Apparatus for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a compound, sheet molding apparatus, and method for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a compound.

Abstract

To provide a dispersion degree evaluation device for a kneaded material in which the state itself of the kneaded material after kneading is reflected and which can evaluate a degree of dispersion rapidly and accurately.SOLUTION: A dispersion degree evaluation device for a kneaded material includes: a transfer unit 20 which is provided at the rear stage of a kneading device 1A for kneading a polymer material and a dispersoid and transfers the kneaded material discharged from the kneading device; and a detection unit 30A which detects a degree of dispersion of the kneaded material by measuring the kneaded material on the transfer unit. This makes it possible to accurately grasp the degree of dispersion in a form reflecting, as it is, a state of the kneaded material discharged from the kneading device, without performing pretreatment such as cutting out a section (an evaluation specimen) from the kneaded material, and to easily perform quick and accurate evaluation of the degree of dispersion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a dispersoid in a polymer material (hereinafter also referred to as "the degree of dispersion of the kneaded product") in a kneaded product obtained by kneading a polymer material and a dispersoid. The present invention also relates to a sheet forming apparatus capable of evaluating the degree of dispersion of a kneaded product obtained by kneading a polymer material and a dispersoid.

Background Art

[0002] Kneaded products obtained by kneading a polymer material such as raw rubber or raw plastic and a dispersoid are utilized as products in various fields. When providing such a kneaded product as a product, the state of the physical properties and quality of the product, whether good or bad, is related to the degree of dispersion of the dispersoid in the polymer material (the degree of dispersion of the kneaded product). Therefore, it is required to appropriately evaluate this degree of dispersion.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, in the evaluation of the filler dispersion degree in a rubber material containing a dispersoid (filler) in unvulcanized rubber or vulcanized rubber, as a pretreatment method for obtaining an evaluation test piece from the rubber material, after cooling the rubber material by a cooling means, cutting by a cutting means is performed. It is described that the filler dispersion degree is evaluated by imaging the cut surface of the evaluation test piece obtained by this pretreatment method by an imaging means. Further, in the dispersion degree evaluation described in Patent Document 1, by going through the pretreatment method for obtaining an evaluation test piece, the cut surface of the evaluation test piece is not disturbed, and it is said that the filler dispersion degree evaluation by the imaging means can be appropriately performed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] As described in Patent Document 1, conventional methods for evaluating the dispersion of compounded materials have involved cutting out sections from the compounded material as evaluation specimens and evaluating the dispersion of these sections. However, evaluating dispersion using evaluation specimens cut out from the compounded material is time-consuming and undesirable from the standpoint of work efficiency. Furthermore, it is difficult to quickly reflect the evaluation results in the operating conditions of the compounding process. In addition, as described in Patent Document 1, if the evaluation specimens are cut out from the compounded material, pretreatment such as a cooling process is required. This does not reflect the state of the compounded material itself after the compounding process, making it difficult to perform an appropriate evaluation of dispersion from the standpoint of quality control of the compounded material.

[0006] On the other hand, in order to directly confirm the state of the mixture during the mixing process, it has been considered to evaluate the degree of dispersion of the mixture within the mixing equipment. However, when measuring the degree of dispersion of the mixture within the mixing equipment during the mixing process, the state of the mixture changes drastically, making it difficult to measure and calculate the degree of dispersion. In addition, updating the mixing equipment increases initial costs and necessitates a re-examination of mixing conditions, thus presenting challenges in terms of operation and cost.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a dispersion degree evaluation apparatus for a kneaded material, a sheet forming apparatus, and a dispersion degree evaluation method for a kneaded material that reflect the state of the kneaded material itself after kneading, and that can easily perform a rapid and highly accurate dispersion degree evaluation of the kneaded material. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] As a result of diligent research into the above-mentioned problems, the inventors of the present invention have come to the realization that by detecting the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material in the state in which it is discharged from the kneading device, without any pre-processing such as cutting out sections (evaluation test specimens), the dispersion state of the dispersed particles in the kneaded material can be grasped quickly and with high accuracy, and the degree of dispersion can be evaluated, thereby completing the present invention. In other words, the present invention relates to the following dispersion evaluation apparatus for kneaded materials, sheet molding apparatus, and method for evaluating the dispersion of kneaded materials.

[0009] The present invention, which solves the above problems, is a device for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a mixture of a polymer material and a dispersed phase, and is provided downstream of a kneading device that kneads a polymer material and a dispersed phase, and is characterized by comprising a transfer unit that transfers the mixture discharged from the kneading device, and a detection unit that detects the degree of dispersion of the dispersed phase in the polymer material by measuring the mixture on the transfer unit. According to the dispersion degree evaluation device for kneaded materials of the present invention, by detecting the degree of dispersion at the point where the kneaded material discharged from the kneading device is transferred, the dispersion state of the dispersed phase in the kneaded material can be accurately grasped in a manner that directly reflects the state of the kneaded material discharged from the kneading device, without the need for pre-processing such as cutting out sections (evaluation test specimens) from the kneaded material, and dispersion degree evaluation can be performed quickly and with high accuracy.

[0010] Furthermore, one embodiment of the dispersion evaluation apparatus for kneaded material of the present invention is characterized by comprising a molding means for forming the kneaded material into a sheet, and the detection unit performing measurements on the kneaded material formed into a sheet by the molding means. This feature allows for the assessment of the degree of dispersion in a sheet-like form of the mixed material. This enables the evaluation of the degree of dispersion in the product or a form close to the product, thereby improving the accuracy of product quality control.

[0011] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the dispersion evaluation device for kneaded materials of the present invention, the detection unit is characterized by performing multi-point measurements on the kneaded material. The dispersion state of dispersed particles in a compound is not always uniform, and in evaluating the degree of dispersion of a compound, detecting the degree of dispersion in only a small part of the compound may not adequately reflect the dispersion state of the entire compound. In particular, in a compound after molding, there is a possibility of bias in the dispersion state of the dispersed particles, and it is necessary to appropriately grasp the information related to this dispersion state. On the other hand, this feature allows for the detection of dispersion at multiple locations in the compound, making it possible to obtain information about the presence and degree of variation in the dispersion of the compound between detection locations. This makes it possible to more accurately grasp the dispersion state of the dispersed particles in the compound, and in particular, to further improve the accuracy of quality control related to molded products.

[0012] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the dispersion evaluation device for kneaded materials of the present invention, the detection unit is characterized by comprising an electromagnetic wave measurement unit that observes electromagnetic waves from the kneaded material. This feature allows for the determination of surface irregularities in a compound by observing electromagnetic waves emanating from it. As a result, the degree of dispersion, an indicator of the dispersion state of the dispersed particles in the compound, can be determined from the size and number of dispersed particles exposed on the compound's surface, enabling non-contact and rapid detection of the degree of dispersion in the compound.

