Lubricant photography aids

Abstract

To provide an auxiliary tool for photographing lubricating oil that is easy to maintain. [Solution] The lubricant photographing aid 100 of the present disclosure includes a light source (LED 5) that emits light in a first direction X1, a cylindrical annular portion 2 in which the light source is disposed, a sample storage portion 3 that is disposed in the first direction X1 relative to the light source and has an internal space 39 formed therein for introducing lubricant 300, and a lens module 4 that is disposed in the first direction X1 relative to the sample storage portion 3. The sample storage portion 3 is supported by the annular portion 2. The lens module 4 is supported by the annular portion 2 or the sample storage portion 3, and at least one of the annular portion 2, the sample storage portion 3, and the lens module 4 is separable.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aid for photographing lubricants. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, there has been active research into diagnostic methods for diagnosing the degree of deterioration of lubricating oil from its color. For example, in the diagnostic method described in Patent Document 1, the lubricating oil is first photographed with a photographing device such as a digital camera to obtain image data of the lubricating oil. Next, RGB values ​​(sometimes called color codes) that indicate the color of the lubricating oil are extracted from the image data. The extracted RGB values ​​are then compared with the recorded RGB values ​​of the lubricating oil to determine the degree of deterioration.

[0003] Non-Patent Document 1 below proposes a lubricant photography aid for determining the degree of lubricant deterioration on-site without having to remove the lubricant from the site where the machine or the like is installed. The lubricant photography aid includes a sample storage section into which the lubricant is introduced, an LED that emits light from below the bottom wall of the sample storage section, and an annular section that surrounds the LED and supports the sample storage section. Multiple LEDs are also provided, emitting light to the entire bottom wall of the sample storage section. This makes the intensity of light transmitted through the center of the lubricant and the intensity of light transmitted through the edge of the lubricant uniform, eliminating uneven light intensity. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2020 / 0203995 [Non-patent literature]

[0005] [Non-Patent Document 1] Authors: Hideya Nakamura, Tomoki Honda, Tomohiko Ima, Genki Okuyama, Hiroki Sekiguchi, Masahiro Kobessho Title: "Development of a lubricant imaging device for creating a deterioration diagnosis technology using color by lubricant image analysis method" Publication name: Design Engineering Publisher: Japan Design Engineering Publication date: Published on October 5, 2023 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, if lubricating oil adheres to the auxiliary tool for photographing lubricating oil, it needs to be cleaned. Thus, the auxiliary tool for photographing lubricating oil needs to be easy to maintain. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present disclosure provides an auxiliary tool for photographing lubricant oil that is easy to maintain. Specific aspects of the present disclosure are as follows [1] to

[10] . [1] a light source that emits light in a first direction; a cylindrical annular portion in which the light source is disposed; a sample storage unit disposed in the first direction relative to the light source and having an internal space for introducing lubricating oil therein; a lens module disposed in the first direction relative to the sample storage unit; and the sample storage unit is supported by the annular portion; the lens module is supported by the annular portion or the sample storage portion; At least one of the annular portion, the sample storage portion, and the lens module is separable. Auxiliary tool for photographing lubricants. [2] The lens module is supported so as to be separable from the annular portion or the sample storage portion. [1] An auxiliary tool for photographing lubricants. [3] the sample storage unit is detachably supported by the annular portion; the lens module is detachably supported in the sample storage section; [1] An auxiliary tool for photographing lubricants. [4] The lens module comprises: Lenses and a frame portion that supports the lens; and The lens and the frame are separable. [1] to [3]. A lubricant photography aid according to any one of the items. [5] a surface of the lens module in the first direction serves as a seating surface against which an image capturing device abuts; a support member that is in contact with the imaging device from a second direction opposite to the first direction; The support and the imaging device placed on the seat are perpendicular to the first direction. [1] An auxiliary tool for photographing lubricants. [6] a surface of the lens module in the first direction serves as a seating surface against which an image capturing device abuts; a support base that abuts against the imaging device from a second direction opposite to the first direction; The support base is movable in the first direction or the second direction, and the seat and the imaging device placed on the support base are perpendicular to the first direction. [1] An auxiliary tool for photographing lubricants. [7] a surface of the lens module in the first direction serves as a seating surface against which an image capturing device abuts; a support base that abuts against the imaging device from a second direction opposite to the first direction; the support base has a positioning portion that abuts against a side surface of the imaging device, The positioning portion is movable in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. [1] or [6]. A lubricant photography aid. [8] a base disposed in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the light source and supporting the light source; The light source is an LED [1] to [3]. A lubricant photography aid according to any one of the items. [9] A regulator is provided to adjust the voltage value of the power supplied to the light source to a predetermined value. [1] to [3]. A lubricant photography aid according to any one of the items.

