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    • 专利摘要:
    An apparatus (10) for load testing a coupon (11) may include a test frame (12) and a pair of separate load balancing sets (16a, 16b) connected to the test frame (12), each set. balancing devices (16) of the pair of load balancing assemblies (16a, 16b) including a load leveling mechanism (160) connected to the test frame (12) and a plurality of separate load plates (54), each load plate (54) of the plurality of load plates (54) having a first end (112) pivotally connected to the load leveling mechanism (160) and a second end (118) the second end (118) of each plate. load (54) including a friction bracket (104) configured to frictionally engage one end of the coupon (11), wherein at least one load balancing assembly (16) of the pair of load balancing assemblies (16a, 16b) ) is movable along an axis (X) of motion with respect to a set d and opposite load balancing (16) to communicate a load to the coupon (11).
    公开号:BR102014013048B1
    申请号:R102014013048-9
    申请日:2014-05-29
    公开日:2021-08-31
    发明作者:Max U Kismarton
    申请人:The Boeing Company；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    FIELD OF THE INVENTION
    [001] The present disclosure is generally related to the load testing of a material and, more particularly, to an apparatus and method for load testing a specimen material specimen. HISTORY OF THE INVENTION
    [002] Information related to the strength and behavior properties of a material is crucial in part and component design, particularly in the aerospace industry. Typically, such information is found by load testing a sample of material and observing its behavior under various load conditions. For example, a small sample of material, known as a specimen, can be loaded with a tensile load or a compressive load and tested for destruction.
    [003] Specimens are typically manufactured to include particular features configured for connection to a gauge or testing machine. For example, several tabs are built on the specimen and holes are drilled through the tabs, which are bolted to the test gauge. Once the test is completed, the specimen must be unscrewed and removed from the test gauge. Therefore, the process of testing a new material can be time-consuming and costly. For example, the process of manufacturing and testing specimens can be done between 2 and 5 months.
    [004] With the development of new composite materials, the time and cost associated with testing composites and various composite configurations can be prohibitive. For example, composite structures have many different layer combinations that will require orders of magnitude more test specimen.
    [005] In this way, the technicians in the subject continue with the development and research efforts in the field of material load testing.
    [006] DE102005058582 discloses a locking arrangement for flat samples of composite material comprising two locking devices. This arrangement facilitates the determination of the elastic modulus, breaking stress and elongation at break of the composite material.
    [007] US2007/0107534 discloses a test sample carrier comprising at least one pair of wedges, a plurality of pistons and a connecting bar connected to each of the pistons. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
    [008] In one embodiment, the apparatus disclosed for load testing a specimen may include a test frame and a pair of separate load balancing sets connected to the test frame, each load balancing set of the pair of load balancing assemblies including a load leveling mechanism connected to the test frame, the load leveling mechanism comprising an arm and at least one lever comprising a pair of ends, the lever being pivotally connected to the arm between the pair of ends , and a plurality of separate load plates, each load plate of the plurality of load plates having a first end pivotally connected to the load leveling mechanism and a second end, the second end of each load plate including a friction support. configured to frictionally fit one end of the specimen, in which at least one car balance set The ga of the pair of load-balancing assemblies is movable along an axis of motion with respect to an opposite load-balancing assembly to communicate a load to the specimen, and wherein each load plate of the plurality of load plates it is pivotally connected to one end of the at least one lever.
    [009] In another embodiment, the apparatus disclosed for load testing a specimen may include at least one load balancing assembly configured to retain one end of the specimen and communicate an axial load to the specimen after the movement along an axis, the load balancing assembly including a load leveling mechanism and a plurality of separate load plates, each load plate of the plurality of load plates having a first end and a second end, the first end being pivotally connected to the load leveling mechanism and the second end including a friction bracket configured to frictionally engage one end of the specimen.
    [0010] In another embodiment, the apparatus disclosed for load testing a specimen may include at least one load balancing assembly to retain one end of the specimen and communicate an axial load to the specimen after movement along an axis, the load balancing assembly including a load leveling mechanism and a plurality of separate load plates, each load plate of the plurality of load plates having a first end and a second end, the first end. being pivotally connected to the load leveling mechanism and the second end including a friction bracket configured to frictionally engage one end of the specimen, the friction bracket may include adjustably connected to the load plate within an opening, the handle insert being configured to frictionally engage a substantially flat surface of the specimen; figured to position the handle insert within the opening, and a connector configured to interconnect the handle insert and the load plate, the connector being configured to allow movement of the handle insert with respect to the load plate. charge.
    [0011] In another embodiment, a method for load testing a specimen is disclosed, the method may include the steps of: provision of a test specimen, (2) provision of a pair of balancing sets of load, each load balancing assembly including a load leveling mechanism, the load leveling mechanism comprising an arm and at least one lever comprising a pair of ends, the lever being pivotally connected to the arm between the pair of ends, and a plurality of separate load plates, each load plate of the plurality of load plates including a first end and a second end, the first end being pivotally connected to the load leveling mechanism and the second end including a friction support, and wherein each load plate of the plurality of load plates is pivotally connected to one end of the at least one lever (3) connecting the specimen between. and the pair of load balancing sets, and (4) applying and a load to the specimen.
    [0012] Other embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method for load testing a specimen will become apparent from the detailed description, the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS - Fig. 1 is a side and front perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosed apparatus for load testing a specimen; Fig. 2 is a side elevation view of the apparatus disclosed for load testing a specimen; Fig. 3 is a front elevation view of the disclosed apparatus for load testing a specimen; Fig. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the disclosed apparatus for load testing a specimen; - Fig. 5 is a side and front perspective view of an embodiment of the load balancing assembly of the apparatus disclosed for load testing a specimen; - Fig. 6 is a side elevation view of the load balancing assembly; - Fig. 7 is a front elevation view of the load balancing assembly; - Fig. 8 is an enlarged front elevation view of the load balancing assembly; Fig. 9 is a schematic side view of an implementation of the friction support of the apparatus disclosed for load testing a specimen; Fig. 10 is a schematic side view of another implementation of the friction support of the apparatus disclosed for load testing a specimen; and - Fig. 11 is a flow diagram of the disclosed method for load testing a specimen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
    [0013] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate the specific embodiments of the disclosure. Other embodiments having different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. Similar reference numerals may refer to the same element or component in different drawings.
    [0014] Referring to Figs. 1, the apparatus disclosed for load testing a specimen, generally designated 10, may include a test frame 12, at least one load set 14, and a pair of load balancing sets 16a, 16b (generally, a balancing set 16). Apparatus 10 can be used in load testing a specimen 11 to determine the behavior of the material or materials forming specimen 11 under both tensile and compressive loads, particularly under full load conditions. Each load balancing assembly 16 may include a friction bracket 104 configured to grip and hold an end of the specimen 11 by friction and a mechanical load leveling mechanism 160 configured to distribute a substantially equal load across the width of the specimen. specimen 11.
    [0015] A specimen 11 is a small sample of material that can be destruction tested to measure the strength properties of the material. As an example, specimen 11 may be a 2-inch by 60-inch strip of sample material. However, the specimen 11 can have any geometric shape and dimensions.