[0013] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the dispersion degree evaluation device for kneaded materials of the present invention, the detection unit is characterized by comprising: a pressure measuring unit having a pressure receiving unit that contacts the kneaded material and measures the pressure value applied to the kneaded material; an electrical properties measuring unit having an electrode unit that contacts the kneaded material and a voltage applying unit that applies a predetermined measuring voltage between a pair of electrodes of the electrode unit and measures the electrical properties value of the kneaded material; and a correction calculation unit that calculates the dispersion degree of the dispersed phase in a polymer material by applying a correction using the pressure value measured by the pressure measuring unit to the relationship between the electrical properties value measured by the electrical properties measuring unit and the degree of dispersion. In a compound in which a conductive dispersed phase is dispersed in a polymer material, the degree of dispersion, which is an indicator of the dispersion state of the dispersed phase, can be calculated using the electrical properties of the compound. Furthermore, the degree of dispersion in this case fluctuates depending on the pressure applied to the compound. Therefore, this characteristic makes it possible to directly and accurately evaluate the degree of dispersion of the compound by measuring the electrical properties of the compound, understanding the dispersion state of the conductive dispersed phase in the compound based on these electrical properties, and then applying a correction based on the pressure value measured by the pressure measuring unit.

[0014] The sheet molding apparatus of the present invention, which solves the above problems, is characterized by comprising a molding means equipped with an extruder and rolling rollers, and a dispersion evaluation device for the kneaded material described above, located downstream of the molding means. This sheet forming apparatus allows for the formation of a compound into a sheet and the detection of dispersion at the point where the sheet-formed compound is transported. This eliminates the need for pre-processing such as cutting out sections (evaluation test specimens) from the compound, making it possible to determine the dispersion of the compound in its sheet-formed state. This enables dispersion evaluation of the product or a form close to the product, thereby improving the accuracy of product quality control.

[0015] The present invention provides a method for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a compound to solve the above problems, and is a method for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a compound of a polymer material and a dispersed phase, comprising: a kneading step of kneading the polymer material and the dispersed phase; a transfer step of transferring the compound discharged from the kneading step; and a detection step of performing measurements on the compound during the transfer step to detect the degree of dispersion of the dispersed phase in the polymer material. According to this method for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a compound, by performing the dispersion detection step during the transfer step of the compound discharged from the mixing step, it is possible to accurately grasp the dispersion state of the dispersed phase in the compound in a manner that directly reflects the state of the compound discharged from the mixing step, without performing any pre-processing such as cutting out sections (evaluation test specimens) from the compound, and to easily perform a rapid and highly accurate evaluation of the degree of dispersion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, in evaluating the degree of dispersion of a kneaded material, the state of the kneaded material itself after kneading is reflected, and it is possible to provide a device and method for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a kneaded material that can easily perform a rapid and highly accurate evaluation of the degree of dispersion of a kneaded material. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1]It is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a kneaded product dispersion degree evaluation apparatus in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a kneading apparatus in the first embodiment of the present invention. (A) It is a front sectional view. (B) It is a plan view. [Figure 3] It is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a molding means in the first embodiment of the present invention. (A) It is a side view. (B) It is a plan view. [Figure 4] It is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a detection unit in the first embodiment of the present invention. (A) It is a side view. (B) It is a front view. [Figure 5] It is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the detection unit in the first embodiment of the present invention. (A) It is an overall view. (B) It is an enlarged view. [Figure 6] It is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a kneaded product dispersion degree evaluation apparatus in the second embodiment of the present invention. (A) It is a side view. (B) It is a plan view.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of a kneaded product dispersion degree evaluation apparatus and a kneaded product dispersion degree evaluation method according to the present invention will be described in detail while referring to the drawings. Note that the kneaded product dispersion degree evaluation apparatus described in the embodiment is merely an example for explaining the kneaded product dispersion degree evaluation apparatus according to the present invention, and is not limited thereto. Also, the kneaded product dispersion degree evaluation method of the present invention shall be replaced with the description of the structure and operation of the kneaded product dispersion degree evaluation apparatus described below.

[0019] The kneaded product dispersion degree evaluation apparatus of the present invention is an apparatus for evaluating the dispersion degree of a dispersoid in a polymer material (the dispersion degree of the kneaded product) in a kneaded product obtained by kneading a polymer material and a dispersoid. In this invention, "degree of dispersion" refers to any degree of dispersion of the dispersed phase in the polymer material, and can be expressed as a numerical value, a percentage, or a stepwise index (e.g., low degree of dispersion, medium degree of dispersion, high degree of dispersion). Further examples include the number or presence of clumps (aggregates) of dispersed phase of a certain size, or the maximum size of the existing clumps of dispersed phase.

[0020] The polymer material and dispersed phase that form the compound to be evaluated in this invention can be appropriately selected from known materials and are not particularly limited. Examples of polymer materials in the present invention include resin materials such as raw rubber and raw plastic used to manufacture rubber products and plastic products. Furthermore, the dispersed phase in this invention is a granular substance used in the manufacture of rubber products, plastic products, and the like. Preferred dispersed phases include, for example, fillers such as carbon particles, and highly conductive dispersed phases such as metal powders. However, it goes without saying that even dispersed phases that are not highly conductive can be used in this invention.

[0021] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a compound dispersion evaluation device in the first embodiment of the present invention. Figures 1(A) to 1(C) show different arrangements of the components related to the compound dispersion evaluation device in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the dispersion evaluation device 10A of the kneaded material (hereinafter simply referred to as "evaluation device 10A") is provided downstream of the kneading device 1A, as shown in Figure 1, and comprises a transfer unit 20 for transferring the kneaded material M discharged from the kneading device 1A, and a detection unit 30A for detecting the dispersion of the kneaded material M. Furthermore, the evaluation device 10A in this embodiment includes a molding means 40 that forms the kneaded material M discharged from the kneading device 1A into a sheet, and the detection unit 30A performs measurements on the kneaded material M (sheet S) formed into a sheet.

