Material testing machine and particle analyzer

Abstract

To improve a worker's workability.SOLUTION: A tensile testing machine 1 includes: a main testing unit 2 which performs material testing; an association storage unit 541 which stores specific words KW in association with command information CM for the main testing unit 2; an audio reception unit 534 which receives audio uttered by a user; an extraction unit 535 which extracts a specific word KW from the audio through audio recognition processing; a determination unit 536 which determines command information CM associated with the specific work KW which has been extracted by the extraction unit 535, referring to the association storage unit 541; and a command unit 537 which outputs, to the main testing unit 2, the command information CM determined by the determination unit 536.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a material testing machine and a particle analyzer.

Background Art

[0002] In material testing machines, various techniques for improving the workability of operators are known. For example, after giving a command, the material testing machine described in Patent Document 1 stores each operation in order every time an operation unit such as an operation panel or a keyboard is operated, and outputs an operation history based on the stored content as an operation procedure manual in a predetermined format.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the material testing machine described in Patent Document 1, since an operator needs to operate an operation input device provided with a button switch, a touch panel, etc., there is room for improving the workability of the operator. For example, when the operation on the operation input device is an operation by the operator's finger, it is difficult to operate the operation input device in a situation where the operator's hand cannot be released during test preparation or the like. Also, for example, when the operator is wearing gloves during the operation on the operation input device, it may be difficult to perform operations such as operating the touch panel or pressing the button switch. In such a case, the operator needs to remove the gloves to operate.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a material testing machine and a particle analyzer capable of improving the workability of an operator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A material testing machine according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises: a testing machine body for performing material testing; a correspondence storage unit for storing specific words and instruction information for the testing machine body in association; a voice reception unit for receiving voice from a user; an extraction unit for extracting the specific words from the voice by voice recognition processing; a determination unit for determining instruction information corresponding to the specific words extracted by the extraction unit by referring to the correspondence storage unit; and an instruction unit for outputting the instruction information determined by the determination unit to the testing machine body.

[0007] A particle analyzer according to a second aspect of the present invention comprises: an analyzer main body that generates a sample image of a liquid sample in which particles are dispersed; a correspondence storage unit that stores a correspondence between a specific word and instruction information for the analyzer main body; a voice reception unit that receives voice from a user; an extraction unit that extracts the specific word from the voice by voice recognition processing; a determination unit that determines instruction information corresponding to the specific word extracted by the extraction unit by referring to the correspondence storage unit; and an instruction unit that outputs the instruction information determined by the determination unit to the analyzer main body. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The material testing machine according to the first aspect of the present invention and the particle analysis device according to the second aspect of the present invention are capable of outputting instruction information to the testing machine body or the analysis device body based on voice input from the user. Therefore, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the operator. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a tensile testing machine according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control device. [Figure 3] This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the first word and the first instruction information. [Figure 4]This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the second word and the second instruction information. [Figure 5] This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the third word and the third instruction information. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the processing performed by the control unit. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a particle analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the first word and the first instruction information. [Figure 9] This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the second word and the second instruction information. [Figure 10] This is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the third word and the third instruction information. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] This embodiment will now be described with reference to the drawings. This embodiment includes a tensile testing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, which will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6, and a particle analyzer 6 according to the second embodiment, which will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 10.

[0011] [1. First Embodiment] [1-1. Configuration of a Tensile Testing Machine] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of a tensile testing machine 1 according to the first embodiment. The tensile testing machine 1 of the first embodiment performs a tensile test by applying a test force F to a test specimen TP and measuring the mechanical properties of the specimen, such as tensile strength, yield point, elongation, and reduction of area. The test force F is the tensile force. The tensile testing machine 1 comprises a testing machine body 2 that applies a test force F to a test specimen TP, which is the material to be tested, to perform a tensile test, and a control unit 3 that controls the tensile testing operation performed by the testing machine body 2. Tensile testing machine 1 corresponds to an example of a "material testing machine".

[0012] As shown in Fig. 1, the test machine main body 2 forms a load frame on the base 26 by a pair of columns 28 and 29 and a yoke 13, and the crosshead 10 is fixed to the columns 28 and 29.

[0013] A hydraulic actuator 18 is arranged on the base 26, and a lower gripper 22 for gripping the lower end of the test piece TP is attached to the piston rod 181 of the hydraulic actuator 18. Further, an upper gripper 21 for gripping the upper end of the test piece TP is attached to the crosshead 10 via a load cell 14.

[0014] The hydraulic actuator 18 is controlled by a servo valve 20 so that the pressure oil direction and the pressure oil quantity are controlled, and the piston rod 181 expands and contracts. As a result, the distance between the upper gripper 21 and the lower gripper 22 expands and contracts, and a test force F is applied to the test piece TP fixed between the upper gripper 21 and the lower gripper 22. Further, the stroke of the hydraulic actuator 18, that is, the displacement of the test piece TP, is detected by a differential transformer 19 attached to the hydraulic actuator 18.

[0015] The load cell 14 is a sensor that measures the test force F, which is a tensile load applied to the test piece TP, and outputs a test force measurement signal SG1 to the control unit 3. The differential transformer 19 is a sensor that measures the displacement amount of the test piece TP and outputs a displacement measurement signal SG2 corresponding to the displacement amount to the control unit 3.

[0016] A displacement sensor 15 is arranged on the test piece TP. The test piece TP is, for example, a dumbbell-shaped test piece formed with a constriction in the center. The displacement sensor 15 is a sensor that measures the elongation measurement value ED by measuring the distance between a pair of gauge points of the test piece TP and outputs an elongation measurement signal SG3 to the control unit 3. The pair of gauge points are arranged at the upper and lower parts of the constricted region of the test piece TP.

[0017] The test machine main body 2 further includes a power source GE and a hydraulic source GP. The power source GE supplies power to various parts of the test machine body 2. For example, the power source GE supplies power to various motors and drives them. The power source GE also supplies power to the hydraulic pump and hydraulic control valve (not shown in the diagram) and drives them. The power source GE is configured, for example, as a voltage source. The power source GE supplies the corresponding voltage to each part of the test machine body 2. For example, the power source GE supplies a voltage of 100V to the hydraulic pump and various motors, and a voltage of 10V to the control unit 3.

[0018] The hydraulic power source GP supplies hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic system that constitutes the main body 2 of the test machine. For example, the hydraulic power source GP supplies hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic actuator 18 and drives the hydraulic actuator 18. That is, the hydraulic actuator 18 is driven by the hydraulic pressure supplied from the hydraulic power source GP, causing the piston rod 181 to extend and retract. The hydraulic power source GP comprises a hydraulic pump and a hydraulic control valve (not shown in the diagram), and generates hydraulic pressure by driving the hydraulic pump. Power is supplied to the hydraulic pump from the power source GE. The hydraulic control valve adjusts the hydraulic pressure output from the hydraulic power source GP.

