Drop weight testing apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides a drop weight testing device that can stabilize the position and orientation of the weight's fall. [Solution] The drop weight test apparatus (100) comprises a bed (1) for supporting the test specimen (TP), a trolley (2), a weight (3), a first guide rail (4), and a second guide rail (5). The trolley (2) is positioned above the bed (1). The weight (3) is positioned below the trolley (2) and is detachably connected to the trolley (2). The first guide rail (4) is separated from the bed (1) and extends vertically, and is configured to guide the trolley (2) vertically. The second guide rail (5) extends vertically and is configured to guide the weight (3) vertically.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , ,

[0001] This disclosure relates to a drop weight testing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] A drop weight testing apparatus drops a weight body and causes it to collide with a test body. By performing a drop weight test using the drop weight testing apparatus, it is possible to evaluate the crushing characteristics, impact resistance characteristics, bending characteristics, etc. of the test body.

[0003] As a drop weight testing apparatus, for example, an impact testing machine as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-151003 (Patent Document 1) is known. In the drop weight test using the drop weight testing apparatus of Patent Document 1, the weight body (heavy weight) is connected to a movable beam via a coupler, and the weight body is lifted to a predetermined height by the upward movement of the movable beam. By the operation of the coupler, the weight body is separated from the movable beam and drops to collide with the test body on the bed (floor).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the drop weight testing apparatus of Patent Document 1, the weight body and the movable beam are guided in the vertical direction by guide rails. When a drop weight test is performed, the weight body drops toward the test body while being guided by the guide rails and collides with the test body. As a result, the guide rails may be deformed by receiving an impact from the weight body. If the guide rails are excessively deformed, the dropping position or dropping posture of the weight body may become unstable.

[0006] An object of this disclosure is to provide a drop weight testing apparatus capable of stabilizing the dropping position and dropping posture of a weight body.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The drop weight test apparatus according to this disclosure comprises a bed for supporting a test specimen, a trolley, a weight, a first guide rail, and a second guide rail. The trolley is positioned above the bed. The weight is positioned below the trolley and is detachably connected to the trolley. The first guide rail is detachable from the bed and extends vertically, and is configured to guide the trolley vertically. The second guide rail extends vertically, and is configured to guide the weight vertically. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the weight drop test apparatus described herein, the position and orientation of the weight when it falls can be stabilized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of a drop weight testing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus shown in Figure 1 as viewed from above. [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram showing the initial state in a drop weight test using the drop weight test apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram showing an intermediate state in a drop weight test using the drop weight test apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3C] Figure 3C is a schematic diagram showing the final state in a drop weight test using the drop weight test apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus according to the second embodiment as viewed from above. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus according to the third embodiment as viewed from above. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment as viewed from above. [Figure 7]Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment as viewed from above. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus according to the sixth embodiment as viewed from above. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the drop weight testing apparatus according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus shown in Figure 9 as viewed from above. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus shown in Figure 9 as viewed from above. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the drop weight testing apparatus according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the drop weight testing apparatus according to the ninth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] A drop weight test apparatus according to the embodiment of this disclosure comprises a bed for supporting a test specimen, a trolley, a weight, a first guide rail, and a second guide rail. The trolley is positioned above the bed. The weight is positioned below the trolley and is detachably connected to the trolley. The first guide rail is separated from the bed and extends vertically, and is configured to guide the trolley vertically. The second guide rail extends vertically, and is configured to guide the weight vertically (first configuration).

[0011] In the drop weight test using the drop weight test apparatus according to the first configuration, the weight is suspended to a predetermined height by the ascent of the carriage while being connected to the carriage. Thereafter, the weight is detached from the carriage and falls, colliding with the test specimen supported by the bed. At that time, the carriage is guided by the first guide rail, and the weight is guided by a second guide rail different from the first guide rail. For this reason, when the weight collides with the test specimen and bounces up, the first guide rail is not impacted by the weight. Further, since the first guide rail is separated from the bed, when the weight collides with the test specimen, the impact from the bed is not transmitted to the first guide rail. By not inputting the impacts from the weight and the bed to the first guide rail, deformation of the first guide rail is less likely to occur. As a result, the position and orientation of the carriage guided by the first guide rail and the weight suspended from the carriage are easily maintained. Thereby, the dropping position and dropping orientation of the weight in the drop weight test can be stabilized.

[0012] The drop weight test apparatus according to the first configuration may further include a magnet and a suspension tool. The magnet may be disposed below the carriage and configured to be able to adsorb the weight. The suspension tool has flexibility and can connect the carriage and the magnet (second configuration).

[0013] In the second configuration, the magnet and the carriage are connected by the suspension tool, and when performing the drop weight test, the magnet adsorbs the weight. Thereby, the weight is connected to the carriage. The weight lifted by the ascent of the carriage is detached from the magnet and falls, colliding with the test specimen. Next, when performing the drop weight test again, it is necessary to lower the carriage and adsorb the weight to the magnet again. At this time, since the suspension tool connecting the carriage and the magnet has flexibility, even if the position of the weight is displaced horizontally with respect to the position of the carriage or the weight is inclined with respect to the dropping orientation, the magnet can be easily moved toward the adsorbed portion of the weight, and the weight can be adsorbed to the magnet.

[0014] In the drop weight test apparatus according to the first or second configuration, the carriage can include a carriage body, an object to be guided, and an elastic body. The object to be guided may be arranged to face the first guide rail. The elastic body is provided between the carriage body and the object to be guided, and preferably biases the object to be guided toward the first guide rail (third configuration).

