IE20120470A1

IE20120470A1 - Plank testing apparatus

Info

Publication number: IE20120470A1
Application number: IE20120470A
Authority: IE
Inventors: Paul Mccann
Original assignee: Paul Mccann
Priority date: 2011-10-28
Filing date: 2012-10-25
Publication date: 2013-06-05
Also published as: GB201118685D0; GB2496053A; GB201219303D0

Abstract

An apparatus for testing planks comprising a test platform, a testing head, a printer and a controller. The controller causes the testing head to perform a bend test on a plank, and causes the printer to selectably print data on said plank depending on the results of the test. The data may include any suitable information, for example a pass or fail indication, a name, identification of a standard, a date and/or a time.

Description

The present invention relates to apparatus for testing planks, especially scaffold boards.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION The physical characteristics of planks, especially scaffold boards, tend to deteriorate with 10 use and exposure to harsh environments. In the construction industry, a significant proportion of on-site accidents reported in 2010 involved damaged or deteriorated scaffold planks. Many contractors rely on visual tests, but the effects of rot, chemicals and physical damage often cannot be accurately determined from a visual inspection. As a result, planks are often used after they are no longer serviceable.

It would be desirable therefore to provide an apparatus for testing planks, especially scaffold boards.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, the invention provides an apparatus, advantageously a mobile apparatus, e.g. wheeled, or at least portable, for testing planks, the apparatus comprising a test platform configured to receive a plank to be tested; a testing head that is operable on said plank when received by the test platform; a printer configured to print data on said plank; and control means configured to cause said testing head to perform at least one test on said plank, and to cause said printer to selectably print data on said plank depending on the results of said at least one test.

In preferred embodiments, said printer comprises an ink-jet printer.

Preferably, said testing head is operable to engage with said plank in order to perform said at least one test. For example, the testing head may be movably coupled to a frame that spans said test platform, the apparatus further including means for actuating said testing head with respect to said frame into and out of a testing position. In the preferred embodiment, the test IE1 2 0 4 70 -2platform includes means for supporting said plank at first and second spaced apart locations, said testing head being arranged to engage with said plank at a third location intermediate (preferably substantially mid-way) said first and second locations. The arrangement is such that application of force by said testing head at said third location causes said plank to bend between the first and second locations. This may be referred to as a three point test.

Typically, the testing head includes and/or is co-operable with one or more sensors that are configured to allow measurement of one or more physical parameters of the plank. For example, the testing head may include or be co-operable with a force sensor.

In at least one mode of operation, said testing head is operable to apply one or more predetermined forces to said plank. In at least one mode of operation said apparatus is arranged to measure the deflection of said plank in response to the application of force, preferably one or more predetermined levels of force, by said testing head. In an alternative mode of operation, said apparatus is arranged to cause said plank to deflect by one or more predetermined amounts and to measure the respective force exerted on the head by the plank at the, or each, deflection.

Preferably, said apparatus includes a feed conveyor configured to guide said plank to said test platform. Preferably, said apparatus includes an output conveyor configured to guide said plank from said test platform. Advantageously, the or each conveyor is foldable with respect to a body of the apparatus between a use position and a transport position, the apparatus preferably including means for locking the or each conveyor in the use and/or transport positions.

In preferred embodiments, the apparatus includes wheels, preferably lockable wheels, to facilitate ground transport of the apparatus.

Preferably, the apparatus includes at least one height adjustable foot, preferably a plurality of feet, independently adjustable, e.g. extendible, to allow the height of the test platform to be adjusted and/or to allow the test platform to be levelled.

Said control means preferably comprises a programmable or suitably programmed processor, e.g. a microprocessor. The processor is advantageously configured to control the IE 1 2 Ο 4 70 operation of the testing head and printer. It may also be configured to process signals from one or more sensors located on the testing head or elsewhere on the apparatus in order to determine if said at least one test is passed or failed. Advantageously, the processor is cooperable with a visual display unit by which test results may be displayed. Alternatively or in addition said visual display unit may provide a user with means for configuring said apparatus, e.g. via a touch screen and/or other user input device (e.g. a keyboard and/or mouse).