    [0016] The pair of load balancing sets 16a, 16b can fixedly retain the specimen 11 at the two opposite ends. Each of the load balancing assemblies 16a, 16b can be suitably sized to grip and retain a correspondingly sized specimen 11. The load assembly 14 can carry a load (e.g., compressive or tensile load) to the specimen. proof 11 by moving at least one of the load-balancing assemblies along a single X-axis (Fig. 2).
    [0017] Test frame 12 may include a base member 18 configured to support frame 12 in a generally vertical orientation relative to a support surface. The base member 18 may have a generally square or rectangular shape, although any other geometric shapes are also contemplated.
    [0018] A plurality of frame members can be connected to the base member 18 to define the test frame 12. For example, four separate frame members can define a generally rectangular test frame 12. The four test frame members may include a first frame member 20, a second frame member 22, a third frame member 24, and a fourth frame member 26. Each frame member 20, 22, 24, 26 may include a first frame (e.g. , lower end) rigidly connected to the base member 18. For example, the first end of each frame member 20, 22, 24, 26 can be rigidly connected near or at each corner of the base member 18.
    [0019] A plurality of frame support members may interconnect between frame members. For example, the four frame support members may extend between the second ends (eg top ends) of the parallel frame members. The four frame support members may include a first frame support member 28, a second frame support member 30, a third frame support member 32, and a fourth frame support member 34. The frame support member 28 is interconnectable between the second end of the first frame member 20 and the second end of the second frame member 22. The second frame support member 30 is interconnectable between the second end of the third frame member 24 and the second end of the fourth frame member 26. The third frame support member 32 is interconnectable between the second end of the first frame member 20 and the second end of the third frame member 24. The fourth frame support member 34 it can interconnect between the second end of the second frame member 22 and the second end of the fourth frame member 26.
    [0020] The test frame 12 including the base member 18, the frame members 20, 22, 24, 26, and the frame support members 28, 30, 32, 34 can be made of any material suitably rigid and durable. For example, support base 18 and frame members 20, 22, 24, 26 can be made of structural steel tube, steel channel, or steel beam. The frame support members 28, 30, 32, 34 can be made from the steel rod or steel tube or channel. In the polished embodiment, the members of the test frame 12 can be welded together, however, other embodiments can use other materials and other methods of combining the members of the test frame 12. Alternatively, the test frame 12 can be a body of integral structure 12 rather than being made up of component members.
    [0021] A first (e.g., lower) load balancing set 16a may be connected to the base member 18. For example, the first load balancing set 16 may be rigidly connected to a central or middle position of the base member. base 18. In an implementation of the disclosed apparatus 10, base member 18 may include a base platform 36. Base platform 36 may be any suitably rigid and durable member or members for connecting the first load balancing assembly 16a. For example, base platform 36 may be a steel panel having at least one substantially flat main surface configured to support the first load balancing assembly 16a in fixed position. As another example, base platform 36 may be a plurality of crisscross frame members extending between the corners of base member 18.
    [0022] The base member 18 may include a first coupling 38 configured to connect to the first load balancing assembly 16a. For example, the first coupling 38 can be connected around the center or middle of the base platform 36. The first coupling 38 can be any suitable rigid mechanical coupling device, for example, the first coupling 38 can be a collar, a sleeve or a staple. In this aspect, the first coupling 38 can be any type of connection point or connection point through which the first balance assembly 16a can be connected to the base member 18.
    [0023] Referring to Figs. 2 and 3, the loading assembly 14 can include a loading platform 40 operatively connected to the frame members 20, 22, 24, 26. The loading platform 40 can be movable in two opposite directions along the X axis. load 40 may be any suitably rigid and durable member or members for connecting a second (e.g. upper) load balancing assembly 16b.
    [0024] For example, the base platform 40 may include a steel panel having at least one substantially flat main surface configured to support the second load balancing assembly 16b in the fixed position. As another example, load platform 40 may include a plurality of cross frame members extending between frame members 20, 22, 24, 26. As another example, load platform 40 may include a pair of load supports , each load support extending between and movably connected to parallel pairs of frame members 20, 22, 24, 26 and a panel or cross frame members connected between the pair of load supports.
    [0025] The load assembly 14 may include at least one drive assembly 42. The drive assembly 42 may be any suitable linear drive unit configured to move the load assembly 14 in at least one of two directions (for example, to up or down) along the X axis, such as a mechanical unit, a hydraulic unit, an electrical unit, or similar. The drive assembly 42 can be a constant speed or an adjustable or variable speed.
    [0026] In an exemplary implementation, the drive assembly 42 may include at least one hydraulic cylinder containing a piston connected to a rod. For example, the hydraulic cylinder can be rigidly connected to the test frame 12 and one end of the rod can be rigidly connected to the load platform 40. As another example, the hydraulic cylinder can be rigidly connected to the load platform 40 and one end of the rod can be rigidly connected to test frame 12.
    [0027] The movement of the piston within the cylinder can cause the rod to move along the X axis and move the load set 14 with respect to test frame 12 and thus the second load balancing set 16b with respect to the first load balancing set 16a. Optionally, the load platform 40 can be movably connected to each of the frame members 20, 22, 24, 26, for example, by means of at least one bearing disposed at each corner of the load platform 40.
    [0028] In an exemplary implementation, the drive assembly 42 may include at least one rack and pinion mechanism. For example, a rack can be connected to a surface of each frame member 20, 22, 24, 26. Each rack can be positioned parallel to the X axis. A rotary drive, such as an electric motor or hydraulic rotary valve, can be connected to each corner of load platform 40. A pinion gear can be operatively connected to each rotary drive and configured to engage an adjacent rack. The rotation of the pinion can cause the pinion to move along the rack parallel to the X axis and move the load set 14 with respect to the test frame 12 and thus the second load balancing set 16b with respect to the first set load balancing system 16a.
    [0029] In another exemplary implementation, the drive assembly 42 may include at least one sprocket. For example, a sprocket (e.g. gear) may be connected to each frame member 20, 22, 24, 26. A sprocket may be rotationally connected to each corner of the load platform 40 and configured to engage the wheel. toothed. Each sprocket can be positioned parallel to the X axis. A rotary drive can be operatively connected to at least one end of the sprocket. The rotation of the sprocket can cause the sprocket gear to move along the sprocket parallel to the X axis and move the load assembly 14 with respect to the test frame 12 and thus, the second load balancing assembly 16b with respect to the first load balancing set 16a.
    [0030] The load assembly 14 may include a second coupling 44 configured to receptively connect to the second load balancing assembly 16b. For example, the second coupling 44 can be connected around a center or middle of the loading platform 40. The second coupling 44 can be any suitable rigid mechanical coupling device, for example, the second coupling 44 can be a collar, a sleeve or a staple. In this aspect, the second coupling 44 can be any type of connection point or connection point through which the second load balancing assembly 16b can be connected to the load assembly 14.