[0015] In the third configuration, due to the biasing force of the elastic body, the object to be guided elastically contacts the first guide rail. Thereby, the position and posture of the carriage with respect to the first guide rail can be stabilized. Also, even if the carriage moves, for example, in the horizontal direction and approaches or separates from the first guide rail, the load from the object to be guided to the first guide rail is alleviated by the elastic body. As a result, damage to the first guide rail can be suppressed.

[0016] In the drop weight test apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth configurations, the carriage can include a carriage body and a rod extending downward from the carriage body. The weight preferably has a receiving portion formed to be able to receive the rod in the vertical direction (fourth configuration).

[0017] In the fourth configuration, a rod is provided on the carriage, and a receiving portion for this rod is formed on the weight. In this case, in the drop weight test, when the carriage descends toward the weight, the receiving portion of the weight receives the rod of the carriage. Thereafter, the weight is connected to the carriage, and the weight is lifted by the upward movement of the carriage while the receiving portion receives the rod. At that time, the receiving portion that receives the rod easily restricts the horizontal movement of the weight, and suppresses the swing of the weight. As a result, the position of the weight with respect to the carriage is stabilized, and the dropping position and dropping posture of the weight can be made more stable.

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In these drawings, the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the same description will not be repeated.

[0019] <First Embodiment> The configuration of the drop weight testing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the drop weight testing apparatus 100. The drop weight testing apparatus 100 is used to evaluate the properties of a test specimen TP. The test specimen TP is, for example, the body of an automobile, or a component module or individual component that constitutes the body. By performing a drop weight test using the drop weight testing apparatus 100, the crushing properties, impact resistance properties, bending properties, etc., of the test specimen TP can be evaluated. The drop weight testing apparatus 100 of this embodiment is used for a drop weight test to evaluate the crushing properties of a test specimen TP.

[0020] The drop weight test apparatus 100 comprises a bed 1, a trolley 2, a weight 3, a plurality of first guide rails 4, and a plurality of second guide rails 5. The drop weight test apparatus 100 is housed inside a building (not shown) such as a tower or cylinder. The building's structure includes a frame such as columns and beams, as well as a foundation, etc.

[0021] Bed 1 is fixed, for example, to the foundation of a building. Bed 1 can support the test specimen TP. In this embodiment, the test specimen TP is supported on bed 1 via a test specimen support 10. The test specimen support 10 is provided on bed 1. The test specimen support 10 includes a lower jig 101, an upper jig 102, and a load cell 103. The lower jig 101 is fixed to the upper surface of bed 1. The upper jig 102 is positioned above the lower jig 101. The load cell 103 is positioned between the lower jig 101 and the upper jig 102. The test specimen TP is placed on the upper jig 102. The test specimen TP may be fixed on the upper jig 102.

[0022] The trolley 2 is positioned above the bed 1. The trolley 2 is configured to be movable in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the trolley 2 includes a trolley body 20 and a plurality of guided parts 21.

[0023] The trolley body 20 is made of, for example, metal. The trolley body 20 may be made of steel. In this embodiment, the trolley body 20 has a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape. In a front view of the drop weight testing apparatus 100, the horizontal dimension of the trolley body 20 is greater than the vertical dimension. In this specification, the longitudinal direction of the trolley body 20 in a front view of the drop weight testing apparatus 100 is defined as the width direction. The direction perpendicular to the width direction and the vertical direction of the drop weight testing apparatus 100 is defined as the depth direction.

[0024] The trolley body 20 is suspended by a wire 6. Specifically, the lower end of the wire 6 is connected to the central part of the upper surface of the trolley body 20. The wire 6 is connected to a hoisting machine (not shown) installed, for example, on the upper part of the building. The hoisting machine may also be installed on the lower part of the building. In this case, the wire 6 is connected to the hoisting machine via a pulley installed on the upper part of the building. The trolley 2 rises when the hoisting machine winds up the wire 6. The trolley 2 lowers when the hoisting machine releases the wire 6.

[0025] The guided portions 21 are located at both ends of the trolley body 20 in the width direction. In the example shown in Figure 1, multiple guided portions 21 are arranged vertically at each end of the trolley body 20. Furthermore, it is preferable that the guided portions 21 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the trolley body 20.

[0026] The weight 3 is positioned below the trolley 2. That is, the weight 3 is positioned between the bed 1 and the trolley 2 in the vertical direction. The weight 3 is detachably connected to the trolley 2. The weight 3 is configured to be movable in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the weight 3 includes a weight body 30, a plurality of guided parts 31, a lower base 32, an upper base 33, a stopper impact body 34, and an impactor 35. The weight of the weight 3 is, for example, 200 kg or more and 3000 kg or less.

[0027] The weight body 30 is made of, for example, metal. The weight body 30 may also be made of steel. In this embodiment, the weight body 30 has a roughly rectangular shape when viewed from the front of the drop weight testing device 100. When viewed from the front of the drop weight testing device 100, the horizontal dimension of the weight body 30 is greater than the vertical dimension.

[0028] The lower base 32 is provided on the lower surface of the weight body 30. The lower base 32 may be formed in the central part of the lower surface of the weight body 30. The upper base 33 is provided on the upper surface of the weight body 30. The upper base 33 may be formed in the central part of the upper surface of the weight body 30.

[0029] The stopper impactor 34 is attached to the weight body 30. In this embodiment, the stopper impactor 34 is attached to the weight body 30 via a lower base 32. In a front view of the drop weight testing apparatus 100, the stopper impactor 34 has a roughly rectangular shape. In a front view of the drop weight testing apparatus 100, the horizontal dimension of the stopper impactor 34 is greater than the vertical dimension.