[10] It has a connector for connecting to an external power source. [1] to [3]. A lubricant photography aid according to any one of the items. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the lubricant oil photographing auxiliary device of the present disclosure, at least one of the annular portion, the sample storage portion, and the lens module is separable, which makes maintenance easier than when the annular portion, the sample storage portion, and the lens module are inseparable. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the lubricant oil photographing aid of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. [Figure 3] 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the sample storage section taken along line IV-IV in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the sample storage unit and the lens module of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the sample storage unit and the LED according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a diffusion plate according to the first modification. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a diffusion plate according to the second modification. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a diffusion plate according to the third modification. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a diffusion plate according to the fourth modification. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the auxiliary tool for photographing lubricant oil according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the lubricant oil photographing aid of the third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a lubricant oil photographing aid according to the fifth modification. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a lubricant oil photographing aid according to the sixth modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The lubricant photography aid of the present disclosure will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below. In addition, in this disclosure, the term "to" in describing a numerical value indicates a value equal to or greater than the lower limit and equal to or less than the upper limit.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a lubricant oil photographing aid 100 of embodiment 1. The lubricant oil photographing aid 100 in Fig. 1 is also a cross-sectional view of a state in which a lubricant oil 300 is being photographed by an imaging device 200. As shown in Fig. 1, the lubricant oil photographing aid 100 has a base 1, an annular portion 2, a sample storage portion 3, and a lens module 4, which are stacked in this order on a surface 101.

[0012] First, a brief description of how to use the lubricant photography aid 100 and the degradation assessment method will be given. A predetermined amount of lubricant 300 is introduced into the sample storage unit 3. The photography device 200 is placed above the lubricant photography aid 100, and the lubricant 300 is photographed from above. The RGB values ​​of the lubricant 300 are then extracted from the image data. The RGB values ​​are extracted from multiple locations, such as the center and edges of the lubricant 300. The average values ​​of the R, G, and B values ​​extracted from the multiple locations are then calculated. The average R, G, and B values ​​are then compared with the R, G, and B values ​​of test data previously tested and recorded to assess the degree of degradation.

[0013] Furthermore, if the surface 101 is tilted, the lubricant photography aid 100 will also be tilted, resulting in different depths at the center and ends of the lubricant 300. In other words, the optical path length of light transmitted through the center of the lubricant 300 will be different from the optical path length of light transmitted through the ends, making it impossible to obtain accurate RGB values. For these reasons, it is preferable that the surface 101 be a horizontal surface. However, the lubricant photography aid 100 of the present disclosure may be placed on a slightly tilted surface, and there is no particular limitation.

[0014] Next, each component of the lubricant oil photographing aid 100 will be described. Note that when describing the orientation of each component, the surface 101 is assumed to be a horizontal surface, and the lubricant oil photographing aid 100 is placed on the surface 101 as a reference. However, in this embodiment, upward may be referred to as the first direction X1, and the direction opposite to the first direction X may be referred to as the second direction X2. Additionally, although the photographing device 200 in this embodiment is a smartphone 201, the type of photographing device 200 is not particularly important as long as it can create image data.

[0015] The base 1 has a base main body 10 and a bottom wall 11 arranged below the base main body 10. The base main body 10 has a side wall portion 12 that opens in the vertical direction, and an upper wall 13 that closes the upper opening of the side wall portion 12. The bottom wall 11 closes the lower part of the side wall portion 12. The base main body 10 and the bottom wall 11 are integrated by adhesive bonding. As a result, a storage space 14 is formed inside the base 1.

[0016] A light source is provided on the upper surface 13a of the upper wall 13 of the base 1. In this embodiment, an LED 5 is used as the light source. Note that in this embodiment, there is one LED 5. Wiring (not shown) that supplies power to the LED 5 passes through the upper wall 13 and extends into the accommodation space 14.

[0017] A connector 6, a regulator 7, and a switch 8 are provided in the housing space 14 of the base 1. The connector 6 is for connecting wiring (not shown) of the LED 5 to an external power source. In this embodiment, the connector 6 is provided as a receptacle 6A. Therefore, by inserting a plug 203 of a cable 202 connected to the smartphone 201 into the receptacle 6A, power is supplied from the smartphone 201 to the LED 5.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. 1. The horizontal cross-section of the side wall 12 is octagonal. That is, the side wall 12 has eight flat side walls 12a. Therefore, even if the base 1 (side wall 12) is touched with a hand that has lubricant 300 on it, the base 1 (side wall 12) is unlikely to slip. This prevents the base 1 (or the lubricant photography auxiliary device 100) from being dropped. The side wall 12 also has a through-hole 12b formed therein for releasing the receptacle 6A to the outside. The circumferential size of the through-hole 12b is equal to the circumferential size of the side wall 12a. The receptacle 6A is exposed to the outside through the through-hole 12b.

[0019] If side wall portion 12 were formed cylindrically (see imaginary line K1 in FIG. 2), the outer peripheral surface of side wall portion 12 would protrude outward beyond receptacle 6A. This could cause plug 203 to come into contact with side wall portion 12 and prevent it from being inserted into receptacle 6A. In contrast, in this embodiment, plug 203 does not come into contact with side wall portion 12, so plug 203 can be reliably inserted into receptacle 6A.

[0020] The regulator 7 is for adjusting the voltage value of the power supplied to the LED 5 to a predetermined value. If the regulator 7 were not provided, when the smartphone 201 is low in charge, the voltage value of the power supplied to the LED 5 would be reduced, and the intensity of the light emitted from the LED 5 would also be reduced. Therefore, in this embodiment, the voltage value of the power supplied to the LED 5 would be constant, and the intensity of the light emitted from the LED would be constant.

[0021] The switch 8 opens and closes the wiring of the LED 5. This allows the power supply to the LED 5 to be started or stopped without operating the smartphone 201.