    [0031] In another embodiment, the loading platform 40 can be rigidly connected in a fixed position to the test frame 12, for example, connected at each corner to frame members 20, 22, 24, 26. The drive assembly 42 it can be operatively connected between the load platform 40 or the test frame 12 and the second load balancing assembly 16b. For example, a hydraulic cylinder, containing a piston connected to a rod, can be rigidly connected to the load platform 40 or the test frame 12 and one end of the rod can be rigidly connected to the second load balancing assembly 16b. The second coupling 44 can be connected to the rod end for receptive connection to the second load balancing assembly 16b. The movement of the piston within the cylinder can cause the rod to move along the X axis and move the second load balancing set 16b with respect to load platform 40 and thus the second load balancing set 16b with respect to the first load balancing set 16a.
    [0032] In yet another embodiment, both the first 16a and second 16 load balancing sets can be movable along the X axis. For example, a second load set (not shown) can be connected to test frame 12 near the base member 18. The second load assembly may be substantially equivalent to the load assembly 14 described herein and may include a second drive assembly (not shown). The second drive assembly may be substantially equivalent to drive assembly 42 described here. The first load balancing set 16a can be connected to the second load set in any suitable way so that movement of the second load set along the X axis also moves the first load balancing set 16a with respect to the second load balancing assembly 16b.
    [0033] Referring to Fig. 4, the drive assembly 42, and optionally the second drive assembly, may be connected to an appropriate power source 46, such as an electrical power source or a hydraulic power source. A corresponding control unit 48 may be provided to receive input signals from an operator to control the movement of the load balancing assemblies 16a, 16b and the load applied to the specimen 11. The control unit 48 may include a manual user interface (eg, push button) or a computer having a processor and programming stored on at least one computer readable medium.
    [0034] Referring again to Figs. 2 and 3, in an exemplary construction, the load leveling mechanism 160 of each load balancing assembly 16a, 16b may include a column 50, at least one arm 52, and a plurality of load plates 54 pivotally connected to the arm. 52 by at least one lever 56. In general, the load leveling mechanism 160 of each of the load balancing assemblies 16a, 16b can be configured as a rocker arm, to distribute a force (e.g., load) from the arm 52 equally through lever 56 or plurality of levers 56 for the plurality of plates 52 and across the width of the specimen 11.
    [0035] In an exemplary embodiment as illustrated in Figs. 1-3, column 50 of the first load balancing set 16a can be configured to be connected to the base member 18 (eg, connected to the first coupling 38) and column 50 of the second load balancing set 16b can be configured to be connected to load assembly 14 (eg connected to second coupling 44). At least one arm 52 may be rigidly connected to column 50. Each lever 56 of the plurality of levers 56 may be pivotally connected near or at the center of arm 52. An upper end of load plate 54 may be pivotally connected near or at the ends of each of the plurality of levers 56.
    [0036] Each load plate 54 may include two opposing main surfaces, a first edge 58, a second edge 60, and two opposing side edges 62. The main surfaces may be substantially flat and the width of the load plate 54 (e.g. , the distance between the opposite side edges 62) can be greater than the thickness of the load plate 54. For example, the load plate 54 can be relatively thin compared to its length and width. Each of the plurality of load plates 54 can be positioned substantially parallel to an adjacent load plate 54 with minimal space between adjacent load plates 54. Each side edge 62 of load plate 54 can taper inwardly from the first. edge 58 to second edge 62. Each load plate 54 can be made of any suitably rigid and durable material, such as steel or the like. Load plates 54 can be configured to secure the end of the specimen 11.
    [0037] Optionally, at least one rigid member (not shown) may be interconnected between adjacent load plates 54 or may extend along the plurality of load plates 54 in order to control or prevent uncontrolled movement of load plates 54 after destruction (eg breakage) of the specimen 11 during the load test. For example, a steel rod can extend through all load plates 54.
    [0038] Each load plate 54 may include at least one friction bracket 104 disposed around the second edge 62. The friction bracket 104 may be configured to frictionally engage and retain (e.g., secure) the end of the body of test 11 (Fig. 1). The friction support 104 can be configured to contact the opposing end surfaces of the specimen 11 and apply an initial friction load after the specimen 11. As the test load is applied to the specimen 11 (for example, by moving the load balancing assembly 16 away from each other along the X axis) the frictional load on the opposing end surfaces of specimen 11 may increase to retain specimen 11 within the load balancing assemblies 16.
    [0039] The friction support 104 may include at least one friction support (Fig. 5) and any suitable adjustment mechanism that can initially preload the ends of the specimen 11 by contacting the surface of the specimen 11 with the support of friction 140. The adjustment mechanism can increase the friction load on the ends of the specimen 11 as the test load increases allowing the friction pad 140 to move with respect to the load plate 54 as the specimen 11 is pulled away from the load balancing assembly 16.
    [0040] As will be described in more detail here, an exemplary construction of friction support 104 may include an opening, or cutout, 64 disposed around a middle of one end of load plate 54 opposite arm 52. For example, opening 64 may extend from second edge 62 towards first edge 58. A pair of loop insert elements 66 may be adjustably connected to load plate 54 within opening 64. Friction pad 140 may be connected or integral to each handle insert 66. The handle inserts 66 can be configured to securely hold and retain the end of the specimen 11 by frictional engagement with the friction pads 140 during the load test.
    [0041] In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of arms 52 can be connected to column 50 and a plurality of levers 56 can be connected to each pair of arms 52. For example, a first arm and a second arm can be connected to column 50 A first plurality of levers 56 may be connected to the first arm 52 and a second plurality of levers 56 may be connected to the second arm 52. Each lever 56 may include a first end and an opposite second end. A load plate 54 can be pivotally connected to each end of each lever 56. Each lever 56 can be separated along the first edges 58 of each adjacent pair of connected load plates 54. As illustrated in Fig. 2, the levers 56 may be connected near opposite ends of the first edge 58 of each load plate 54, although the levers 56 may be equally spaced along the entire first edge 58 of each load plate 54.
    [0042] Referring to Figs. 5 and 7, in another exemplary embodiment, the load balancing assembly 16 can be configured as a series of rockers to evenly distribute a force (eg, test load) to the connected specimen 11 (Fig. 1). The load balancing assembly 16 may include a first tier 106 (Fig. 7) and a second tier 108 (Fig. 7).
    [0043] At least one first lever 72 may be pivotally connected to arm 52. At least one first coupling 73 may be pivotally connected to a first end of first lever 72. At least one second coupling 74 may be pivotally connected to a second end of the first lever 72. The first lever 72, first coupling 73 and second coupling 74 may define the first level 106.
    [0044] At least one second lever 75 can be pivotally connected to the first coupling 73. At least one third lever 76 can be pivotally connected to the second coupling 74. At least one third coupling 77 can be pivotally connected to a first end of the second lever 75. At least a fourth coupling 78 may be pivotally connected to a second end of second lever 75. At least a fifth coupling 79 may be pivotally connected to a first end of third lever 76. At least one sixth coupling 81 may be pivotally connected to a second end of third lever 76. Second lever 75, third lever 76, third coupling 77, fourth coupling 78, fifth coupling 79, and sixth coupling 81 may define second level 108.