[0030] In the example shown in Figure 1, in the width direction, both ends of the stopper impactor 34 are located outside the ends of the weight body 30. However, in the width direction, both ends of the stopper impactor 34 may be located inside the ends of the weight body 30. At least one stopper 7 is provided below the stopper impactor 34. In the example in Figure 1, multiple stoppers 7 are provided below the stopper impactor 34. The stoppers 7 are arranged, for example, on both sides of the specimen support 10 in the width direction of the drop weight test apparatus 100. Each of the stoppers 7 is fixed to the bed 1.

[0031] The impactor 35 is provided on the lower surface of the stopper impactor 34. The impactor 35 may also be attached to the central portion of the lower surface of the stopper impactor 34. The lower surface of the impactor 35 is, for example, a horizontal flat surface. The impactor 35 faces the test specimen TP supported on the bed 1.

[0032] The guided portions 31 are located at both ends of the weight body 30 in the width direction. In this embodiment, multiple guided portions 31 are arranged vertically at each end of the weight body 30. It is also preferable that the guided portions 31 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the weight body 30.

[0033] The drop weight testing apparatus 100 of this embodiment further includes a magnet 8 and a suspension device 9. The magnet 8 is positioned below the trolley 2 and is configured to attract the weight 3. The suspension device 9 is flexible and connects the trolley 2 and the magnet 8. The suspension device 9 is, for example, a chain. The suspension device 9 may also be a wire or a rope.

[0034] The upper end of the lifting device 9 is connected to the trolley body 20. The upper end of the lifting device 9 may also be connected to the center of the lower surface of the trolley body 20. The lower end of the lifting device 9 is connected to the magnet 8. The lower end of the lifting device 9 may also be connected to the center of the upper surface of the magnet 8.

[0035] The magnet 8 has the function of switching the generation and non-generation of magnetic force by the ON / OFF operation of the switch. A known electromagnetic magnet can be used as the magnet 8. A permanent magnet or a permanent electromagnetic magnet may also be used as the magnet 8. In this embodiment, the magnet 8 attracts the upper base 33 of the weight body 3 by generating magnetic force. That is, the upper base 33 is the part that the magnet 8 attracts. By attracting the weight body 3 to the magnet 8, the weight body 3 can be connected to the trolley 2 via the magnet 8 and the suspension device 9.

[0036] The weight 3 is connected to the trolley 2 and is lifted up by the rise of the trolley 2. When the magnet 8 is switched to a non-magnetic state, the weight 3 is detached from the trolley 2 and falls. The impactors 35 and 35 fall together with the weight 3 and collide with the test specimen TP and stopper 7, respectively.

[0037] The first guide rail 4 is made of, for example, metal. The first guide rail 4 may be made of steel. The first guide rail 4 extends in the vertical direction. The first guide rail 4 is connected to, for example, the frame of the building. The first guide rail 4 may be directly connected to the frame or connected to the frame via other members. The connection of the first guide rail 4 to the frame of the building maintains the rigidity of the first guide rail 4 for guiding the trolley 2. On the other hand, the first guide rail 4 is separated from the bed 1. That is, the first guide rail 4 is not connected to the bed 1. In this embodiment, the first guide rail 4 is positioned above and away from the bed 1.

[0038] The first guide rail 4 is configured to guide the trolley 2 in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, each of the first guide rails 4 is adjacent to at least one of the plurality of guided portions 21 provided on the trolley 2.

[0039] The second guide rail 5 is made of, for example, metal. The second guide rail 5 may be made of steel. The second guide rail 5 extends in the vertical direction. The second guide rail 5 is connected to, for example, the frame of the building. The second guide rail 5 may be directly connected to the frame or connected to the frame via other members. In the example of this embodiment, the second guide rail 5 is further connected to the bed 1. The second guide rail 5 may be directly connected to the bed 1 or connected to the bed 1 via other members. In the example shown in Figure 1, the second guide rail 5 is directly connected to the bed 1. The connection of the second guide rail 5 to the frame of the building and the bed 1 maintains the rigidity of the second guide rail 5 for guiding the weight 3.

[0040] The second guide rail 5 is configured to guide the weight 3 in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, each of the second guide rails 5 is adjacent to at least one of the plurality of guided portions 31 provided on the weight 3.

[0041] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight test apparatus 100 as viewed from above. Figure 2 shows the trolley 2, weight 3, first guide rail 4, and second guide rail 5. The configurations of the trolley 2, weight 3, first guide rail 4, and second guide rail 5 will be described in more detail below with reference to Figure 2.

[0042] In this embodiment, the trolley 2 is provided with a plurality of guided portions 21 corresponding to each of the first guide rails 4. The trolley 2 can come into contact with the first guide rails 4 by the guided portions 21. The trolley 2 moves up or down while being guided by the first guide rails 4 by the guided portions 21.

[0043] In this embodiment, each of the guided parts 21 is a wheel 211. The wheel 211 is configured to rotate around a central axis shown by a dashed line in Figure 2. The wheel 211 is positioned opposite the first guide rail 4. An outer circumferential groove is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the wheel 211 along the circumferential direction. The shape of the outer circumferential groove of the wheel 211 corresponds to the shape of the surface of the first guide rail 4. In this embodiment, the outer circumferential groove of the wheel 211 has a V shape when viewed in cross-section including the central axis of the wheel 211. On the other hand, the surface of the first guide rail 4 corresponding to the outer circumferential groove of the wheel 211 has a V shape at least in the range in which the trolley 2 moves. The surface of the first guide rail 4 can contact the outer circumferential groove of the wheel 211 in at least a portion thereof.