[0019] The control unit 3 comprises a signal input / output device 40 and a control device 50. The signal input / output device 40 constitutes an input / output interface circuit that transmits and receives signals to and from the test machine body 2, and in the first embodiment, it has a first sensor amplifier 42, a second sensor amplifier 45, a third sensor amplifier 43, and a servo amplifier 44. The first sensor amplifier 42 is an amplifier that amplifies the test force measurement signal SG1 output by the load cell 14 to generate a test force measurement value FD, and outputs the test force measurement value FD to the control device 50. The second sensor amplifier 45 is an amplifier that amplifies the elongation measurement signal SG3 output by the displacement sensor 15 to generate an elongation measurement value ED, and outputs the elongation measurement value ED to the control device 50. The third sensor amplifier 43 amplifies the displacement measurement signal SG2 output by the differential transformer 19 and outputs a displacement measurement signal A3, which represents the displacement measurement value XD, as a digital signal to the control device 50. The servo amplifier 44 is a device that controls the servo valve 20 according to the control of the control device 50. The control device 50 calculates a command value dX of the displacement measurement value XD and transmits a command signal A4 indicating the command value dX to the servo valve 20.

[0020] The control device 50 controls the operation of the testing machine body 2 based on user input. The control device 50 also causes the testing machine body 2 to perform a tensile test. In the first embodiment, "user" includes an operator who operates the testing machine body 2.

[0021] The control device 50 includes a computer that has an interface circuit between a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) and a signal input / output device 40, as well as various electronic circuits. Furthermore, an A / D converter is provided in the interface circuit with the signal input / output device 40, and the analog test force measurement signal SG1, elongation measurement signal SG3, and displacement measurement signal SG2 are converted into digital signals by the A / D converter. The control device 50 is not limited to a computer; it may also be composed of one or more appropriate circuits, such as integrated circuits like IC chips or LSIs.

[0022] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the control device 50 according to the first embodiment. The control device 50 includes a control unit 52. The main body of the test machine 2 is further equipped with an operation panel 51. The control panel 51 includes a microphone 511, a touch panel 512, and a push-button switch 513. Microphone 511 receives voice from the user and generates an audio signal SW. Microphone 511 outputs the audio signal SW to the control unit 52. The touch panel 512 is equipped with an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and displays various images on the LCD according to instructions from the control unit 52. The touch panel 512 also includes touch sensors positioned along the display surface of the LCD. The touch sensors detect touches from the user's fingertips or pens and transmit the detection signals to the control unit 52. The push-button switch 513 is equipped with multiple push-button switches, receives various operations from the user, and transmits operation signals corresponding to those operations to the control unit 52.

[0023] The control unit 52 is, for example, a personal computer and controls the operation of the control device 50. The control unit 52 includes a processor 53 and memory 54. The processor 53 consists of components such as the CPU (Central Processing Unit) and MPU (Micro-Processing Unit). Memory 54 consists of ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), among other components.

[0024] The control unit 52 is not limited to a personal computer; it may be composed of one or more appropriate circuits, such as integrated circuits (IC chips or LSIs). Furthermore, the control unit 52 may be composed of, for example, a tablet terminal or a smartphone. Furthermore, the control unit 52 may include programmed hardware such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 52 may also include a SoC (System-on-a-Chip)-FPGA.

[0025] [1-2. Configuration of the Control Unit] As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 52 includes a communication unit 531, an operation control unit 532, a display control unit 533, a voice reception unit 534, an extraction unit 535, a determination unit 536, an instruction unit 537, a corresponding storage unit 541, a sequence storage unit 542, and a test condition storage unit 543. Specifically, the processor 53 of the control unit 52 functions as the communication unit 531, operation control unit 532, display control unit 533, voice reception unit 534, extraction unit 535, determination unit 536, and instruction unit 537 by executing a control program stored in the memory 54 or storage device. In addition, the processor 53 of the control unit 52 causes the memory 54 to function as the corresponding storage unit 541, sequence storage unit 542, and test condition storage unit 543 by executing a control program stored in the memory 54 or storage device.

[0026] The corresponding memory unit 541 stores a specific word KW and instruction information CM for the test machine body 2 in association with each other. A specific word KW is a word pre-set by the user, and includes the first word KW1, the second word KW2, and the third word KW3. Instruction information CM indicates instructions for the test machine body 2. Instruction information CM includes first instruction information CM1, second instruction information CM2, and third instruction information CM3. First instruction information CM1 indicates an instruction corresponding to a single operation of the test machine body 2. Second instruction information CM2 indicates instructions corresponding to a series of operations of the test machine body 2. Third instruction information CM3 indicates an instruction to set test conditions for the test machine body 2. The first word KW1 is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 in association with the first instruction information CM1. The second word KW2 is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 in association with the second instruction information CM2. The third word KW3 is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 in association with the third instruction information CM3. The first word KW1 to the third word KW3, and the first instruction information CM1 to the third instruction information CM3 will be explained in detail with reference to Figures 3 to 5.

[0027] The sequence storage unit 542 stores a sequence SQ that represents a series of operations of the test machine body 2. Each of the operations that make up the sequence SQ is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 as, for example, the first instruction information CM1. The sequence storage unit 542 stores multiple sequence SQs. Each of the multiple sequence SQs is set by the user and stored in the sequence storage unit 542. Each of the multiple sequence SQs is identified by a registration number. The registration number corresponds to an example of identification information.

[0028] The test condition storage unit 543 stores multiple test condition CTs to be executed by the test machine body 2. Multiple test condition CTs are stored in the test condition storage unit 543 in advance. Each of the multiple test condition CTs is set by the user and stored in the test condition storage unit 543, for example, in file format. Each of the multiple test condition CTs is identified by a file number. The file number corresponds to an example of identification information. In the first embodiment, test condition CT specifies the test conditions for a tensile test. The test condition CT includes, for example, a first test condition CT1 in which position control is performed with respect to the test force measurement value FD, and a second test condition CT2 in which velocity control is performed with respect to the elongation measurement value ED.

[0029] The communication unit 531 controls communication with the signal input / output device 40 shown in Figure 1. The communication unit 531 receives, for example, the test force measurement value FD, the elongation measurement value ED, and the displacement measurement value XD from the signal input / output device 40. The communication unit 531 also transmits, for example, a command signal A4 indicating the command value dX to the signal input / output device 40.

[0030] Furthermore, the communication unit 531 transmits various instruction information CM to, for example, the load cell 14, displacement sensor 15, servo valve 20, hydraulic power source GP, and power source GE, in accordance with instructions from the instruction unit 537. The communication unit 531 transmits, for example, instruction information CM to set the offsets of the load cell 14 and the displacement sensor 15 to zero. The communication unit 531 also transmits, for example, instruction information CM to the hydraulic power source GP and the power source GE to start them up.

[0031] The motion control unit 532 controls the operation of the test machine body 2. For example, when performing a tensile test corresponding to the first test condition CT1, which performs position control on the test force measurement value FD, the motion control unit 532 calculates a command value dX for the displacement measurement value XD so that the test force measurement value FD matches the test force target value FT. Then, the communication unit 531 transmits a command signal A4 indicating the command value dX to the servo amplifier 44 of the signal input / output device 40.

