JP2004028687A - Device for taking out sample cassette automatically - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To take out surely and smoothly stacked dumbbell samples or sample cassettes from the lower part of a magazine with simple and inexpensive construction, and automate transfer of the dumbbell samples or the sample cassettes to a testing device and all operations of material testing. <P>SOLUTION: In a device 7 for taking out the sample cassettes automatically of this invention, a plurality of the sample cassettes 11 containing samples for the material testing and respectively provided with two sets of notches 11B on the both sides, are contained in the magazine 8. When the magazine 8 is installed in a magazine stand 7A, the sample cassettes 11 are supported on four supporting bars 12a of a moving frame 12 by a mechanical automatic opening mechanism 9, and positions of the supporting bars 12a of the moving frame 12 are aligned with the notches 11B of the sample cassettes by sliding a cassette extrusion bar 13 by driving control of an actuator 15 for moving, and the lowermost sample cassette 11a in the magazine is dropped by self-weight to a transfer surface 7b of a housing 7B and is extruded, transferred every one sample cassette by an engagement part 13A. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a test apparatus for performing a material test, and particularly to a test apparatus for the purpose of a tensile test of a test sample such as a film or a thin rubber, for each sample cassette that automatically and simply stores a test sample by a simple and easy operation. The present invention relates to an automatic sample cassette take-out device which can be supplied to a sample cassette and can save labor and labor in a test operation.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, when performing a material test, the material test is performed using a test device corresponding to the test content.For such material test automation, the material test is performed fully automatically, particularly in a line such as quality control. A number of fully automatic test equipment have been introduced, and each has achieved results.
[0003]
This type of fully automatic tester has been developed to process a large number of specimens of the same type, so its components are complex and expensive, and low cost is desired. Is not desirable for automatic material testing.
[0004]
On the other hand, as the development of new materials becomes active, it is expected that the necessity of tests in units of several units will increase more and more, and accordingly, automated testing of these relatively small numbers of different test samples will be simplified. It is desired that the operation can be performed with a simple operation and at low cost.
[0005]
For example, in a test device for the purpose of a tensile test of a test sample such as a film or a thin rubber, it is conventionally difficult to perform a tensile test by automation, and an inspection worker performs a test operation for each test device to be tested. At present, the test operation is complicated.
[0006]
Therefore, in order to satisfy such a demand for an automated test of test samples, sample cassettes corresponding to the respective test sample shapes are prepared, the test samples are stored in the sample cassettes, and transported to the above-described test apparatus. Therefore, there is a demand for a sample cassette take-out apparatus which can transport various kinds of small amounts of test samples and automate various test processes.
By the way, in consideration of the automated test method, generally, the simplest method is to automatically supply a test sample to a testing machine by arranging the sample in a plane on a conveyor and sending the sample continuously. However, it is actually undesirable because it requires a relatively large space in terms of structure. For this reason, a method of providing a magazine capable of storing a plurality of samples in the vertical direction, stacking the samples in the magazine and taking out the samples one by one is the most general and effective method in terms of utilizing a three-dimensional space.
[0007]
As described above, there are two types of methods for taking out the samples stacked in the magazine from the magazine, a method of taking out the sample from the upper part and a method of taking out the sample from the lower part. It is shown at 18.
[0008]
FIGS. 17 and 18 are explanatory views for explaining a removing method by a conventional sample removing apparatus using the above-mentioned magazine. FIG. 17 shows an apparatus for taking out a sample itself from the upper part of the magazine, and FIG. Shows a device for taking out a sample from the lower part of FIG.
[0009]
As shown in FIG. 17, a device for taking out a sample from the upper part of the magazine includes a transport device 50 for performing a tensile test and a transport device for transporting a sample 55 to a chuck unit for performing a tensile test (not shown). A mechanism (moving guide section 51, supporting section 52A, moving head 53), a magazine 54 capable of storing a plurality of samples 55 in a vertically stacked manner, a magazine table 61 on which the magazine 54 is installed, and a magazine table 61 And a main body fixed to the back surface of the magazine base 61 and a contact portion 62 that is in contact with the bottom surface of the sample 55 disposed at the lowermost end of the magazine 54 and the supporting portion 61A connected to the contact portion 62. 60A, and the supporting portion 61A includes an elevating mechanism portion 60 slidably driven in the vertical direction in the main body portion 60A.
