodiment of a aiming system according to the invention. Other types of aiming system, and in particular other types of laser aiming devices, are obviously conceivable by those skilled in the art.

Claims

Claims

1. An impact testing device (1) capable of causing impacts on a target (70) by means of a projectile (60), said device comprising: - A projectile guide (10) capable of guiding the projectile (60) in translation between at least a first projectile position and a second projectile position corresponding to an impact position of the projectile (60) on the target (70); - a detector (80) capable of determining that the projectile (60) occupies the second projectile position and of generating impact data representative of a determination by the detector (80) that the projectile (60) occupies the second projectile position; - an immobilization system (20) capable of immobilizing the projectile (60) in a third projectile position offset relative to the second projectile position;- a control unit (90) capable of receiving, from the detector (80), said impact data generated by the detector (80), the control unit (90) being further capable of sending, to the immobilization system (20) and upon receipt of the impact data, control data in order to cause the immobilization system (20) to immobilize the projectile (60) in the third projectile position.;

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the projectile guide (10) is arranged to guide the projectile (60) in translation between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position on a projectile trajectory, the third projectile position being arranged on said projectile trajectory between the first projectile position and the second projectile position.

3. Device (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the projectile guide (10) comprises a guide tube (11) within which the projectile (60) is adapted to move in translation on the projectile trajectory between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position.

4. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the projectile guide (10) is capable of causing the projectile (60) to perform a free fall in a substantially vertical direction between the at least one first projectile position and the second projectile position.

5. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the detector (80) comprises an impact detector capable of determining that the projectile (60) impacts the target (70).

6. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the immobilization system (20) is capable of occupying a release position in which the immobilization system (20) releases the projectile (60), and an immobilization position in which the immobilization system (20) immobilizes the projectile (60).

7. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, which further comprises a blocking system (30) capable of immobilizing the projectile (60) in the at least one first projectile position.

8. Device (1) according to claim 6, wherein the blocking system (30) is capable of occupying an unlocking position in which the blocking system (30) releases the projectile (60), and a blocking position in which the blocking system (30) immobilizes the projectile (60).

9. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an aiming system (40) arranged so as to precisely establish a point of impact between the projectile (60) and the target (70).

10. A device (1) according to claim 9, wherein the aiming system (40) comprises a laser aiming device comprising a laser pointer and a laser pointer holder.

11. A method of carrying out an impact test by means of the impact test device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, said method comprising the following steps: - A step of arranging a target (70) on a target support (71) occupying a use position in which a projectile (60) moving in the projectile guide (10) of the impact test device is capable of impacting the target (70) arranged on the target support (71); - A step of arranging a projectile (60) in a first projectile position; - A step of releasing the projectile (60) so as to allow the projectile (60) to move from the first projectile position to the second projectile position; A step of determining, by the detector (80) of the impact testing device (1), that the projectile (60) occupies the second projectile position corresponding to the impact position of the projectile (60) on the target (70); A step of generating, by the detector (80), an impact datum representative of the determination by the detector (80) that the projectile (60) occupies the second projectile position; A step of transmission, by the detector (80), of the impact data to the control unit (90) of the impact testing device (1); A step of sending, by the control unit (90) and upon receipt of the impact data, a control data item to the immobilization system (20) of the impact testing device (1) in order to cause the immobilization system (20) to immobilize the projectile (60) in a third projectile position offset relative to the second projectile position.

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