[0022] The annular portion 2 is a component that opens in the vertical direction and surrounds the LED 5. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the cross-sectional shape of the outer peripheral surface 20 of the annular portion 2 taken horizontally is octagonal. On the other hand, the cross-sectional shape of the inner peripheral surface 21 of the annular portion 2 taken horizontally is circular. And, as shown in FIG. 1, a female thread 22 is formed at the upper end of the inner peripheral surface 21.

[0023] The lower end of the annular portion 2 is adhered to the upper surface 13a of the upper wall 13. It is preferable to adhere the annular portion 2 after fixing the LED 5 to the upper surface 13a. If the annular portion 2 is fixed to the upper surface 13a, it is necessary to insert the LED 5 from the upper opening of the annular portion 2 and fix the LED 5 to the upper surface 13a, which reduces work efficiency during assembly.

[0024] In this embodiment, the annular portion 2 is manufactured separately from the base 1 (base main body 10) and integrated by bonding, but the present disclosure also provides that the annular portion 2 and the base 1 (base main body 10) may be manufactured integrally.

[0025] The internal space of the annular portion 2 is the path of light emitted from the LED 5. Therefore, in order to suppress reflection of light, it is preferable that the inner circumferential surface 21 of the annular portion 2 is a color that easily absorbs light, such as black.

[0026] The sample storage section 3 includes a container 30 into which lubricating oil 300 is introduced, a flange 31 that protrudes outward from the outer circumferential surface of the container 30, and a fixing section 32 that protrudes upward from the flange 31.

[0027] The container 30 is formed in a cylindrical shape and is open in the vertical direction. The container 30 is provided with a diffusion plate 9 that closes the opening on the lower side of the container 30. In other words, the diffusion plate 9 forms the bottom wall of the container 30. The diffusion plate 9 has a diameter of about 30 mm. The diffusion plate 9 is made of an oil-resistant resin material, such as an epoxy resin.

[0028] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the sample storage unit 3 taken along line IV-IV in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 4, the cross-sectional shapes of the outer peripheral surface 30a and the inner peripheral surface 30b of the container 30 taken horizontally are both circular. Hereinafter, the centers of the outer peripheral surface 30a and the inner peripheral surface 30b will be referred to as center O.

[0029] 1, the outer diameter of the container 30 is smaller than the inner diameter of the annular portion 2. The container 30 is housed inside the annular portion 2. The flange 31 protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 30a of the container 30 and abuts against the upper end of the annular portion 2.

[0030] A male thread 35 (see also FIG. 4) that screws into the female thread 22 is formed on the outer peripheral surface 30a of the container 30. Therefore, when the sample storage section 3 is rotated around the center O, the sample storage section 3 is separated from the annular section 2.

[0031] 4, the diffusion plate 9 is formed in a circular shape when viewed from above and below. The diameter of the diffusion plate 9 is larger than the inner diameter of the container 30 and smaller than the outer diameter of the container 30. An end 9a of the diffusion plate 9 is adhered to the lower end of the container 30.

[0032] 1, the diffusion plate 9 is interposed between the internal space (lubricant 300) and the LED 5. Therefore, the light emitted from the LED 5 is diffused by the diffusion plate 9 and then enters the lubricant 300. The diffusion plate 9 will be described in detail later.

[0033] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the sample storage unit 3 and the lens module 4 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the fixed unit 32 is C-shaped or U-shaped when viewed from above. Therefore, an opening 36 that opens horizontally is formed in the fixed unit 32. A pair of grooves 37 that extend horizontally from the opening 36 is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the fixed unit 32. A plurality of protrusions 34 that extend vertically are provided in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surfaces of the flange 31 and the fixed unit 32. Therefore, even if the sample storage unit 3 is touched with a hand that has lubricating oil 300 on it, the sample storage unit 3 is unlikely to slip. This prevents the sample storage unit 3 (or the lubricating oil photography auxiliary device 100) from being dropped.

[0034] 1, the lens module 4 includes a lens 40 and an annular frame 41 that supports the lens 40. The frame 41 also includes a lens holder 42 that supports the lens, and a case 43 that supports the lens holder 42.

[0035] The lens 40 is an optical component that magnifies the lubricant 300, and is disposed above the internal space (lubricant 300).

[0036] The lens case 42 is formed in an annular (cylindrical) shape. The inner diameter of the lens case 42 is smaller than the outer diameter of the lens 40. The lens 40 is placed above the lens case 42. The edge of the lens 40 is supported by the lens case 42. Therefore, the lens 40 can be separated from the lens case 42 by lifting the lens 40 upward.

[0037] The case 43 includes a support part 44 disposed inside the fixed part 32, and a base 45 protruding upward from the upper surface of the support part 44. The lens holder 42 is placed on the upper surface of the support part 44. Therefore, the case 43 and the lens holder 42 can also be separated.

[0038] The lower surface of the support part 44 abuts against the upper surface of the flange 31. In addition, as shown in FIG. 5, a pair of guides 46 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the support part 44. The pair of guides 46 fit into the grooves 37. Therefore, the lens module 4 does not shift in position in the vertical direction relative to the sample storage part 3.

[0039] 5, when the lens module 4 is slid in the horizontal direction (a direction perpendicular to the first direction X1) (see arrow A in FIG. 5), the support part 44 passes through the opening 36 of the fixing part 32, and the lens module 4 is separated from the sample storage part 3. Note that the first direction X1 is parallel to the center O. Therefore, the direction perpendicular to the first direction X1 has the same meaning as the direction perpendicular to the center O.