[0032] Furthermore, for example, when performing a tensile test corresponding to the second test condition CT2 in which speed control is performed on the elongation measurement value ED, the motion control unit 532 calculates a command value dX for the displacement measurement value XD so that the elongation speed measurement value EVD, which is the amount of change of the elongation measurement value ED per unit time, matches the elongation speed target value EVT. The communication unit 531 then transmits a command signal A4 indicating the command value dX to the servo amplifier 44 of the signal input / output device 40.

[0033] The display control unit 533 controls the screen and images displayed on the LCD of the touch panel 512. When the motion control unit 532 is performing a tensile test, the display control unit 533 displays, for example, a graph on the LCD of the touch panel 512 showing the relationship between at least one of the test force measurement value FD and the elongation measurement value ED and the displacement measurement value XD. Furthermore, when the motion control unit 532 performs a tensile test corresponding to the first test condition CT1, the display control unit 533 displays, for example, a screen showing the first test condition CT1 on the LCD of the touch panel 512. When the motion control unit 532 performs a tensile test corresponding to the second test condition CT2, the display control unit 533 displays, for example, a screen showing the second test condition CT2 on the LCD of the touch panel 512.

[0034] The voice reception unit 534 receives voice from the user. Specifically, the voice reception unit 534 receives the voice signal SW generated by the microphone 511 in response to the voice from the user. For the purposes of the following explanation, the audio signal SW is not limited to analog signals but also includes digital information. In other words, the audio signal SW also includes audio information obtained by A / D conversion of the audio signal SW.

[0035] The extraction unit 535 extracts a specific word KW from the audio signal SW by speech recognition processing. The audio signal SW may include, for example, the worker's mumbling, conversations with other workers, etc. The extraction unit 535 removes the worker's mumbling, conversations with other workers, etc. included in the audio signal SW and extracts the specific word KW. In other words, the extraction unit 535 determines whether the audio signal SW contains a specific word KW stored in the corresponding storage unit 541, and if it contains the specific word KW, it extracts the specific word KW. Furthermore, the extraction unit 535 may determine the degree of match with a specific word KW, and if the degree of match is above a preset threshold, it may extract the specific word KW. The threshold is, for example, 90%.

[0036] The determination unit 536 refers to the corresponding storage unit 541 and determines the instruction information CM corresponding to the specific word KW extracted by the extraction unit 535. In other words, the determination unit 536 determines the instruction information CM by reading the instruction information CM corresponding to the specific word KW extracted by the extraction unit 535 from the corresponding storage unit 541.

[0037] The instruction unit 537 outputs the instruction information CM determined by the determination unit 536 to the main unit 2 of the test machine. In the first embodiment, the instruction unit 537 outputs instruction information CM to the test machine body 2, for example, via the operation control unit 532 and the communication unit 531. The instruction information CM will be explained further with reference to Figures 3 to 5.

[0038] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the first word KW1 and the first instruction information CM1. Figure 3 shows the first table TB11. The first table TB11 is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 shown in Figure 2. The left column of the first table TB11 stores the first word KW1, and the right column of the first table TB11 stores the first instruction information CM1 corresponding to the first word KW1.

[0039] For example, if the first word KW1 is "start test", the instruction unit 537 instructs the testing machine body 2 to "start material testing" as shown in the first instruction information CM1. For example, if the first word KW1 is "end test", the instruction unit 537 instructs the test machine body 2 to "end the ongoing test" as shown in the first instruction information CM1.

[0040] For example, if the first word KW1 is "Start Return", the instruction unit 537 instructs the servo valve 20 of the test machine body 2 to "return the hydraulic actuator to the origin position" as shown in the first instruction information CM1. For example, if the first word KW1 is "stop", the instruction unit 537 instructs the servo valve 20 of the test machine body 2 to "stop the operation of the hydraulic actuator" as shown in the first instruction information CM1.

[0041] For example, if the first word KW1 is "jog mode", the instruction unit 537 instructs the test machine body 2 to "set to jog (manual) operation mode" as shown in the first instruction information CM1. For example, if the first word KW1 is "test mode", the instruction unit 537 instructs the test machine body 2 to "put into a test start waiting state" as shown in the first instruction information CM1.

[0042] For example, if the first word KW1 is "Hydraulic power off", the instruction unit 537 instructs the hydraulic power source GP of the test machine body 2 to "shut off the hydraulic power source" as shown in the first instruction information CM1. For example, if the first word KW1 is "shutdown", the instruction unit 537 instructs the power source GE of the test machine body 2 to "shut down the power to the test machine" as shown in the first instruction information CM1.

[0043] For example, if the first word KW1 is "zero test force reset", the instruction unit 537 instructs the load cell 14 of the testing machine body 2 to "zero the test force measurement value" as shown in the first instruction information CM1. For example, if the first word KW1 is "stroke zero reset", the instruction unit 537 instructs the differential transformer 19 of the testing machine body 2 to "reset the displacement measurement value to zero" as shown in the first instruction information CM1.

[0044] As explained with reference to Figure 3, by having the operator speak so that the voice containing the first word KW1 is input to the microphone 511, the first instruction information CM1 corresponding to one action can be output to the testing machine body 2. Therefore, even if the operator is located at a distance from the testing machine body 2 (operation panel 51), the operator can easily instruct the testing machine body 2 to perform one action. Thus, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0045] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the second word KW2 and the second instruction information CM2. Figure 4 shows the second table TB12. The second table TB12 is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 shown in Figure 2. The left column of the second table TB12 stores the second word KW2, and the right column of the second table TB12 stores the second instruction information CM2 corresponding to the second word KW2.

[0046] For example, if the second word KW2 is "Execute sequence XX", the instruction unit 537 instructs the test machine body 2 to "execute the pre-registered sequence XX" as shown in the second instruction information CM2. Here, "registration" means that the user sets the content of the second instruction information CM2 corresponding to sequence SQ and stores it in the sequence storage unit 542. In the first embodiment, sequence SQ indicates instructions corresponding to a series of operations of the testing machine body 2. In sequence XX, "XX" indicates identification information of sequence SQ that has been stored in the sequence storage unit 542 in advance. In sequence XX, "XX" is, for example, a registration number. The sequence SQ is stored in the sequence storage unit 542 shown in Figure 2.

[0047] For example, if the second word KW2 is "test preparation," the instruction unit 537 instructs the testing machine body 2 to "perform a 'fixture distance movement' operation after calibration" as shown in the second instruction information CM2. Here, "fixture distance movement" means moving the lower gripper 22 with the hydraulic actuator 18 so that the distance between the upper gripper 21 and the lower gripper 22 becomes a predetermined distance, as shown in Figure 3.

[0048] For example, if the second word KW2 is "emergency stop", the instruction unit 537 instructs the test machine body 2 to "stop the operation of the hydraulic actuator and perform the 'hydraulic source off' operation" as shown in the second instruction information CM2. The stopping of the operation of the hydraulic actuator 18 is performed by controlling the servo valve 20. "Hydraulic source off" means stopping the operation of the hydraulic source GP, as shown in Figure 3.