    [0045] The plurality of load plates 54 can be pivotally connected to couplings 77, 78, 79, 81 of the second level 108.
    The column 50 may include a cylindrical body having a first end configured to be received by the first coupling 38 or the second coupling 44 (Fig. 2). The column 50 can be secured to the corresponding coupling 38, 44 by means of any mechanical fastener, such as a pin, screw or the like. Arm 52 can be rigidly connected to a second end of column 50. For example, arm 52 can be mechanically secured or welded to column 50. As another example, column 50 and arm 52 can be integral (forming a unitary body ).
    [0047] Referring to Figs. 5 and 6, arm 52 may include at least one shackle feature 80. Shackle 80 may be configured to receive first lever 72. First lever 72 may be pivotally connected around or near the center within shackle 80 in a first pivot point 82. For example, first pivot point 882 may be a cylindrical rod or pin through each shackle 80 and associated with first lever 72.
    [0048] Referring to Figs. 5, 7 and 8, in an implementation of the exemplary embodiment, the load balancing assembly 16 may include a plurality of first levers 72. A plurality of first couplings 73 may be pivotally connected near or at the first ends of the plurality of first levers 72 and a plurality of second couplings 74 may be pivotally connected at or near the second ends of the plurality of first levers 72. For example, a first end 110 of each first coupling 73 may be pivotally connected to a first end 112 of the first lever 72 at a second pivot point 83. A first end 114 of each second coupling 74 is pivotally connected to an opposite second end 116 of first lever 72 at a third pivot point 84.
    [0049] The second pivot point 83 may be a cylindrical rod or pin through the first ends 110 of the plurality of first couplings 73 and the first ends 112 of the plurality of first levers 72. Depending on the configuration of the load balancing assembly 16, first levers 72 can be pivotally connected between first ends 110 of adjacent pairs of first couplings 73 (Fig. 5).
    [0050] The third pivot point 84 may be a cylindrical rod or pin which extends through the first ends 114 of the plurality of second couplings 74 and the second ends 116 of the plurality of first levers 72. Depending on the configuration of the load balancing assembly 16, first levers 72 can be pivotally connected between first ends 114 of adjacent pairs of second couplings 74 (Fig. 5).
    [0051] A plurality of second levers 75 may be pivotally connected near or at the center of the plurality of first couplings 73. For example, a second end 118 of each first coupling 73 may be pivotally connected to the center of the second lever 75 at a fourth point of pivot 85. The fourth pivot point 85 may be a cylindrical rod or pin extending through the second ends 118 of the plurality of first couplings 73 and the means of the plurality of second levers 75. Depending on the configuration of the load balancing assembly 16 , the second levers 75 can be pivotally connected between the second ends 118 of adjacent pairs of the first couplings 73 (Fig. 5).
    [0052] A plurality of third levers 76 may be pivotally connected near or at the center of the plurality of second couplings 73. For example, a second end 120 of each second coupling 74 may be pivotally connected to the center of the third lever 76 at a fifth point of pivot 86. The fifth pivot point 86 may be a cylindrical rod or pin extending through the second ends 120 of the plurality of second couplings 74 and the means of the plurality of third levers 76. Depending on the configuration of the load balancing assembly 16 , third levers 76 may be pivotally connected between second ends 120 of adjacent pairs of second couplings 74 (Fig. 5).
    [0053] A plurality of third couplings 77 may be pivotally connected near or at the first ends 122 of the plurality of second levers 75. For example, a first end 124 of each third coupling 77 may be pivotally connected to first end 122 of the second lever 75. at a sixth pivot point 87. The sixth pivot point 87 may be a cylindrical rod or pin extending through the first ends 124 of the plurality of third couplings 77 and the first ends 124 of the plurality of second levers 75. Depending on the configuration of the In the load balancing assembly 16, second levers 75 can be pivotally connected between first ends 124 of adjacent pairs of first couplings 77 (Fig. 5).
    [0054] A plurality of fourth couplings 78 may be pivotally connected near or at opposite second ends 126 of the plurality of second levers 75. For example, a first end 128 of each fourth coupling 78 may be pivotally connected to second end 126 of the second lever 75 at a seventh pivot point 88. The second pivot point 88 may be a cylindrical rod or pin extending through first ends 128 of the plurality of fourth couplings 78 and second ends 126 of the plurality of second levers 75. Depending on configuration of the load balancing assembly 16, second levers 75 may be pivotally connected between first ends 128 of adjacent pairs of fourth couplings 78 (Fig. 5).
    [0055] A plurality of fifth couplings 79 may be pivotally connected near or at the first ends 130 of the plurality of third levers 76. For example, a first end 132 of each fifth coupling 79 may be pivotally connected to the first end 130 of the third lever 76. at an eighth pivot point 89. The eighth pivot point 89 may be a cylindrical rod or pin extending through first ends 132 of the plurality of fifth couplings 79 and first ends 130 of the plurality of third levers 76. Depending on the configuration of the In load balancing assembly 16, third levers 76 can be pivotally connected between first ends 132 of adjacent pairs of fifth couplings 79 (Fig. 5).
    [0056] A plurality of sixth couplings 81 may be pivotally connected near or at opposite second ends 134 of the plurality of third levers 76. For example, a first end 136 of each sixth coupling 81 may be pivotally connected to the second end 134 of the third lever 76 at a ninth pivot point 91. The ninth pivot point 91 may be a rod or cylindrical pin extending through first ends 136 of the plurality of sixth couplings 81 and second ends 134 of the plurality of third levers 76. Depending on configuration of the load balancing assembly 16, the third levers 76 can be pivotally connected between the first ends 136 of adjacent pairs of the sixth couplings 81 (Fig. 5).
    [0057] Referring to Fig. 6, a load plate 54 of the plurality of load plates 54 may be pivotally connected to the second ends of each plurality of the third 77, fourth 78, fifth 79 and sixth 81 couplings. For example, a first load plate 54a (Fig. 7) may be pivotally connected to the second ends 138 of the plurality of third couplings 77 at a tenth pivot point 92. For example, the tenth pivot point 92 may be a rod or cylindrical pin through the shackles 90 of the first load plate 54a and the second ends 138 of the fifth couplings 77.
    [0058] While not visible in Fig. 6, it can be appreciated that a second load plate 54b can be pivotally connected to the second ends of the plurality of fourth couplings 78 at an eleventh pivot point 93, a third load plate 54c can the second ends of the plurality of fifth couplings 79 are pivotally connected at a twelfth point and pivot 95, and a fourth load plate 54d can be pivotally connected to the second ends of the plurality of sixth couplings 81 at a thirteenth pivot point 97.
    [0059] Referring to Figs. 5 and 6, each load plate 54 may include a plurality of shackles 90 disposed along the first edge 58. The plurality of shackles 90 may be equally spaced along the first edge 58 of each load plate 54. For example, each shackle 90 of the first load plate 54a (Fig. 7) may be configured to receive the second end 138 of each fifth coupling 77.