[0040] The base 45 is formed in a cylindrical shape and surrounds the outside of the lens case 42. The base 45 protrudes upward more than the lens case 42. The upper surface of the base 45 is horizontal (perpendicular to the first direction X1). Therefore, when the smartphone 201 is placed against the base 45, the smartphone 201 tends to be positioned horizontally (perpendicular to the first direction X1). Hereinafter, the upper surface of the base 45 may be referred to as the seating surface.

[0041] In addition, a lens holder 42 and a case 43 are formed in the internal space 39 (lubricant 300) of the sample storage section 3 to prevent light from entering from above.

[0042] Next, the LED and the diffuser plate will be described in detail. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the sample storage unit 3 and the LED 5 of the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 6, the LED 5 is disposed in the center of the upper surface 13a of the base 1, and is positioned on the center O.

[0043] The first surface 90 of the diffusion plate 9 in the first direction X1 is horizontal (perpendicular to the first direction X1) and is perpendicular to the first direction X1. Therefore, the depth H1 of the lubricating oil 300 introduced into the internal space 39 is uniform between the center and the ends.

[0044] A central portion 92 of the second surface 91 of the diffuser plate 9 in the second direction X2 overlaps with the center O. Therefore, the central portion 92 is a portion disposed in the first direction X1 relative to the LED 5. The second surface 91 is formed in a hemispherical shape. In other words, in a cross-sectional view of the second surface 91 cut in the vertical direction, a line 94 connecting the central portion 92 and an end portion 93 of the second surface 91 is curved (nonlinear). Furthermore, the line 94 is disposed in the second direction X2 with respect to the imaginary line M linearly connecting the central portion 92 and the end portion 93. From the above, the second surface 91 is positioned gradually in the first direction X1 from the central portion 92 toward the end portion 93. Furthermore, the thickness H2 of the diffuser plate 9 in the vertical direction gradually decreases from the central portion 92 toward the end portion 93. Hereinafter, the portion of the diffuser plate 9 where the thickness H2 gradually decreases toward the end portion of the diffuser plate 9 may be referred to as a thin portion. In this embodiment, the entire diffuser plate 9 is a thin portion.

[0045] Next, the effects will be described. According to the first embodiment, the LED 5 emits light toward the center O of the internal space 39 (see B1 in FIG. 6). Although the LED 5 has high directivity, there is a distance between the LED and the diffuser plate 9. Therefore, the light is incident on the second surface 91 of the diffuser plate 9 in a state where it is more spread in the horizontal direction (a direction perpendicular to the first direction X1) than when it is emitted from the LED 5 (see B2 in FIG. 6).

[0046] When the light is incident on the second surface 91, it is bent, and the inclination angle θ relative to the center O becomes larger (see B3 in FIG. 6), and the light is diffused inside the diffuser plate 9. As a result, light is emitted in the first direction X1 from the center of the first surface 90 (see B4 in FIG. 6), and light is also emitted in the first direction X1 from the end of the first surface 90 (see B5 in FIG. 6). Therefore, the intensity of light passing through the center and the end of the lubricating oil 300 becomes uniform.

[0047] As described above, the lubricant photography auxiliary device 100 of the first embodiment includes a light source (LED 5) that emits light in a first direction X1, a cylindrical annular portion 2 in which the light source is disposed, a sample storage portion 3 that is disposed in the first direction X1 relative to the light source and has an internal space 39 for introducing the lubricant 300 therein, and a lens module 4 that is disposed in the first direction X1 relative to the sample storage portion 3. The sample storage portion 3 is supported by the annular portion 2. The lens module 4 is supported by the annular portion 2 or the sample storage portion 3, and at least one of the annular portion 2, the sample storage portion 3, and the lens module 4 is separable. More specifically, the sample storage portion 3 of the first embodiment is separably supported by the annular portion 2. The lens module 4 is separably supported by the sample storage portion 3.

[0048] According to the first embodiment, the annular part 2, the sample storage part 3, and the lens module 4 can be separated from each other. In other words, each part can be cleaned independently. If any one of the annular part 2, the sample storage part 3, and the lens module 4 is damaged, it is possible to replace only that part. Therefore, maintenance is easier than when the annular part 2, the sample storage part 3, and the lens module 4 are inseparable.

[0049] In the lubricant photographing auxiliary device 100 of the first embodiment, the lens module 4 has a lens 40 and a frame portion 41 that supports the lens 40. The lens 40 and the frame portion 41 are separable.

[0050] According to the first embodiment, only the lens 40 can be removed and cleaned, improving maintainability.

[0051] The lubricant photographing aid 100 of the first embodiment is disposed in the second direction X2 relative to the light source and has a base 1 that supports the light source.

[0052] Since the LED 5 is used as the light source, the space occupied by the light source is small, and the auxiliary tool 100 for photographing lubricant can be made smaller.

[0053] The lubricant photographing aid 100 of the first embodiment also has a regulator 7 that adjusts the voltage value of the power supplied to the LED 5 (light source) to a predetermined value.

[0054] According to the first embodiment, the voltage value of the power supplied to the LED 5 by the regulator 7 is constant, and therefore the intensity of the light emitted from the LED is constant.

[0055] The lubricant photographing aid 100 of the first embodiment also has a connector for connecting to an external power source.