[0010]
In the apparatus having the above-described configuration, when a tensile test is performed, the support unit 61A is raised by a drive mechanism (not shown) in the main body 60A of the lift mechanism 60 by controlling the drive of the lift mechanism 60 by a control unit (not shown). When the sample 55 is driven, the contact portion 62 disposed on the tip side pushes up the bottom surface of the sample 55 with which the sample 55 is in contact, thereby pushing up all the samples 55 stored in the magazine. As a result, the opening of the magazine 54 One sample 55 can be mounted on the moving head 53 arranged near the unit. In this manner, while being attached to the moving head 53, the sheet is transported to the chuck unit (not shown) by the transport mechanism, and is held by the chuck unit, and then a tensile test is performed.
[0011]
In addition, as shown in FIG. 18, a device for taking out a sample from the lower portion of a magazine is provided with a plurality of samples 55a to 55d... Vertically on an upper surface 70A of a sample taking out device 70 arranged near a test device (not shown). The magazines 54 stored so as to be stacked in the directions are arranged.
[0012]
The sample extracting device 70 includes a magazine table 70A on which the magazine 54 is installed, a movement actuator 64 and a support member 65 installed on the back side of the magazine table 70A, and an upper surface of the magazine table 70A attached to the support member 65. And an extrusion bar 63 slidable in the horizontal direction.
[0013]
The movement actuator 64 is mounted so as to be movable in the horizontal direction in the figure by drive control by a control unit (not shown), and when driven, pushes the extrusion bar 63 through the support member 56 connected to the end of the magazine table. The slide drive is performed on the upper surface of 70A. The extrusion bar 63 is formed in an L shape, and is provided at a front end of a surface that slides while contacting a surface of the magazine base 70A with a fixing portion 63B fixed to the front end of the support member 65, It is provided with a contact portion 63A for contacting and pushing out the end of the sample 55. At the lower end of the magazine 54 on the sample discharge side, a discharge port for discharging the sample 55 is provided between the magazine 54 and the magazine table 70A.
[0014]
In the apparatus having the above-described configuration, when performing the transport operation, the control unit (not shown) drives and controls the movement actuator 64, so that the movement actuator 64 is driven to move leftward in the drawing and moves in conjunction therewith. The extrusion bar 63 also slides in the same direction, thereby extruding the end of the sample 55a disposed at the lowermost portion in contact with the contact portion 63a of the extrusion bar 63 while sliding the upper surface of the magazine base 70A, As a result, one sample 55a can be taken out of the magazine 54 from the outlet. Thus, the tensile test is executed by setting the sample taken out by the moving head of the test device (not shown) in the test device.
[0015]
When taking out the next sample 55b, the cassette pushing bar 63 is driven and controlled so as to move the moving actuator 64 in the reverse direction, so that the cassette pushing bar 63 and the bottom of the second sample 55b to be taken out as shown in the figure. The contact bar 63A slides in the same direction as the moving actuator 64 while making contact, and when the pushing bar 63 reaches the initial position, the contact portion 63A comes off the bottom surface of the sample 55b. As a result, the sample 55b loses its own weight (all weights). Due to the weight of the sample), it falls on the magazine base 70A and is set. Thereafter, the taking is sequentially performed in the same manner as in the case of the taking operation of the sample 55a arranged at the lowermost position.
[0016]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the above-described conventional sample taking apparatus has problems as described below. That is, in a device in which the sample cassette is taken out from the upper part of the magazine, the elevating mechanism 60 must be provided inside the magazine stand as shown in FIG. However, there is a problem that the cost of the entire system becomes high.
[0017]
Further, in the apparatus in which the sample is taken out from the lower portion of the magazine, the lowermost sample 55a falls on the surface of the magazine table 70A by its own weight while receiving the total weight of the stacked samples, and the lowermost sample is removed. Although the sample is taken out with a simple structure such as pushing out with the push bar 63, in such a structure, the center of gravity of the sample remaining at the upper part and the support point of the push bar for the upper sample are far apart. When the sample is in the position, the sample falls with a predetermined angle θ as shown in FIG. 18, so that the drop operation becomes unstable, and the sample is taken out smoothly. Cannot be performed, and there is a practical problem.
