Material testing machine

Abstract

To provide a material tester which makes it easier to find and prevent installation errors of inter-gauge line distance setting members.SOLUTION: A material tester (1) with multiple inter-gauge line distance setting members (96, 97, 78) having different lengths to suit inter-gauge line distances (λ1, λ2) of a test piece (T) is provided, the material tester comprising an accommodating body (150) including mounts (151, 152, 153) for mounting the multiple inter-gauge distance setting members (96, 97, 78), and a prevention mechanism for preventing incorrect mounting of the inter-gauge distance setting members (96, 97, 78) to the mounts (151, 152, 153).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, tests using an extensometer have been conducted in material testing, and there were cases where the extensometer needed to set a gauge length (Patent Document 1). Also, not limited to the extensometer, a material testing machine that uses the setting of the gauge length by a plurality of gauge length setting members with different lengths according to the gauge length between marks on the test piece has been proposed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In Patent Document 1, every time the length of the test piece changes, the gauge length setting member is manually recombined with another gauge length setting member. In this case, conventionally, since users store and manage the gauge length setting members in various ways, there is a risk of attachment errors such as selecting the wrong gauge length setting member or forgetting to replace it during recombination. There is also a risk of not noticing the attachment error and performing the test as it is. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a material testing machine that can easily detect and prevent attachment errors of the gauge length setting member.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An aspect of the present invention is a material testing machine equipped with a plurality of gauge marking distance setting members of different lengths according to the gauge marking distance of a test piece, comprising a housing including a mounting portion for the plurality of gauge marking distance setting members, and a prevention mechanism for preventing incorrect mounting of the gauge marking distance setting members in the mounting portion. The mounting portion is provided with a detection sensor for the marking line distance setting member, and the control unit determines whether or not the marking line distance setting member is being used based on the signal from the detection sensor. It is a materials testing machine. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, a prevention mechanism for preventing incorrect mounting ensures that a predetermined gauge marking distance setting member is housed in a predetermined mounting section, thereby making it easier to prevent the selection of the wrong gauge marking distance setting member. Furthermore, the presence or absence of a gauge marking distance setting member mounted in the mounting section makes it easier to recognize the gauge marking distance setting member being used in the material testing machine. Therefore, it is easier to detect and prevent mounting errors of the gauge marking distance setting member. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a diagram of a material testing machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a side view showing the main parts of the elongation measuring device and testing device. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view showing the main components of the elongation measuring device and testing device. [Figure 4] This is a side view showing the main parts of the elongation measuring device and testing device used when performing the first test of the distance between gauge marks. [Figure 5] This is a side view showing the main parts of the elongation measuring device and testing device used when performing a second test of the distance between gauge marks. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of the housing for the marking line distance setting component. [Figure 7] This is a view of the storage plate from the front. [Figure 8] This is a side view of the storage plate. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of the start determination process for the control device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0009] [1. Embodiments] Figure 1 is a diagram of a material testing machine 1 according to an embodiment. The material testing machine 1 of this embodiment measures the tensile force and elongation of a test specimen T by applying a test load as a test force to the test specimen T.

[0010] The material testing machine 1 comprises a specimen supply device 10, a testing device 30, a specimen retrieval device 50, an elongation measuring device 70, and a control device 200.

[0011] The test specimen supply device 10 includes a test specimen storage device 12 for storing test specimens T in a pallet 11, a measuring device 14 for measuring the dimensions of the test specimens T, a transport table 13 for transporting the pallet 11 from the test specimen storage device 12, and a transport device 20 for transporting the test specimens T from the pallet 11 supplied to the transport table 13 to the test device 30.

[0012] The test specimen storage device 12 stores multiple pallets 11 containing test specimens T, for example, by stacking them vertically.

[0013] The test apparatus 30 applies a test load to the test specimen T supplied from the test specimen supply device 10 and tests the test specimen T. In this embodiment, the vertical direction TD, the width direction SD, and the front-to-back direction FD are used, with the test apparatus 30 shown in Figure 1 as the reference. Note that the width direction SD is also called the left-to-right direction.

[0014] The test device 30 has a pedestal 31. A table 32 is provided on the upper part of the pedestal 31. On the table 32, a column 33 extending vertically upward is erected. The columns 33 are provided in a pair in the width direction (the left - right direction in FIG. 1) SD of the test device 30. On the upper part of the columns 33, a cross - yoke 34 extending between the pair of columns 33 is spanned. Inside the columns 33, a screw rod (not shown) is provided. The screw rod is composed of a ball screw. Both ends of a cross - head 35 are connected to the screw rod via nuts (not shown). The cross - head 35 moves up and down with respect to the table 32 by the rotation of the screw rod. Note that the screw rod is rotationally driven by a motor (not shown).

[0015] A load cell 36 is installed on the cross - head 35. A joint 37 is attached to the load cell 36. The joint 37 extends downward. A top gripper 38 is connected to the lower end of the joint 37. A cylinder device (not shown) is arranged on the top gripper 38. When the cylinder device (not shown) operates, the top gripper 38 opens and closes in the width direction SD. The upper end of the test piece T in the erected state is gripped by the top gripper 38. The test piece T is arranged on the gripping center L of the top gripper 38.