[0056] The lubricant oil photographing aid 100 of the first embodiment can secure power from an external power source, so there is no need to incorporate a cell or battery, and it can be made lighter.

[0057] Although the first embodiment has been described above, the diffusion plate of the present disclosure is not limited to the example shown in the first embodiment. Next, modified examples of the diffusion plate will be described. Note that the following description will focus on differences from the first embodiment.

[0058] (Variation 1, Variation 2) Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a diffuser plate 9A according to Modification 1. As shown in Fig. 7, a second surface 91A of the diffuser plate 9A according to Modification 1 differs from the diffuser plate 9 according to Embodiment 1 in that a line 94 connecting a central portion 92 and an end portion 93 is linear (linear).

[0059] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a diffuser plate 9B according to Modification 2. As shown in Fig. 8, a second surface 91B of the diffuser plate 9B of Modification 2 has a curved (non-linear) line 94 connecting a central portion 92 and an end portion 93. The diffuser plate 9B of Modification 2 differs from the diffuser plate 9 of Embodiment 1 in that the line 94 is positioned in the first direction X1 with respect to an imaginary line M that linearly connects the central portion 92 and the end portion 93.

[0060] Second surfaces 91A and 91B are each positioned gradually in first direction X1 from central portion 92 toward end portion 93. That is, in Modifications 1 and 2, all of diffuser plates 9A and 9B form thin portions, similar to Embodiment 1. Therefore, light incident on second surfaces 91A and 91B is diffused inside diffuser plates 9A and 9B, eliminating uneven light intensity.

[0061] (Variation 3) Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a diffuser plate 9C according to Modification 3. The dashed line in Fig. 9 indicates the diffuser plate 9 of Embodiment 1. As shown in Fig. 9, a second surface 91C of the diffuser plate 9C of Modification 3 differs from that of Embodiment 1 in that a flat surface 95 extending horizontally is formed in a central portion 92. Note that the shape of the second surface 91C is the same as that of the second surface 91 of Embodiment 1, except for the central portion 92 (flat surface 95).

[0062] Therefore, in Modification 3, the central portion 92 of the diffuser plate 9C is a flat portion in which the thickness H3 does not change (the thickness H3 between the first surface 90 and the second surface 91C is constant). Also, the portion of the diffuser plate 9A other than the central portion 92 (the periphery of the central portion 92) is a thin portion. In other words, in Modification 3, a thin portion is formed in a part of the diffuser plate 9C.

[0063] As described above, even in the diffuser plate 9C of Modification 3, the portions of the second surface 91C other than the flat surfaces 95 are gradually positioned in the first direction X1 as they approach the end portion 93. Therefore, light incident on the portions other than the flat surfaces 95 is bent radially outward, eliminating unevenness in the light intensity. Note that, although Modification 3 has been described using an example in which the flat surfaces 95 are formed on the second surface 91 of Embodiment 1, the present disclosure may also include a configuration in which the flat surfaces 95 are formed on the second surface 91A of Modification 1 or the second surface 91B of Modification 2.

[0064] (Variation 4) FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a diffuser plate 9D according to Modification 4. As shown in FIG. 10, a line 94 connecting a central portion 92 and an end portion 93 of a second surface 91D of the diffuser plate 9D of Modification 4 is curved. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the second surface 91D is nonlinear. Furthermore, the line 94 intersects with a virtual line M at three points, as in a cubic function. That is, the line 94 intersects with the virtual line M at three points: the central portion 92, the end portion 93, and an intermediate portion 96 between the central portion 92 and the end portion 93. The portion of the line 94 between the central portion 92 and the intermediate portion 96 is located in the second direction X2 relative to the virtual line M, and the portion between the intermediate portion 96 and the end portion 93 is located in the first direction X1 relative to the virtual line M. That is, in Modification 4, the entire diffuser plate 9D is a thin portion. Therefore, even with the diffuser plate 9D of Modification 4, the thickness gradually decreases toward the end portion 93, eliminating uneven light intensity.

[0065] Although Variations 1 to 4 have been described above, the present disclosure may also be applicable to a diffuser plate having a stepped second surface in which vertical surfaces extending in the first direction X1 and horizontal surfaces perpendicular to the first direction X1 are alternately formed. Even in a diffuser plate having such a second surface, a thin portion is formed in which the thickness decreases toward the end of the second surface, thereby eliminating unevenness in light intensity.

[0066] Next, a second embodiment in which the method of fixing the sample storage unit 3 and the lens module 4 is changed will be described.

[0067] (Embodiment 2) FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a lubricant oil photographing auxiliary device 100D of embodiment 2. As shown in FIG. 11, the annular portion 2D of embodiment 2 does not have a female thread 22 formed on its inner peripheral surface. The sample storage portion 3D of embodiment 2 does not have a male thread 35 formed on its outer peripheral surface. A permanent magnet 26 is provided on the upper end surface of the annular portion 2D. A ferromagnetic body 27 is provided on the lower surface of the flange 31. The ferromagnetic body 27 is disposed above the permanent magnet 26. Thus, the sample storage portion 3 is detachably attached to the annular portion 2D. Furthermore, the magnetic force of the permanent magnet 26 acts to prevent unintentional separation.