    [0060] While not visible in Fig. 6, it can be seen that the shackles of the second load plate 54b (Fig. 7) can be configured to receive the second ends of each fourth coupling 78, the shackles of the third load plate 54c (Fig. 7) can be configured to receive the second ends of each fifth coupling 79, and the fourth load plate shackles 54d (Fig. 7) can be configured to receive the second ends of each sixth coupling 81.
    [0061] The pivot connection between the load plates 54 and the plurality of couplings 77, 78, 79, 81 (eg at the pivot points 92, 93, 95, 97) can allow each load plate 54 to it self balances and remains substantially parallel to the axis of movement X regardless of the angularly rotated position of the plurality of second levers 75 or the plurality of third levers 76. Due to the self-balancing nature of the load plates 54, each load plate 54 can introduce the load distributed to the specimen 11 parallel to a longitudinal axis of the specimen 11.
    [0062] The load distributed to the arm 52 can be equally distributed along the plurality of levers and couplings to the load plates. For example, with each of the plurality of first levers 72 being connected at the center, the load distributed on the second end 116 of the plurality of first couplings 73 and the second ends 120 of the plurality of second couplings 74 may be half the load distributed on the arm 52 With each of the plurality of second levers 75 being connected to the center of the plurality of second couplings 73, the load is distributed at the second ends 138 (Fig. 6) of the plurality of third couplings 77 (and to the first load plate 54a) and the load distributed to the second ends (not shown) of the plurality of fourth couplings 78 (and to the second load plate 54b) may be half of the load distributed to the first ends 114 of the second couplings 73.
    [0063] This balanced load distribution can be beneficial when using the apparatus 10 on the load test specimens 11 (Fig. 1) of the sample material. In certain fields, such as the aerospace industry, the uniformity of the stress level across the surface area of the test specimen 11 during load testing must be within a predetermined range of acceptability.
    [0064] It can be appreciated that the load distributed to the arm 52 may also be unevenly distributed along the plurality of levers and couplings to the load plates. For example, with each of the plurality of first levers 72 being connected off-center, the load distributed on the second ends 118 of the plurality of first couplings 73 and on the second ends 120 of the plurality of second couplings 74 may be a fraction of the load distributed on the arm based on the distance from the center of the first lever 72. With each of the plurality of second levers 75 being connected off center, the load is distributed at the second ends 138 (Fig. 6) of the plurality of third couplings 77 (and to the first load plate 54a) and the second ends (not shown) of the plurality of the fourth couplings (and for the second load plate 54b) may be a fraction of the load distributed to the first ends 118 of the second couplings 73 based on the center distance of the second lever 75.
    [0065] While the realization of the apparatus 10 illustrated in Figs. 57 may include a first level 106 of levers 72 and couplings 73, 74 and a second level 108 of levers 75, 76 and couplings 77, 78, 79, 81 connected to the first level 106 and load plates 54 connected to the second level 108, more or less levels of levers and couplings can be used to distribute the load from the arm 52 to the load plates 54. For example, fewer levels of levers and couplings (e.g., at least one lever 56) can be used, as illustrated in Figs. 1-3. As another example, additional levels of levers can be connected by couplings to adjacent levels (eg, above or below) of levers. It can be seen that the number of lever levels (eg the number of rocker arm configurations) can determine the number of load plates 54 and the load distributed to each load plate 54.
    [0066] Referring to Figs. 5 and 6, in the exemplary construction of friction pad 104, friction pad 140 of each handle insert 66 may include a first substantially flat surface 70 (Fig. 6) configured to contact an end surface of specimen 11 The first surface 70 (e.g. friction pad 140) of the first handle insert 66a may be configured to face the first surface 70 (e.g. friction pad 140) of an opposite second handle insert 66b (Fig. 6). The position of each loop insert 66 within opening 64 may be independently adjustable to close or open a gap 68 (Fig. 6) formed between the first opposing surfaces 70 of the loop insert elements 66.
    [0067] The insert elements of the handle 66 can be configured to fixedly retain (eg, handle) the specimen 11 (Fig. 1) by means of a compressive force after being adjusted to close the gap 68 and contact the body test piece 11. Thus, the test load can be applied from the handle insert elements 66 (e.g., through levers, couplings, and load plates 54) to the test piece 11 through friction. The first surface 70 of each handle insert 66 can be configured to increase friction between the first surface 70 and the end surface of the specimen 11.
    [0068] For example, the first surface 70 may be serrated or may include a high friction surface coating. As another example, first surface 70 may include a plurality of filaments (not shown) configured to engage the final surface of specimen 11 and resist movement of specimen 11. Each of the filaments may extend outward at an angle. not zero with respect to the first surface 70. In an exemplary implementation, the filaments may be arranged perpendicular to the first surface 70. In another implementation, the filaments may be arranged at an angle extending backwards (e.g., opposite direction test load).
    [0069] The handle inserts 66 may be suitably sized to introduce the test load to the specimen 11. For example, for use with a 20 inch versus 60 inch specimen, the handle inserts 66 can be approximately twelve inches long in order to introduce 500 kips of load to the specimen 11. The inserts of the loop 66 can include a thickness substantially equivalent to the thickness of the load plate 54. Alternatively, the inserts of handle 66 may include a thickness of less or more than the thickness of load plate 54.
    [0070] Referring to Fig. 9, load plate 54 may include sloping side surfaces 94 defining opening 64. For example, side surfaces 94 may be disposed at a non-zero angle with respect to the axis of movement X of the assembly of load balancing 16 defining an inwardly tapered opening 64. As a non-limiting example, the side surfaces 94 may be disposed at an angle of 18 degrees (18°) with respect to the axis of movement X. Each handle insert element 66 may include a second surface 96 opposite first surface 70 configured to contact side surface 94 of load plate 54 defining opening 64.
    [0071] Each handle insert 66 can be independently positioned within the opening 64 on the side surface 94 to adjust the position of the first handle insert 66a, and thus the friction pad 140, with respect to the second handle insert. opposite handle insertion 66b. For example, as each handle insert 66 is positioned deeper within opening 64, each handle insert 66 may be located further away from the opposite handle insert 66. As another example, as each insert element handle 66 is positioned to extend outwardly from opening 64, each handle insert 66 may be located closer to the opposite handle insert 66.
    [0072] The handle insertion elements 66 can be configured so that the first opposing surfaces 70 can remain substantially parallel to each other the X axis regardless of the position of the handle insertion element 66 with respect to the opening 64 or to the element. opposite handle insertion 66. For example, the second surface 96 of each handle insertion element 66 may be disposed at a non-zero angle (e.g., eighteen degrees) with respect to the first surface 70. The angle between the first surface 70 and the second surface 996 of the loop insert 66 may be substantially equivalent to the angle between the side surface 94 defining the opening 64 and the X axis.
    [0073] As the loop insert elements 66 are placed closer together (e.g. moving away from the opening 64) the gap 68 defined between the first opposing surfaces 70 may decrease until the first opposing surfaces 70 contact each other. or contact the end surfaces of the specimen 11. As the loop inserts 66 are placed further apart from each other (for example, moving deeper into the opening 64), the gap 68 may widen. In this way, the handle inserts 66 can be positioned to make contact with the specimen 11 (Fig. 1) after placement of the specimen 11 within the gap 68 adjustment of the handle inserts 66.