[0016] Below the top gripper 38, a bottom gripper 39 is arranged. The bottom gripper 39 is fixed to the upper surface of the table 32 via a joint 40. The bottom gripper 39 is configured in the same way as the top gripper 38 except that it is configured symmetrically with respect to the top gripper 38 in the vertical direction. The lower end of the test piece T in the erected state is gripped by the bottom gripper 39. The test piece T is arranged on the gripping center L of the bottom gripper 39.

[0017] In the state where the test piece T is gripped by the top gripper 38 and the bottom gripper 39, the top gripper 38 moves up and down together with the cross - head 35. Thereby, a test force is applied to the test piece T gripped between the top gripper 38 and the bottom gripper 39. At this time, the load cell 36 measures the test force applied by the top gripper 38 via the joint 37. The measurement signal of the load cell 36 is input to the control device 200.

[0018] A specimen retrieval device 50 is positioned to the right of the upper gripping device 38 and the lower gripping device 39. The specimen retrieval device 50 retrieves the specimen T from the test apparatus 30. The specimen retrieval device 50 comprises an upper retrieval device 51 provided in conjunction with the upper gripper 38 and a lower retrieval device 61 provided in conjunction with the lower gripper 39. The upper retrieval device 51 is fixed to the crosshead 35 and can move up and down together with the crosshead 35. The lower retrieval device 61 is fixed to the upper surface of the table 32.

[0019] Figure 2 is a side view showing the main parts of the elongation measuring device 70 and the testing device 30. The material testing machine 1 is equipped with an elongation measuring device 70 that measures the elongation of the test piece T when a test force is applied by the testing device 30. The elongation measuring device 70 in this embodiment is a contact-type extensometer in which arms 80 and 90 come into contact with the test piece T to measure the elongation. The elongation measuring device 70 is positioned behind the crosshead 35 (on the reverse side of the paper in Figure 1). The elongation measuring device 70 is fixed, for example, to the upper surface of the table 32 of the test apparatus 30. The elongation measuring device 70 includes an outer frame 71 that extends vertically. A guide rod 72 is supported in front of the outer frame 71. The guide rod 72 extends along the support column 33 of the test apparatus 30 (see Figure 1). An upper arm 80 and a lower arm 90 are slidably supported on the guide rod 72. The upper arm 80 and the lower arm 90 are positioned between the upper grip 38 and the lower grip 39 of the test apparatus 30.

[0020] Inside the upper end of the outer frame 71, a pair of pulleys 73A and 73B are rotatably supported, corresponding to the arms 80 and 90, respectively. Belts 75A and 75B, as an example of connecting members, are wrapped around each pulley 73A and 73B from above. One end of belts 75A and 75B is connected to the arms 80 and 90. Balance weights 76A and 76B are suspended from the other end of belts 75A and 75B. The balance weights 76A and 76B are set to a weight corresponding to the weight of the corresponding arms 80 and 90. The balance weights 76A and 76B exert a force on the arms 80 and 90 via belts 75A and 75B that counteracts the weight of the arms 80 and 90. As a result, when an external force is applied in the vertical direction, the arms 80 and 90 move vertically along the guide rod 72 in accordance with that external force.

[0021] Rotary encoders 74A and 74B are connected to each pulley 73A and 73B. The rotary encoders 74A and 74B detect the amount of rotation of the pulleys 73A and 73B. When the arms 80 and 90 move in the vertical direction, the pulleys 73A and 73B rotate via belts 75A and 75B. Therefore, the amount of rotation of the pulleys 73A and 73B is measured by the rotary encoders 74A and 74B and input to the control device 200, so that the control device 200 can measure the amount of movement of the arms 80 and 90 based on the amount of rotation of the pulleys 73A and 73B.

[0022] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the main parts of the elongation measuring device 70 and the testing device 30. The upper arm 80 has a sliding portion 81 that is slidably supported on the guide rod 72. The sliding portion 81 is supported on the guide rod 72, for example, via a linear bush. A pair of clamping members 82 extending forward are supported on the sliding portion 81. The clamping members 82 are configured to be openable and closable by an actuator 85. When the clamping members 82 are closed, the upper arm 80 clamps the test piece T and fixes it to the test piece T. In this embodiment, a plate-shaped pressure receiving portion 86 (see Figure 2) is formed on the upper arm 80.

[0023] The lower arm 90 is configured to be substantially symmetrical to the upper arm 80. The lower arm 90 has members 91, 92, and 95 that correspond to members 81, 82, and 85 of the upper arm 80. Furthermore, a base portion 92A is formed on the lower arm 90. The base portion 92A has a recessed hole (not shown) with a female thread formed therein. The base portion 92A is detachably supported by gauge rods 96 and 97 (see Figures 4 and 5), which extend in the vertical direction and serve as an example of a "gauge line setting distance member". The gauge rods 96 and 97 have lengths corresponding to the gauge line distances λ1 and λ2 of the test piece T (see Figures 4 and 5). Threaded portions 96B and 97B (see Figure 6) are formed at the ends of the gauge rods 96 and 97. The gauge rods 96 and 97 are fixed to the base portion 92A by screwing the threaded portions 96B and 97B into place. The upper arm 80 contacts the upper surface of the gauge rods 96 and 97 fixed to the base portion 92A, thereby setting the distance between the upper arm 80 and the lower arm 90 to the gauge line distances λ1 and λ2.