[0018]
Furthermore, the above-described conventional method is based on the assumption that the test sample has high strength. For example, when testing a test sample having low strength such as thin rubber, the test sample is stored in a sample cassette. However, even when such a sample cassette is used, the sample cassette cannot be reliably and smoothly taken out of the magazine, so that the transport to the test apparatus and all the material test operations are fully automated. At present it has not been attempted.
[0019]
Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and a dumbbell sample or a sample cassette stacked from a lower portion of a magazine can be reliably and smoothly taken out from a lower portion of a magazine with a simple and inexpensive configuration. It is an object of the present invention to provide an automatic sample cassette unloading apparatus capable of automating all the transport to a test apparatus and the material test operation.
[0020]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The automatic sample cassette removing device according to the first aspect of the present invention is a container for transporting a material test sample, the sample cassette having two sets of cutouts on both side surfaces, and the plurality of sample cassettes. A sample cassette capable of being stacked vertically and accommodated therein, and a magazine capable of discharging the sample cassette from the bottom, a magazine mounted thereon and installed, and a magazine base having an opening at the bottom, and the magazine base installed. A housing having a transport surface for sliding the sample cassette dropped from the opening of the magazine base, and a sample cassette disposed on the transport surface of the housing that is slidable in the magazine base. A cassette pushing bar, and driving means provided in the housing and for driving the cassette pushing bar. The cassette table is slidably provided by being biased in the sample cassette transport direction inside the magazine table, and the cassette pushing bar is slidable inside, and supports the weight of the sample cassette housed in the magazine. A moving frame having two sets of support rods provided in accordance with the notch of the sample cassette, and a notch of the sample cassette and supporting of the moving frame each time the cassette push-out bar is reciprocated once in the magazine table. By matching the position with the rod, the lowermost sample cassette in the magazine is dropped by its own weight on the transport surface of the housing, and is taken out of the magazine one by one onto the transport surface from the magazine, and the testing machine is transported by the transport arm. Control means for controlling the driving means so as to continuously supply the material test sample to the gripper. The one in which the features.
[0021]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided the automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the magazine has an opening provided on a bottom surface of the magazine and capable of discharging a stored sample cassette, and a vicinity of the opening. And an opening stopper capable of restricting the discharge of the stored sample cassette provided in the magazine table.When the magazine is installed, the magazine table is released and the sample cassette is released from the opening of the magazine by releasing the opening stopper of the magazine. It has a supporting member which is dropped and supported by the supporting rod of the moving frame.
[0022]
According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the cassette pushing bar has a claw-shaped tip at an end thereof, and an upper end formed by the tip. By sliding while pushing up the sample cassette, the leading end engages a horizontal bar provided on the rear end side of the moving frame to slide the moving frame in a direction opposite to the biasing direction, The position of the support bar and the position of the notch are matched with each other. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to the third aspect, a height of a tip portion of the cassette pushing bar is higher than a height of a support rod of the moving frame. It is a feature configured to be higher.
[0023]
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the sample cassette includes a receiving groove for fixing a storing position of the material test sample, A guide for guiding the housing direction is provided, wherein a guide portion provided inside the position side surface of the magazine and a notch to be fitted are provided.
[0024]
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to the first aspect, the automatic sample cassette removing apparatus is engaged with stoppers provided on the cassette pushing bar, the moving frame, and the magazine table. The thickness of the sample cassette can be changed in accordance with the thickness of the material test sample by making the movable frame stopper that regulates the sliding of the movable frame replaceable.
[0025]
An automatic sample cassette removing device according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the automatic sample cassette removing device according to the first aspect, wherein the sample cassette is provided with a plurality of through holes in an accommodation groove for accommodating a material test sample. In the case where a test system is configured by providing a measuring device for measuring the thickness and width dimensions of the material test sample using the through holes, the transport surface of the housing is arranged at a sample cassette length interval. The first to third areas are configured to be allocated, the magazine table is installed in the first area, the measuring device is installed in the second area, and the third area is A transfer area for transferring to a tensile tester, and further, at least one dummy sample cassette not containing a material test sample is accommodated at the top of the magazine. It is characterized in.