[0049] As explained with reference to Figure 4, by having the operator speak so that the voice containing the second word KW2 is input to the microphone 511, the second instruction information CM2 corresponding to a series of actions can be output to the testing machine body 2. Therefore, even if the operator is located at a distance from the testing machine body 2 (operation panel 51), the operator can easily instruct the testing machine body 2 to perform a series of actions. Thus, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0050] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the third word KW3 and the third instruction information CM3. Figure 5 shows the third table TB13. The third table TB13 is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 shown in Figure 2. The left column of the third table TB13 stores the third word KW3, and the right column of the third table TB13 stores the third instruction information CM3 corresponding to the third word KW3.

[0051] For example, if the third word KW3 is "Read file YY", the instruction unit 537 outputs an instruction to the test machine body 2 indicating, as shown in the third instruction information CM3, that "Read the test condition file with file number YY, set it as the test condition, and execute the 'test mode' operation". The test condition files are stored in the test condition storage unit 543 shown in Figure 2. In other words, the test condition file with file number YY is read from the test condition storage unit 543. "Test mode" operation refers to putting the system into a state of waiting for the test to start, as shown in Figure 3.

[0052] As explained with reference to Figure 5, by having the operator speak so that the voice containing the third word KW3 is input to the microphone 511, the third instruction information CM3 for setting the test condition CT can be output to the testing machine body 2. Therefore, even if the operator is located at a distance from the testing machine body 2 (operation panel 51), the operator can easily set the desired test condition CT to the testing machine body 2. Thus, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0053] [1-3. Processing of the control unit] Next, with reference to Figure 6, the processes executed by the control unit 52 will be described. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the control unit 52. In the first embodiment, the first table TB11 shown in Figure 3, the second table TB12 shown in Figure 4, and the third table TB13 shown in Figure 5 are pre-stored in the corresponding storage unit 541. In addition, multiple sequence SQs are pre-stored in the sequence storage unit 542, and multiple test condition CTs are pre-stored in the test condition storage unit 543.

[0054] As shown in Figure 6, first, in step S101, the voice reception unit 534 receives voice from the user. Specifically, the voice reception unit 534 receives the voice signal SW generated by the microphone 511 in response to the voice from the user. Next, in step S103, the extraction unit 535 determines whether or not it has extracted a specific word KW from the audio signal SW through speech recognition processing. If the extraction unit 535 determines that the specific word KW has not been extracted (step S103; NO), the process proceeds to step S105. Then, in step S105, the display control unit 533 displays a message on the LCD of the touch panel 512 indicating that the specific word KW has not been extracted. After that, the process returns to step S101.

[0055] If the extraction unit 535 determines that a specific word KW has been extracted (step S103; YES), the process proceeds to step S107. Then, in step S107, the determination unit 536 refers to the corresponding storage unit 541 and determines the instruction information CM corresponding to the specific word KW. Next, in step S109, the instruction unit 537 determines whether the instruction information CM determined by the determination unit 536 is the first instruction information CM1.

[0056] If the instruction unit 537 determines that instruction information CM is not the first instruction information CM1 (step S109; NO), the process proceeds to step S115. If the instruction unit 537 determines that instruction information CM is the first instruction information CM1 (step S109; YES), the process proceeds to step S111. Then, in step S111, the instruction unit 537 outputs the first instruction information CM1 to the test machine body 2. Next, in step S113, the control unit 52 determines whether or not an operation corresponding to the first instruction information CM1 has been completed. If the control unit 52 determines that one operation corresponding to the first instruction information CM1 has not been completed (step S113; NO), the process enters a waiting state. If the control unit 52 determines that one operation corresponding to the first instruction information CM1 has been completed (step S113; YES), the process returns to step S101.

[0057] If the answer in step S109 is NO, then in step S115, the instruction unit 537 determines whether the instruction information CM determined by the determination unit 536 is the second instruction information CM2. If the instruction unit 537 determines that instruction information CM is not the second instruction information CM2 (step S115; NO), the process proceeds to step S121. If the instruction unit 537 determines that instruction information CM is the second instruction information CM2 (step S115; YES), the process proceeds to step S117. Then, in step S117, the instruction unit 537 outputs the second instruction information CM2 to the test machine body 2. Next, in step S119, the control unit 52 determines whether or not the multiple operations corresponding to the second instruction information CM2 have been completed. If the control unit 52 determines that multiple operations corresponding to the second instruction information CM2 have not been completed (step S119; NO), the process enters a waiting state. If the control unit 52 determines that multiple operations corresponding to the second instruction information CM2 have been completed (step S119; YES), the process returns to step S101.

[0058] If the answer in step S115 is NO, then in step S121, the instruction unit 537 determines that the instruction information CM determined by the determination unit 536 is the third instruction information CM3. Then, in step S123, the instruction unit 537 outputs the third instruction information CM3 to the test machine body 2. Next, in step S125, the control unit 52 determines whether or not the setting of the test condition CT corresponding to the third instruction information CM3 has been completed. If the control unit 52 determines that the setting of the test condition CT corresponding to the third instruction information CM3 has not been completed (step S125; NO), the process enters a waiting state. If the control unit 52 determines that the setting of the test condition CT corresponding to the third instruction information CM3 has been completed (step S125; YES), the process returns to step S101.

[0059] As explained with reference to Figure 6, the voice reception unit 534 receives the voice signal SW generated by the microphone 511 in response to the voice from the user, and the extraction unit 535 extracts a specific word KW from the voice signal SW through voice recognition processing. Then, the determination unit 536 refers to the corresponding storage unit 541 to determine the instruction information CM corresponding to the specific word KW extracted by the extraction unit 535, and the instruction unit 537 outputs the instruction information CM to the test machine main unit 2. Therefore, by having the operator speak so that voice containing a specific word KW is input to the microphone 511, the operator can output instruction information CM corresponding to the specific word KW to the testing machine body 2. Thus, even if the operator is located at a distance from the testing machine body 2 (operation panel 51), the operator can easily instruct the testing machine body 2 with instruction information CM. Consequently, the operator's work efficiency can be improved. Furthermore, in the material testing machine 1, as part of the test preparation work, the operator may set heavy objects such as the upper gripping device 21 and the lower gripping device 22 onto the testing machine body 2. In such cases, even if the operator is located at a distance from the testing machine body 2 during the test preparation work, the operator can easily output instruction information CM to the testing machine body 2. Therefore, the safety of the operator's work can be improved.

[0060] [2. Second Embodiment] [2-1. Configuration of the particle analyzer] Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of the particle analyzer 6 according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the particle analyzer 6 comprises an analyzer body 6A and a control device 50. The particle analyzer 6 flows a liquid sample SL containing dispersed particles PT of the powder sample SP through a flow path 77 at a predetermined velocity VA, and analyzes the image of the particles PT of the powder sample SP contained in the sample image PS obtained by photographing the liquid sample SL at a predetermined period TA. The particle analyzer 6 also analyzes the particle properties of the particles PT of the powder sample SP based on the results of the image analysis.

[0061] Powder samples SP are, for example, powders of industrial products such as pigments, cosmetic powders, toners, particulate catalysts, abrasives, powdered pharmaceuticals, synthetic resin powders, fine ceramic particles, and metal particles. Particle properties typically refer to particle shape, including equivalent diameter, circularity, and aspect ratio. The particle analyzer 6 analyzes images of particles PT of the powder sample SP using, for example, the dynamic image analysis method specified in JIS Z8827-2. Furthermore, the particle size PT of the powder sample SP is, for example, 5 μm to 100 μm.