[0024] The first gauge line distance λ1 is longer than the second gauge line distance λ2. In this embodiment, as an example, the first gauge line distance λ1 is set to 25 mm. Also, as an example, the second gauge line distance λ2 is set to 20 mm.

[0025] A stopper 77 is fixed to the lower part of the guide rod 72. The stopper 77 has a clamping structure. The stopper 77 is fixed to a predetermined height of the guide rod 72 by clamping the guide rod 72. The predetermined height is the height corresponding to the height of the lower gripping device 39. The upper surface of the stopper 77 contacts the lower arm 90, restricting the downward movement of the lower arm 90. The stopper 77 sets the lower limit position of the lower arm 90.

[0026] An adjuster 78, as an example of a "marking line setting distance member," is detachably supported on the upper surface of the stopper 77. The adjuster 78 is a member with different thicknesses (lengths) that is positioned according to the gripping distance L1 and L2 (see Figures 4 and 5) between the upper gripping tool 38 and the lower gripping tool 39. In this embodiment, there is only one type of adjuster 78.

[0027] The adjuster 78 has a roughly U-shaped plate-shaped opening 78A (see Figure 6) that fits onto the guide rod 72. The adjuster 78 fits onto the guide rod 72 and is supported on the upper surface of the stopper 77. As a result, the upper surface of the stopper 77 is raised by the thickness of the adjuster 78. In other words, the adjuster 78 is a component that adjusts the lower limit position of the lower arm 90 set by the stopper 77 so that it can be changed.

[0028] In this embodiment, the adjuster 78 is used selectively. Note that the selective placement of the adjuster 78 relative to the stopper 77 also includes the case where the adjuster 78 is not placed relative to the stopper 77. This makes it easier to adjust the lower limit position of the lower arm 90 compared to the case where the stopper 77 is unclamped and clamped to adjust its position relative to the lower gripping device 39. The stopper mechanism 79 of the lower arm 90 in this embodiment is formed by the stopper 77 and the adjuster 78.

[0029] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, a positioning mechanism 100 is provided on the crosshead (load mechanism) 35 located above the upper arm 80. The positioning mechanism 100 has a connecting frame 101 connected to the crosshead 35. An actuator 102 is supported at the lower end of the connecting frame 101.

[0030] In this embodiment, the actuator 102 is composed of an air cylinder. The actuator 102 comprises a cylinder portion 102A and a rod portion 102B that is supported so as to be extendable and retractable in the vertical direction relative to the cylinder portion 102A.

[0031] A pressing mechanism (shock absorbing member) 104 is connected to the rod portion 102B via a bent plate-shaped connecting plate 103. The pressing mechanism 104 descends together with the crosshead 35 and, upon contact with the pressing receiving portion 86 (see Figure 2) of the upper arm 80, pushes the pressing receiving portion 86 downward. In this embodiment, the pressing mechanism 104 is composed of an air cylinder.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1, the material testing machine 1 is equipped with a control device 200 that controls various parts of the material testing machine 1. The control device 200 is connected to the material testing machine 1 so as to be able to send and receive signals. The signals received by the control device 200 include measurement signals output by the load cell 36, measurement signals output by the rotary encoders 74A and 74B, and other signals necessary for control and testing. The signals transmitted by the control device 200 include control signals for the test piece supply device 10, control signals for the cylinder devices (not shown) of the grippers 38 and 39, control signals for the motor of the screw rod (not shown), control signals for the recovery devices 51 and 61, control signals for the cylinder device (not shown) of the actuator 102, and other signals necessary for control and testing.

[0033] The control device 200 is equipped with a computer, which includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), memory devices such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory), storage devices such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive), and interface circuits for connecting the control device 200 and various peripheral devices. The processor then executes control programs stored in the memory devices or storage devices to realize the various functions of the material testing machine 1.

[0034] Figure 4 is a side view showing the main parts of the elongation measuring device 70 and the test device 30 when performing a test for the first gauge line distance λ1. Figure 5 is a side view showing the main parts of the elongation measuring device 70 and the test device 30 when performing a test for the second gauge line distance λ2. In the material testing machine 1, when testing a test specimen T with a first gauge-to-gauge distance λ1, the first gauge bar 96 and adjuster 78 are attached to the elongation measuring device 70, as shown in Figure 4. Furthermore, in the material testing machine 1, when testing a test specimen T with a second gauge-to-gauge distance λ2, the second gauge bar 97 is attached to the elongation measuring device 70 in place of the first gauge bar 96 and adjuster 78, as shown in Figure 5.

[0035] Then, in the material testing machine 1, when the test is started, the crosshead 35 rises to a predetermined position. In the test piece supply device 10, the transport device 20 takes out and holds the test pieces T one by one from the pallet 11, and as shown in Figure 2, supplies the test pieces T to the upper gripper 38 of the testing device 30, causing the test pieces T to be gripped by the upper gripper 38.

[0036] At this time, the actuator 102 of the positioning mechanism 100 operates according to the distance λ1 and λ2 between the gauge marks of the test piece T, setting the position of the pressing mechanism 104 relative to the crosshead 35. When the crosshead 35 is lowered and the upper grip 38 is moved toward the lower grip 39, the positioning mechanism 100 descends together with the crosshead 35, and eventually the pressing mechanism 104 comes into contact with the upper arm 80.