In preferred embodiments, the apparatus is arranged to print data onto said plank when said at least one test is passed. Said data may include any suitable information, e.g. one or more of a pass (and/or fail) indication, a name, identification of a standard (e.g. a British Standard such as BS 2482:2009) a date and/or a time. Typically, the apparatus is configured not to print on said plank if said at least one test is failed. Optionally, however, the apparatus is arranged to print alternative data onto said plank when said at least one test is passed.

Advantageously, the controller controls the speed at which planks are conveyed past the printer such that legible printing is achievable, i.e. the controller matches the speed of conveyance of the planks to the operational speed of the printer.

Further advantageous aspects of the invention would be apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art on review of the following description of a preferred embodiment and with reference to accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS An embodiment of the invention is now described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a side view of a plank testing apparatus embodying the invention; and Figure 2 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1.

IE1 2 0 4 70 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Referring now to the drawings, there is shown generally indicated as 10, a plank testing apparatus embodying the invention. The apparatus is particularly intended for testing scaffold boards (not shown), especially timber boards although the apparatus is not limited to use with such.

The apparatus 10 comprises a body 12 including a gantry 14 that spans at test platform 16. The test platform 16 comprises first and second plank supports 18, 20, one on either side of the gantry 14. The arrangement is such that a plank may rest on the plank supports 18, 20 extending beneath the gantry 14. The plank supports 18,20 are raised with respect to a base surface 22 of the test platform 16 to allow deflection of the plank as is described in more detail below, i.e. the plank is suspended between the supports 18, 20 to allow it to be deflected intermediate the supports. In the preferred embodiment, the base surface 22 is provided by a beam 24 which extends beneath the gantry 14 along a longitudinal axis of the apparatus 10. The beam 24 is typically substantially perpendicular to the gantry 14, The plank supports 18, 20 are preferably elongate, extending substantially parallel with the gantry 14. Typically, the plank supports 18, 20, each comprises a roller.

The gantry 14 carries a moveable testing head 26. The testing head 26 is moveable along the supports 14A of the gantry 14 into and out of a testing position (not illustrated) in which it engages, in use, with a plank under test. To this end, the gantry 14 includes means for actuating (as indicated by arrow C) the testing head 26 into and out of its testing position. The actuating means may comprise any conventional actuating mechanism, for example a motor operated chain and pulling assembly (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the testing head 26 is carried by a carriage 28, the carriage being coupled to the supports 14A of the gantry 14 and being moveable (vertically in this illustration) by the actuating means.

The testing head 26 includes at least one sensor (not shown), for example one or more force sensors, load cells and/or strain gauges. The, or each, sensor may be configured to measure the amount of force being applied to the plank by the head 26 and/or the amount of force applied to the head 26 by the plank. On or more optical sensors (not shown) may be provided, arranged to measure deflection of the plank during a test. The optical sensor(s) may be provided on the testing head 26, the supports 14A and/or the test platform 16, or any IE1 2 0 4 70 other location on the apparatus that allows measurement of plank deflection between supports 18,20. In the preferred embodiment the testing head 26 includes a roller 30 for engaging with the plank during use. The roller 30 advantageously extends substantially parallel with the plank supports 18,20.

The plank supports 18, 20 and testing head 26 together provide a three point flexural strength test fixture. For example, the span between supports 18, 20 may be approximately 900mm. The rollers may be approximately 50mm in diameter. It will be understood that the dimensions of the test platform, including the spacing between supports 18, 20, can be selected to suit the dimensions of the planks being tested. To this end, the supports 18, 20 may be adjustable, e.g. movable with respect to the longitudinal axis, to allow adjustment of their spacing.