[0044] The weight body 30 may be hollow. In this embodiment, the weight body 30 includes four arms 30a. The arms 30a are provided on the weight body 30 corresponding to the second guide rail 5. In a top view of the drop weight testing device 100, each of the arms 30a extends from the center of the weight body 30 toward the corresponding second guide rail 5. In a top view of the drop weight testing device 100, each of the arms 30a is inclined with respect to the width and depth. At least one guided portion 31 is provided at the end of each arm 30a. The guided portion 31 is provided inside the arm 30a at the end of each arm 30a. The weight 3 can contact the second guide rail 5 by the guided portion 31. The weight 3 rises or falls while being guided by the second guide rail 5 at the guided portion 31.

[0045] In this embodiment, each of the guided parts 31 is a wheel 311. The wheel 311 is configured to rotate around a central axis shown by a dashed line in Figure 2. The wheel 311 is positioned opposite the second guide rail 5. An outer circumferential groove is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the wheel 311 along the circumferential direction. The shape of the outer circumferential groove of the wheel 311 corresponds to the shape of the surface of the second guide rail 5. In this embodiment, the outer circumferential groove of the wheel 311 has a V shape when viewed in cross-section including the central axis of the wheel 311. On the other hand, the surface of the second guide rail 5 corresponding to the outer circumferential groove of the wheel 311 has a V shape at least in the range in which the weight 3 moves. The surface of the second guide rail 5 can contact the outer circumferential groove of the wheel 311 in at least a portion thereof.

[0046] In this embodiment, the trolley 2 is guided by the first guide rail 4 and is not guided by the second guide rail 5. The weight 3 is guided by the second guide rail 5 and is not guided by the first guide rail 4. In other words, the trolley 2 and the weight 3 do not share guide rails.

[0047] [Drop weight test using drop weight testing device 100] The drop weight test using the drop weight test apparatus 100 will be explained with reference to Figures 3A to 3C. Figure 3A is a schematic diagram showing the initial state of the drop weight test. Figure 3B is a schematic diagram showing the intermediate state of the drop weight test. Figure 3C is a schematic diagram showing the final state of the drop weight test.

[0048] Referring to Figure 3A, in the initial state of the drop weight test, a temporary support stand 71 is attached to the stopper 7, and the weight 3 is placed on the temporary support stand 71. The test specimen TP is fixed on the upper jig 102 of the test specimen support 10. This supports the test specimen TP on the bed 1. The trolley 2 descends toward the weight 3 in this state, and the magnet 8 of the trolley 2 is placed on the upper base 33 of the weight 3. The magnet 8 attracts the weight 3 due to the generation of magnetic force, and the weight 3 is thus connected to the trolley 2 via the magnet 8 and the suspension device 9. After the weight 3 is connected to the trolley 2, the trolley 2 rises.

[0049] Referring to Figure 3B, the weight 3 connected to the trolley 2 rises together with the trolley 2 as the trolley 2 rises. Further rising of the trolley 2 lifts the weight 3 to a predetermined height. The temporary support stand 71 is removed from the stopper 7. The lifting height of the weight 3 is set according to the required characteristics of the test specimen TP being tested. After the weight 3 has been lifted to the predetermined height, the magnet 8 is switched to non-magnetic force generation. As a result, the weight 3 is detached from the trolley 2 and falls.

[0050] Referring to Figure 3C, the dropped weight 3 collides with the test specimen TP on the bed 1. Specifically, the impactor 35 collides with the test specimen TP. The test specimen TP is compressed and crushed vertically by the collision with the impactor 35. Subsequently, the stopper impactor 34 collides with the stopper 7. The collision of the stopper impactor 34 with the stopper 7 restricts the downward movement of the weight 3. During the process of the test specimen TP being crushed, the load is detected by the load cell 103, and the crushing characteristics of the test specimen TP can be evaluated from the results.

[0051] Next, when the drop weight test is performed, the trolley 2 descends toward the weight 3, and the above operation is repeated.

[0052] [effect] In a drop weight test using the drop weight test apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the trolley 2 is guided by a first guide rail 4, and the weight 3 is guided by a second guide rail 5 which is different from the first guide rail 4. Specifically, the trolley 2 is guided by the wheels 211, which are the guided parts 21, and the first guide rail 4, and the weight 3 is guided by the wheels 311, which are the guided parts 31, and the second guide rail 5. When the weight 3 falls and the impactor 35 collides with the test specimen TP, or when the stopper impactor 34 collides with the stopper 7, the weight 3 may bounce up. At this time, the first guide rail 4 that guides the trolley 2 is separate from the second guide rail 5 that guides the weight 3, and therefore does not receive an impact from the weight 3.

[0053] Furthermore, in the drop weight test apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the first guide rail 4 is separated from the bed 1. Therefore, when the weight 3 falls and the impactor 35 collides with the test specimen TP, or when the stopper impactor 34 collides with the stopper 7, the impact from the bed 1 is not transmitted to the first guide rail 4.

[0054] Because the impact from the weight 3 and the bed 1 is not applied to the first guide rail 4, deformation of the first guide rail 4 is less likely to occur. Therefore, the position and orientation of the trolley 2 guided by the first guide rail 4, and the weight 3 suspended from the trolley 2, are more easily maintained. This makes it possible to stabilize the drop position and orientation of the weight 3 during the drop weight test. Thus, it becomes easier to maintain a stable drop position and orientation of the weight 3 over a long period of time.