[0037] As the crosshead 35 continues to descend, the upper arm 80 is pushed down by the pressing mechanism 104 and comes into contact with the gauge rods 96 and 97. Further, as the crosshead 35 continues to descend, the upper arm 80 begins to push down the lower arm 90 via the gauge rods 96 and 97, and the lower arm 90 descends together with the upper arm 80. The crosshead 35 then descends a predetermined amount and stops, and the test piece T enters the lower grip 39, causing the lower grip 39 to grasp the test piece T. At this point, the lower arm 90 hits the stopper mechanism 79 and its downward movement is stopped.

[0038] In this case, the elongation measuring device 70 aligns the positions of the upper arm 80 and the lower arm 90 with the positions of the markings M1 and M2 on the test piece T. The clamping members 82 of the upper arm 80 and 90 of the lower arm 90 are closed at positions equal in height and depth relative to the center position M0 of the pair of grips 38 and 39, thereby fixing the test piece T. This allows the arms 80 and 90 to follow the markings M1 and M2 in accordance with the elongation of the test piece T.

[0039] When a test force is applied to the test specimen T, the crosshead 35 rises, and the upper grip 38 separates from the lower grip 39, thereby applying a tensile load to the test specimen T. Consequently, the test specimen T is pulled upward by the upper grip 38 and extends upward, and the lower arm 90 and upper arm 80 move upward in accordance with the movement of the gauge lines M1 and M2, allowing the tensile load on the test specimen T to be measured, as well as the elongation of the test specimen T to be measured by the change in the distance between arms 80 and 90 during the test.

[0040] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the housing 150 for the marking line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78. As shown in Figures 1 and 6, a storage unit (hereinafter referred to as a storage plate) 150 is attached to the exterior panel 201 of the control device 200. The storage plate 150 has mounting portions 151, 152, and 153 for the gauge line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78. In this embodiment, the gauge line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 include gauge rods 96 and 97 of different lengths and an adjuster 78 of a stopper mechanism 79 used in conjunction with changes in the distance L1 and L2 between the grippers 38 and 39. In other words, the gauge line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are the first gauge rod 96 and adjuster 78 used for measuring the elongation of the first gauge line distance λ1, and the second gauge rod 97 used for measuring the elongation of the second gauge line distance λ2. The storage plate 150 is equipped with a prevention mechanism to prevent incorrect mounting at each mounting portion 151, 152, and 153.

[0041] The first marking rod 96 is longer than the second marking rod 97. Each marking rod 96, 97 has a cylindrical body portion 96A, 97A. A cylindrical threaded portion 96B, 97B, smaller in diameter than the main body portion 96A, 97A, is formed at one end of the main body portion 96A, 97A. Male threads are formed on the outer surface of the threaded portion 96B, 97B. The marking rods 96, 97 have different lengths due to the different lengths of the main body portions 96A, 97A.

[0042] A modified portion is formed on either the marking rod 96 or 97. In this embodiment, a flange portion 97C, which is an example of a modified portion, is formed on the shorter second marking rod 97. The flange portion 97C is formed on one end of the main body portion 97A. The first marking rod 96 and the second marking rod 97 differ in shape from the first marking rod 96 to the second marking rod 97 in respects other than the length of the main body portions 96A and 97A, depending on the presence or absence of the flange portion 97C.

[0043] The adjuster 78 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. The adjuster 78 has an opening 78A that is cut out in a roughly U-shape. The adjuster 78 is used together with the first marking rod 96. The adjuster 78 is positioned on the upper surface of the stopper 77 and is installed with the guide rod 72 inserted into the opening 78A.

[0044] Figure 7 is a view of the storage plate 150 from the front. Figure 8 is a view of the storage plate 150 from the side. The storage plate 150 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate having a predetermined thickness. In this embodiment, the storage plate 150 is a rectangular plate that is long in the front-rear direction FD. The storage plate 150 is positioned along the vertical direction (direction of gravity) TD. Specifically, the storage plate 150 is positioned with its front surface 150A slightly inclined upward. The storage plate 150 is inclined so as it moves upward, it approaches the exterior panel 201. A stay 171 is fixed to the back surface 150B of the storage plate 150. The stay 171 is fixed to the exterior panel 201 of the control device 200 via a frame 172. A horizontally elongated groove 172A is formed in the frame 172. The storage plate 150 is slidable along the groove 172A of the frame 172. The storage plate 150 is positioned near the operating section (not shown) of the control device 200. Since the storage plate 150 is located near the operating unit (not shown), it is easier for the user to recognize the presence or absence of the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 on the storage plate 150 when operating the operating unit.

[0045] A first mounting portion 151 is formed in the longitudinal center of the storage plate 150. The first mounting portion 151 has a body recess 151A that is recessed relative to the front surface 150A. The body recess 151A is recessed in an axial shape that extends in the vertical direction. The body recess 151A has a vertical length corresponding to the length of the first marking rod 96. The body recess 151A also has a width corresponding to the diameter of the first marking rod 96. The first marking rod 96 is detachably housed in the body recess 151A.