[0022] The evaluation device 10A in this embodiment detects and evaluates the degree of dispersion in the kneaded mixture M after kneading. It is sufficient to have a molding means 40 and a detection unit 30A located downstream of the kneading device 1A, and the positional relationship of each component is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in Figure 1(A), an example of the evaluation apparatus 10A in this embodiment is one in which a polymer material and a dispersed phase are introduced from above the kneading apparatus 1A, the kneaded material M discharged from below the kneading apparatus 1A is supplied to the molding means 40, the kneaded material M (sheet S) formed via the molding means 40 is transported by the transfer unit 20 in a substantially horizontal direction relative to the ground, and measurement is performed by the detection unit 30A. Furthermore, other examples of the evaluation device 10A in this embodiment include, as shown in Figure 1(B), a device in which a polymer material and a dispersed phase are introduced from above the kneading device 1A, the kneaded material M (sheet S) discharged from the side of the kneading device 1A is supplied to the molding means 40, the kneaded material M formed via the molding means 40 is transported by the transfer unit 20 in a direction substantially horizontal to the ground, and measurement is performed by the detection unit 30A, and as shown in Figure 1(C), a device in which a polymer material and a dispersed phase are introduced from above the kneading device 1A, the kneaded material M discharged from below the kneading device 1A is supplied to the molding means 40, the kneaded material M (sheet S) formed via the molding means 40 is transported by the transfer unit 20 in a direction substantially vertical to the ground, and measurement is performed by the detection unit 30A. The following describes the various components of the evaluation device 10A in this embodiment.

[0023] (Mixing device) In this embodiment, the kneading apparatus 1A is for obtaining a kneaded product M from a polymer material and a dispersed phase, and is for performing a kneading step of kneading the polymer material and the dispersed phase. Here, the structure of the kneading apparatus 1A in this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it can perform a kneading step of kneading a polymer material and a dispersed phase, and known structures can be used.

[0024] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the kneading apparatus 1A in this embodiment. Figure 2(A) is a front cross-sectional view, and Figure 2(B) is a top view. As shown in Figure 2(A), the main part of the kneading device 1A in this embodiment comprises a casing 2 that houses the polymer material and dispersed phase, and a pair of rotors 3 arranged inside the casing 2, thus having a structure related to a so-called sealed kneading device. The kneading device 1A shown in Figure 2 has a structure in which the polymer material and dispersed phase are introduced from the top of the kneading device 1A and the kneaded product M is discharged from the bottom, and is suitably used as the kneading device 1A in Figures 1(A) and 1(C).

[0025] As shown in Figures 2(A) and 2(B), the casing 2 has a mixing chamber 4 enclosed by a semi-cylindrical left wall portion 2c, a semi-cylindrical right wall portion 2d, a front wall portion 2e, and a rear wall portion 2f. The top surface of the mixing chamber 4 has an inlet 2a for introducing the kneading material (polymer material and dispersed phase), and the bottom surface of the mixing chamber 4 has an outlet 2b for discharging the kneaded material M. The inlet 2a and outlet 2b are equipped with an inlet lid portion 2g and an outlet lid portion 2h, respectively, making it possible to seal the mixing chamber 4. The inner surface shape of the inlet lid portion 2g and the outlet lid portion 2h is formed to be semi-cylindrical, together with the inner surface shape of the semi-cylindrical left wall portion 2c and the semi-cylindrical right wall portion 2d. The semi-cylindrical left wall portion 2c and the semi-cylindrical right wall portion 2d are the parts that cover the periphery of the pair of rotors 3 in the casing 2. Furthermore, the front wall portion 2e and the rear wall portion 2f are arranged perpendicular to the shaft portion 3a of the rotor 3 in the casing 2. The inner surface shape of the casing 2 is determined appropriately according to the shape of the blade portion 3b of the rotor 3, and the inner surface shapes of the inlet cover portion 2g and the outlet cover portion 2h are determined appropriately according to the installation position, etc. For example, if the inlet cover portion 2g is placed on the top surface of the casing 2, the inner surface shape may be flat.

[0026] The input port cover 2g is positioned to move up and down relative to the casing 2. With the input port cover 2g moved upward to open the top of the casing 2, the polymer material and dispersed phase are introduced into the mixing chamber 4 as the mixing material. Then, the input port cover 2g is moved downward to seal the mixing chamber 4. With the mixing chamber 4 sealed, the rotor 3 rotates to mix the mixing material. In addition, the input port cover 2g can be pressurized in the direction of the mixing chamber 4 using a drive device such as an air cylinder during mixing. When the polymer material and dispersed phase are mixed, the resulting mixture M is discharged from the discharge port 2b. The discharge port cover 2h is installed in the casing 2 in a manner that allows the discharge port 2b to be opened and closed.

[0027] The rotor 3 has a shaft portion 3a and a blade portion 3b formed on the surface of the shaft portion 3a. The blade portion 3b is formed spirally along the shaft portion 3a within the mixing chamber 4. The rotor 3 rotates and performs kneading by a rotor drive device (not shown), such as an electric motor. Furthermore, the rotation direction and speed of rotor 3 are not particularly limited as long as sufficient mixing is possible. For example, the rotation of rotor 3 may be either a non-meshing type where the pair of rotors rotate at different speeds, or a meshing type where they rotate at the same speed. Furthermore, the size and shape of the blades of the blade section 3b, as well as the period of the helical structure, can be any as long as they optimize the flow behavior of the kneading material in the mixing chamber 4 and enable sufficient kneading.

[0028] When the mixture is kneaded by the rotor 3, heat may be generated due to shearing and deformation of the mixture M, causing it to become hot. Since high temperatures of the mixture M may degrade its quality, a temperature control mechanism (not shown) may be installed to regulate the temperature inside the mixing chamber 4. Examples of temperature control mechanisms include means of indirectly cooling the mixture M by circulating a coolant through a jacket placed on the outer surface of the casing 2 or a cavity formed inside the rotor, or means of directly cooling the mixture M by circulating cold air inside the mixing chamber 4.

[0029] (molding means) The molding means 40 in the evaluation apparatus 10A of this embodiment is not limited to any particular structure that forms the kneaded material M after kneading in the kneading apparatus 1A into a sheet. Examples of the molding means 40 in this embodiment include an extruder, a rolling mill, or a molding apparatus combining these. The molding means 40 in this embodiment is applicable as a molding means related to the sheet molding apparatus of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the molding means 40 of this embodiment, showing a molding apparatus equipped with an extruder and rolling rolls. Figure 3(A) is a side view, and Figure 3(B) is a top view. As shown in Figure 3, the main part of the molding means 40 comprises an extruder 41 and a pair of rolling rolls 42a and 42b.

