Hardness Measurement Frame Using Kibble Balance Traceability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hardness measurement methods face challenges in achieving precise and traceable results due to varying measuring principles and methods, leading to difficulties in comparability and high uncertainty, particularly in indirect traceability via hardness reference blocks.
Innovation Solution
A measuring system and method utilizing a force generation actuator and motion generation actuator, coupled with a displacement measuring unit, implement the Kibble balance principle to achieve primary and instrumented hardness measurement by separating force and displacement measuring circuits, enabling direct traceability through Lorentz force compensation and laser interferometric displacement measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If indirect traceability via hardness reference blocks is used, then calibration is simplified, but measurement uncertainty increases to up to 0.9%
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical indirect calibration system (hardness reference blocks) with an electromagnetic measurement system based on the Kibble balance principle. The force generation actuator uses electromagnetic fields to apply precise forces, and the displacement measuring unit uses optical interferometry to measure indentation depths, eliminating the need for physical hardness reference blocks and their associated calibration uncertainties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic fields as an intermediary between the measurement system and the object being tested. The force generation actuator uses electromagnetic fields to generate precise forces, and the displacement measuring unit uses laser interferometry (electromagnetic waves) to measure displacements, creating a traceable measurement chain to physical constants rather than physical reference blocks.
2Measurement precision
If primary hardness standard measuring devices with direct traceability are used, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force generation actuator serves multiple functions: it generates precise forces for hardness testing, enables traceability to physical constants through electromagnetic measurement, and can potentially be used for other types of measurements requiring precise force application. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical force application and measurement mechanisms with electromagnetic fields. The force generation actuator uses electromagnetic forces instead of mechanical weights or springs, and the displacement measuring unit uses optical interferometry instead of mechanical scales, simplifying the overall device while improving precision.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional hardness reference blocks are used for traceability, then calibration is easier, but repeatability and reproducibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the measurement system from mechanical contact-based measurement to electromagnetic field-based measurement. The force generation actuator uses electromagnetic fields to apply forces, and the displacement measuring unit uses laser interferometry to measure displacements, creating a measurement system with better repeatability and reproducibility based on physical constants rather than physical reference blocks.
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
This approach provides more accurate and reliable hardness measurement results by eliminating the need for indirect calibration methods, reducing uncertainty, and ensuring traceability to physical constants, thus improving measurement precision and comparability.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a coil current IFM that is required for a Lorentz force FL,FM generated in one of the actuators to compensate for a weight force portion of the runner
Implementation Method 2
a displacement measuring unit for measuring a displacement of the stand carriage and/or of the runner with the indenter
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring system comprises a stand having a base plate and a vertical column fastened thereto, a stand carriage that is movable along the vertical column and having a counter bearing for placing the object, a runner that is fastened to the stand carriage and is movable relative thereto in a guided manner and has an indenter for penetrating the object, having at least one force generation actuator, at least one motion generation actuator, wherein the indenter is coupled to the stand carriage via the actuators. The measuring system further comprises a metrology frame which is fastened to the counter bearing and is supported laterally on the vertical column, a displacement measuring unit for measuring a displacement of the stand carriage and/or the runner with the indenter. The measuring system comprises a force measuring circuit and a displacement measuring circuit both being are largely configured separately from one another.