[0046] A wider portion 151C is formed above the main body recess 151A, which is wider than the main body recess 151A. The wider portion 151C is recessed more shallowly with respect to the front surface 150A than the main body recess 151A. The wider portion 151C allows the user to remove the first marking rod 96 from the main body recess 151A by inserting their finger, for example, to scrape out the upper end of the first marking rod 96, i.e., the threaded portion 96B. Since the main body recess 151A of the first mounting portion 151 is a recess corresponding to the diameter of the first marking rod 96, the flange portion 97C interferes and prevents the second marking rod 97 from being accommodated. In other words, the second marking rod 97 cannot be mounted in the first mounting portion 151. Therefore, the first mounting portion 151 is equipped with a prevention mechanism to prevent the incorrect mounting of the second marking rod 97. Furthermore, the adjuster 78 cannot be attached to the first mounting portion 151.

[0047] A second mounting portion 152 is formed on the rear side (first longitudinal side) of the first mounting portion 151. The second mounting portion 152 is formed to be at a different vertical position from the first mounting portion 151. In this embodiment, the second mounting portion 152 is formed at a lower position than the first mounting portion 151. The second mounting portion 152 has a body recess 152A that is recessed relative to the front surface 150A. The body recess 152A is recessed in an axial shape that extends in the vertical direction. The body recess 152A has a vertical length corresponding to the length of the second marking rod 97. The body recess 152A also has a width corresponding to the diameter of the body portion 97A of the second marking rod 97.

[0048] A flange housing recess 152B, wider than the main body recess 152A, is formed above the main body recess 152A. The flange housing recess 152B has a width that can accommodate the flange portion 97C. The second marking rod 97 is detachably housed in the main body recess 152A and the flange housing recess 152B of the second mounting portion 152. That is, the main body portion 97A of the second marking rod 97 is housed in the main body recess 152A, and the flange portion 97C is housed in the flange housing recess 152B. A wider portion 152C, wider than the flange housing recess 152B, is formed above the main body recess 152A. The wider portion 152C is recessed more shallowly than the main body recess 152A.

[0049] Below the second mounting portion 152, a mis-mounting prevention groove 152D is formed, extending downward from the main body recess 152A. The mis-mounting prevention groove 152D is integrally formed with the main body recess 152A. The mis-mounting prevention groove 152D penetrates to the bottom of the storage plate 150. When the second marking rod 97 is mounted on the second mounting portion 152, the flange portion 97C is housed in the flange housing recess 152B, so the flange portion 97C is housed in a state where it is caught on the inner surface of the wide portion 152C. In contrast, when attempting to mount the main body portion 96A of the first marking rod 96 to the main body recess 152A of the second mounting portion 152, the first marking rod 96 does not have a flange portion 97C, so the first marking rod 96 falls downward due to its own weight, passing through the main body recess 152A and the mis-mounting prevention groove 152D. In other words, the first marking rod 96 cannot be attached to the second mounting section 152. Therefore, the second mounting section 152 is equipped with a prevention mechanism to prevent the incorrect attachment of the first marking rod 96. Furthermore, the adjuster 78 cannot be attached to the second mounting section 152.

[0050] A third mounting portion 153 is formed on the front side (second side in the longitudinal direction) of the first mounting portion 151. The adjuster 78 is detachably housed in the third mounting portion 153. The third mounting portion 153 has a rectangular recess 153A that is recessed relative to the front surface 150A. The main body recess 153A has a vertical length corresponding to the vertical width of the adjuster 78. The main body recess 153A also has a width corresponding to the horizontal width of the adjuster 78. Above the main body recess 153A, a wider portion 153C is formed, which is wider than the main body recess 153A. The wide portion 153C is recessed less deeply relative to the front surface 150A than the main body recess 151A. Note that the marking rods 96 and 97 cannot be attached to the third mounting portion 153.

[0051] Nameplates 151G to 153G are provided above each mounting section 151 to 153. The names of the parts to be attached to each mounting section 151 to 153 are inscribed on the nameplates 151G to 153G.

[0052] Each mounting section 151 to 153 is equipped with detection sensors 161 to 163 for the marking line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78. The detection sensors 161 to 163 detect whether or not the marking line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are mounted on each mounting section 151 to 153. In other words, the detection sensors 161 to 163 output a signal indicating whether or not the marking line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are mounted. In this embodiment, the detection sensors 161 to 163 are electrically connected to a control device (control unit) 200. The signals output by the detection sensors 161 to 163 are input to the control device 200.

[0053] The detection sensors 161-163 in this embodiment are transmissive light sensors. That is, the detection sensors 161, 162, and 163 each have light-emitting units 161A, 162A, and 163A and light-receiving units 161B, 162B, and 163B. The light-emitting units 161A-163A and the light-receiving units 161B-163B are arranged on both sides of the mounting units 151-153.

[0054] Specifically, at the lower ends of the main body recesses 151A to 153A of each mounting portion 151 to 153, optical paths 151E to 153E are formed that intersect and penetrate the main body recesses 151A to 153A. The optical paths 151E to 153E are grooves that are linearly recessed relative to the front surface 150A. Sensor recesses 154 are formed on both sides of the optical paths 151E to 153E, where detection sensors 161 to 163 are arranged. In each optical path 151E to 153E, the light-emitting parts 161A to 163A are arranged in the sensor recess 154 on the first end side of the optical path 151E to 153E. In addition, the light-receiving parts 161B to 163B are arranged in the sensor recess 154 on the second end side of the optical path 151E to 153E. The light-emitting sections 161A to 163A and the light-receiving sections 161B to 163B are arranged opposite each other with the main body recesses 151A to 153A in between.