[0026]
According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, the sample cassette is transported to a transport surface of the housing. In addition to providing a guide means for guiding, near the end of the casing guided by the guide means, the judgment sample piece is placed again on the empty sample cassette on which the material test sample is adsorbed by the transfer arm and collected, and the cassette push bar is moved. It is characterized in that a broken sample and a sample cassette accommodating box which are sequentially dropped and accommodated by an extruding operation are provided.
[0027]
The automatic sample cassette removal device according to the ninth aspect of the present invention is the automatic sample cassette removal device according to the first aspect, wherein the material test sample is made of a rigid material, and is wide at both end sides through a central portion. It is configured in a narrow dumbbell shape, and by changing the position of the support bar of the moving frame according to the dumbbell shape, the lowermost material test sample in the magazine without using the sample cassette Can be taken out of the magazine one by one onto the transfer surface by dropping its own weight onto the transfer surface of the housing, and the broken dumbbell-shaped sample can be collected in the collection box.
[0028]
An automatic sample cassette removing device according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is the automatic sample cassette removing device according to the first aspect, wherein the magazine base is provided with the support bar instead of the support bar of the moving frame, and By attaching a cassette push-out rod to a horizontal bar provided on the sample cassette discharge direction end side of the frame, when the moving frame is moved, the cassette push-out rod abuts and moves on the side surface of the lowermost sample cassette, By matching the position of the support rod with the notch of the sample cassette, the lowermost sample cassette is dropped by its own weight onto the transport surface of the housing.
[0029]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of an automatic sample cassette unloading apparatus according to the present invention, and illustrates a system configuration of a test apparatus equipped with the apparatus. FIG. 1 (a) is a top view of the test apparatus, and FIG. FIG. 1B is a side view of the test apparatus.
[0030]
As shown in FIGS. 1 (a) and 1 (b), a test apparatus employing the automatic sample cassette unloading apparatus 7 of the present invention comprises a test machine main body 1A, a test stand 1B, a moving crosshead 2, a load cell 3, and an upper part. , A lower automatic gripping chuck section 4A, 4B, a sample head transfer arm section 5, a rotary actuator 6A, 6B, an automatic sample cassette removing device 7, a magazine base 7A, a magazine 8, a mechanical opening mechanism section 9, and the like. ing.
[0031]
Although not shown, a personal computer that controls various operations of the test apparatus and performs data processing and display processing of the test data obtained by the test apparatus, and further operates the test data and the operation state of the test apparatus. And a printer that prints out the obtained detection data and the like.
[0032]
The test stand 1B is provided with the tester main body 1A including the above components and an automatic sample cassette removing device 7. The tester main body 1A is a frame member which is disposed to stand upright on the test table 1B, and a movable crosshead 2 is disposed at an upper portion thereof. An end of a screw rod having a male screw part to be fitted with a female screw provided with the moving crosshead 2 is fixed to the tester main body, and the screw rod end is rotated so as to be perpendicular to the tester table 1B. It is arranged so that it can move freely. That is, during the tensile test, the movable crosshead 2 is controlled to move vertically upward by a drive control unit (not shown), so that the tensile test of the material sample chucked (set) between the automatic gripping chuck units 4A and 4B is performed. Will be executed.
[0033]
In the vicinity of the center of the movable crosshead 2, a load cell 3 having an upper automatic gripping chuck 4A and a rotary actuator 6A disposed below is fixed. The load cell 3 detects a test load when a tensile test is performed, and transmits the detected load to a control unit (not shown).
[0034]
The upper automatic gripping chuck 4A disposed below the load cell 3 is connected to the lower automatic gripping chuck 4B fixed to the test table 1B by a test set in the sample cassette 11 (see FIG. 1A). This is the main part for performing a tensile test by automatically grasping both ends of the sample.
[0035]
Although not shown, the upper and lower automatic gripping chucks 4A and 4B are provided with removing means and rotary actuators 6A and 6B at predetermined positions for removing test sample pieces remaining on the gripping surfaces of the chucks. This removing means is capable of removing the sample remaining on the gripping surfaces of the chuck portions by being rotationally driven by a rotary actuator.