[0068] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, no opening (see FIG. 5) is formed in the fixing portion 32 of the sample storage unit 3D. In other words, the fixing portion 32 is annular. Therefore, the lens module 4D is inserted into the fixing portion 32 from above. Furthermore, a ferromagnetic body 33 is provided at the upper end of the container 30. A permanent magnet 47 is provided on the lower surface of the support portion 44 of the lens module 4D. The permanent magnet 47 is disposed above the ferromagnetic body 33. Therefore, the lens module 4D is attached to the sample storage unit 3D in a separable manner. Furthermore, the magnetic force of the permanent magnet 47 acts, so that unintentional separation does not occur.

[0069] The above describes embodiment 2. In the present disclosure, the permanent magnet 26 may be provided in the sample storage unit 3D, and the ferromagnetic material 27 may be provided in the annular portion 2D. Similarly, the ferromagnetic material 33 may be provided in the lens module 4D, and the permanent magnet 47 may be provided in the sample storage unit 3D. Alternatively, permanent magnets may be used entirely, without using ferromagnetic materials.

[0070] The above has described embodiment 2. In embodiments 1 and 2, the attachment direction of the sample storage unit 3 to the annular unit 2 is the vertical direction, but in the present disclosure, it may be the horizontal direction (a direction perpendicular to the first direction X1). Furthermore, in embodiments 1 and 2, the lens modules 4, 4D are attached to the sample storage unit 3, but in the present disclosure, the lens modules 4, 4D may be detachably supported by the annular unit 2.

[0071] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, both the lens module 4, 4D and the sample storage unit 3, 3D are separable from the supported object (the annular unit 2 or the sample storage unit 3), but in the present disclosure, at least one of the annular unit 2, the sample storage unit 3, and the lens module 4 may be separable. This is because if even one of them is separable, that part can be washed independently, improving maintainability.

[0072] Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment and the like described above, a part of the photographing device 200 is placed against the base 45, and the photograph of the lubricant 300 is taken while the attitude of the photographing device 200 is maintained. Therefore, when the photographing device 200 is operated, there is a possibility that the photographing device 200 may tilt. Therefore, in the third embodiment, it is possible to prevent the photographing device 200 from tilting.

[0073] (Embodiment 3) Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a lubricant oil photographing auxiliary tool 100E of embodiment 3. As shown in Fig. 12, the base 1E of the lubricant oil photographing auxiliary tool 100E of embodiment 3 differs from that of embodiment 1 in that it is formed into a rectangular parallelepiped. More specifically, the base 1E includes a rectangular parallelepiped base main body 10E and a bottom wall (not shown) that closes a lower opening of the base main body 10E. Although not specifically shown, a storage space 19 is formed inside the base 1E, similar to embodiment 1, and an LED 5, a connector 6, a regulator 7, and a switch 8 are stored therein.

[0074] The top surface 17 of the base body 10E is rectangular in plan view and has four corners. Hereinafter, the direction in which the width of the top surface 17 is larger will be referred to as the longitudinal direction Y, and the direction in which the width is smaller will be referred to as the lateral direction Z. The annular portion 2E is formed integrally with the top surface 17. The annular portion 2E is positioned so as to overlap one of the four corners of the top surface 17.

[0075] The base main body 10E is also formed with a first support column 61, a second support column 62, and a third support column 63 that protrude upward from the upper surface 17. The first support column 61, the second support column 62, and the third support column 63 may be collectively referred to as support columns 60.

[0076] The first support column 61 is arranged so as to overlap a corner arranged in the short direction of the annular portion 2E. The second support column 62 is arranged so as to overlap a corner arranged in the long direction of the annular portion 2E. The second support column 62 also extends in the short direction. Therefore, the second support column 62 also overlaps a corner arranged in the long direction of the first support column 61, spanning the two corners. The third support column 63 is arranged between the annular portion 2E and the second support column 62.

[0077] The upper surface 61a of the first support column 61, the upper surface 62a of the second support column 62, and the upper surface 63a of the third support column 63 are at the same height as the seat surface 45a of the base 45. This allows the smartphone 201 to be placed on the base 45, the first support column 61, the second support column, or the third support column 63. This eliminates the need for the worker to hold the smartphone. Furthermore, the smartphone 201 placed on the base 45, the first support column 61, the second support column, or the third support column 63 is in a horizontal state (a state perpendicular to the first direction X1).

[0078] Furthermore, the upper surfaces 61a and 63a are formed with protrusions 61b and 63b that protrude upward and come into contact with the side surfaces of the smartphone 201. This makes it easy to position the smartphone 201.

[0079] Furthermore, the base 1E of embodiment 3 is expanded in the horizontal direction (direction perpendicular to the first direction X1) more than the base 1 of embodiment 1. Therefore, the lubricant oil photographing auxiliary tool 100E will not fall over.

[0080] The third embodiment has been described above. Note that, although the third embodiment has three support pillars 60, the present disclosure does not particularly limit the number of support pillars 60. Furthermore, the support pillars 60 are formed on the base 1, but may be formed on the annular portion 2, the sample storage portion 3, or the lens module 4, or may be formed as independent components. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the position at which the support pillars 60 are arranged. Furthermore, the shape of the support pillars 60 does not particularly limit the shape as long as they can abut against the smartphone 201 from the second direction X2. Next, a fifth modification in which the shape of the support pillars 60 is changed will be described.