[0055] When the marking rods 96, 97 and adjusters 78 are attached to the mounting sections 151-153, and the marking rods 96, 97 and adjusters 78 enter the optical path 151E-153E, light from the light-emitting sections 161A-163A is no longer received by the light-receiving sections 161B-163B. As a result, the detection sensors 161-163 output a signal indicating that the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are attached to the mounting sections 151-153. In the following description, the detection sensors 161-163 turn OFF when they output a signal indicating that the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are attached to the mounting sections 151-153.

[0056] Furthermore, when the marking rods 96, 97 and adjusters 78 are removed from the mounting sections 151-153, the optical paths 151E-153E become connected, and light from the light-emitting sections 161A-163A is received by the light-receiving sections 161B-163B. As a result, the detection sensors 161-163 output a signal indicating that the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are not mounted on the mounting sections 151-153. In the following, it is stated that the detection sensors 161-163 turn ON when they output a signal indicating that the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are not mounted on the mounting sections 151-153.

[0057] The control device 200 determines whether or not the marking line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are being used based on signals from the detection sensors 161 to 163. Specifically, the control device 200 determines whether the first gauge bar 96 is mounted on the elongation measuring device 70 based on the signal from the first detection sensor 161. That is, when the control device 200 receives an ON signal from the first detection sensor 161, it determines that the first gauge bar 96 is not mounted on the storage plate 150 but is mounted on the elongation measuring device 70. Also, when the control device 200 receives an OFF signal from the first detection sensor 161, it determines that the first gauge bar 96 is mounted on the storage plate 150 but is not mounted on the elongation measuring device 70.

[0058] Similarly, the control device 200 determines whether the second gauge rod 97 is attached to the elongation measuring device 70 based on the signal from the second detection sensor 162. The control device 200 also determines whether the adjuster 78 is attached to the elongation measuring device 70 based on the signal from the third detection sensor 163.

[0059] Test conditions are input to the control device 200 via an input device (not shown), such as a keyboard or mouse. Examples of test conditions include the gauge line distances λ1 and λ2. The control device 200 also stores information about the gauge line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 used for measuring the elongation of the gauge line distances λ1 and λ2.

[0060] In other words, the control device 200 stores that when the first gauge line distance λ1 (=25 mm) is used, the first gauge line rod 96 and adjuster 78 are used. To put it another way, the control device 200 stores that when the first gauge line distance λ1 is used, the first detection sensor 161 and the third detection sensor 163 are ON and the second detection sensor 162 is OFF, which is in accordance with the test conditions for the first gauge line distance λ1.

[0061] Furthermore, the control device 200 stores that the second gauge marking rod 97 is used when the second gauge marking distance λ2 (=20 mm) is set to λ2. In other words, the control device 200 stores that when the second gauge marking distance λ2 is set to λ2, the first detection sensor 161 and the third detection sensor 163 are OFF, and the second detection sensor 162 is ON, which matches the test conditions for the second gauge marking distance λ2. The control device 200 stores this information in advance before the operation to start the test.

[0062] When the control device 200 receives an input to start a test, such as when test conditions are set, it determines whether or not to proceed with the test based on the test conditions and the detection results of the detection sensors 161 to 163. In other words, when the control device 200 receives an input to start a test, it determines, based on the test conditions and the detection results of the detection sensors 161 to 163, whether or not the gauge mark distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 that match the test conditions are attached to the elongation measuring device 70.

[0063] When the control device 200 is about to start a test of the first gauge line distance λ1, it determines whether the first detection sensor 161 and the third detection sensor 163 are ON and the second detection sensor 162 is OFF. If the first detection sensor 161 and the third detection sensor 163 are ON and the second detection sensor 162 is OFF, the control device 200 permits the execution of the test.

[0064] Furthermore, if the first detection sensor 161 and the third detection sensor 163 are ON, and the second detection sensor 162 is not OFF, the control device 200 will perform an error notification operation to prohibit the execution of the test. An example of an error notification operation performed by the control device 200 is to display on the control device 200's display (not shown) that the gauge line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are incorrectly installed.

[0065] Similarly, when the control device 200 is about to start a test of the second gauge line distance λ2, it determines whether the first detection sensor 161 and the third detection sensor 163 are OFF and the second detection sensor 162 is ON. If the first detection sensor 161 and the third detection sensor 163 are OFF and the second detection sensor 162 is ON, the control device 200 permits the execution of the test. If the first detection sensor 161 and the third detection sensor 163 are OFF and the second detection sensor 162 is not ON, the control device 200 performs an error notification operation and prohibits the execution of the test.

[0066] When the control device 200 is authorized to perform the test, it controls the test specimen supply device 10, the test apparatus 30, etc., to start the test based on the test conditions.

[0067] Figure 9 is a flowchart of the start determination process of the control device 200. The "start determination process" is the process of determining whether or not to start the test. In other words, the "start determination process" is the process of determining whether or not to start the elongation measurement by the elongation measuring device 70. In step ST11, the control device 200 determines whether or not there is an input to start the test. If the control device 200 determines that there is no input to start the test (step ST11: NO), it repeats step ST11. If the control device 200 determines that there is an input to start the test (step ST11: YES), it proceeds to step ST12.