[0036]
In the present embodiment, the rotary actuators 6A and 6B are specifically configured using electric motors for collecting broken samples. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other than the electric motor for collecting broken samples. It is also possible to use a rotary drive unit that performs rotary drive by an air type, a hydraulic type, or the like.
[0037]
The test sample in the sample cassette 11 taken out by the automatic sample cassette take-out device 7 is conveyed to the side of the lower automatic gripping chuck 4B while being sucked, and the upper and lower automatic gripping chucks 4A and 4B are moved. A sample head transfer arm 5 for chucking (setting) is set in each of the gripping portions.
[0038]
The sample head transfer arm 5 is attached to the main body of the test table 1B so as to be capable of rotating and moving forward and backward. The tip of the sample head transfer arm 5 sucks the test sample. It is possible to freely move forward and backward between the positions of the gripping portions 4A and 4B. The drive of the sample head transfer arm 5 is also controlled by a control unit (not shown) that controls various drives of the automatic gripping chuck units 4A and 4B, the load cell 3, the movable crosshead 2, and the like.
[0039]
On the test table 1B on which the tester (tester main body 1A) having the above configuration is installed, one sample cassette is appropriately moved to the rotation position (sample transfer) of the sample head transfer arm 5 in order to enable the automation of the test. An automatic sample cassette unloading device 7 which can be automatically set up to the position (see FIG. 1 (a))) is provided.
[0040]
As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the automatic sample cassette unloading device 7 is arranged at a predetermined position on the test table 1B, and has an upper surface 7b on which the sample cassette 11 can slide. A housing 7B, a magazine base 7A installed on the upper surface of the housing 7B, and a magazine 8 installed on the magazine base 7A and capable of accommodating a plurality of sample cassettes 11 accommodating test samples in a vertically stacked manner. And a movement actuator 15 and a support member 17 installed on the back side of the magazine base 7A of the housing 7B, and a cassette extrusion mounted on the support member 17 and capable of sliding horizontally on the upper surface 7b of the housing 7B. The bar 13 and the sample cassettes mounted in the magazine stand 7A and accommodated in the magazine 8 have been improved so as to be surely dropped and taken out one by one. And a mechanical automatic opening mechanism 9, in which is mainly composed. The housing 7B constituting the automatic sample cassette unloading device 7 is installed on the test table 1B at an arrangement position as shown in FIG. A pair of guide plates 1c for guiding the transfer of the sample cassette 11 is disposed on the upper surface 7b of the housing 7B (see FIG. 2B).
[0041]
Further, a specific configuration of the automatic sample cassette removing device 7 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
[0042]
2 to 4 illustrate a specific configuration of the automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 shows the overall configuration of the apparatus, and FIG. FIG. 2B is a top view of the apparatus for explaining a sample cassette transfer position, FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus, and FIG. 3 is used in the apparatus of the present embodiment. FIG. 3A is a top view, and FIG. 3B is a side view. FIG. 4 is a perspective view for explaining a specific configuration of a magazine 8 from which a sample cassette can be taken out by a mechanical automatic opening mechanism. FIG. 5 is a main configuration part which is a feature of the present embodiment. 5 (a) is a perspective view showing the configuration of a cassette push-out bar, and FIG. 5 (b) shows main components such as a moving frame and a cassette push-out bar provided on a magazine base. FIG. 5C is a perspective view showing the configuration of the moving frame.
[0043]
As shown in FIG. 2C, a moving actuator 15 and a support member 17 are provided in the housing 7B of the automatic sample cassette removing device 7 in accordance with the arrangement position of the magazine table 7A.
[0044]
The movement actuator 15 has a support member 17 movably mounted in a horizontal direction in the drawing by drive control by a control unit (not shown). When the actuator is driven, the cassette is pushed out via the support member 17 connected to the end. The bar 13 is slid on the upper surface 7b of the housing 7B. In addition, the support member 17 is provided so as to be freely inserted into the inside of the movement actuator 15, and is adapted to move horizontally in conjunction with a drive mechanism (not shown).
[0045]
In addition, a right limit switch 16a and a left limit switch 16b for performing a sliding operation of the cassette pushing bar 13 are provided at lower portions on both sides of the moving actuator 15.