    [0074] Each handle insert 66 may include an adjustment mechanism 98 configured to preload the specimen 11 by adjusting the position of the handle insert 66 within the opening 64 to place the end surfaces of the specimen 11 in contact with the friction pads 140. For example, the adjustment mechanism 98 may be a mechanical fastener fitted between the handle insert 66 and the load plate 54. As another example, the adjustment mechanism 98 may be by the minus one hydraulic cylinder fitted between the load plate 54 and the handle insert 66. After actuation of the adjustment mechanism 98, the handle insert 66 can be positioned within the opening 64 to adjust the gap 68. At In an exemplary construction, the adjustment mechanism 98 may be a screw 146 extending through a lower end of the lug insert 66 and the lower end of the load plate 54. Each lug insert member 66 may include a lower end tab extending away from the first surface 70 toward the side edge 62 of the load plate 54. The screw 146 may extend through the tab and into a bottom surface of the load plate 54.
    [0075] Screw 146 may be disposed at a non-zero angle with respect to the X axis. For example, the angle of screw 146 with respect to the X axis may be substantially equivalent to the angle of the second surface 96 of the handle insert 66 As another example, the angle of screw 146 with respect to the X axis can be between about 35° and about 40°. As another example, the angle of screw 146 with respect to the X axis can be about 38°. Rotation of screw 146 can cause loop insert 66 to be positioned within opening 64 to fit gap 68.
    [0076] In an exemplary implementation, the handle insertion element 66 may include a filament opening 142 (e.g., through the tab) configured to receive and correspondingly engage with the bolt 146. The load plate 54 may include a filament opening. smooth barrel 144 disposed across the bottom surface (eg along the second edge 60). At least a portion of the screw shaft 146 can be received within the smooth barrel opening 144. As the screw 146 is rotated, the position of the screw 146 remains constant within the smooth barrel opening 144 and the handle insert 66 becomes constant. moves along the filament axis of screw 146 and with respect to load plate 54.
    [0077] Referring again to Figs. 5 and 6, each load plate 54 may include a pair of retainer plates 148 associated with each loop insert 66. A retainer plate 148 may be secured (e.g., bolted) to each opposing main surface of the load plate 54 near a side edge of the opening 64 and with the "handle insert 66. Each pair of opposing retainer plates 148 can restrict movement of the loop insert 66 with respect to the load plate 54 m in a direction perpendicular to the axis of movement X.
    [0078] Referring to Figs. 5, 6 and 9, each handle insert element 66 or pair of handle insert elements 66 may also be movably connected to an associated load plate 54 by a handle insert connector 162. For example, the connector of the lug insert 162 may be at least one spring 150 connected between the lug insert 66 and the load plate 54 (Figs. 6 and 9). Spring 150 may retain handle insert 66 within opening 64 of load plate 54. For example, a first end of spring 150 can be connected to load plate 54 and an opposite end of spring 150 can be connected to the handle insertion element 66.
    [0079] In an exemplary construction, each load plate 54 may include a pair of spring strips 152 secured (e.g., bolted) to each opposing main surface near an upper edge of opening 64. Each spring strip 152 may be positioned in relative alignment with an associated handle insert 66. For example, in the illustrated load balancing assembly 16 shown in Figs. 5 and 6, each spring strip 152 is placed above a corresponding loop insert 66. One end of each spring strip 152 may extend past the upper edge of opening 64 (Figs. 5 and 6). A first pin 154 (Fig. 5) may be disposed within opening 64 and may extend between opposing spring strips 152 (e.g., parallel spring strips 152) on opposing main surfaces of load plate 54.
    [0080] Each insert 66 may include a second pin 156 (Figs. 6 and 7) extending through the thickness direction (eg from the side surface to the side surface). Each loop insert 66 may include at least one hole or channel 158 (Fig. 5) extending from an upper surface to the second pin 156. Channel 158 may be suitably sized to receive a length of spring 150. first end of spring 150 can be connected to first pin 154 and second end of spring 150 can be connected to second pin 156.
    [0081] Referring to Fig. 9, during installation of the specimen 11 to the load balancing assembly 16, the springs 150 can hold the handle inserts 66 in position within the opening 64. For example, the springs 150 can prevent the loop inserts 66 from being removed from the opening 64 in the load plate 54 of the second (e.g., upper) load balancing assembly 16b by the force of gravity. The drive of the adjustment mechanisms 98 (e.g. screws 146) may drive over the handle inserts 66 of the second load balancing assembly 16b and against the springs 150 to move the handle inserts 66 with respect to the plate. load points 54 position the handle insert elements 66 in contact with the end surfaces of the specimen 11.
    [0082] Alternatively, the adjustment mechanism 98 (eg screws 146) may hold the inserts 66 in position within the opening 64 of the first (eg lower) load balancing assembly 16a acting against the force of gravity pulling the handle inserts 66 into the opening 64. The actuation of the adjustment mechanisms 98 (eg screws 146) can actuate the handle inserts 66 of the first load balancing assembly 16a and against the force of gravity to move the handle inserts 66 with respect to the load plate 54 and position the handle inserts 66 in contact with the end surfaces of the specimen 11.
    [0083] Adjusting the position of the handle insert elements 66 (e.g., actuating the adjustment mechanism 98) can be performed by accessing only the second edge 60 of the load plate 54, thus allowing the plurality of load plates 54 are placed in close proximity to each other.
    [0084] As the test load is applied to specimen 11 and increases (for example, moving the second load balancing set 16b along the axis of movement X with respect to the first load balancing set 16a), the specimen 11 can be pulled from friction bracket 104 (e.g., between the pair of opposing handle inserts 66). As the specimen 11 is pushed away from the direction of the test load, the friction fit between the specimen 11 and the friction pads 140 can pull the handle inserts 66 out from the opening 64, thus further closing gap 68 and increasing the force being applied to the end of specimen 11. In this way, as the test load increases, the frictional load applied to the end of specimen 11 also increases.
    [0085] One skilled in the art can appreciate that other mechanisms can be used to initially retain the handle inserts 66 within the opening 64 of the load plate 54 and adjustably position the handle inserts 66 or friction pads 140 with relation to the opposing surfaces of the end of the specimen 11. For example, the friction support 104 may include at least one cam locking mechanism, at least one hydraulically driven mechanism, or at least one louver mechanism that rotates to initially position the friction bearing 140 in contact with the specimen 11 and allowing the friction bearing 140 to move in order to increase the frictional load applied to the surface of the specimen 11 in accordance with the test load applied to the specimen 11 increases.
    [0086] Referring to Fig. 10, in another embodiment, each load plate 54 may include a handle insert 66 adjustably connected within opening 64. A first side surface 100 defining opening 64 may include a substantially flat surface disposed substantially parallel to the axis of movement X. A second opposing lateral surface 102 defining opening 64 may include a surface disposed at a non-zero angle with respect to the axis X for connecting loop insert 66. First lateral surface 100 may be parallel and face the first surface 70 (e.g. friction bearing 140) of the loop insert 66 defining the gap 68.