[0068] In step ST12, the control device 200 acquires the test conditions. In step ST13, the control device 200 acquires the detection results from the detection sensors 161 to 163.

[0069] In step ST14, the control device 200 determines whether the test conditions match the detection results of the detection sensors 161 to 163. If the control device 200 determines that the test conditions and the detection results of the detection sensors 161 to 163 match (step ST14: YES), it proceeds to step ST15. In step ST15, the control device 200 permits the execution of the test and terminates the start determination process.

[0070] If the control device 200 determines that the test conditions and the detection results from the detection sensors 161-163 do not match (step ST14: NO), it proceeds to step ST16. In step ST16, the control device 200 performs an error notification operation. In step ST17, the control device 200 prohibits the execution of the test and terminates the start determination process.

[0071] As described above, in this embodiment, the marking line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are housed in the storage plate 150. The storage plate 150 includes mounting portions 151, 152, and 153 for the marking line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78. The mounting portions 151, 152, and 153 are equipped with a prevention mechanism to prevent incorrect mounting of the marking line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78.

[0072] When performing tests with different gauge line distances λ1 and λ2, the gauge line rods 96 and 97 previously used are removed from arms 80 and 90, and gauge line rods 96 and 97 of the length corresponding to the gauge line distances λ1 and λ2 to be tested are manually attached. In addition, the attachment and detachment of the adjuster 78 is also required at this time.

[0073] As described above, the gauge line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 need to be replaced manually, which can lead to forgetting to replace them or installing them incorrectly, resulting in tests being conducted at distances different from the actual gauge line distances λ1 and λ2. In particular, as in this embodiment, the difference in length between the gauge line rods 96 and 97 is only 5 mm, such as gauge line distance λ1 (=25 mm) and gauge line distance λ2 (=20 mm), making installation errors likely. Furthermore, even if an installation error occurs, the small difference between gauge line distances λ1 and λ2 may lead to elongation measurements being taken with the wrong equipment.

[0074] In contrast, in this embodiment, the storage plate 150 is provided with a prevention mechanism to prevent incorrect installation, and predetermined marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are stored in the predetermined mounting sections 151 to 153. Therefore, since predetermined marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are installed in the predetermined mounting sections 151, 152, and 153, it is easier to suppress the selection of the wrong marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78. In addition, it is easier to recognize the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 used in the elongation measuring device 70 by whether or not the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 are installed in the mounting sections 151, 152, and 153. In particular, since the storage plate 150 is located near the operating section, it is easier to notice the presence or absence of the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78 during operation. Therefore, it is easier to detect and suppress installation errors of the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78.

[0075] Furthermore, in this embodiment, detection sensors 161 to 163 are provided, and if the test conditions are not met based on the detection results of the detection sensors, an error notification operation is performed and the test is not started. Therefore, it is easier to reliably prevent forgetting to replace the marking rods 96 and 97, incorrect replacement of the marking rods 96 and 97, and forgetting to install the adjuster 78, and it is easier to detect and prevent installation errors of the marking rod distance setting members 96, 97, and 78. Thus, incorrect tests are suppressed.

[0076] [2. Variant] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of one aspect of the present invention and can be modified and applied as desired without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0077] In the embodiment described above, the storage plate 150 was configured to have three mounting portions 151 to 153. However, the number of mounting portions 151 to 153 is not limited to three. Depending on the number of gauge line distance setting members used in the elongation measuring device 70, any number of mounting portions may be formed on the storage plate 150.

[0078] In the embodiment described above, a configuration in which only one storage plate 150 is provided was explained, but multiple storage plates may be provided.

[0079] In the above-described embodiment, a configuration was explained in which the control device 200 controls the specimen supply device 10, the test device 30, and the elongation measuring device 70. However, the control device 200 may also include a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), and the PLC may control the specimen supply device 10, the test device 30, and the elongation measuring device 70.

[0080] In the above-described embodiment, the control device 200 is shown as the device that determines whether the signals from the detection sensors 161 to 163 indicate which of the gauge line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78. Alternatively, if a PLC is provided, the PLC may determine whether the signals from the detection sensors 161 to 163 indicate which of the gauge line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78. Furthermore, for example, a control board may be provided on the storage plate 150, and the storage plate 150 may determine whether the signals from the detection sensors 161 to 163 indicate which of the gauge line distance setting members 96, 97, and 78, and transmit this information to the control device 200 or the PLC.

[0081] In the embodiment described above, a configuration was described in which a control device 200, separate from the storage plate 150, determines whether or not to perform the test based on the test conditions relating to the gauge marks λ1 and λ2 of the test piece T and the detection results of the detection sensors 161 to 163. However, the storage plate 150 may be equipped with a control unit that includes at least a CPU and ROM, and the control unit of the storage plate 150 may determine whether or not to permit the execution of the test based on the test conditions relating to the gauge marks λ1 and λ2 of the test piece T and the detection results of the detection sensors 161 to 163.