[0055] In the drop weight testing apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the magnet 8 and the trolley 2 are connected by a suspension device 9. When performing a drop weight test, the magnet 8 attracts the weight 3 by generating magnetic force. This allows the weight 3 to be connected to the trolley 2. The weight 3 connected to the trolley 2 is lifted up by the raising of the trolley 2. The lifted weight 3 is detached from the magnet 8 by the cessation of magnetic force generation and falls, colliding with the test specimen TP. When performing the next drop weight test, it is necessary to lower the trolley 2 and attract the weight 3 to the magnet 8 again. At this time, because the suspension device 9 connecting the trolley 2 and the magnet 8 is flexible, even if the position of the weight 3 is shifted horizontally relative to the position of the trolley 2, or if the weight 3 is tilted relative to its original dropping posture, the magnet 8 can be easily moved toward the upper base 33, which is the part of the weight 3 that is attracted. Therefore, it is possible to attract the weight 3 to the magnet 8. For example, even if the weight of the weight 3 is large and it is difficult to move the weight 3, the magnet 8 can be moved to connect the weight 3 to the trolley 2.

[0056] For example, if an electromagnet is directly connected to the wire of a hoisting machine, and a weight is attracted to this electromagnet to suspend the weight, as the lifting height of the weight decreases, the length of the wire from the hoisting machine or pulley to the weight increases, and the amplitude of the weight's swing increases. In contrast, in this embodiment, the wire 6 of the hoisting machine is connected to a trolley 2, and the magnet 8 is connected to the trolley 2 via a lifting device 9. Since the length of the lifting device 9 connecting the magnet 8 and the trolley 2 is constant, the amplitude of the weight 3's swing does not change even if the lifting height of the weight 3 changes. Therefore, the posture of the weight 3 during suspension can be stabilized. The length of the lifting device 9 is, for example, 0.6m to 1.5m. For example, the lifting height of the weight 3 is 10m or more. However, the lifting height of the weight 3 may be less than 10m. The lifting height of the weight 3 may be 1m or more.

[0057] <Second Embodiment> Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus 100A according to the second embodiment as viewed from above. Similar to Figure 2, Figure 4 shows the trolley 2A, the weight 3, the first guide rail 4A, and the second guide rail 5. The drop weight testing apparatus 100A of this embodiment differs from the drop weight testing apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in its configuration for guiding the trolley 2A.

[0058] Referring to Figure 4, similar to the first embodiment, each of the guided portions 21A of the bogie 2A is a wheel 211A. The wheels 211A are positioned opposite the first guide rail 4A. However, in this embodiment, the outer groove of the wheel 211A has a U shape when viewed in cross-section including the central axis of the wheel 211A (the dashed line in Figure 4). On the other hand, the surface of the first guide rail 4A corresponding to the outer groove of the wheel 211A has a U shape at least in the range in which the bogie 2A moves. The surface of the first guide rail 4A can contact the outer groove of the wheel 211A in at least a portion thereof.

[0059] The drop weight testing apparatus 100A of this embodiment provides the same effects as the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the guided portion 31 of the weight 3 may have the same configuration as the guided portion 21A of the trolley 2A. In this case, the second guide rail 5 may have the same shape as the first guide rail 4A.

[0060] <Third Embodiment> Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus 100B according to the third embodiment as viewed from above. Similar to Figure 2, Figure 5 shows the trolley 2B, the weight 3, the first guide rail 4B, and the second guide rail 5. The drop weight testing apparatus 100B of this embodiment differs from the drop weight testing apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in its configuration for guiding the trolley 2B.

[0061] Referring to Figure 5, in this embodiment, the guided portion 21B of the trolley 2B is composed of a pair of wheels 211B. In the trolley body 20, each of the wheels 211B is configured to be rotatable around its central axis (the dashed line in Figure 5). On the other hand, the surface of the first guide rail 4B has an H-shaped cross-section at least in the range in which the trolley 2B moves. The first guide rail 4B is positioned between the wheels 211B. Each wheel 211B is positioned facing the first guide rail 4B. The surface of the first guide rail 4B can contact each wheel 211B at least in part.

[0062] The drop weight testing apparatus 100B of this embodiment provides the same effects as the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the guided portion 31 of the weight 3 may have the same configuration as the guided portion 21B of the trolley 2B. In this case, the second guide rail 5 may have the same shape as the first guide rail 4B.

[0063] <Fourth Embodiment> Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus 100C according to the fourth embodiment as viewed from above. Similar to Figure 2, Figure 6 shows the trolley 2C, the weight 3, the first guide rail 4, and the second guide rail 5. The drop weight testing apparatus 100C of this embodiment differs from the drop weight testing apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in its configuration for guiding the trolley 2C.

[0064] Referring to Figure 6, in the trolley 2C, the trolley body 20 includes four arms 20a. The arms 20a are provided on the trolley body 20 corresponding to the first guide rail 4. In a top view of the drop weight testing device 100C, each of the arms 20a extends from the center of the trolley body 20 toward the corresponding first guide rail 4. In a top view of the drop weight testing device 100C, each of the arms 20a is inclined with respect to the width and depth. At least one guided portion 21 is provided at the end of each arm 20a. The guided portion 21 is located inside the arm 20a at the end of each arm 20a. The trolley 2C can contact the first guide rail 4 by means of the guided portions 21. The trolley 2C moves up or down while being guided by the first guide rail 4 at the guided portions 21.

[0065] In this embodiment, the guided portion 21 is the same wheel 211 as in the first embodiment. In this case, compared to the first embodiment, the number of first guide rails 4 that guide the bogie 2C is increased, so the position and orientation of the bogie 2C are more stable.

[0066] The configuration of this embodiment may also be applied to a second or third embodiment.

[0067] <Fifth Embodiment> Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus 100D according to the fifth embodiment as viewed from above. Similar to Figure 2, Figure 7 shows the trolley 2D, the weight 3, the first guide rail 4, and the second guide rail 5. The drop weight testing apparatus 100D of this embodiment differs from the drop weight testing apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in its configuration for guiding the trolley 2D.