The apparatus 10 includes a control apparatus (not shown), which typically includes a suitably programmed processor, for example a microprocessor, a micro controller and/or PLC. The controller is arranged to, amongst other things, control movement of the testing head 26 into and out of its testing position. In addition the controller, in conjunction with the actuator, is arranged to control, in at least one mode of use, the amount of force that is applied to a plank, during use, by the testing head 26 when in the testing position. The controller may also receive signals from the or each sensor incorporated into the testing head 26 during testing. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller is included in a housing 32 which, conveniently, may also house a motor for operating the actuator and may also house one or more other components of the actuator as is convenient. The housing may also house all or part of drive means for one or more of the conveyors described hereinafter. The apparatus 10 preferably includes a power source, for example, a battery and/or electrical generator (not shown), any of which may conveniently be located in the housing 32.

The. controller preferably also is configured to process signals received from the or each sensor in the testing head 26, and any other sensor that maybe incorporated into the apparatus 10, in order to determine whether or not a plank passes or fails a test. The controller may be programmed to or be programmable to perform different tests and/or to interpret signals from the sensor(s) in accordance with one or more test procedures. In one mode of operation, the head 26 applies a known force (load) to the plank, typically for a specified duration e.g. 3 seconds, and measures the amount by which the plank is deflected IE 1 2 0 4 7 0 by the applied force. The plank may be deemed to pass if, for example, it is deflected by less than a threshold amount. In an alternative mode of operation, the head 26 applies force (load) to the plank until a pre-determined deflection ofthe plank is achieved, whereupon the head 26 measures the force exerted by the plank on the head (or vice versa). The plank may be deemed to pass if, for example, the force is greater than a threshold amount. The apparatus 10 maybe configured to perform the, or each, test at a single location or multiple locations spaced apart along the length of the plank (for example as the plank is fed through the apparatus 10 by the conveyors (if automated) or manually).

Preferably, the apparatus 10 includes a visual display unit (VDU) 34, the controller being configures to display test results on the VDU 34. The data produced by the sensor(s) during each test is recorded by the controller using any suitable data recording means. The controller may be operable to display the data on the VDU, and/or may be configured to analyse the data in which case an analysis of the data (e.g. an indication of pass or fail) may be displayable on the VDU, In preferred embodiments, the controller in conjunction with the VDU is configured to provide a user interface, optionally together with a keyboard and/or by a touch screen, to enable a user to control the operation of the apparatus, including configuring test procedures, and to view test results (in real time or historically).

In preferred embodiments, the controller is configurable to adapt the or each test (e.g. in terms of force applied, duration of force, pre-determined deflection and/or number of tests applied per plank as applicable) and/or its analysis of the data produced by the sensor(s) depending on the physical characteristics of the plank under test (e.g. length and/or thickness). In typical embodiments, the apparatus is configured to implement one or more tests to determine if the plank conforms to British Standard BS 2482:2009.

In preferred embodiments, the apparatus 10 further includes a feed conveyor 36 and an output conveyor 38, a respective one being located on either side of the gantry. The feed conveyor 36 is arranged to guide planks towards the test platform 16 (in the direction indicated by arrow A) while the output conveyor 38 is arranged to guide planks away from the test platform 16 (in the direction indicated by arrow B). The conveyors 36,38 may take any suitable form, for example, belt type conveyors or roller type conveyors. The conveyors may be driven or may be manually operable. In the preferred embodiment at least the feed conveyor 36 is configured to act as a gravity fed conveyor. The conveyor 38 is preferably automated, or motorised, in which case the apparatus 10 further includes suitable drive IE 1 2 0 4 70 --7 means which may conveniently be controlled by the controller. Conveniently, the conveyors 36, 38 extend substantially along or substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the apparatus 10. Each conveyor 36, 38 may be supported by one or more supports 40, 42 preferably extending between the body 12 and the respective conveyor 36, 38.