[0046]
For example, FIG. 2C shows a state in which the sample cassette 11 is ejected from the magazine 8 and is discharged. In this case, by turning on the left limit switch 16b of the actuator 15 for movement, the sample cassette 11 is supported inside the actuator 15 for movement. The distal end (not shown) of the member 17 is retracted so as to reach the left limit position in the moving actuator 15, and the cassette push-out bar 13 moves to the position where the sample cassette 11 is pushed out as shown in the drawing. You will slide. On the other hand, in the case of setting for taking out the next sample cassette 11 from this state, by turning on the left limit switch 16a of the moving actuator 15, the support member 17 pulled into the moving actuator 15 is turned on. The distal end (not shown) is pushed out to reach the right limit position in the moving actuator 15, and accordingly, the cassette push-out bar 13 slides to the set position of the sample cassette 11 as shown by a broken line in the figure. Will do. In this manner, the cassette pushing bar 13 is slid by the moving actuator 15.
[0047]
As shown in FIGS. 2C and 5A, the cassette push-out bar 13 is formed in an L-shape, and has a bent portion fixed to the tip of the support member 17 and a fixing portion 13B. Is provided at the distal end of a surface that slides through the inside of the magazine table 7A while contacting the upper surface 7b of the housing 7B, and is pushed out while being in contact with the end of the sample cassette 11 at the base end surface thereof, and at the claw-shaped portion. And an engaging portion 13A for engaging with the moving frame 12 to perform a sliding operation.
[0048]
A mechanical automatic opening mechanism 9 is provided on a magazine table 7A in which the cassette pushing bar 13 is housed. That is, since the mechanical automatic opening mechanism 9 is provided on the magazine base 7A, when the magazine 8 is mounted on the magazine base 7A, the stopper 8a provided at the lower part of the magazine 8 is released, and the magazine 8 is released. 8 allows the lowermost sample cassette 11a to be taken out.
[0049]
Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (c), the mechanical automatic opening mechanism 9 is provided at each of the four corners of the magazine base 7A, and has a projection formed with a tapered tip at each end. 7C and a positioning hole 8d (see FIG. 4) provided at the lowermost four corners of the magazine 8 when the magazine 8 is mounted on the magazine base 7A to position the mounting position of the magazine 8. And a positioning pin 7a.
[0050]
On the other hand, the lower end of the magazine 8 is formed in a shape corresponding to the mechanical automatic opening mechanism 9. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, the lower end 8B of the magazine 8 mounted on the magazine base 7A is protruded on both sides of the side of the magazine main body. Pin-shaped stoppers 8a are provided. These stoppers 8a are mounted in the lower end portion 8B so as to be freely movable in the horizontal direction, and are urged toward the inside of the magazine body by springs 8c. When these stoppers 8a are not released as shown in FIG. 4, the stoppers 8a engage with a part of the bottom surface of the lowermost sample cassette 11a accommodated in the magazine, thereby forming the bottom surface of the magazine 8. It does not fall into the discharge opening provided on the side.
[0051]
As described above, four stoppers 8a may be provided in accordance with the arrangement positions of the respective protrusions 7C, or two stoppers in the form of pins may be provided, and the protrusions 7C may be provided at the base ends on both sides. May be configured to be engaged.
[0052]
The magazine 8 thus improved is provided with an accommodating portion 8A capable of accommodating a plurality of sample cassettes 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d,... In a vertically stacked manner.
[0053]
In the present embodiment, in the case of a thin film or a sticky material which is difficult to remove one by one when the test samples are stacked in the vertical direction, one by one in the sample cassette 11 (see FIG. 3) so that the test samples do not adhere to each other. The sample is stored, and the plurality of sample cassettes 11a to 11d are stored in the magazine 8.
[0054]
An opening for visually confirming a plurality of accommodated sample cassettes 11 is provided on a side surface of the magazine 8, and a notch at an end of the sample cassette 11 is provided at an inner center of one side surface. A guide portion 8e having a projection shape to be fitted into 11C (see FIG. 4) is provided from the upper portion to the lower portion. Thus, the sample cassettes 11 can be easily and surely accommodated in the magazine 8 by the guide portions 8e, and the plurality of sample cassettes 11 can be correctly stacked.
