Modular Load Frame with Center Tube for CT Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load frames have limited testing capability, particularly in benchtop systems with low load capacity, restricting the range of test sample configurations, material types, and testing conditions, and are often expensive, non-portable, and dedicated to specific measurement techniques.
Innovation Solution
A portable, reconfigurable, and adjustable load frame that exerts a wide range of forces from 0 to 12 kips, manually adjustable without electric motors or hydraulics, allowing integration with various metrology systems like computed tomography and radiology, and capable of handling different test sample sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If benchtop load frames are used, then device size is reduced, but load capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The load frame is divided into modular components including separate end tubes, center tube, tube caps with slots, and interchangeable grippers. This segmentation allows the system to maintain a compact benchtop form factor while enabling load capability expansion through component reconfiguration and selection of appropriate gripper mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The load frame employs universal tube structures with standardized connection interfaces and a family of interchangeable grippers that can handle various sample types and load ranges. The center tube with end tubes and tube caps creates a universal mounting structure that accommodates different measurement techniques including computed tomography, radiography, and acoustic emission, allowing one device to serve multiple testing functions.
2Measurement precision
If dedicated measurement systems are used, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The load frame is designed as a universal platform that integrates multiple measurement capabilities through standardized tube structures and mounting interfaces. The center tube surrounded by end tubes with tube caps creates a versatile configuration that accommodates computed tomography, radiography, acoustic emission, and other non-destructive evaluation techniques, allowing users to perform multiple measurement types with a single device rather than requiring separate dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs interchangeable grippers and reconfigurable tube assemblies that can be dynamically adjusted based on the specific measurement technique and sample type. This dynamic reconfiguration capability allows the load frame to adapt its measurement capabilities while maintaining precision for each specific technique, resolving the trade-off between specialization and versatility.
3Force
If larger load frames are used, then load capability is improved, but portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The load frame is segmented into separate end tubes, center tube, tube caps, and gripper components that can be independently handled and reconfigured. This modular segmentation enables the system to achieve higher load capability through robust tube structures and heavy-duty grippers when needed, while maintaining portability by allowing selective assembly of only the necessary components for each testing scenario.
4Device complexity
If benchtop load frames are used, then device complexity is reduced, but testing capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into simple, standardized modules including end tubes, center tube, tube caps with slots, and interchangeable grippers. This segmentation maintains device simplicity through consistent connection interfaces and straightforward assembly procedures while enabling expanded testing capability through the combination of different gripper types and tube configurations for various sample geometries and load ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized tube structures with universal mounting interfaces provide a simple base platform that supports multiple testing capabilities. The same center tube and end tube assembly can accommodate different grippers for various sample types and can be integrated with different measurement systems, allowing one simple device structure to provide diverse testing capabilities without requiring complex specialized mechanisms for each function.
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 cost-effective, portable, and versatile testing across various materials and conditions, reducing the need for expensive redesigns and external subcontracting, while supporting multiple measurement techniques and environmental testing.
Implementation Method 1
X-rays, acoustic waves, etc., may be used to perform measurements on a sample during the application of a load using computed tomography, radiography, and other well-known inspection techniques
Implementation Method 2
X-rays, acoustic waves, etc., may be used to perform measurements on a sample during the application of a load
Data Source
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AI summary
A load frame for applying a tensile load to a test sample during a test or measurement includes a first gripper for gripping a first end of the test sample, a second gripper for gripping a second end of the test sample, and a tensioner for applying the tensile load to the test sample. The load frame further includes a first end tube that encircles the first gripper, a second end tube that encircles the second gripper, and a center tube that encircles a mid-portion of the test sample during the test or measurement. A system such as a wave-generating system may be used to measure the test sample through the center tube during a test or measurement.