[0062] The analyzer body 6A shown in Figure 7 generates a sample image PS of the liquid sample SL in which particles PT are dispersed. As shown in Figure 7, the main body of the analyzer 6A includes a flow cell 62, a liquid sample supply mechanism 90, an illumination unit 60, a camera 80, and a focusing mechanism 70. The flow cell 62 is an optically transparent measuring container and is formed in the shape of a roughly rectangular plate. An inlet 64A for introducing the liquid sample SL is formed on the upper end surface 66A of the flow cell 62, and an outlet 64B for discharging the liquid sample SL is formed on the lower end surface 66B of the flow cell 62, and a flow path 77 is formed in a straight line from the inlet 64A to the outlet 64B. The flow cell 62 of the second embodiment is provided with a focus target (not shown) for focusing, and the control unit 52 is configured to focus the camera 80 based on the focus target.

[0063] The liquid sample supply mechanism 90 is a mechanism that delivers a predetermined amount of liquid sample SL to the flow cell 62 per unit time, and is equipped with a liquid delivery pump 82. In other words, the liquid delivery pump 82 causes the liquid sample SL to flow through the flow path 77 at a predetermined speed VA. The predetermined speed VA is, for example, 14.5 mm / second. In the second embodiment, an inlet pipe 76 extending from a liquid sample storage container 74 that stores a liquid sample SL is connected to the inlet 64A of the flow cell 62. One end of a discharge pipe 78 is connected to the outlet 64B, and the other end of the discharge pipe 78 is connected to the suction side of a liquid transfer pump 82. When the liquid transfer pump 82 is activated, the liquid sample SL in the liquid sample storage container 74 flows from the inlet 64A into the flow path 77 of the flow cell 62, and is discharged from the outlet 64B via the flow path 77. A waste liquid pipe 79 is connected to the discharge side of the liquid transfer pump 82, and the liquid sample discharged by the liquid transfer pump 82 is collected in the waste liquid tank 83 through the waste liquid pipe 79. Alternatively, the liquid transfer pump 82 may be installed on the side of the inlet pipe 76.

[0064] The illumination unit 60 includes a light source device 60A that irradiates the flow cell 62 with measurement light 84. In the second embodiment, the light source device 60A irradiates the flow cell 62 with substantially parallel measurement light 84 from a direction substantially perpendicular to the flow path 77. The light source device 60A includes a light source having an element-emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) light source or a laser light source, and a collimating optical system that parallelizes the light emitted from the light source. The light source device 60A may also include a planar light source that emits light in a planar manner, such as a COB (Chip On Board) type LED.

[0065] The camera 80 is positioned opposite the illumination unit 60 with the flow cell 62 in between, and captures images of the area illuminated by the measurement light 84 in the flow cell 62 at a predetermined period TA according to the instructions of the control unit 52. The camera 80 of the second embodiment includes an image sensor 86, which is an imaging sensor, and a telecentric microscope 88. The image sensor 86 is composed of a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), etc. The telecentric microscope 88 is a telecentric optical system that forms an image of the illuminated area in the flow cell 62 on the imaging surface 86A of the image sensor 86, and includes a telecentric lens 89 positioned opposite the flow cell 62.

[0066] The shooting speed of camera 80 is, for example, 8 FPS. That is, the predetermined period TA is 0.125 seconds. The predetermined period TA is set to satisfy the following conditions. In other words, the predetermined velocity VA and predetermined period TA are set so that particles flowing in the channel 77 are not included in two consecutively captured sample images PS. In other words, the predetermined speed VA and predetermined period TA are set to satisfy the following equation (1). VA > LA / TA (1) Here, length LA represents the length of the particle PT in the flow direction within the field of view of camera 80. For example, length LA is 1.8 mm. In this case, the value on the right-hand side of equation (1) is 14.4 (= 1.8 / 0.125) mm / second, and equation (1) is satisfied when the predetermined velocity VA is 14.5 mm / second.

[0067] In this way, the predetermined velocity VA and predetermined period TA are set so that the particles PT flowing in the channel 77 are not included in the two consecutively captured sample images PS, thereby suppressing the capture of multiple images of the same particle PT.

[0068] The focusing mechanism 70 is a mechanism for varying the focus of the telecentric microscope 88 and includes a lens driving mechanism 87. The lens driving mechanism 87 is a mechanism for varying the focus of the camera 80 by driving the telecentric lens 89 along the optical axis A of the telecentric optical system according to the control of the control unit 52.

[0069] The control device 50 has substantially the same configuration as the control device 50 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2. In other words, the control device 50 includes a control unit 52. The analysis device body 6A further includes an operation panel 51. The control panel 51 includes a microphone 511, a touch panel 512, and a push-button switch 513. Microphone 511 receives voice from the user and generates an audio signal SW corresponding to the voice. Microphone 511 outputs the generated audio signal SW to control unit 52. The touch panel 512 is equipped with an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and displays various images on the LCD according to instructions from the control unit 52. The touch panel 512 also includes touch sensors positioned along the display surface of the LCD. The touch sensors detect touches from the user's fingertips or pens and transmit the detection signals to the control unit 52. The push-button switch 513 is equipped with multiple push-button switches, receives various operations from the user, and transmits operation signals corresponding to those operations to the control unit 52.

[0070] [2-2. Configuration of the control unit] The control unit 52 is, for example, a personal computer and controls the operation of the main body 6A of the analyzer. The control unit 52 includes a processor 53, memory 54, a storage device such as an HDD or SSD, and an interface circuit for connecting a camera 80 and the like. The processor 53 is composed of a CPU or MPU, etc. The memory 54 is composed of ROM, etc.

[0071] The control unit 52 is not limited to a personal computer; it may be composed of one or more appropriate circuits, such as integrated circuits (IC chips or LSIs). Furthermore, the control unit 52 may be composed of, for example, a tablet terminal or a smartphone. Furthermore, the control unit 52 may include programmed hardware such as a DSP or FPGA. The control unit 52 may also include an SoC-FPGA.

[0072] Similar to the control unit 52 shown in Figure 2, the control unit 52 includes a communication unit 531, an operation control unit 532, a display control unit 533, a voice reception unit 534, an extraction unit 535, a determination unit 536, an instruction unit 537, a corresponding storage unit 541, and a sequence storage unit 542. The control unit 52 includes a measurement condition storage unit 544 and an image storage unit 545, instead of the test condition storage unit 543 shown in Figure 2. Specifically, the processor 53 of the control unit 52 functions as the communication unit 531, operation control unit 532, display control unit 533, voice reception unit 534, extraction unit 535, determination unit 536, and instruction unit 537 by executing a control program stored in the memory 54 or storage device. In addition, the processor 53 of the control unit 52 causes the memory 54 to function as the corresponding storage unit 541, sequence storage unit 542, measurement condition storage unit 544, and image storage unit 545 by executing a control program stored in the memory 54 or storage device.