[0055]
The configuration of the improved portion including the sample cassette 11 and characteristic of the present embodiment will be described in more detail.
[0056]
As shown in FIGS. 3 (a) and 3 (b), the sample cassette 11 used in the automatic sample cassette unloading device 7 of the present embodiment has a sample shape on a flat plate-like member having a constant thickness. Groove processing is also performed to form the accommodation groove 11A. Further, two sets of notches 11B formed by notching are formed on the side surfaces of the base end portions on both sides of the sample cassette 11 as means for dropping one sample cassette 11 efficiently.
[0057]
When the tester body is configured as a test system in which a size measuring device (see FIG. 12) for measuring the thickness dimension of the sample is mounted, as shown in FIG. May be provided with a plurality of through-holes 11D, and the thickness dimension of the sample exposed through the through-holes 11D may be measured and inspected by the measuring device.
[0058]
On the other hand, with the improvement of the sample cassette 11 having the above configuration, an improvement has been made to easily and reliably take out one sample cassette 11 from the magazine table 7A side where the magazine 8 is installed.
[0059]
As shown in FIG. 5B, the magazine base 7A has two rectangular frame members arranged to face each other and fixed to the upper surface 7b of the housing 7B. In addition, a movable frame stopper 7c formed of two square rod members is incorporated in both base end portions of the magazine base 7A so as to be uniform on the surface of the magazine base 7A.
[0060]
A moving frame 12 is provided in the magazine base 7A so as to be slidable for a predetermined section. As shown in FIG. 5C, the moving frame 12 has a width that can be accommodated in the magazine base 7A. A rectangular frame member 12B is arranged, and a movable frame side par 12c made of a square rod member is attached to the upper surface of both base end portions of these frame members 12B. In other words, inside the movable frame 12 formed of a rectangular frame member, the sample cassette 11 is accommodated, and the slidable opening 12A of the cassette pushing bar 13 is formed.
[0061]
At least four support rods 12a are provided on the inner side surface of the frame member 12B of the moving frame 12 so as to project inward so as to be parallel to the moving frame lateral bars 12c.
[0062]
As shown in the drawing, these support rods 12a are arranged so as to face each other, and the upper peripheral surface of these support rods 12a is brought into contact with the bottom surface of the sample cassette 11 arranged below the magazine 8. I support it. That is, these support rods 12a are configured to have the strength to support the total weight of all the sample cassettes 11 housed in the magazine 8. When the sample cassette 11 is taken out, only when the position of the support rods 12a coincides with the position of the notch 11B of the sample cassette 11 by sliding movement of a moving frame described later, these support rods 12a All of them will fit into the notches 11B.
[0063]
As shown in FIG. 5 (b), the width of the support rod 12a between the distal ends of the support rods 12a is defined as dimension A, and the width of the cassette pushing bar 13 sliding into the moving frame 12 is defined as dimension B. Then, the configuration is such that dimension A> dimension B. The height of the support bar 12a is configured to be smaller than the thickness of the engaging portion of the cassette push-out bar 13.
[0064]
Two springs 14 are attached to the base end of the moving frame 12 in the sample cassette discharge direction, respectively. These springs 14 are attached to a pair of pins 1b provided on the test stand housing 7B. I have. That is, the moving frame 12 is constantly urged toward the sample cassette discharging direction by the springs 14, and the moving frame side bar 12c of the moving frame 12 comes into contact with the side surface of the magazine base 7A (not shown). Its biasing force is being regulated.
[0065]
The moving frame horizontal bar 12c in the direction opposite to the sample cassette discharging direction is configured such that the claw-shaped portion of the engaging portion 13A of the cassette pushing bar 13 is engaged. When the cassette pushing bar 13 slides, the moving frame 12 is moved in the same direction by the engagement between the engaging portion 13A and the moving frame lateral bar 12. The sliding movement of the moving frame 12 is restricted by the moving frame lateral bar 12 coming into contact with a moving frame stopper 7c provided on the magazine base 7A.
