Modular Thermal Test Chamber with Hook and Loop Fasteners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal test chambers have rigid enclosure walls that limit access to test objects and are not easily adaptable to different vibrational test stands, making them inflexible and costly.
Innovation Solution
A modular thermal test chamber with non-rigid, thermally insulated side walls and a flexible two-piece bottom, using high-temperature hook and loop fasteners for rapid assembly and disassembly, allowing it to be mounted on various shaker tables and maintaining a thermal seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If rigid enclosure walls are used in thermal test chambers, then thermal integrity is maintained, but access to test objects is limited and adaptability to different test stands is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal test chamber is divided into multiple modular panels that can be independently assembled and configured. Each panel contains insulation material and can be joined using fastening mechanisms, allowing the chamber to be adapted to different test stand sizes and shapes while maintaining thermal integrity through the modular assembly structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The chamber transitions from a fixed rigid structure to a dynamically configurable structure using adjustable support legs, removable panels, and reconfigurable fastening systems. This allows the chamber to adapt its shape and size to match different test stands while maintaining ease of access during testing operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rigid enclosure walls are used in thermal test chambers, then thermal integrity is maintained, but portability and cost are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The chamber is segmented into multiple lightweight panels that can be easily transported and reconfigured. This modular approach reduces the overall weight and complexity compared to a single rigid enclosure, while maintaining thermal integrity through the insulated panel construction and joining mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The chamber structure uses adjustable parameters such as panel configurations, support leg heights, and fastening positions to adapt to different test stand requirements. This flexibility eliminates the need for multiple specialized chambers, reducing overall equipment cost while maintaining portability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rapid assembly and disassembly is enabled through modular design, then adaptability to different test stands is improved, but thermal seal integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The chamber uses segmented modular panels that can be rapidly assembled and disassembled. Each panel includes integrated insulation and sealing components that maintain thermal integrity through the modular connections, allowing quick reconfiguration for different test stands without compromising seal reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Fastening mechanisms and sealing elements act as intermediaries between the modular panels, enabling rapid assembly while maintaining thermal seal integrity. These intermediary components ensure that the joints between panels provide adequate thermal insulation and sealing during vibration testing.
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
The solution provides unhindered access to test objects, is portable, and adaptable to different test stands, while maintaining thermal integrity and reducing equipment costs by eliminating the need for multiple test chambers.
Implementation Method 1
The bottom and side walls are interconnected via hook and loop fasteners
Implementation Method 2
a thermally insulated hood and base that are both formed from a pliable textile material
Data Source
AI summary
A soft-sided thermal test chamber that is readily mountable upon/over a shaker test table. The test chamber includes four interconnected insulated side walls and a top which define an enclosure. A two-piece bottom receives the side walls to fully enclose the test object upon the table. The two-piece bottom includes an interchangeable center piece which is sized to accommodate various tables or test objects. The side and top pieces are hung from a frame that is readily lifted using an overhead crane or chain fall hoist to allow easy access to the table during set up. The bottom and side walls are interconnected via hook and loop fasteners, which allows for rapid alteration of the set up of the test equipment while maintaining a thermally sealed chamber.