[0031] The extruder 41 comprises a housing 43 and a cone-shaped screw roll 44 housed inside the housing 43. An inlet 45 for the kneaded material M supplied from the kneading device 1 is formed at the top of the housing 43. The screw roll 44 is positioned so that its tip is lower, and when rotated, it sequentially extrudes the supplied kneaded material M, which is then supplied to a pair of rolling rolls 42a and 42b located adjacent to the tip of the screw roll 44. At this time, as shown in Figure 3(B), a space is formed between the screw roll 44 and the rolling rolls 42a and 42b with two side plates 46 arranged therein, and the sheet width W of the sheet S to be formed is determined by the distance between these side plates 46. Alternatively, a lifting mechanism (not shown) may be provided on the rolling rolls 42a and / or 42b to adjust the distance between the rolling rolls 42a and 42b and adjust the thickness of the sheet S to be formed. The kneaded material M extruded by the screw roll 44 is then formed into a sheet S having a predetermined sheet width W by the rolling rolls 42a and 42b. In Figure 3, the extruder 41 is shown as a twin-screw extruder equipped with two screw rolls 44, but it is not limited to this, and a single-screw or triple-screw or more extruder structure may also be used.

[0032] (transfer department) The transfer unit 20 in this embodiment is for performing a transfer step of transferring the kneaded material M (sheet S) that has passed through the kneading device 1A and the molding means 40. The transfer unit 20 in this embodiment only needs to be capable of transferring the kneaded material M (sheet S), and its specific structure is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in Figures 1(A) and 1(B), it may consist of a conveyor 21 provided on the discharge side of the molding means 40 (rolling rolls 42a and 42b) that transfers the sheet S in a direction substantially horizontal to the ground, or as shown in Figure 1(C), it may be provided below the molding means 40 and equipped with guide members 22 such as guide rollers that guide the sheet S, which moves vertically due to gravity (self-weight), in the direction of travel. The shape and number of conveyors 21 and guide members 22, which constitute the transfer section 20, are not particularly limited, as long as they do not interfere with the measurement by the detection unit 30A described later. For example, they may be provided in pairs on both sides of the sheet S.

[0033] (Detection unit) The detection unit 30A in this embodiment is for performing a detection step that measures the sheet S on the transfer unit 20 and detects the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M. In this embodiment, the detection unit 30A detects the degree of dispersion at the transfer unit 20, which is the point where the kneaded material M discharged from the kneading device 1A is transferred. This allows for accurate understanding of the dispersion state of the dispersed phase in the kneaded material M, directly reflecting the state of the kneaded material M discharged from the kneading device 1A, without requiring any pre-processing such as cutting out sections (evaluation test specimens) from the kneaded material M. Furthermore, the detection unit 30A in this embodiment can detect the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M (sheet S) formed into a sheet shape via the molding means 40. Therefore, it is possible to evaluate the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M in the form of the product or a form close to the product.

[0034] In this embodiment, the detection unit 30A can use known measurement means for detecting the degree of dispersion, such as observing the surface state or internal state of the kneaded material M, or measuring the physical properties of the kneaded material M.

[0035] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the detection unit 30A in this embodiment. Figure 4(A) is a side view, and Figure 4(B) is a front view. As an example of the detection unit 30A in this embodiment, one that observes the surface state and internal state of the kneaded material M is an electromagnetic wave measuring unit 31 that observes electromagnetic waves from the kneaded material M, as shown in Figure 4. In this case, the observed electromagnetic waves include electromagnetic waves emitted from the surface and interior of the compound M itself, as well as electromagnetic waves that are irradiated onto the surface of the compound M and reflected from the surface of the compound M. Furthermore, the type of electromagnetic wave is not particularly limited. Examples of electromagnetic waves include visible light, far-infrared rays, near-infrared rays, ultraviolet rays, microwaves, and radio waves such as short and long waves, as well as X-rays. The observed electromagnetic wave may consist of a single wavelength or a continuous wavelength (continuous spectrum).

[0036] Here, it is preferable that the electromagnetic waves observed by the electromagnetic wave measuring unit 31 are those reflected after being irradiated onto the surface of the kneaded material M. This makes it possible to select and adjust the type and intensity (irradiation amount) of electromagnetic waves suitable for detecting the degree of dispersion according to the composition of the kneaded material M, thereby improving the accuracy of detecting the degree of dispersion. Therefore, as shown in Figure 4, the detection unit 30A of this embodiment may include an irradiation unit 32 that irradiates electromagnetic waves onto the surface of the kneaded material M, in addition to the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31.

[0037] The electromagnetic wave measuring unit 31 can be any device capable of observing electromagnetic waves, and in addition to known measuring devices, imaging devices such as cameras can be used as electromagnetic wave measuring instruments. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of measurement accuracy for the kneaded material M, it is preferable to install the electromagnetic wave measuring unit 31 so that the detection surface 31a (camera lens, etc.) is parallel to the kneaded material M (sheet S) on the transfer unit 20. Furthermore, when an imaging device (camera) is used as the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31, the images captured by the imaging device may be either still images or moving images. Also, when using an imaging device, the field of view and focus adjustment means, such as a magnifying lens provided on the imaging device, may be used to magnify the kneaded material M (sheet S) to clarify its dispersion state for measurement.

[0038] The irradiation unit 32 can be any device capable of irradiating the kneaded material M (sheet S) on the transfer unit 20 with electromagnetic waves that can be measured by the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31, for example, a white LED light source. Preferably, the irradiation unit 32 is provided with control means for adjusting the wavelength and intensity (irradiation amount) of the electromagnetic waves to be irradiated (not shown). This makes it possible to easily adjust the type and intensity (irradiation amount) of the electromagnetic waves to be irradiated according to the composition of the kneaded material M, etc., and enables highly accurate detection of dispersion.

[0039] Furthermore, the irradiation unit 32 is positioned at an angle to the surface of the kneaded material M. In other words, the irradiation direction 32a of the electromagnetic waves from the irradiation unit 32 is directed at an angle to the surface of the kneaded material M (sheet S). Therefore, the irradiation direction 32a of the electromagnetic waves from the irradiation unit 32 and the observation direction 31b of the electromagnetic waves from the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31 are not parallel. In other words, the irradiation direction of the electromagnetic waves intersects with the observation direction of the electromagnetic waves, and the observation direction of the electromagnetic waves is different from the irradiation direction of the electromagnetic waves, so electromagnetic waves reflected from the surface of the kneaded material M can be observed efficiently. At this time, the angle between the irradiation direction 32a of the electromagnetic waves from the irradiation unit 32 and the surface of the kneaded material M is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 20 degrees or more and 40 degrees or less.

[0040] Furthermore, a structure may be provided to effectively direct the electromagnetic waves irradiated from the irradiation unit 32 and reflected from the surface of the kneaded material M onto the detection surface 31a of the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31. For example, as shown in Figure 4, a partition plate 33 may be provided near the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31 and the irradiation unit 32, positioned perpendicular to the kneaded material M (sheet S). This makes it possible to effectively direct the electromagnetic waves reflected from the surface of the kneaded material M onto the detection surface 31a, thereby improving the accuracy of dispersion detection.

