Sensor Verification Fixture for Reliable Material Force Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional material testing systems lack effective methods to verify the functionality of sensors, leading to unreliable test results due to potential sensor malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a testing system sensor verification device that generates repeatable static and dynamic force responses, allowing for the verification of material testing machine sensors by comparing measured forces to predetermined values, ensuring accurate test results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensor verification is not performed, then testing system operation is simple and continuous, but test result reliability deteriorates due to potential sensor malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary sensor verification before actual material testing by using a verification device with known force characteristics. The verification device applies predetermined forces to the sensor, and the system checks if the sensor readings match expected values within tolerance ranges. This preliminary action ensures sensor functionality is confirmed before critical testing begins, resolving the contradiction by preventing unreliable tests without requiring continuous complex verification during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sensor verification device as an intermediary component between the testing system and the sensor being tested. This verification device includes a force generator and verification mechanism that mediates the verification process. The intermediary device applies controlled forces to the sensor and enables systematic checking of sensor accuracy, thereby improving reliability while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
2Reliability
If continuous sensor verification is performed, then test result reliability is maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to verification time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs sensor verification as a preliminary action before actual material testing begins. The verification device is used to establish baseline sensor accuracy and functionality in advance. Once verified, the sensor can be used for continuous material testing without repeated verification interruptions, thereby maintaining productivity while ensuring reliability through upfront verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic sensor verification at scheduled intervals during operation, such as after a predetermined number of test cycles or after sensor exposure to extreme conditions. This periodic verification balances reliability maintenance with productivity by verifying sensors only when necessary rather than continuously, allowing material testing to proceed uninterrupted between verification points.
3Measurement precision
If sensor verification device is added, then measurement precision is verified, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sensor verification device as an intermediary component that specializes in verifying sensor measurement precision. This verification device includes a force generator with known characteristics and a verification mechanism that systematically checks sensor accuracy. By isolating the verification function in a separate intermediary device, the main material testing system remains relatively simple while still achieving precise measurement verification through the modular verification component.
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
Ensures the reliability of material testing systems by confirming that sensors are functioning correctly, preventing untrustworthy test results and enabling authorized performance of certified tests.
Implementation Method 1
a spring positioned between the actuator plate and a location on the body such that actuation of the shaft in a first direction from a predetermined position compresses the spring
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed example testing system sensor verification devices: a shaft; a body; and a force generator having a first predetermined force response, the first force generator coupled to the shaft and the body such that actuation of the shaft in a first direction from a predetermined position causes the force generator to generate the first predetermined force response.