[0068] Referring to Figure 7, the trolley 2D includes a trolley body 20, guided sections 21 and 21D, and an elastic body 22. In the width direction of the drop weight testing device 100D, the guided section 21 is provided at one end of the trolley body 20. The guided section 21D is positioned on the opposite side of the trolley body 20 from the guided section 21 in the width direction of the drop weight testing device 100D. The guided section 21D is positioned opposite the first guide rail 4. The elastic body 22 is provided between the trolley body 20 and the guided section 21D and biases the guided section 21D toward the first guide rail 4.

[0069] In this embodiment, the guided portion 21D includes a movable portion 212D separated from the bogie body 20 and a wheel 211D. The wheel 211D is supported by the movable portion 212D so as to be rotatable around a central axis (the dashed line in Figure 7). The wheel 211D is the same wheel 211 as in the first embodiment. The movable portion 212D is supported by the bogie body 20 via an elastic body 22. Therefore, the movable portion 212D is given a biasing force by the elastic body 22. As a result, the wheel 211D can elastically contact the first guide rail 4.

[0070] The elastic body 22 is, for example, a compression coil spring. The elastic body 22 may also be a disc spring or a leaf spring. The elastic body 22 may also be rubber.

[0071] In this embodiment, the biasing force of the elastic body 22 causes the wheel 211D of the guided portion 21D to elastically contact the first guide rail 4. This stabilizes the position and orientation of the trolley 2D relative to the first guide rail 4. For example, even if the trolley 2D moves horizontally and approaches or moves away from either of the first guide rails 4, the expansion and contraction of the elastic body 22 can absorb the displacement of the trolley 2D relative to the first guide rail 4. Also, for example, even if the trolley 2D tilts relative to the first guide rail 4, the expansion and contraction of the elastic body 22 can absorb the tilt of the trolley 2D relative to the first guide rail 4. In addition, the load from the wheel 211D to the first guide rail 4 can be mitigated by the elastic body 22. As a result, damage to the first guide rail 4 can be suppressed.

[0072] In the example shown in Figure 7, the guided portion 21D and the elastic body 22 are provided corresponding to only one of the two first guide rails 4. However, the guided portion 21D and the elastic body 22 may be provided corresponding to both of the first guide rails 4. If the drop weight testing device 100D includes multiple first guide rails 4, the guided portion 21D and the elastic body 22 can be provided corresponding to at least one of the first guide rails 4. Although not shown, in the weight body 3, instead of at least one guided portion 31, a guided portion and an elastic body similar to the guided portion 21D and elastic body 22 of the trolley 2D may be provided.

[0073] In the case of the trolley 2D of this embodiment, a guided portion 21D is provided that is supported via an elastic body 22 corresponding to at least one first guide rail 4. In the trolley 2D, this guided portion 21D is guided by the first guide rail 4 and not by the second guide rail 5 that guides the weight body 3. That is, the guided portion 21D supported via the elastic body 22 does not share a guide rail with the weight body 3. If the trolley 2D includes a guided portion 21D supported via the elastic body 22 and a guided portion 21 that is supported without an elastic body, the guided portion 21 that is supported without an elastic body may be guided by the first guide rail 4 or by the second guide rail 5. That is, in the trolley 2D, the guided portion 21 that is supported without an elastic body may share a guide rail with the weight body 3.

[0074] The configuration of this embodiment may also be applied to the second or fourth embodiment.

[0075] <Sixth Embodiment> Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the drop weight testing apparatus 100E according to the sixth embodiment as viewed from above. Similar to Figure 5, Figure 8 shows the trolley 2E, the weight 3, the first guide rail 4B, and the second guide rail 5. The drop weight testing apparatus 100E of this embodiment differs from the drop weight testing apparatus 100B of the third embodiment in its configuration for guiding the trolley 2E.

[0076] Referring to Figure 8, the trolley 2E includes a trolley body 20, a plurality of guided parts 21E, and an elastic body 22. In this embodiment, two guided parts 21E are provided corresponding to two first guide rails 4B. In Figure 8, each of the guided parts 21E is provided at an end 20b of the trolley body 20. More specifically, the end 20b has an inwardly concave shape in the width direction of the drop weight testing device 100B, and the guided parts 21E are arranged within this end 20b. Each of the guided parts 21E includes a pair of movable parts 212E separated from the trolley body 20 and a pair of wheels 211E. In each guided part 21E, the pair of movable parts 212E are arranged on either side of the corresponding first guide rail 4B. The pair of wheels 211E are each supported by the movable part 212E so that each can rotate around its central axis (the dashed line in Figure 8). Wheel 211E is the same as wheel 211B in the third embodiment. Each movable part 212E is housed in a concave end 20b formed in the bogie body 20 and is supported by an elastic body 22 on the end 20b. Thus, each movable part 212E is given a biasing force by the elastic body 22. As a result, each wheel 211E can elastically contact the first guide rail 4B.

[0077] In this embodiment, the biasing force of the elastic body 22 causes each wheel 211E of the guided section 21E to elastically contact the first guide rail 4B. Therefore, the drop weight testing device 100E of this embodiment has the same effects as the fifth embodiment.

[0078] The guided portion 21E only needs to be provided in correspondence with at least one first guide rail 4B. In addition, the guided portion 31 in the weight body 3 that corresponds to at least one second guide rail 5 may have the same configuration as the guided portion 21E of the bogie 2E.

