Compression Test Guide With Movable Support Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Edgewise compression test samples are prone to buckling, limiting the size of test samples due to the need for unsupported lengths, and existing support systems can inhibit gross deformation.
Innovation Solution
A guide system with support members extending parallel to the loading direction, allowing deformation perpendicular to the loading direction, and adjustable support plates to accommodate various sample sizes and thicknesses, minimizing friction with PTFE coating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If support bars are used to extend over the entire length of the test sample, then buckling is inhibited, but gross deformation of the test sample is inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into discrete support members positioned at specific locations rather than continuous support bars. This allows the test sample to deform between support members while preventing buckling at the supported locations, resolving the contradiction between stability and deformation capability
Solution Approach 2:
Support members are positioned to provide localized support only where needed to prevent buckling, rather than continuous support along the entire length. This localised approach allows gross deformation to occur in unsupported regions while maintaining stability where support is provided
2Productivity
If an unsupported length of the test sample is provided for stroke length, then compression test can be performed, but the unsupported length is prone to buckling
Solution Approach 1:
The support members are made moveable in the loading direction, allowing the unsupported length to adjust dynamically during the compression test. This dynamic adjustment maintains test capability while reducing buckling susceptibility by adapting the support configuration to the deforming sample
3Stability of the object's composition
If support members are positioned close to the test sample to prevent buckling, then stability is improved, but deformation freedom is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support members are positioned in a configuration that provides stability in the buckling direction while allowing freedom in the deformation direction. By orienting support members parallel to the loading direction and positioning them to constrain perpendicular movement, the system prevents buckling while permitting necessary deformation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the testing of larger samples without inhibiting deformation, providing accurate crashworthiness predictions for FRP materials by preventing buckling and allowing free deformation, thus improving the reliability of compression test results.
Implementation Method 1
Each one of the at least one support member may comprise a Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating adapted to minimize friction between the test sample and each one of the at least one support member, during use
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides for a guide for use in a compression test, the compression test comprising loading a test sample between a first loading plate and an opposing load applied between the test sample and the first loading plate in a loading direction, the guide comprising: at least one support member, positionable between the first loading plate and the load and extending substantially parallel to the loading direction to constrain the test sample in a direction perpendicular to the loading direction, wherein, when in use, the at least one support member is positioned to define a space between the first loading plate and the support member such that when a load is applied the test sample is deformable in a direction perpendicular to the loading direction within the space.