[0073] The following explanation will mainly describe the differences from the control unit 52 shown in Figure 2, and will omit explanations of configurations similar to the control unit 52 shown in Figure 2. However, the test machine body 2 in the explanation of the control unit 52 shown in Figure 2 corresponds to the analyzer body 6A in the control unit 52 shown in Figure 7.

[0074] The measurement condition storage unit 544 stores multiple measurement conditions AT that the analyzer body 6A will perform. Multiple measurement conditions AT are stored in the measurement condition storage unit 544 in advance. Each of the multiple measurement conditions AT is set by the user and stored in the measurement condition storage unit 544, for example, in file format. Each of the multiple measurement conditions AT is identified by a file number. The file number corresponds to an example of identification information. The measurement conditions AT include the conditions for generating the sample image PS. Specifically, the measurement conditions AT include, for example, a predetermined speed VA for flowing the liquid sample SL in the flow channel 77 shown in Figure 7, the imaging speed (predetermined period TA) of the camera 80 shown in Figure 7, and the length LA of the particle PT in the flow direction within the field of view of the camera 80 shown in Figure 7. Furthermore, the measurement condition AT may also include conditions for analyzing the sample image PS.

[0075] The image storage unit 545 stores the sample image PS obtained by photographing the liquid sample SL with the camera 80 at a predetermined period TA, in accordance with the instructions of the operation control unit 532.

[0076] The communication unit 531 controls communication with the main body 6A of the analyzer shown in Figure 7. In other words, the communication unit 531 controls communication with each part of the analyzer body 6A. Specifically, the communication unit 531 controls communication with, for example, the liquid sample supply mechanism 90, the illumination unit 60, the camera 80, and the focus mechanism 70.

[0077] The motion control unit 532 adjusts the autofocus of the camera 80 and the shooting timing of the camera 80. The motion control unit 532 adjusts the focus of the camera 80 (telecentric microscope 88) based on the image captured of the focus target of the flow cell 62. Specifically, the motion control unit 532 acquires the image captured by the camera 80 and determines the misalignment between the camera 80's focus and the focus target based on the image of the focus target captured in the image. Then, the motion control unit 532 controls the lens drive mechanism 87 so that the telecentric lens 89 moves to a position that eliminates the misalignment of focus. In this way, the motion control unit 532 can align the focus of the camera 80 with the focus target. Furthermore, the motion control unit 532 causes the camera 80 to photograph the liquid sample SL at a predetermined period TA, thereby generating a sample image PS. The motion control unit 532 also stores the generated sample image PS in the image storage unit 545.

[0078] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the first word KW1 and the first instruction information CM1. Figure 8 shows the first table TB21. The first table TB21 is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 shown in Figure 2. The left column of the first table TB21 stores the first word KW1, and the right column of the first table TB21 stores the first instruction information CM1 corresponding to the first word KW1.

[0079] For example, if the first word KW1 is "start water supply", the instruction unit 537 instructs the analyzer body 6A to "operate the water supply pump" as shown in the first instruction information CM1. The water supply pump is the pump that supplies water to the liquid sample storage container 74 shown in Figure 7. For example, if the first word KW1 is "Stop water supply", the instruction unit 537 instructs the analyzer body 6A to "Stop the water supply pump" as shown in the first instruction information CM1.

[0080] For example, if the first word KW1 is "pump speed XX", the instruction unit 537 instructs the analyzer body 6A to "change the speed of the liquid delivery pump to XX" as shown in the first instruction information CM1. Here, "speed of the liquid delivery pump" refers to the flow velocity (predetermined speed VA, for example, 14.5 mm / second) of the liquid sample SL flowing through the flow path 77.

[0081] As explained with reference to Figure 8, by having the operator speak so that the voice containing the first word KW1 is input to the microphone 511, the first instruction information CM1 corresponding to one action can be output to the analyzer main unit 6A. Therefore, even if the operator is located at a distance from the analyzer main unit 6A (operation panel 51), the operator can easily instruct the analyzer main unit 6A to perform one action. Thus, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0082] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the second word KW2 and the second instruction information CM2. Figure 9 shows the second table TB22. The second table TB22 is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 shown in Figure 2. The second word KW2 is stored in the left column of the second table TB22, and the second instruction information CM2, which corresponds to the second word KW2, is stored in the right column of the second table TB22.

[0083] For example, if the second word KW2 is "Execute Sequence XX", the instruction unit 537 instructs the analyzer body 6A to "execute the pre-registered sequence XX" as shown in the second instruction information CM2. Here, "registration" means that the user sets the content of the second instruction information CM2 corresponding to the sequence SQ and stores it in the sequence storage unit 542. In the second embodiment, sequence SQ indicates instructions corresponding to a series of operations of the analyzer body 6A. "XX" in "sequence XX" indicates identification information of sequence SQ that has been stored in the sequence storage unit 542 in advance. "XX" in "sequence XX" is, for example, a registration number. The sequence SQ is stored in the sequence storage unit 542 shown in Figure 2.

[0084] For example, if the second word KW2 is "Water supply for XX seconds", the instruction unit 537 instructs the analyzer body 6A to "operate the water supply pump for XX seconds" as shown in the second instruction information CM2. In other words, the instruction unit 537 instructs the analyzer body 6A to perform a series of consecutive operations, such as starting the operation of the water supply pump and stopping the operation of the water supply pump when it has been operating for XX seconds.

[0085] As explained with reference to Figure 9, by having the operator speak so that the voice containing the second word KW2 is input to the microphone 511, the second instruction information CM2 corresponding to a series of actions can be output to the analyzer main unit 6A. Therefore, even if the operator is located at a distance from the analyzer main unit 6A (operation panel 51), the operator can easily instruct the analyzer main unit 6A to perform a series of actions. Thus, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0086] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the third word KW3 and the third instruction information CM3. Figure 10 shows the third table TB23. The third table TB23 is stored in the corresponding storage unit 541 shown in Figure 2. The left column of the third table TB23 stores the third word KW3, and the right column of the third table TB23 stores the third instruction information CM3 corresponding to the third word KW3.

[0087] For example, if the third word KW3 is "Read file YY", the instruction unit 537 outputs an instruction to the main unit 2 of the test machine, indicating, as shown in the third instruction information CM3, that "Read the measurement condition file with file number YY, set it as the measurement condition, and execute the "measurement mode" operation." The measurement condition files are stored in the measurement condition storage unit 544 shown in Figure 7. That is, the measurement condition file with file number YY is read from the measurement condition storage unit 544. The measurement condition file represents the measurement condition AT. "Measurement mode" operation refers to putting the test machine unit 2 into a state where it is waiting to start measurement operation under measurement condition AT.

[0088] As explained with reference to Figure 10, by having the operator speak so that the voice containing the third word KW3 is input to the microphone 511, the third instruction information CM3 for setting the measurement condition AT can be output to the analyzer body 6A. Therefore, even if the operator is located at a distance from the analyzer body 6A (operation panel 51), the operator can easily set the desired measurement condition AT to the analyzer body 6A. Thus, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0089] [3. Appearance and Effects] Those skilled in the art will understand that the above-described embodiment is a specific example of the following embodiments.