[0079] <Seventh Embodiment> The configuration of the drop weight testing apparatus 100F according to the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 11. Figure 9 is a front view showing the schematic configuration of the drop weight testing apparatus 100F. Figures 10 and 11 are schematic diagrams showing the drop weight testing apparatus 100F shown in Figure 9 as viewed from above. In Figure 10, as in Figure 2, the trolley 2F, weight body 3F, first guide rail 4, and second guide rail 5 are shown. In Figure 11, the trolley 2F and first guide rail 4 shown in Figure 10 are omitted. The drop weight testing apparatus 100F of this embodiment differs from the drop weight testing apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in that the trolley 2F includes a rod 23 and the weight body 3F has a receiving portion 36.

[0080] Referring to Figure 9, the trolley 2F includes a trolley body 20 and a rod 23 extending downward from the trolley body 20. The weight body 3F has a receiving portion 36 formed to be able to receive the rod 23 in the vertical direction.

[0081] Referring to Figure 10, the trolley 2F has at least one projection 24. The projection 24 is provided on the trolley body 20. In a top view of the trolley 2F, the projection 24 can project from the trolley body 20 in a direction intersecting the width direction of the drop weight testing device 100F. For example, the projection 24 projects from the trolley body 20 in the depth direction of the drop weight testing device 100F. In this embodiment, the trolley 2F has a pair of projections 24. In a top view of the trolley 2F, the pair of projections 24 are arranged on either side of the trolley body 20.

[0082] Each of the protruding portions 24 has a through hole 241 formed therein. The through hole 241 penetrates the protruding portion 24 in the vertical direction. The rod 23 is inserted into the through hole 241 from above the protruding portion 24 and extends downward from the bogie body 20. The rod 23 has a head 231. The head 231 catches on the upper surface of the protruding portion 24, preventing the rod 23 from falling out. The portion of the protruding portion 24 in which the through hole 241 is formed may be made of a bearing.

[0083] The cross-sectional shape of the rod 23 is circular. Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the rod 23 is axially symmetric, and may be, for example, elliptical or polygonal. The rod 23 may become thinner as it approaches the tip (lower end). The rod 23 may be solid or hollow.

[0084] Referring to Figure 11, the weight body 3F has at least one projection 37. The projection 37 is provided on the weight body 30. In this embodiment, a pair of projections 37 are provided on the weight body 30 corresponding to a pair of projections 24 on the trolley body 20. The projections 37 are provided in positions facing the projections 24 of the trolley 2F in the vertical direction. Each of the projections 37 has a through hole 361 formed as a receiving portion 36. The through hole 361 passes through the projection 37 along the vertical direction. The through hole 361 is provided in positions corresponding to the rod 23 of the trolley 2F in the vertical direction. The portion of the projection 37 in which the through hole 361 is formed may be made of a bearing.

[0085] The through-hole 361 may have a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the rod 23. For example, if the cross-sectional shape of the rod 23 is circular, the shape of the through-hole 361 may be circular. Such a through-hole 361 functions as a receiving portion 36 and can receive the rod 23 in the vertical direction. The receiving portion 36 is not limited to the through-hole 361. The shape of the receiving portion 36 may be a notch-like shape when viewed along the vertical direction. For example, if the cross-sectional shape of the rod 23 is circular, the shape of the receiving portion 36 may be an arc shape when viewed along the vertical direction.

[0086] In this embodiment, a rod 23 is provided on the trolley 2F. During the drop weight test, as the trolley 2F descends toward the weight 3F, the through-hole 361, which is the receiving part 36 of the weight 3F, receives the rod 23 of the trolley 2F. Subsequently, the weight 3F is connected to the trolley 2F. With the through-hole 361 receiving the rod 23, the weight 3F is lifted by the rising of the trolley 2F. At this time, the horizontal movement of the weight 3F is easily restricted by the through-hole 361 that has received the rod 23. As a result, the swing of the weight 3F during lifting is suppressed. Consequently, the position of the weight 3F relative to the trolley 2F is stabilized, and the drop position and drop posture of the weight 3F can be made more stable.

[0087] <Eighth Embodiment> Figure 12 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the drop weight testing apparatus 100G according to the eighth embodiment. The drop weight testing apparatus 100G of this embodiment differs from the drop weight testing apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in its configuration used for a drop weight test to evaluate the bending characteristics of the test specimen TPG.

[0088] Referring to Figure 12, the drop weight test apparatus 100G includes a pair of end supports 104 as the specimen support 10G. The end supports 104 are spaced apart in the width direction and fixed to the upper surface of the bed 1. Each of the end supports 104 is positioned on both sides of a plurality of stoppers 7 on the upper surface of the bed 1.

[0089] The test specimen TPG has an elongated shape. The test specimen TPG is placed on the end supports 104 so as to span between the end supports 104. That is, the test specimen TPG is supported on the bed 1 via the test specimen support 10G.

[0090] In this embodiment, the load cell 38 is provided on the weight 3G. Specifically, the load cell 38 is positioned between the stopper impactor 34 and the impactor 35G. The impactor 35G is positioned opposite the longitudinal center of the test specimen TPG supported on the bed 1.

[0091] In a drop weight test using the drop weight testing apparatus 100G of this embodiment, the impactor 35G collides with the longitudinal center of the test specimen TPG when the weight 3G is dropped. The test specimen TPG bends with its ends as fulcrums due to the collision with the impactor 35G. During the bending process of the test specimen TPG, the load is detected by the load cell 38, and the three-point bending characteristics of the test specimen TPG can be evaluated from the result.

[0092] In this embodiment, the second guide rail 5 is fixed to the upper surface of the stopper 7. That is, the second guide rail 5 is connected to the bed 1 via the stopper 7.