[0041] In this embodiment, the detection unit 30A may output the results detected by the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31 directly to the outside and use them as an index (degree of dispersion) indicating the dispersion state of the dispersed phase in the kneaded material M. However, from the viewpoint of quality control, it is preferable to detect the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M in a way that facilitates data management and comparative verification. Therefore, as shown in Figure 4, the detection unit 30A in this embodiment may be provided with a calculation unit 34.

[0042] The calculation unit 34 acquires information related to electromagnetic waves observed by the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31 and calculates the degree of dispersion of the dispersed phase in the polymer material. At this time, information can be transmitted between the calculation unit 34 and the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31 using communication means directly connected by wiring, etc., or using communication means such as wireless communication.

[0043] The calculation means in the calculation unit 34 is not particularly limited, but for example, the calculation unit 34 may observe the convex portions on the surface of the kneaded material M from the captured image obtained by photographing the kneaded material M with the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31 and calculate the degree of dispersion. More specifically, the irradiation unit 32 irradiates the kneaded material M (sheet S) with electromagnetic waves (white LED light), and then the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31 photographs the kneaded material M (sheet S) and acquires the captured image. At this time, the dispersed particles are exposed on the surface of the kneaded material M and appear as protrusions, so in the image of the kneaded material M acquired by the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31, the dispersed particles exposed on the surface appear as areas of high brightness, i.e., white areas. The reason for the high brightness is thought to be, for example, that the electromagnetic waves irradiated onto the kneaded material M are scattered, refractioned, reflected, diffracted, and interfered with by the protrusions of the dispersed particles. The calculation unit 34 then performs various image processing, such as binarization, on the obtained image to calculate the size and number of dispersed particles. Furthermore, it calculates the degree of dispersion based on the size and number of dispersed particles obtained from the captured image. At this time, the calculation unit 34 may also perform an evaluation of the degree of dispersion along with the calculation of the degree of dispersion.

[0044] An example of the calculation and evaluation of the degree of variance in the calculation unit 34 will be described below. For example, as the dispersion of the dispersed phase in the polymer material progresses, the surface of the compound M becomes smooth. In this case, because the surface of the compound M has fewer irregularities, the calculation result obtained from the image of electromagnetic waves reflected from the compound M (sheet S) shows that there are fewer areas of high brightness. In this case, the calculation unit 34 can evaluate that the degree of dispersion of the compound M is high. On the other hand, for example, if there are many protrusions on the surface of the compound M where the dispersed phase is exposed, the surface of the compound M is rough, and the dispersion of the dispersed phase into the polymer material is not progressing well. In this case, because there are many irregularities on the surface of the compound M, the calculation result obtained from the image of electromagnetic waves reflected from the surface of the compound M is that there are many areas with high brightness. In this case, the calculation unit 34 can evaluate that the degree of dispersion of the compound M is low. Furthermore, the calculation and evaluation of the degree of variance in the calculation unit 34 may be performed by setting a target value in advance and evaluating the degree of variance according to the difference from that target value.

[0045] As described above, by providing an electromagnetic wave measuring unit 31 that observes electromagnetic waves from the kneaded material M as the detection unit 30A of this embodiment, it becomes possible to grasp the surface irregularities of the kneaded material M. As a result, the degree of dispersion, which is an indicator of the dispersion state of the dispersed particles in the kneaded material M, can be determined from the size and number of dispersed particles exposed on the surface of the kneaded material M, and the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M can be detected non-contact and quickly.

[0046] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of the detection unit 30A in this embodiment. Figure 5(A) is an overall view of the evaluation device 1A equipped with the detection unit 30A in this embodiment, and Figure 5(B) is an enlarged view of the area around the detection unit 30A in this embodiment. Another example of the detection unit 30A in this embodiment is one that measures the physical properties of the kneaded material M, and as shown in Figure 5, includes a pressure measuring unit 35 that measures the pressure applied to the kneaded material M, an electrical properties measuring unit 36 ​​that measures the electrical properties of the kneaded material M, and a correction calculation unit 37 that calculates the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M based on the measurement results of the pressure measuring unit 35 and the electrical properties measuring unit 36. The detection unit 30A shown in Figure 5 is particularly suitable when using a conductive material as the dispersed phase.

[0047] The pressure measuring unit 35 can be any unit capable of measuring the pressure applied to the kneaded material M. For example, as shown in Figure 5(B), a pressure receiving unit 35a is provided at the point where it contacts the kneaded material M (sheet S), with a buffer unit 35b and a pressure sensor 35c above it. In the pressure measuring unit 35 shown in Figure 5(B), the pressure generated by the contact between the kneaded material M (sheet S) and the pressure receiving unit 35a is measured by the pressure sensor 35c via the buffer unit 35b. As the dispersion of the dispersed phase in the kneaded material M progresses and it becomes smoother, the pressure value becomes constant. Therefore, by measuring the pressure value with the pressure measuring unit 5, the dispersion state of the kneaded material M can be understood.

[0048] As shown in Figure 5(B), the electrical characteristic measurement unit 36 ​​includes a pair of electrodes (first electrode 36a, second electrode 36b) installed at a location in contact with the kneaded material M (sheet S), and a voltage application unit 36c for applying a measurement voltage between this pair of electrodes. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5(B), it is configured to have an insulating member 36d for electrically insulating the first electrode 36a and the second electrode 36b.

[0049] When a measuring voltage is applied by the voltage application unit 36c to the pair of electrodes, the first electrode 36a and the second electrode 36b, a current flows through the kneaded material M in contact with the first electrode 36a and the second electrode 36b. The electrical characteristic measurement unit 36 ​​then obtains the electrical characteristic value of the current flowing through the kneaded material M. Here, the electrical characteristic value refers to a parameter that indicates how easily current flows through the kneaded material M, and examples include current value, voltage value, and resistance value.

[0050] The material and arrangement of the insulating member 36d only need to be such that it can insulate the space between the first electrode 36a and the second electrode 36b. Examples of materials for the insulating member 36d include resin materials with high electrical resistance.

[0051] The electrical characteristic measurement unit 36 ​​transmits electrical characteristic values ​​relating to the current flowing between the first electrode 36a and the second electrode 36b to the correction calculation unit 37, which will be described later. The correction calculation unit 37 then calculates the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M from these electrical characteristic values. As the kneaded material M is kneaded and the dispersion of the conductive dispersed phase becomes uniform, the electrical resistance value of the kneaded material M becomes constant. For example, by measuring the electrical resistance value of the kneaded material M using the electrical characteristic measurement unit 36, it becomes possible to directly grasp the dispersion state of the dispersed phase in the kneaded material M.