[0081] (Variation 5) FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a lubricant photography auxiliary tool 100F of Modification 5. As shown in FIG. 13, the support pillars 60 of the lubricant photography auxiliary tool 100F of Modification 5 are formed in a rod shape. The base 1F of Modification 5 is provided with reinforcing parts 65 that connect the support pillars 60 together. As a result, the support pillars 60 are supported by the reinforcing parts 65 and are less likely to break. As shown in FIG. 13, the base 1 of Modification 5 has been modified from that of Embodiment 3, but the present disclosure does not particularly care about the shape of the base.

[0082] (Variation 6) 14 is a perspective view of a lubricant photographing aid 100G of Modification 6. The lubricant photographing aid 100G of Modification 6 differs from Embodiment 3 in that it has a support base 160 instead of the support column 60.

[0083] The support stand 160 is disposed above the upper surface 17 of the base 1G. An upper surface 161 of the support stand 160 is horizontal, and the smartphone 201 can be placed on it. The support stand 160 is supported by a plurality of extendable shafts 162 provided on the upper surface 17. The support stand 160 is movable in the vertical direction relative to the shafts 162.

[0084] A screw shaft 163 is provided below the support base 160. The lower surface of the support base 160 is connected to the upper end of the screw shaft 163. The support base 160 is supported by a plurality of shafts 162 and is non-rotatable. Therefore, the screw shaft 163 connected to the support base 160 is also non-rotatable. A nut (not shown) onto which the screw shaft 163 is threaded is rotatably provided on the base 1G. When the nut is rotated, the screw shaft 163 moves up and down. This moves the support base 160 up and down, and the height of the smartphone 201 placed on the support base 160 is adjusted.

[0085] The support base is also formed with a positioning portion 170 that protrudes above the upper surface 161. This positioning portion 170 abuts against the side surface of the smartphone 201 and positions the smartphone 201 in the horizontal direction. The positioning portion 170 has a first positioning portion 171 that is arranged in the longitudinal direction Y with respect to the support base 160, and a second positioning portion 172 that is arranged in the lateral direction Z with respect to the support base 160. The first positioning portion 171 and the second positioning portion 172 are connected to the support base 160 by an extensible shaft 173. Therefore, by pushing or pulling the first positioning portion 171, the first positioning portion 171 moves in the longitudinal direction. Similarly, by pushing or pulling the second positioning portion 172, the second positioning portion 172 moves in the lateral direction. Therefore, the positions of the first positioning portion 171 and the second positioning portion 172 can be adjusted to match the size of the smartphone 201 being used.

[0086] As described above, according to the sixth modification, the support base 160 and the positioning unit 170 can be moved to a horizontal position in accordance with the shape of the smartphone 201 (photographing device 200). Note that in the sixth modification, the positioning unit 160 is supported by a shaft, but it may also be supported by a screw shaft, and is not particularly limited. Furthermore, in the lubricant photographing auxiliary device 100G of the sixth modification, the present disclosure may provide a lifting function for the annular portion, the sample storage unit, or the lens module 4.

[0087] Although the embodiments and modified examples have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, in the first embodiment and the like, the number of LEDs 5 is one, but it may be two or more. That is, LEDs may be arranged on the entire upper surface 13a of the base 1. In such an arrangement, the first surface 90 and the second surface 91 are formed flat, and a flat diffuser 9 can be used. However, even if there are multiple (two or more) LEDs 5, if they are arranged only near the center O, unevenness in light intensity occurs. In such a case, using the diffuser 9 described in the first embodiment and the like can eliminate unevenness in light intensity. Furthermore, although an LED is used as an example of a light source in this embodiment, a light source other than an LED may also be used.

[0088] Furthermore, although the LEDs 5 in the first embodiment and the like are arranged to overlap the center O, they may be offset from the center O. In this case, the thickest portion of the diffusion plate 9 is not the portion overlapping the center O (central portion 92), but the portion arranged in the first direction X1 relative to the LEDs 5.

[0089] Furthermore, in the present disclosure, the LEDs 5 may be arranged to face a portion offset from the center of the diffuser plate 9 (the center O of the container 30). Alternatively, the LEDs 5 may be arranged to face a portion less than two-thirds of the radius of the diffuser plate 9 from the center of the diffuser plate 9 (the center O of the container 30). This is because such an arrangement is prone to uneven light intensity. However, if the distance from the center of the diffuser plate 9 (the center O of the container 30) to less than two-thirds of the radius of the diffuser plate 9 is less than two-thirds of the radius of the diffuser plate 9, uneven light intensity may occur. Therefore, it is preferable to arrange the LEDs 5 so that they face a portion less than one-half of the radius of the diffuser plate 9 from the center of the diffuser plate 9, more preferably less than one-third of the radius, and most preferably less than one-quarter of the radius.

[0090] Furthermore, as the distance to the diffusion plate 9 increases, the range of light emitted from the LEDs 5 that enters the diffusion plate 9 increases. Therefore, the range of light emitted from the LEDs 5 that enters the diffusion plate 9 may be adjusted by adjusting the distance between the LEDs 5 and the diffusion plate 9 (the length of the annular portion 2).

[0091] In addition, in this embodiment, the surface 101 on which the lubricant photography aid 100 is placed is described as a horizontal surface, but the lubricant photography aid 100 of the present disclosure may be placed on a slightly inclined surface, and there are no particular limitations on the inclination or shape of the surface 101.