    [0087] After actuating the adjustment mechanism 98, the position of the handle insertion element 66 within the opening 64 and with respect to the first side surface 100 can be adjusted to adjust the gap 68. The specimen 11 (Fig. 1) may be frictionally retained between the first surface 100 defining the opening 64 and the first surface 70 of the loop insert 66.
    [0088] In use, the disclosed apparatus 10 can normally be oriented with the test frame 12 in a generally vertical orientation and a specimen 11 to be load tested being connected between opposite load balancing sets 14 as per seen in Fig. 1. An operator (eg, human, machine or computer) can cause the load balancing sets 14 to move to apply a pulling load to the specimen 11 or to move together to apply a compressive load to specimen 11. Motion may continue until a sufficient test load is reached or specimen 11 is destroyed. Alternatively, the disclosed apparatus 10 may be oriented with the test frame in a generally horizontal orientation.
    [0089] Referring to Fig. 11, a method, generally designated 200, for load testing a specimen is also disclosed. As shown in block 202, a test specimen can be provided for a sample material. For example, the specimen 11 (Fig. 1) can be a sample of the composite material formed by any suitable process. The specimen 11 can include any number of layers laminated at any positioning angle. The process for forming the specimens 11 can be automated, such as by machine or robot, to increase the speed of fabrication of the specimen. Considering that the specimen 11 does not require any special feature for connecting the specimen 11 to the revealed load tester 10 (Fig. 1), manufacturing complexity, cost and time can be significantly reduced.
    [0090] As shown in block 204, an apparatus 10 (Fig. 1) for load testing a specimen can be provided. Apparatus 10 may include a test frame 12, at least one load set 14, and a pair of load balance sets 16.
    [0091] As shown in block 206, the specimen 11 can be connected to the test apparatus 10. As discussed here, the specimen 11 can be secured at each end by a load balancing assembly (Fig. 1) . The process of applying specimen 11 to load balancing sets 16 can be automated, such as by machine or robot, to increase the insertion speed of specimen 11.
    [0092] As shown in block 208, a load can be applied to specimen 11. As discussed here, load can be applied by linearly moving at least one load balancing set 16 along an axis of motion X with relation to an opposite load balancing assembly 16 (Fig. 1). For example, a tensile load can be applied to specimen 11 by moving load balancing sets 16 away from each other. As another example, a compressor load can be applied by moving the load balancing sets 16 towards each other. The process of applying the load to the specimen 11 can be automated, such as by machine or computer-controlled control unit (Fig. 4).
    [0093] As shown in block 210, the behavior of the specimen 11 in response to the applied load can be registered. For example, the strength properties of the specimen material of the specimen can be determined under both a normal load and a maximum load (eg, destructive). A strain gauge 49 (Fig. 4) can be used to measure and record the load applied during testing. The process of measuring and recording the load applied to the specimen 11 can be automated, such as by means of a computer.
    [0094] Further preferred embodiments include an apparatus for load testing a specimen, having at least one load balancing assembly configured to retain one end of said specimen and communicate an axial load to said specimen after the movement along an axis. Here, the load balancing assembly includes a load leveling mechanism, and a plurality of separate load plates, each load plate of said plurality of load plates comprising a first end and a second end, said first end being pivotally connected to said load leveling mechanism and said second end comprising a friction bracket configured to frictionally engage one end of said specimen.
    [0095] Other variations may also include the load leveling mechanism for having an arm; a plurality of first levers, each first lever of said plurality of first levers comprising a first end and a second end and being pivotally connected to said arm between said first lever end and said second lever end; a plurality of first couplings, each first coupling of said plurality of first couplings comprising a first end and an opposite second end, said first ends of said plurality of first couplings being pivotally connected to said first ends of said plurality of first levers; a plurality of second levers, each second lever of said plurality of second levers comprising a first end and a second end and said second ends of said plurality of first couplings being pivotally connected between said second end of the first lever and said second end. the second lever; a plurality of third levers, each third lever of said plurality of third levers comprising a first end and a second end and said second ends of said plurality of third couplings being pivotally connected comprising a first end and an opposite second end, said first ends being pivotally connected of said plurality of third couplings being pivotally connected to said first ends of said plurality of second levers; a plurality of fourth couplings, each fourth coupling of said plurality of fourth couplings comprising a first end and an opposite second end, said first ends of said plurality of fourth couplings being pivotally connected to said second ends of said plurality of second levers; a plurality of fifth couplings, each fifth coupling of said plurality of fifth couplings comprising a first end and an opposite second end, said first ends of said plurality of fifth couplings being pivotally connected to first ends of said plurality of third levers; and a plurality of sixth couplings, each sixth coupling of said plurality of sixth couplings comprising a first end and an opposite second end, said first ends of said plurality of sixth couplings being pivotally connected to said second ends of said plurality of third levers.
    [0096] Furthermore, a first load plate of said plurality of load plates is pivotally connected to said second ends of said third plurality of couplings; wherein a second load plate of said plurality of load plates is pivotally connected to said second ends of said fourth plurality of couplings; wherein a third load plate of said plurality of load plates is pivotally connected to said second ends of said fifth plurality of couplings; and wherein a fourth load plate of said plurality of load plates is pivotally connected to said second ends of said sixth plurality of couplings.
    [0097] These alternative configurations may also have friction support including an opening defined in said second end of each load plate; and a pair of handle insert elements adjustably connected to said load plate within said opening, said pair of handle insert elements being oppositely arranged and configured to frictionally engage said specimen. Other variations contemplate the opening of each load plate being defined by a pair of opposing side surfaces, each side surface being disposed at a non-zero angle with respect to said axis; wherein each loop insert member of said pair of loop insert elements comprises a first surface and a second surface, said second surface of each loop insert member configured to engage said surface of said aperture, and said the first surface of each handle insert being configured to contact a substantially flat surface of said specimen; and wherein said first surface of each of said loop insert elements faces one another and defines a gap between opposite loop insert elements.
    [0098] Arrangements in which the friction support comprises an adjustment mechanism are also preferred, said adjustment mechanism being operatively connected between said insert handle and said load plate and configured to adjust a position of said insert loop with respect to said opposite insert loop. The friction bracket may also have a connector configured to interconnect said pair of handle insert elements and said load plate, said connector being configured to allow movement of said pair of handle insert elements with respect to said load plate. A second load balancing assembly may also be included which is configured to retain an opposite end of said specimen, said load balancing assembly being separate from said load balancing assembly along said axis; wherein at least one of the load balancing assembly or said second load balancing assembly is movable along said axis with respect to each other to communicate said load to said specimen.
    [0099] Although several realizations of the apparatus and method disclosed for test specimen load testing have been shown and described, modifications may occur to technicians in the subject after reading the descriptive report. The present patent application includes such modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims.