[0052] The pressure measuring unit 35 and the electrical characteristics measuring unit 36 ​​perform measurements by directly contacting the kneaded material M with the pressure receiving unit 35a and electrodes (first electrode 36a and second electrode 36b). Therefore, if the detection unit 30A in Figure 5 is configured such that the pressure measuring unit 35 and the electrical characteristics measuring unit 36 ​​are always in contact with the kneaded material M while the kneaded material M is being transported by the transport unit 20, there is a risk of problems such as scratches on the surface of the kneaded material M (sheet S). Therefore, as shown in Figure 5(A), it is preferable to provide a measuring platform 38 in a part of the transfer unit 20, and to provide a pressure measuring unit 35 and an electrical characteristic measuring unit 36 ​​that can be raised and lowered at a position opposite the measuring platform 38, and to insert the kneaded material M between the pressure measuring unit 35 and the electrical characteristic measuring unit 36 ​​and the measuring platform 38 only when detecting the degree of dispersion, and to perform the measurement by bringing the pressure measuring unit 35 and the electrical characteristic measuring unit 36 ​​into contact with the kneaded material M. This makes it possible to suppress the deterioration of the quality of the kneaded material M due to contact with the detection unit 30A. The structure and material of the measuring platform 38 are not particularly limited. For example, the material of the measuring platform 38 is preferably one with low friction so as not to hinder the transfer of the kneaded material M, and specifically, metal (stainless steel, etc.) or resin is suitable. In addition, it is preferable that the measuring platform 38 has a shape and strength that allows the kneaded material M to be sandwiched between the pressure measuring section 35 and the electrical properties measuring section 36. Furthermore, the measuring platform 38 may also be equipped with a lifting function.

[0053] In this embodiment, the detection unit 30A may include a temperature measuring unit (not shown) for measuring the temperature of the kneaded material M, in addition to the pressure measuring unit 35 and the electrical characteristics measuring unit 36. For example, the temperature measuring unit may include a heat-sensitive part that comes into contact with the kneaded material M and transmits the temperature value detected by the heat-sensitive part to the correction calculation unit 37. The temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit can be used to correct for the decrease in electrical resistance due to the rise in temperature. When a temperature measuring unit is provided, it is desirable to install it near the pressure measuring unit 35 in order to more accurately determine the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M.

[0054] It is known that the relationship between the electrical characteristic values ​​obtained by the electrical characteristic measurement unit 36 ​​and the degree of dispersion varies depending on the pressure and temperature of the kneaded material M. The phenomenon in which the relationship between electrical properties and dispersion changes with the pressure of the compound M is presumed to be due to the compression of the compound M when pressure is applied, which alters the distance between dispersed particles in the polymer material. In other words, it is presumed that when pressure is applied to the compound M, the distance between dispersed particles decreases, and the electrical resistance decreases. Furthermore, the phenomenon in which the relationship between electrical properties and dispersion varies with the temperature of the compound M is presumed to be due to the decrease in the electrical resistance of the polymer material as the temperature increases. Therefore, by applying a correction to the relationship between electrical properties and dispersion using pressure values, temperature values, or both, the dispersion of the compound M can be appropriately evaluated.

[0055] From the perspective of applying corrections based on pressure and temperature values ​​to the relationship between electrical characteristics and dispersion state, it is preferable to obtain electrical characteristics, pressure, and temperature values ​​for a compound M in the same state. Therefore, it is preferable to arrange the electrical characteristics measurement unit 36, the pressure measurement unit 35, and the temperature measurement unit in close proximity. Alternatively, the electrodes of the electrical characteristic measurement unit 36 ​​(first electrode 36a and second electrode 36b) may be cylindrical in shape, and the pressure-receiving part 35a of the pressure measurement unit 35 and the heat-sensing part of the temperature measurement unit may be placed inside the cylindrical electrodes, thereby forming a composite measurement unit in which the electrical characteristic measurement unit 36, the pressure measurement unit 35, the temperature measurement unit, or both are integrated. This allows for the measurement of pressure (and temperature) and electrical characteristic values ​​at substantially the same location in the kneaded material M, enabling the detection of the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M while accurately maintaining the correlation between pressure (and temperature) and electrical characteristic values. Furthermore, it allows for space saving for the detection unit 30A. The shapes of the electrodes (first electrode 36a and second electrode 36b) in the combined measurement unit are not particularly limited, and examples include cylindrical, elliptical, and rectangular shapes. Similarly, the shapes of the pressure-receiving section 35a and the heat-sensing section placed inside the electrodes (first electrode 36a and second electrode 36b) are not particularly limited, and examples include cylindrical, elliptical, and rectangular prism shapes.

[0056] The correction calculation unit 37 is electrically connected to the pressure measurement unit 35, the electrical characteristics measurement unit 36, and the temperature measurement unit, and acquires information relating to the electrical characteristics value measured by the electrical characteristics measurement unit 36, the pressure value measured by the pressure measurement unit 35, and the temperature value measured by the temperature measurement unit. At this time, the information is transmitted between the correction calculation unit 37 and the electrical characteristics measurement unit 36, the pressure measurement unit 35, and the temperature measurement unit using communication means directly connected by wiring, etc., or using communication means such as wireless communication. Furthermore, the correction calculation unit 37 calculates the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M from the electrical characteristic values ​​measured by the electrical characteristic measurement unit 36, the pressure values ​​measured by the pressure measurement unit 35, and the temperature values ​​measured by the temperature measurement unit, and may also perform an evaluation of the degree of dispersion. As described above, the relationship between electrical characteristic values ​​and dispersion is affected by the pressure and temperature values ​​of the compound M. Therefore, the calculation performed by the correction calculation unit 37 involves correcting the relationship between the electrical characteristic values ​​and dispersion measured by the electrical characteristic measurement unit 36 ​​using the pressure value measured by the pressure measurement unit 35 and the temperature value measured by the temperature measurement unit.

[0057] Here, the calculation and evaluation of the degree of dispersion in the correction calculation unit 37 may be performed based on prior test results. The relationship between the state of the compound M and the electrical properties, pressure, and temperature may differ depending on the combination of polymer material and dispersed phase. Therefore, it is desirable to measure the electrical properties, pressure, and temperature in advance for each composition of compound M at the desired dispersion state (degree of dispersion). In particular, when the polymer material or dispersed phase is a natural product, it is preferable to conduct prior tests because there may be differences in quality between lots.