[0092] Furthermore, when taking a photograph, the smartphone 201 is placed against the upper surface of the base 45, but if there is a gap between the base 45 and the smartphone 201, external light may enter the inside of the lens module 4. Therefore, in order to prevent a gap from being formed between the base 45 and the smartphone 201, another component may be provided on the base 45 to close the gap.

[0093] Furthermore, although the diffusion plate 9 in this embodiment forms the bottom wall of the container 30 of the sample storage unit 3, the present disclosure does not require the diffusion plate 9 to form the bottom wall of the container 30. In other words, a component such as a film may be used as the bottom wall of the container 30, and the diffusion plate 9 may be disposed in the second direction X2 of that component. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shapes of the outer and inner peripheral surfaces of the annular portion 2 may be shapes other than octagonal or circular.

[0094] Furthermore, although the lubricant photography aid 100 of the first embodiment is provided with a connector 6, if an internal power source such as a dry cell or battery is provided, the connector 6 is not necessary. Therefore, the present disclosure does not necessarily have to have the connector 6. Similarly, it does not necessarily have to have the regulator 7 or the switch 8. Furthermore, a disposable, colorless, transparent container for holding lubricant may be placed inside the container 30. This eliminates the need to clean the container 30.

[0095] Additionally, in the first embodiment and the like, an example is given in which a smartphone 201 is used as the photographing device 200. However, as long as image data of the lubricant 300 can be acquired, the present disclosure also applies to a digital camera or the like. Furthermore, when using a digital camera, the digital camera does not have a communication function. Therefore, the digital camera and the smartphone 201 may be connected with a cable, and the image data from the digital camera may be transferred to the smartphone 201, and the smartphone 201 may execute the process of determining the deterioration of the lubricant 300. Furthermore, the process of determining the deterioration of the lubricant 300 may be transmitted from the smartphone 201 to an information processing device such as another personal computer (e.g., a microcomputer) instead of the smartphone 201, and the deterioration of the lubricant 300 may be determined by that information processing device. Furthermore, the present disclosure also applies to a compact camera as the photographing device 200. In the case of a compact camera, there is a possibility that the compact camera will not abut against the seat surface 45a, but an auxiliary tool may be used to position the compact camera in a predetermined position. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1, 1E, 1F base 2, 2D, 2E Annular section 3. 3D sample storage area 4. 4D lens module 5 LED 6 Connectors 6A receptacle 7. Regulator 8 Switch 9, 9A, 9B, 9C Diffusion plate 10, 10E Base body 11 Bottom wall 12 Side wall 13 Upper wall 14 Containment Space 26, 47 Permanent magnets 27, 33 Ferromagnetic materials 30 containers 31 flange 32 Fixed part 36 Opening 37 Groove 40 lenses 41 Frame 42 Lens case 43 cases 44 Support part 45 pedestal 60 Support section 61 1st pillar section 62 2nd pillar section 63 3rd pillar part 65 Reinforcement 95 plane 90 Page 1 91, 91A, 91B, 91C 2nd side 92 Central part 93 End 100, 100D, 100E, 100F, 100G Lubricant photography aids 160 Support stand 170 Positioning part 171 First positioning part 172 Second positioning part 173 Telescopic shaft 200 Imaging Device 201 Smartphone 203 Plug 300 Lubricating oil

Claims

1. a light source that emits light in a first direction; a cylindrical annular portion in which the light source is disposed; a sample storage unit disposed in the first direction relative to the light source and having an internal space for introducing lubricating oil therein; a lens module disposed in the first direction relative to the sample storage unit; and the sample storage unit is supported by the annular portion; the lens module is supported by the annular portion or the sample storage portion; At least one of the annular portion, the sample storage portion, and the lens module is separable. Auxiliary tool for photographing lubricants.

2. The lens module is supported so as to be separable from the annular portion or the sample storage portion. The lubricant oil photographing aid according to claim 1.

3. the sample storage unit is detachably supported by the annular portion; the lens module is detachably supported in the sample storage section; The lubricant oil photographing aid according to claim 1.

4. The lens module comprises: Lenses and a frame portion that supports the lens; and The lens and the frame are separable. The lubricant oil photographing aid according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. a surface of the lens module facing the first direction serves as a seating surface against which an image capturing device abuts; a support member that is in contact with the imaging device from a second direction opposite to the first direction; The support portion and the imaging device placed on the seat are perpendicular to the first direction. The lubricant oil photographing aid according to claim 1.

6. a surface of the lens module facing the first direction serves as a seating surface against which an image capturing device abuts; a support base that abuts against the imaging device from a second direction opposite to the first direction; The support base is movable in the first direction or the second direction, and the seat and the imaging device placed on the support base are perpendicular to the first direction. The lubricant oil photographing aid according to claim 1.

7. a surface of the lens module facing the first direction serves as a seating surface against which an image capturing device abuts; a support base that abuts against the imaging device from a second direction opposite to the first direction; the support base has a positioning portion that abuts against a side surface of the imaging device, The positioning portion is movable in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. The lubricant oil photographing aid according to claim 1 or 6.

8. a base disposed in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the light source and supporting the light source; The light source is an LED. The lubricant oil photographing aid according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. A regulator is provided to adjust the voltage value of the power supplied to the light source to a predetermined value. The lubricant oil photographing aid according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. It has a connector for connecting to an external power source. The lubricant oil photographing aid according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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