    权利要求:
    Claims (12)
    [0001]
    1. Apparatus (10) for load testing a specimen (11), the apparatus (10) characterized in that it comprises: a test frame (12); and a pair of separate load balancing sets (16a, 16b) connected to the test frame (12), each load balancing set (16) of the pair of load balancing sets (16a, 16b) comprises: a mechanism load leveling device (160) comprising: an arm (52); at least one lever (56) comprising a pair of ends, the lever (56) being pivotally connected to the arm (52) between the pair of ends; and a plurality of separate load plates (54), each load plate of the plurality of load plates (54) comprising a first end and a second end, the second end is that of each load plate (54) comprising a load support. friction (104) configured to friction fit an end of the specimen (11), wherein the first end of each load plate (54) is pivotally connected to one end of the lever (56), and wherein at least a load-balancing assembly of the pair of load-balancing assemblies (16a, 16b) is movable along an axis (X) of motion with respect to an opposite load-balancing assembly (16) to communicate a load to the specimen (11).
    [0002]
    Apparatus (10) according to claim 1, further comprising at least one load assembly (14) connected to the at least one load balancing assembly of the pair of load balancing assemblies (16a, 16b) , the load assembly (14) comprising a drive assembly (42) operatively fitted between the load assembly (14) and the test frame (12) and configured to move the load assembly (14) along the axis ( X) of the movement.
    [0003]
    Apparatus (10) according to claim 1, further comprising at least one drive assembly (42) operatively fitted between the at least one load balancing assembly of the pair of load balancing assemblies (16a, 16b) and the test frame (12), the drive assembly (42) being configured to move the at least one load balancing assembly (16) of the pair of load balancing assemblies (16a, 16b) along the axis (X) of the movement.
    [0004]
    Apparatus (10) according to claim 1, further comprising a pair of load sets, each load set (14) of the pair of load sets being connected to a load balancing set of the pair of load balancing sets (16a, 16b), each load set (14) of the pair of load sets comprising a drive set (42) operatively fitted between the load set (14) and the test frame (12) and configured to move the load assembly (14) along the axis (X) of movement.
    [0005]
    Apparatus (10) according to claim 1, further comprising a pair of drive sets, each drive set (42) of the pair of drive sets being operatively fitted between a load balancing set of the pair. of load balancing sets (16a, 16b) and the test frame (12), each drive set (42) of the pair of drive sets being configured to move the one load balancing set (16) of the pair of load balancing sets (16a, 16b) along the (X) axis of motion.
    [0006]
    6. Apparatus (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the load leveling mechanism (160) of each load balancing set (16) of the pair of load balancing sets (16a, 16b) ) comprises: at least a first coupling (73) comprising a first end pivotally connected to the first end of the lever (56) and an opposite second end; and at least one second coupling (74) comprising a first end pivotally connected to the second end of the lever (56) and an opposite second end; wherein a first load plate (54) of the plurality of load plates (54) is pivotally connected to the second end of the first coupling (73); and wherein a second load plate (54) of the plurality of load plates (54) is pivotally connected to the second end of the second coupling (74).
    [0007]
    7. Apparatus (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the load leveling mechanism (160) of each load balancing set (16) of the pair of load balancing sets (16a, 16b) ) comprises: at least one first coupling (73) comprising a first end and an opposite second end, the first end of the first coupling (73) being pivotally connected to the first end of the first lever (72); at least one second coupling (74) comprising a first end and an opposite second end, the first end of the second coupling (74) being pivotally connected to the second end of the first lever (72); at least one second lever (75) comprising a first end and a second end, the second lever (75) being pivotally connected to the second end of the first coupling (73) between the first end of the second lever (75) and the second end of the second lever (75); at least one third lever (76) comprising a first end and a second end, the third lever (76) being pivotally connected to the second coupling (74) between the first end of the third lever (76) and the second end of the third lever ( 76); at least one third coupling (77) comprising a first end and an opposite second end, the first end of the third coupling (77) being pivotally connected to the first end of the second lever (75); at least a fourth coupling (78) comprising a first end and an opposite second end, the first end of the fourth coupling (78) being pivotally connected to the second end of the second lever (75); at least a fifth coupling (79) comprising a first end and an opposite second end, the first end of the fifth coupling (79) being pivotally connected to the first end of the third lever (76); at least one sixth coupling (81) comprising a first end and an opposite second end, the first end of the sixth coupling (81) being pivotally connected to the second end of the third lever (76); wherein a first load plate (54) of the plurality of load plates (54) is pivotally connected to the second end of the second coupling (77); wherein a second load plate (54) of the plurality of load plates (54) is pivotally connected to the second end of the fourth coupling (78); wherein a third load plate (54) of the plurality of load plates (54) is pivotally connected to the second end of the second coupling (79); and wherein a fourth load plate (54) of the plurality of load plates (54) is pivotally connected to the second end of the sixth coupling (81).
    [0008]
    8. Apparatus (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the friction support (104) comprises: an opening (64) defined at the second end of each load plate (54); and at least one handle insert (66) adjustably connected to the load plate (54) within the opening (64), the handle insert (66) being configured to frictionally engage a substantially flat surface of the body. proof (11).
    [0009]
    9. Apparatus (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that the friction support (104) comprises an adjustment mechanism configured to position the at least one handle insertion element (66) within the opening ( 64).
    [0010]
    10. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the friction support (104) comprises a connector configured to interconnect the at least one handle insert (66) and the load plate (54), the connector being configured to allow movement of the at least one handle insert (66) with respect to the load plate (54).
    [0011]
    11. Method (200) for load testing a specimen (11), the method (200) characterized by comprising: providing a test specimen (11); providing a pair of load balancing sets (16a, 16b), each load balancing set (16) comprises: a load leveling mechanism (160) comprising: an arm (52); and at least one lever (56) comprising a pair of ends, the lever (56) being pivotally connected to the arm (52) between the pair of ends; and a plurality of separate load plates (54), each load plate (54) of the plurality of load plates (54) comprising a first end and a second end, the second end comprising a friction support (104), wherein the first end of each load plate (54) is pivotally connected to one end of the at least one lever (56); connecting the specimen (11) between the pair of load balancing sets (16a, 16b); and applying a load to the specimen (11).
    [0012]
    12. Method (200), according to claim 11, characterized in that the load is a tensile load.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    CN104215503A|2014-12-17|
    CA2847859C|2016-11-29|
    BR102014013048A2|2015-11-17|
    CA2847859A1|2014-12-03|
    JP6374220B2|2018-08-15|
    EP2811282B1|2021-05-05|
    US20140352451A1|2014-12-04|
    US9063035B2|2015-06-23|
    EP2811282A1|2014-12-10|
    CN104215503B|2018-02-06|
    JP2014235164A|2014-12-15|
    引用文献:
    公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题
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    法律状态:
    2015-11-17| B03A| Publication of a patent application or of a certificate of addition of invention [chapter 3.1 patent gazette]|
    2018-11-06| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2019-11-05| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-04-07| B06A| Patent application procedure suspended [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|
    2020-10-27| B06A| Patent application procedure suspended [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-03-30| B06A| Patent application procedure suspended [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-08-10| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-08-31| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 29/05/2014, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US13/908,606|US9063035B2|2013-06-03|2013-06-03|Apparatus and method for load testing a coupon|
    US13/908,606|2013-06-03|
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