[0058] As described above, the detection unit 30A of this embodiment includes a pressure measuring unit 35 and an electrical properties measuring unit 36 ​​for measuring the pressure value applied to the kneaded material M and the electrical properties of the kneaded material M, and a correction calculation unit 37 for calculating the degree of dispersion of the dispersed phase in the polymer material by applying a correction using the pressure value measured by the pressure measuring unit 35 to the relationship between the electrical properties measured by the electrical properties measuring unit 36 ​​and the degree of dispersion. This makes it possible to directly and accurately evaluate the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M by measuring the electrical properties of the kneaded material M, grasping the dispersion state of the conductive dispersed phase in the kneaded material M based on these electrical properties, and further applying a correction using the pressure value measured by the pressure measuring unit 35.

[0059] As described above, the evaluation device 10A of this embodiment detects the degree of dispersion at the point where the kneaded material discharged from the kneading device is transferred. This allows for accurate understanding of the dispersion state of the dispersed phase in the kneaded material, directly reflecting the state of the kneaded material discharged from the kneading device, without the need for pre-processing such as cutting out sections (evaluation test specimens) from the kneaded material. Furthermore, it enables rapid and highly accurate evaluation of the degree of dispersion. In this embodiment, the evaluation device 10A may be configured to omit the molding means 40 and directly detect the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M discharged from the kneading device 1A. On the other hand, as described above, providing the molding means 40 in the evaluation device 10A of this embodiment makes it possible to evaluate the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material M in a form close to the product, which has the advantage of improving the accuracy of product quality control.

[0060] Furthermore, in addition to the evaluation device 10A of this embodiment, an evaluation device for detecting dispersion may also be provided in the kneading device 1A. In this way, both the dispersion measurement results in the mixing chamber 4 and the measurement results of the sheet S can be evaluated, allowing for a more accurate evaluation of dispersion.

[0061] The combination of the transfer unit 20, the detection unit 30A, and the molding means 40 (extruder 41 and rolling rolls 42a, 42b) in this embodiment corresponds to the sheet molding apparatus of the present invention. The structure shown in Figure 3 corresponds to an example of the structure of the sheet molding apparatus of the present invention. The sheet molding apparatus of the present invention forms a compound M into a sheet and detects the degree of dispersion at the point where the sheet-formed compound M is transported. This allows for the determination of the degree of dispersion of the compound M in its sheet-formed state without the need for pre-processing such as cutting out sections (evaluation test specimens) from the compound M. This makes it possible to evaluate the degree of dispersion in the form of the product or a form close to the product, thereby improving the accuracy of product quality control.

[0062] [Second Embodiment] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a compound dispersion evaluation apparatus in a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6(A) is a side view, and Figure 6(B) is a top view. The dispersion evaluation device 10B of the kneaded material in the second embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as "evaluation device 10B") is, as shown in Figure 6, a multi-point measurement capable detection device 30B replacing the detection device 30A in the evaluation device 10A of the first embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment will not be described.

[0063] The evaluation device 10B of this embodiment performs multi-point measurements of the kneaded material M by providing a detection unit 30B capable of multi-point measurement. The dispersion state of the dispersed phase in the compound M is not necessarily uniform, and in evaluating the degree of dispersion of the compound M, detecting the degree of dispersion in only a small part of the compound M may not adequately reflect the dispersion state of the entire compound M. In particular, in the compound M (sheet S) after molding via the molding means 40, there is a possibility that the dispersion state of the dispersed phase will be uneven between the edges and the center of the sheet S. Therefore, for highly accurate quality control, it is necessary to obtain information that reflects the dispersion state of the entire compound M and to appropriately grasp and evaluate the degree of dispersion of the compound M.

[0064] As shown in Figure 6, the detection unit 30B of this embodiment includes a configuration in which multiple electromagnetic wave measurement units 31 are arranged linearly in the sheet width W direction of the sheet S, and each electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31 is connected to a calculation unit 34. This makes it possible to detect the degree of dispersion in multiple detection regions 39 (detection regions 39a to 39e in Figure 6(B)) in the sheet width W direction. In Figure 6, the irradiation unit 32 is not shown, but an irradiation unit 32 may be provided for each electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31, or one irradiation unit 32 may be used to irradiate electromagnetic waves to multiple electromagnetic wave measurement units 31. Also, in Figure 6(B), five regions (detection regions 39a to 39e) are shown as detection regions 39, but this is not limited to these, and can be appropriately selected based on the relationship between the sheet width W and the size of the detection unit 30B.

[0065] Another example of the detection unit 30B is to arrange multiple units equipped with the aforementioned pressure measurement unit 35 and electrical characteristic measurement unit 36 ​​in place of the electromagnetic wave measurement unit 31. In this case, it is preferable to use a composite measurement unit equipped with the pressure measurement unit 35, the electrical characteristic measurement unit 36, and a temperature measurement unit. This reduces the space required for the equipment to be arranged as the detection unit 30B and facilitates multi-point measurement at more locations within the sheet width W.

[0066] In this embodiment, the calculation unit 34 acquires information related to the degree of dispersion detected in the detection regions 39a to 39e via a plurality of electromagnetic wave measurement units 31. One example of calculations performed by the calculation unit 34 is to perform calculations on the acquired dispersion information for each detection area 39a to 39e and evaluate the dispersion. This makes it possible to understand the dispersion for each detection area 39a to 39e, allowing for accurate understanding of the presence and extent of dispersion variations in the sheet width W direction, thereby improving the accuracy of quality control for the molded compound M (sheet S). Another example of calculations performed by the calculation unit 34 is to perform an average calculation of the information related to the degree of variance obtained from the detection areas 39a to 39e and evaluate the degree of variance. In this case, the evaluation of the degree of variance can be performed by detecting the degree of variance multiple times at different locations on sheet S and comparing the averaged degrees of variance. This makes it easy to grasp the trend of the variance state across the entire sheet S. Alternatively, the degree of variance can be determined using the standard deviation of multiple data points. In this case, outliers that deviate significantly from the standard deviation can be excluded, and the degree of variance can be evaluated more accurately.

[0067] As described above, the evaluation device 10B of this embodiment can detect the degree of dispersion at multiple locations in the kneaded material, and it is possible to obtain information regarding the degree of variation in the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material between detection areas (detection locations), including whether there is any variation and to what extent. This makes it possible to more accurately grasp the dispersion state of the dispersed phase in the kneaded material, and in particular, it is possible to further improve the accuracy of quality control related to molded products (products).

[0068] Furthermore, the detection unit 30B in the evaluation device 10B of this embodiment can also be applied as a detection unit in the sheet molding apparatus of the present invention. That is, another embodiment of the sheet molding apparatus of the present invention is one which combines a transfer unit 20, a detection unit 30B, and a molding means 40. This makes it possible to further improve the accuracy of quality control of products molded by the sheet molding apparatus.

