Load Frame Testing Device for Environmental Condition Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional load frame testing systems lack the ability to accurately measure and monitor sustained load as a function of time, are not adaptable for specimens of different dimensions, and cannot test specimens under various environmental conditions, nor are they portable, limiting their effectiveness in evaluating durability and reliability.

Innovation Solution

A load testing system comprising a load frame device, environment controlling chambers, and a data acquisition system that allows for simultaneous measurement and monitoring of sustained load and environmental conditions over time, with adjustable jaws and load cells to accommodate various specimen dimensions and environmental conditions, and the option to test multiple specimens simultaneously.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional load frame testing systems are used, then basic load measurement is possible, but the ability to measure and monitor sustained load as a function of time under different environmental conditions is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesustained load measurement accuracyVSAvoidenvironmental condition testing capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The load frame testing system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can measure sustained load, monitor environmental conditions (temperature, humidity), and track data as a function of time. The system integrates load cells, environment controlling chambers, and data acquisition devices into a single versatile platform that addresses multiple testing requirements simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediate components such as environment controlling chambers that mediate between the test specimen and external environmental factors, and data acquisition devices that mediate between the sensors and the monitoring system. These intermediaries enable precise measurement and control while maintaining system adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional load frame systems are used, then testing can be performed, but adaptation to specimens of different physical dimensions is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespecimen dimension accommodationVSAvoidadjustable mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The load frame system incorporates dynamically adjustable components, specifically adjustable jaws and crossheads that can be repositioned along the pillars to accommodate specimens of different lengths, widths, and thicknesses. This dynamic adjustability allows the same system to handle various specimen dimensions without requiring multiple specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If traditional load frame testing systems are used, then structural testing is possible, but portability is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetest result accuracyVSAvoidsystem portability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The load frame testing system is designed as a segmented, modular structure with separate components including base, pillars, crosshead, load cells, and environment controlling chambers that can function independently or in combination. This segmentation enables the system to be disassembled and reconfigured for portable applications while maintaining measurement reliability when assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 accurate, time-dependent measurement of sustained load on specimens of different dimensions under controlled environmental conditions, enhancing the evaluation of durability and reliability, and providing a portable solution for diverse testing needs.

Implementation Method 1

strain gauge load cells, where strain gauge load cells are the most commonly used in the load testing industry

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStrain gauge: Piezoresistive Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10132731B2Load frame testing device adapted to test different environmental conditions
Publication Date: 2018.11.20 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES UNIVERSITY
  • US10132731B2 patent drawing
  • US10132731B2 patent drawing
  • US10132731B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A load testing system comprising a load frame device adapted to load test one or more test specimens and to generate load test measurements; one or more environment controlling chambers adapted to be positioned within the load testing frame for subjecting the one or more test specimens to desired environmental conditions; one or more environment condition regulators adapted to be connected to the one or more environment controlling chambers for regulating the desired environmental conditions; a data acquisition device for receiving sustain load measurements of the one or more test specimens and environmental condition measurements to which the one or more test specimens are subjected during the load test; and a load monitoring device adapted to be connected to the data acquisition device for receiving and monitoring the sustain load measurements and the corresponding environmental condition measurements as a function of time.