In preferred embodiments the apparatus is mobile, or at least portable. To this end the body 12 is preferably provided with wheels 44 of any suitable type (including rollers, castors or the like). Preferably, the wheels are lockable to prevent movement ofthe apparatus 10 during use. It is further preferred that the body includes adjustable feet 45, the feet being adjustable to allow the apparatus 10 to be levelled during use, and/or to enable the wheels to be lifted off the ground or otherwise rendering the apparatus immobile.

To facilitate transportation (and storage) of the apparatus, the conveyors 36, 38 may be removably mounted to the body, e.g. to the test platform 16. Preferably however the conveyors 36, 38 are pivotably coupled to the body 12 and are moveable between a use state (as illustrated) and a transport state (not illustrated) in which each conveyor 36 is folded about a respective transverse axis. In the illustrated example each conveyor 36, 38 is pivotably coupled to the test platform 16 at a respective end 46, 48 and is pivotable upwards (as viewed in Figure 1), preferably to the extent that it can rest against the gantry 14 in the transport state. To allow this, the respective supports 40, 42 are detachable from the respective conveyors 36, 38 and are preferably foldable (e.g. by a pivotable coupling at their other end) against the body 12 for transport or storage.

In preferred embodiments, the apparatus 10 includes a printing apparatus 50 positioned and arranged to print data onto a plank during or after testing. Conveniently, the printer 50 is positioned and arranged to print data onto a plank located on the test platform, i.e. when supported by plank supports 18, 20. In the illustrated embodiment this may be achieved by coupling the printer 50 to one or other of the conveyors 36, 38. Typically the printer 50 has a printing head 52 that may be suitably positioned, e.g. adjacent one or other of the conveyors 36, 38. In the present example where it is assumed that a plank under test rests on one of its major faces, the printing head 52 is preferably positioned to print data onto an edge face of the plank.

IE 1 2 0 4 70 The printing apparatus preferably comprises an Ink-jet printer. The printer 50 in the illustrated embodiment includes an Ink-jet printing head 52 connected to an ink reservoir 54 by a suitable conduit. The printer 50 may be controlled by the control apparatus in a conventional manner. In the illustrated embodiment the printer 50 includes an interface unit 56 for communicating with the control apparatus and for the supply of electrical power. By way of example, the EBS-230 (Trade Mark) Inkjet printer may be used as printer 50.

In preferred embodiments the printer is configured to exhibit one or more of the following features: to receive interchangeable multi nozzle print head; capable of use with multiple coloured and/or surface specific inks; configurable to print varying data such as date, end of guarantee period (service life, period of storage etc) of a labelled object, time, numbering in ascending or descending order, (counters); configurable such that the text to be printed and the printing perimeters can be adjusted by a controller; co-operable with a photo detector for recognising labelled objects; co-operable with a speed indicator (e.g. a rotation and pulse convertor) for printing on objects that are moving, optionally at variable speeds.

In use, an operator (not shown) feeds planks in to the apparatus in the direction indicated by arrow A via the conveyor 36. The conveyor conveys the plank to the test platform 16 whereupon the controller activates the testing head 26 to adopt the testing position and to implement one or more tests. Advantageously, the results of the or each test can be displayed on the VDU 34. Should the plank pass the test, then the controller is configured to cause appropriate information to be printed onto the plank. This may include a pass indication and/or a date stamp and/or any other relevant information. In preferred embodiments, should the plank fail the or each test, or fail at least one of the tests, then nothing is printed on the plank, or alternatively any alternative appropriate information is printed onto the plank. The control apparatus preferably records test data for all tested planks irrespective of whether they pass or fail and irrespective of whether or not data is printed onto the plank. Advantageously, the controller controls the speed at which planks are conveyed past the printer such that legible printing is achievable, i.e. the controller matches the speed of conveyance of the planks to the operational speed of the printer. This is conveniently achieved by controlling the speed of output conveyor 38.