[0069] The embodiments described above are examples of a compound dispersion evaluation apparatus, a sheet molding apparatus, and a compound dispersion evaluation method. The compound dispersion evaluation apparatus, sheet molding apparatus, and compound dispersion evaluation method according to the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described above, and the compound dispersion evaluation apparatus, sheet molding apparatus, and compound dispersion evaluation method according to the embodiments described above may be modified without changing the gist of the claims.

[0070] For example, a control device may be provided that controls the operation of the kneading device based on the detection and evaluation results of the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material using the dispersion degree evaluation device and method for evaluating the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material in this embodiment. The objects controlled by this control device include a rotor drive mechanism that controls the rotation speed of the rotor, a lid moving mechanism that controls the pressure applied to press the kneaded material inside the casing, and a temperature control mechanism that controls the temperature of the kneaded material inside the casing, and controls each of these mechanisms. As a result, the kneading operations can be controlled based on the results of the evaluation of the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material, thereby stabilizing the quality of the kneaded material.

[0071] Furthermore, a return means may be provided to return the kneaded material on the transfer section back to the kneading device based on the detection and evaluation results of the dispersion degree using the dispersion degree evaluation device, sheet forming device, and dispersion degree evaluation method for the kneaded material in this embodiment. This allows for re-kneading of kneaded material that is not sufficiently kneaded based on the evaluation results of the dispersion degree of the kneaded material, thereby improving and stabilizing the quality of the kneaded material. [Industrial applicability]

[0072] The apparatus and method for evaluating the dispersion degree of a compound according to the present invention can be used to evaluate the dispersion state (dispersion degree) of a compound obtained by kneading a polymer material and a dispersed phase. Furthermore, the sheet molding apparatus according to the present invention can be used to mold a compound into a sheet and to evaluate the dispersion state (dispersion degree) of the sheet-shaped compound. This invention allows for the direct evaluation of the degree of dispersion of a compound after molding, thereby improving the accuracy of quality control. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0073] 1A... Mixing device, 2... Casing, 2a... Inlet, 2b... Outlet, 2c... Semi-cylindrical left wall, 2d... Semi-cylindrical right wall, 2e... Front wall, 2f... Rear wall, 2g... Inlet cover, 2h... Outlet cover, 3... Rotor, 3a... Shaft, 3b... Blades, 4... Mixing chamber, 10A, 10B... Evaluation device, 20... Transfer unit, 21... Conveyor, 22... Guide member, 30A, 30B... Detection unit, 31... Electromagnetic wave measurement unit, 31a... Detection surface, 31b... Observation direction, 32... Irradiation unit, 32a... Irradiation direction, 33 …partition plate, 34…calculation unit, 35…pressure measurement unit, 35a…pressure receiving unit, 35b…cushion unit, 35c…pressure sensor, 36…electrical characteristic measurement unit, 36a…first electrode, 36b…second electrode, 36c…voltage application unit, 36d…insulating member, 37…correction calculation unit, 38…measuring stand, 39,39a~39e…detection area, 40…molding means, 41…extruder, 42a,42b…rolling rolls, 43…housing, 44…screw roll, 45…input port, 46…side plate, M…mixed material, S…sheet, W…sheet width

Claims

1. A device for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a mixture of polymer material and dispersed phase, It is provided downstream of the kneading apparatus that kneads the polymer material and the dispersed phase, A transfer unit for transferring the kneaded material discharged from the kneading device, A detection unit that detects the degree of dispersion of the dispersed phase in the polymer material by measuring the kneaded material on the transfer unit, The system includes a molding means for forming the kneaded material into a sheet, The detection unit performs measurements on the kneaded material formed into a sheet shape by the molding means, and comprises an irradiation unit that irradiates electromagnetic waves onto the surface of the kneaded material, and an electromagnetic wave measurement unit that observes the electromagnetic waves reflected from the surface of the kneaded material. The irradiation unit is positioned diagonally above the surface of the kneaded material. The electromagnetic wave measuring unit is installed so that its detection surface is parallel to the kneaded material. The dispersion evaluation device for a compound is characterized by having multiple electromagnetic wave measuring units arranged linearly with respect to the width direction of the compound formed into a sheet, thereby performing multi-point measurements.

2. The detection unit is The dispersion evaluation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that an irradiation unit irradiates the kneaded material with electromagnetic waves, and then an electromagnetic wave measurement unit photographs the kneaded material and acquires the captured image.

3. A sheet molding apparatus for forming a paste of polymer material and dispersed phase into a sheet, A molding means comprising an extruder to which the kneaded material is supplied, and rolling rolls, The molding means is followed by a means for evaluating the degree of dispersion of the kneaded material, The aforementioned dispersion evaluation means is A transfer unit for transferring the kneaded material formed into a sheet shape by the molding means, The system includes a detection unit that detects the degree of dispersion of the dispersed phase in the polymer material by measuring the kneaded material on the transfer unit, The detection unit performs measurements on the kneaded material formed into a sheet shape by the molding means, and comprises an irradiation unit that irradiates electromagnetic waves onto the surface of the kneaded material, and an electromagnetic wave measurement unit that observes the electromagnetic waves reflected from the surface of the kneaded material. The irradiation unit is positioned diagonally above the surface of the kneaded material. The electromagnetic wave measuring unit is installed so that its detection surface is parallel to the kneaded material. The sheet forming apparatus is characterized by having multiple electromagnetic wave measuring units arranged linearly with respect to the width direction of the kneaded material formed into a sheet, thereby performing multi-point measurements.

4. The detection unit is The sheet molding apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, after irradiating the kneaded material with electromagnetic waves using an irradiation unit, the kneaded material is photographed with an electromagnetic wave measurement unit and an image is acquired.

5. A method for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a mixture of polymer material and dispersed phase, A kneading step of kneading the polymer material and the dispersed phase, A transfer step for transferring the kneaded material discharged from the kneading step, During the transfer step, a detection step is performed to measure the kneaded material and detect the degree of dispersion of the dispersed phase in the polymer material, The system includes a molding step of forming the kneaded material into a sheet, The detection step is a step of performing measurements on the kneaded material formed into a sheet shape by the molding step, and is performed by an irradiation unit that irradiates the surface of the kneaded material with electromagnetic waves and an electromagnetic wave measurement unit that observes the electromagnetic waves reflected from the surface of the kneaded material. The irradiation unit is positioned diagonally above the surface of the kneaded material. The electromagnetic wave measuring unit is installed so that its detection surface is parallel to the kneaded material. The detection step is characterized by performing multi-point measurements at a plurality of electromagnetic wave measuring units arranged linearly with respect to the width direction of the sheet-shaped kneaded material, and is a method for evaluating the degree of dispersion of a kneaded material.

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