[0082] In the embodiments described above, a configuration was described in which the control device 200 controls the test apparatus 30 and the elongation measuring device 70 so that the arms 80 and 90 move in accordance with the gauge marks λ1 and λ2 of the test piece T. However, the embodiments of the present invention may also be applied to a material testing machine in which, for example, the test piece supply device 10 and the like are omitted, and the user sets the test piece T in the grippers 38 and 39 and moves the arms 80 and 90 of the elongation measuring device 70 in accordance with the gauge marks λ1 and λ2.

[0083] In the embodiment described above, the flange portion 97C was given as an example of the irregular shape, but any shape of the irregular shape is possible, such as increasing the diameter of the main body portion 97A of the marking rod 97, providing multiple flange shapes, or forming it as a rectangular prism.

[0084] In the embodiments described above, through-beam optical sensors were exemplified as detection sensors 161 to 163. However, any sensor configuration that can detect the presence or absence of the marking distance setting members 96, 97, and 78, such as proximity sensors, can be used as detection sensors 161 to 163.

[0085] In the embodiments described above, the test specimen T was exemplified as a so-called dumbbell-shaped test specimen, but the test specimen may also be cylindrical or prismatic, and the elongation measuring device 70 can also be applied to measure the elongation of cylindrical or prismatic test specimens.

[0086] [3. Appearance] Those skilled in the art will understand that the exemplary embodiments and modifications described above are specific examples of the following embodiments.

[0087] (Section 1) A material testing machine according to one embodiment is a material testing machine equipped with a plurality of gauge mark distance setting members of different lengths according to the gauge mark distance of a test piece, and the machine is equipped with a housing that includes a mounting portion for the plurality of gauge mark distance setting members, and the mounting portion may be equipped with a prevention mechanism to prevent the incorrect mounting of the gauge mark distance setting members.

[0088] According to the material testing machine described in paragraph 1, a prevention mechanism to prevent incorrect mounting ensures that the designated gauge marking distance setting member is housed in a designated mounting section, thus making it easier to prevent the selection of the wrong gauge marking distance setting member. Furthermore, the presence or absence of a gauge marking distance setting member mounted in the mounting section makes it easier to recognize the gauge marking distance setting member being used in the material testing machine. Therefore, it is easier to detect and prevent errors in mounting the gauge marking distance setting member.

[0089] (Section 2) In the material testing machine described in paragraph 1, a detection sensor for the gauge line distance setting member may be provided in the mounting portion.

[0090] According to the material testing machine described in paragraph 2, it is possible to detect whether or not a gauge mark distance setting member is attached to the mounting part.

[0091] (Section 3) The material testing machine described in paragraph 2 may be equipped with a control unit that determines whether or not the gauge mark distance setting member is being used based on a signal from the detection sensor.

[0092] According to the material testing machine described in paragraph 3, it is possible to determine whether or not a gauge mark distance setting member is being used.

[0093] (Section 4) In the material testing machine described in any of paragraphs 1 to 3, the gauge mark distance setting member may include adjusters of different lengths depending on the distance between a pair of grippers that hold the test piece.

[0094] According to the material testing machine described in paragraph 4, a detachable gauge marking distance setting member used when different gauge marking distances are required can be housed in the same housing.

[0095] (Section 5) In the material testing machine described in any of paragraphs 1 to 3, a modified portion may be formed on the gauge mark distance setting member.

[0096] According to the material testing machine described in paragraph 5, the irregularly shaped part makes it easier to identify the gauge mark distance setting member. Furthermore, a prevention mechanism can be provided using the irregularly shaped part to prevent incorrect installation.

[0097] (Section 6) A material testing machine as described in paragraph 2 or 3 may be provided with a control unit that determines whether or not to perform a test based on test conditions relating to the distance between gauge marks of a test piece and the detection result of the detection sensor. This configuration prevents the use of gauge marking distance setting members that do not meet the test conditions during testing. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] 1. Material testing machine 70 Elongation measuring device 78 Adjuster (Method for setting the distance between marking lines) 96 First marking rod (member for setting the distance between marking lines) 97. Second marking rod (member for setting the distance between marking lines) 97C Flange section (irregular shape) 150 Storage Plate (Storage Unit) 151 First mounting part 152 Second mounting part 153 Third mounting part 161 First detection sensor 162 Second detection sensor 163 Third detection sensor 200 Control device (control unit) L1 Distance between gripping devices L2 Distance between gripping devices T Test specimen λ1 First distance between markings λ2 Second distance between markings

Claims

1. In a material testing machine equipped with multiple gauge-gauge distance setting members of different lengths depending on the gauge-gauge distance of a test specimen, The housing includes a mounting section for the plurality of marking line distance setting members, The mounting portion is equipped with a prevention mechanism to prevent incorrect mounting of the marking line distance setting member. A detection sensor is provided in the mounting portion for the marking distance setting member. The system includes a control unit that determines whether or not the marking distance setting member is being used based on the signal from the detection sensor. Material testing machine.

2. In a material testing machine equipped with multiple gauge-gauge distance setting members of different lengths depending on the gauge-gauge distance of a test specimen, The housing includes a mounting section for the plurality of marking line distance setting members, The mounting portion is equipped with a prevention mechanism to prevent incorrect mounting of the marking line distance setting member. A modified portion is formed on the marking line distance setting member. Material testing machine.

3. The gauge mark distance setting member includes adjusters of different lengths depending on the distance between a pair of grippers that hold the test piece. A material testing machine according to claim 1 or claim 2.

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