While embodiments of the invention are particularly suited for testing and printing on timber planks it will be understood that apparatus embodying the invention maybe used with IE 1 2 Ο 4 7 0 -g planks, or other items formed from different materials e.g. paper, cardboard, plastics, fabric, leather, ceramics and/or metal.

The invention while limited to the embodiments described herein which may be modified or 5 varied without departing from the scope ofthe invention.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An apparatus for testing planks, the apparatus comprising a test platform configured to receive a plank to be tested; a testing head that is operable on said plank when received by 5 the test platform; a printer configured to print data on said plank; and control means configured to cause said testing head to perform at least one test on said plank, and to cause said printer to selectably print data on said plank depending on the results of said at least one test. 10

2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said printer comprises an ink-jet printer.

3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said testing head is operable to engage with said plank in order to perform said at least one test. 15

4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein the testing head is movably coupled to a frame that spans said test platform, the apparatus further including means for actuating said testing head with respect to said frame into and out of a testing position.

5. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the test platform includes 20 means for supporting said plank at first and second spaced apart locations, said testing head being arranged to engage with said plank at a third location intermediate, preferably substantially mid-way, said first and second locations.

6. An apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein said supporting means is configured such 25 that, in use, application of force by said testing head at said third location causes said plank to bend between the first and second locations.

7. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the testing head includes and/or is co-operable with one or more sensors that are configured to allow measurement of one or 30 more physical parameters of the plank.

8. An apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein the testing head includes or is co-operable with a force sensor. IE1 2 0 4 70

9. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein, in at least one mode of operation, said testing head is operable to apply one or more pre-determined forces to said plank. 5

10. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein, in at least one mode of operation said apparatus is arranged to measure the deflection of said plank in response to the application of force, preferably one or more predetermined levels of force, by said testing head.

11. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein, in at least one mode of operation, said apparatus is arranged to cause said plank to deflect by one or more predetermined amounts and to measure the respective force exerted on the head by the plank at the, or each, deflection. 15

12. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said apparatus includes a feed conveyor configured to guide said plank to said test platform.

13. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said apparatus includes an output conveyor configured to guide said plank from said test platform.

14. An apparatus as claimed in claim 12 or 13, wherein the or each conveyor is foldable with respect to a body of the apparatus between a use position and a transport position, the apparatus preferably including means for locking the or each conveyor in the use and/or transport positions.

15. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus is mobile, or is portable.

16. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus includes wheels, preferably lockable wheels, to facilitate ground transport of the apparatus.

17. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus includes at least one height adjustable foot, preferably a plurality of feet, independently adjustable, for example extendible, to allow the height of the test platform to be adjusted and/or to allow the test platform to be levelled. IE 1 2 Ο 4 7 Ο

18. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said control means comprises a suitably programmed processor configured to control the operation of the testing head and printer and to process signals from one or more sensors located on the testing head or 5 elsewhere on the apparatus in order to determine if said at least one test is passed or failed.

19. An apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein the processor is co-operable with a visual display unit by which test results may be displayed. 10

20. An apparatus as claimed in claim 18 or 19, wherein said visual display is configured to provide a user with means for configuring said apparatus, e.g. via a touch screen and/or other user input device (e.g. a keyboard and/or mouse).

21. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is arranged to 15 print data onto said plank when said at least one test is passed.

22. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is configured not to print on said plank if said at least one test is failed.

23. 23. An apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to control the speed at which planks are conveyed past the printer such that legible printing is achievable, preferably by matching the speed of conveyance of the planks to the operational speed of the printer,

24. 25 24. A method for testing planks using an apparatus comprising a test platform configured to receive a plank to be tested; a testing head that is operable on said plank when received by the test platform; and a printer configured to print data on said plank, the method comprising causing said testing head to perform at least one test on said plank, and causing said printer to selectably print data on said plank depending on the results of said at least one test.

25. An apparatus for testing planks substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.