[0093] The configuration of the test specimen support 10G and the weight 3G may be applied to the second to seventh embodiments. Furthermore, the configuration of indirectly connecting the second guide rail 5 to the bed 1 may also be applied to the second to seventh embodiments.

[0094] <Ninth Embodiment> Figure 13 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the drop weight testing apparatus 100H according to the ninth embodiment. The drop weight testing apparatus 100H of this embodiment differs from the drop weight testing apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in its configuration used for a drop weight test to evaluate the impact resistance characteristics of the test specimen TPH.

[0095] Referring to Figure 13, the drop weight test apparatus 100H comprises a pair of test specimen supports 10H. Each of the test specimen supports 10H has the same configuration as the test specimen support 10 of the first embodiment. The test specimen supports 10H are spaced apart in the width direction and fixed to the upper surface of the bed 1. On the upper surface of the bed 1, one test specimen support 10H is positioned between the stoppers 7, and the other test specimen support 10H is positioned outside the stoppers 7. The stopper impactor 34 shown in Figure 13 has a shape that does not interfere with the first guide rail 4. Alternatively, the first guide rail 4 shown in Figure 13 may be positioned so as not to interfere with the stopper impactor 34.

[0096] The test specimen TPH has an elongated shape. For example, the test specimen TPH is part of the skeletal member that makes up the body of an automobile. The test specimen TPH is placed on the test specimen support 10H so as to span across the test specimen support 10H. That is, the test specimen TPH is supported on the bed 1 via the test specimen support 10H.

[0097] In this embodiment, the impactor 35H of the weight 3H has a shape that protrudes downward from the stopper impactor 34. The lower surface of the impactor 35H is, for example, a flat surface inclined with respect to the horizontal plane. The impactor 35G faces the longitudinal end of the test specimen TPH supported on the bed 1.

[0098] In a drop weight test using the drop weight testing apparatus 100H of this embodiment, the impactor 35H collides with the longitudinal end of the test specimen TPH when the weight 3H falls. This collision mode is a so-called offset collision. The end of the test specimen TPH deforms due to the impact of the impactor 35H. During the process of deformation of the end of the test specimen TPH, the load is detected by the load cell 103, and the collision resistance characteristics of the test specimen TPH can be evaluated from the result. In a drop weight test that provides such an offset collision, when the impactor 35H collides with the end of the test specimen TPH, the weight 3H receives a horizontal force from the test specimen TPH. Therefore, in this type of drop weight test, the position of the weight 3H is prone to shifting horizontally relative to the position of the trolley 2.

[0099] In this embodiment, the second guide rail 5 is fixed to a bracket 7a connected to a stopper 7. That is, the second guide rail 5 is connected to the bed 1 via the bracket 7a and the stopper 7.

[0100] The configuration of the test specimen support 10H and the weight 3H may be applied to the second to seventh embodiments. Furthermore, the configuration of indirectly connecting the second guide rail 5 to the bed 1 may also be applied to the second to seventh embodiments.

[0101] While embodiments relating to this disclosure have been described above, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible as long as they do not deviate from its spirit.

[0102] In the above embodiment, magnets 8 are used as a configuration for detachably connecting the weight body 3 to the trolleys 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, and 2F. A mechanical mechanism may be used instead of magnets 8 in this configuration.

[0103] In the trolley 2, the guided portion 21 can be any element that can be guided by the first guide rail 4. For example, bearings can be used instead of wheels 211, 211A, 211B, 211D, and 211E for the guided portions 21, 21A, 21B, 211D, and 211E. Similarly, in the weight body 3, bearings can be used instead of wheels 311 for the guided portion 31. For example, if the lifting height of weight bodies 3, 3F, 3G, and 3H is lower than 10m, bearings may be used for the guided portions 21, 21A, 21B, 21D, 21E, and 31.

[0104] In the above description of the embodiment, the shape of the weight body 30 in a front view of the drop weight testing device 100 was generally rectangular. However, the shape of the weight body 30 is not limited to a generally rectangular shape. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0105] 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, 100F, 100G, 100H: Drop weight testing apparatus TP, TPG, TPH: Test specimens 1: Bed 2,2A,2B,2C,2D,2E,2F: Trolley 21, 21A, 21B, 21D, 21E: Guided part 211,211A,211B,211D,211E:Wheel 22: Elastic body 23: Rod 3,3F,3G,3H: Pyramid 31:Guided part 311: Wheel 36: Reception Department 4, 4A, 4B: First guide rail 5: Second guide rail 8: Magnet 9: Lifting equipment

Claims

1. A drop weight testing device, A bed for supporting the test specimen, A trolley positioned above the bed, A weight body positioned below the trolley and detachably connected to the trolley, A first guide rail, which is separated from the bed and extends in the vertical direction, and is configured to guide the trolley in the vertical direction, A second guide rail extends in the vertical direction and is configured to guide the weight in the vertical direction, A drop weight testing apparatus equipped with the following features.

2. A drop weight testing apparatus according to claim 1, further, A magnet positioned below the trolley and configured to attract the weight, A flexible suspension device that connects the trolley and the magnet, A drop weight testing apparatus equipped with the following features.

3. A drop weight testing apparatus according to claim 1, The bogie is a drop weight testing device comprising a bogie body, a guided portion positioned opposite to the first guide rail, and an elastic body provided between the bogie body and the guided portion, which biases the guided portion toward the first guide rail.

4. A drop weight testing apparatus according to claim 1, The aforementioned trolley includes a trolley body and a rod extending downward from the trolley body. The weight has a receiving portion formed to allow the rod to be received in the vertical direction, and is a drop weight testing device.

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