[0090] (Section 1) A material testing machine according to the first embodiment comprises a testing machine body for performing material testing, a correspondence storage unit for storing specific words and instruction information for the testing machine body in association, a voice reception unit for receiving voice from a user, an extraction unit for extracting the specific words from the voice by voice recognition processing, a determination unit for determining instruction information corresponding to the specific words extracted by the extraction unit by referring to the correspondence storage unit, and an instruction unit for outputting the instruction information determined by the determination unit to the testing machine body.

[0091] According to the material testing machine described in paragraph 1, the voice reception unit receives voice from the user, and the extraction unit extracts the specific word from the voice by voice recognition processing. The determination unit then refers to the corresponding storage unit to determine instruction information corresponding to the specific word extracted by the extraction unit, and the instruction unit outputs the instruction information determined by the determination unit to the testing machine body. Therefore, by having the operator speak so that the voice receiving unit receives audio containing specific words, instruction information corresponding to those words can be output to the testing machine. Consequently, even if the operator is located some distance from the testing machine, the operator can easily output instruction information to the testing machine. As a result, the operator's work efficiency can be improved. Furthermore, in material testing machines, the operator may need to set heavy objects such as upper and lower grips onto the machine body as part of the test preparation work. In such cases, even if the operator is located some distance away from the machine body during the test preparation work, the operator can easily output instruction information to the machine body. Therefore, the safety of the operator's work can be improved.

[0092] (Section 2) In the material testing machine described in paragraph 1, the instruction information includes first instruction information corresponding to one operation of the testing machine body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the first word, which is the specific word corresponding to the first instruction information, in association with the first instruction information.

[0093] According to the material testing machine described in paragraph 2, the instruction information includes first instruction information corresponding to one operation of the testing machine body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the first word, which is the specific word corresponding to the first instruction information, in association with the first instruction information. Therefore, by having the operator speak so that the voice receiving unit receives the first word stored in the corresponding memory unit in association with the first instruction information, the first instruction information corresponding to a single action can be output to the testing machine body. Consequently, even if the operator is located at a distance from the testing machine body, the operator can easily instruct the testing machine body to perform a single action. As a result, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0094] (Section 3) In the material testing machine described in paragraph 1 or 2, the instruction information includes second instruction information corresponding to a series of operations of the testing machine body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the second word, which is the specific word corresponding to the second instruction information, in association with the second instruction information.

[0095] According to the material testing machine described in paragraph 3, the instruction information includes second instruction information corresponding to a series of operations of the testing machine body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the second word, which is the specific word corresponding to the second instruction information, in association with the second instruction information. Therefore, by having the operator speak so that the voice receiving unit receives the second word stored in the corresponding memory unit in association with the second instruction information, the second instruction information corresponding to a series of actions can be output to the testing machine. Consequently, even if the operator is located at a distance from the testing machine, the operator can easily instruct the testing machine to perform a series of actions. As a result, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0096] (Section 4) In the material testing machine described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, the instruction information includes third instruction information for setting test conditions for the testing machine body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the third word, which is the specific word corresponding to the third instruction information, in association with the third instruction information.

[0097] According to the material testing machine described in paragraph 4, the instruction information includes third instruction information for setting test conditions for the testing machine body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the third word, which is the specific word corresponding to the third instruction information, in association with the third instruction information. Therefore, by having the operator speak so that the voice receiving unit receives the third word, the third instruction information for setting the test conditions can be output to the testing machine. Consequently, even if the operator is located some distance from the testing machine, the operator can easily set the desired test conditions to the testing machine. As a result, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0098] (Section 5) A particle analyzer according to the second embodiment comprises: an analyzer main body that generates a sample image of a liquid sample in which particles are dispersed; a correspondence storage unit that stores a specific word and instruction information for the analyzer main body in association with each other; a voice reception unit that receives voice from a user; an extraction unit that extracts the specific word from the voice by voice recognition processing; a determination unit that refers to the correspondence storage unit and determines instruction information corresponding to the specific word extracted by the extraction unit; and an instruction unit that outputs the instruction information determined by the determination unit to the analyzer main body.

[0099] According to the particle analyzer described in paragraph 5, the voice reception unit receives voice from the user, and the extraction unit extracts the specific word from the voice through voice recognition processing. The determination unit then refers to the corresponding storage unit to determine instruction information corresponding to the specific word extracted by the extraction unit, and the instruction unit outputs the instruction information determined by the determination unit to the analyzer main body. Therefore, by having the operator speak so that the voice receiving unit receives audio containing specific words, instruction information corresponding to those words can be output to the analysis device. Consequently, even if the operator is located at a distance from the analysis device, the operator can easily output instruction information to the analysis device. As a result, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0100] (Section 6) In the particle analyzer described in paragraph 5, the instruction information includes first instruction information corresponding to one operation of the analyzer body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the first word, which is the specific word corresponding to the first instruction information, in association with the first instruction information.

[0101] According to the particle analyzer described in paragraph 6, the instruction information includes first instruction information corresponding to one operation of the analyzer body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the first word, which is the specific word corresponding to the first instruction information, in association with the first instruction information. Therefore, by having the operator speak so that the voice receiving unit receives the voice containing the first word stored in the corresponding memory unit in association with the first instruction information, the first instruction information corresponding to a single action can be output to the main unit of the analyzer. Consequently, even if the operator is located at a distance from the main unit of the analyzer, the operator can easily instruct the main unit of the analyzer to perform a single action. As a result, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0102] (Section 7) In the particle analyzer described in paragraph 5 or 6, the instruction information includes second instruction information corresponding to a series of operations of the analyzer body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the second word, which is the specific word corresponding to the second instruction information, in association with the second instruction information.

[0103] According to the particle analyzer described in paragraph 7, the instruction information includes second instruction information corresponding to a series of operations of the analyzer body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the second word, which is the specific word corresponding to the second instruction information, in association with the second instruction information. Therefore, by having the operator speak so that the voice receiving unit receives the second word stored in the corresponding memory unit in association with the second instruction information, the second instruction information corresponding to a series of actions can be output to the main unit of the analyzer. Consequently, even if the operator is located at a distance from the main unit of the analyzer, the operator can easily instruct the main unit of the analyzer to perform a series of actions. As a result, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0104] (Section 8) In the particle analyzer described in any one of paragraphs 5 to 7, the instruction information includes third instruction information for setting measurement conditions for the analyzer body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the third word, which is the specific word corresponding to the third instruction information, in association with the third instruction information.

[0105] According to the particle analyzer described in paragraph 8, the instruction information includes third instruction information for setting measurement conditions for the analyzer body, and the corresponding storage unit stores the third word, which is the specific word corresponding to the third instruction information, in association with the third instruction information. By having the operator speak into the voice receiver so that a third word is included in the voice input, the analyzer can output third instruction information to the analyzer to set the measurement conditions. Therefore, even if the operator is located some distance away from the analyzer, they can easily set the desired measurement conditions on the analyzer. As a result, the operator's work efficiency can be improved.

[0106] [4. Other Embodiments] It should be noted that the tensile testing machine 1 according to the first embodiment is merely an example of a material testing machine according to the present invention, and can be arbitrarily modified and applied without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Similarly, the particle analyzer 6 according to the second embodiment is merely an example of an analyzer according to the present invention, and can be arbitrarily modified and applied without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0107] For example, in the first embodiment, the case where the material testing machine is a tensile testing machine 1 is described, but the invention is not limited to this. The material testing machine can perform material testing by applying a test force to the test piece TP and deforming the test piece TP. For example, the material testing machine may be a compression testing machine, a bending testing machine, or a torsion testing machine.

[0108] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the case in which the particle analyzer 6 analyzes images of particles PT of a powder sample SP using the dynamic image analysis method specified in JIS Z8827-2 is described, but it is not limited to this. The particle analyzer 6 can generate a sample image PS of a liquid sample SL in which particles PT are dispersed. In other words, the analysis of images of particles PT using the sample image PS may be performed by a device different from the particle analyzer 6.

[0109] In this embodiment, the case in which the instruction information CM includes first instruction information CM1, second instruction information CM2, and third instruction information CM3 has been described, but it is not limited to this. The instruction information CM only needs to include at least one of the first instruction information CM1, second instruction information CM2, and third instruction information CM3.

[0110] Furthermore, the functional units shown in Figures 1, 2, and 7 represent functional configurations, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily required that hardware corresponding to each functional unit be implemented individually, and it is certainly possible to have a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of multiple functional units. Also, in the above embodiment, some of the functions realized by software may be realized by hardware, or conversely, some of the functions realized by hardware may be realized by software.

[0111] Furthermore, the processing units in the flowchart shown in Figure 6 are divided according to their main processing content in order to make the processing of the control unit 52 easier to understand. The way the processing units are divided and the names of the processing units shown in the flowchart in Figure 6 do not limit the process; it is possible to divide the process into even more processing units depending on the processing content, or to divide it so that one processing unit contains even more processing. Also, the processing order in the flowchart above is not limited to the example shown.

[0112] Furthermore, as explained with reference to Figures 2 and 7, in this embodiment, the processor 53 provided in the control unit 52 is made to execute a control program stored in the memory 54 or storage device. This control program can also be recorded on a recording medium that is readable by a computer. As the recording medium, a magnetic, optical, or semiconductor memory device can be used. Specifically, these include portable or fixed recording media such as flexible disks, HDDs, CD-ROMs (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVDs, Blu-ray® Discs, magneto-optical disks, flash memory, and card-type recording media. The recording medium may also be a non-volatile storage device such as RAM, ROM, or HDD, which is an internal storage device provided by the control unit 52. Alternatively, the control program may be stored in a server device or the like, and the control program may be downloaded from the server device to the control unit 52. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1. Tensile testing machine (material testing machine) 2. Test machine body 3. Control Unit 10 Crossheads 14 load cells 15 Displacement Sensor 18 Hydraulic Actuator 181 Piston Rod 19 Differential transformer 20 Servo valves 21 Upper gripping tool 22 Lower gripping tool 50 Control device 51 Control Panel 511 Microphone 512 Touch Panel 512 Numeric keypad section 513 Push button switch 52 Control Unit 53 processors 531 Communications Department 532 Operation Control Unit 533 Display Control Unit 534 Voice Reception Department 535 Extraction part 536 Decision Section 537 Instruction section 54 memory 541 Corresponding memory unit 542 Sequence Storage Unit 543 Test condition storage unit 544 Measurement condition storage section 545 Image storage unit 6 Particle analyzer 6A Analyzer main body 60A Light Source Device 62 Flow Cells 70 Focusing mechanism 74 Liquid sample storage container 77 channels 80 Cameras 82 Liquid transfer pump 83 Waste liquid tank 86 Image sensor 87 Lens drive mechanism 88 Telecentric Microscope 90 Liquid sample supply mechanism A optical axis AT measurement conditions CM instruction information CM1 1st instruction information CM2 2nd instruction information CM3 3rd instruction information CT test conditions F Test Power FD test force measurement value FT test force target value GE power source GP Hydraulic Source KW (Keyword) Specific words KW1 1st word KW2 2nd word KW3 3rd word SL liquid sample SP Powder Sample SQ Sequence TP test specimen TB11, TB21 Table 1 TB12, TB22 Second Table TB13, TB23 Third Table XD Displacement measurement values

Claims

1. The testing machine body that performs the material test, The system stores a sequence representing a series of operations of the testing machine body, and at least one of a series of test conditions performed by the testing machine body. A corresponding storage unit stores in association a specific word containing identification information corresponding to each of the sequences representing the plurality of operations and each of the plurality of test conditions, and instruction information for the test machine body, corresponding to each of the sequences representing the plurality of operations and each of the plurality of test conditions. A voice reception unit that receives voice messages from users, An extraction unit that determines the degree of matching between the voice and the specific word by speech recognition processing, and extracts the specific word if the degree of matching is equal to or greater than a preset threshold, A determination unit that extracts the identification information from the specified word and determines instruction information corresponding to the identification information, An instruction unit that outputs the instruction information determined by the determination unit to the main body of the testing machine, A materials testing machine equipped with the following features.

2. The instruction information includes first instruction information corresponding to one operation of the main body of the test machine, The corresponding storage unit stores the first word, which is the specific word corresponding to the first instruction information, in association with the first instruction information. The material testing machine according to claim 1.

3. The instruction information includes second instruction information corresponding to a series of operations of the test machine body, The corresponding storage unit stores the second word, which is the specific word corresponding to the second instruction information, in association with the second instruction information. A material testing machine according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The aforementioned instruction information includes third instruction information for setting test conditions for the test machine body, The corresponding storage unit stores the third word, which is the specific word corresponding to the third instruction information, in association with the third instruction information. A material testing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The main unit of the analyzer generates a sample image of a liquid sample in which particles are dispersed, The system stores a sequence representing a series of operations of the analyzer body, and at least one of a series of measurement conditions performed by the analyzer body. A correspondence storage unit stores in association a specific word containing identification information corresponding to each of the sequences representing the plurality of operations and each of the plurality of measurement conditions, and instruction information for the analyzer body, corresponding to each of the sequences representing the plurality of operations and each of the plurality of measurement conditions. A voice reception unit that receives voice messages from users, An extraction unit that determines the degree of matching between the voice and the specific word by speech recognition processing, and extracts the specific word if the degree of matching is equal to or greater than a preset threshold, A determination unit that extracts the identification information from the specified word and determines instruction information corresponding to the identification information, An instruction unit that outputs the instruction information determined by the determination unit to the main body of the analyzer, A particle analyzer equipped with the following features.

6. The instruction information includes first instruction information corresponding to one operation of the main body of the analyzer, The corresponding storage unit stores the first word, which is the specific word corresponding to the first instruction information, in association with the first instruction information. The particle analyzer according to claim 5.

7. The instruction information includes second instruction information corresponding to a series of operations of the main body of the analyzer, The corresponding storage unit stores the second word, which is the specific word corresponding to the second instruction information, in association with the second instruction information. The particle analyzer according to claim 5 or claim 6.

8. The aforementioned instruction information includes third instruction information for setting measurement conditions for the main body of the analyzer, The corresponding storage unit stores the third word, which is the specific word corresponding to the third instruction information, in association with the third instruction information. The particle analyzer according to any one of claims 5 to 7.

Images