[0066]
Accordingly, the moving frame 12 is slid by a predetermined distance by linking the moving frame 12 with the sliding operation of the cassette pushing bar 13 by such a mechanism, so that the position of the support rod 12a of the moving frame 12 and the notch 11B of the sample cassette 11 are adjusted. The alignment can be performed, and as a result, one sample cassette 11 housed in the moving frame 12 can be reliably and smoothly dropped onto the upper surface 7b of the housing 7B.
[0067]
Next, the operation of taking out a sample cassette, which is a feature of the automatic sample cassette taking out apparatus having the above configuration, will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
[0068]
6 to 12 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the sample cassette taking-out operation by the automatic sample cassette taking-out device. FIG. 6 shows the arrangement of the cassette push-out bar, the moving frame and the support rod at the start of the device. 7 shows a state in which the cassette pushing bar has been moved and then engaged with the side bar of the moving frame, and FIG. 8 shows a state in which the support rod of the moving frame and the notch of the sample cassette are aligned and dropped onto the housing 7B. FIG. 9 shows a state immediately before the dropped sample cassette is pushed out by the cassette pushing bar, and FIG. 10 shows a state in which the lowermost sample cassette is pushed out while pushing up the next sample cassette using the height of the engaging portion. FIG. 11 shows a state in which the moving frame is moved by the biasing force of the spring and the support rod contacts the bottom surface of the next sample cassette, 12 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the notches of the support rods and the next sample cassette immediately before the completion of the cassette extrusion.
[0069]
The operation of taking out the sample cassette will be described with reference to these drawings. The operation relating to the main components such as the support bar of the moving frame, the cutout of the sample cassette, and the cassette pusher which is a feature of the present invention will be mainly described. .
[0070]
Now, it is assumed that the inspection worker takes out the sample cassette 11 containing the magazine 8 by using the automatic sample cassette removing device 7 of the present embodiment, and supplies the sample cassette 11 to the tester main body.
[0071]
First, the inspection worker installs the magazine 8 accommodating the plurality of sample cassettes 11a to 11d on the magazine table 7A. Then, as described above, the stopper 8a (see FIG. 4) at the lower end of the magazine 8 is released by the mechanical automatic opening mechanism 9 of the magazine 8, and the bottom surface of the sample cassette 11a at the bottom in the magazine 8 is moved to the moving frame. The support rods 12 abut on the support rods 12a (see FIG. 6).
[0072]
At this time, the movement actuator 15 is at the start return position (a state in which the support member 17 is completely inserted into the movement actuator 15) as shown in FIG. Will exist.
As described above, the inner size of the moving frame 12 is configured to allow the sample cassette 11 to pass through and drop onto the upper surface 7b of the housing 7B. The clearance between the lower surface of the support rod 12a and the upper surface 7b is equal to the sample. It is configured to be slightly larger than the thickness of the cassette 11.
[0073]
Further, the movable frame 12 is pulled to the left position by the spring 14, and is regulated by abutting the movable frame lateral bar 12c on a side surface (not shown) of the movable frame stopper 7c attached to the magazine base 7A. That is, in the state shown in FIG. 6, the position of the support bar 12a provided on the moving frame 12 and the position of the notch 11B of the sample cassette 11a do not match.
[0074]
Then, by turning on the left limit switch 16a of the moving actuator 15, the tip (not shown) of the support member 17 that has been drawn into the moving actuator 15 moves to the right limit position in the moving actuator 15. The cassette pushing bar 13 is slid to the set position of the sample cassette 11.
[0075]
In this case, when the cassette pushing bar 13 enters the cassette setting preparation process (push preparation process), the claw portion of the engaging portion 13A provided at the tip engages with the movable frame lateral bar 12c, and the urging force of the spring 14 is applied. The movable frame 12 is pulled against the moving frame 12 (see FIG. 7).
[0076]
Then, the movement of the moving frame 12 is prevented by the moving frame lateral bar 12c in the sample cassette discharging direction abutting on the moving frame stopper 7c, and at the same time, the moving frame 12 and the support rod 12a are moved by the cassette pushing bar 13. Since the movement of the lowermost sample cassette 11a is suppressed on the side surface of the magazine base 7A, the position of the notch 11B of the sample cassette 11a and the position of the support rod 12a overlap, and as a result, the sample rod 11a is supported by the support rod 12a. The lowermost sample cassette 11a that has been dropped by its own weight while being guided by the support bar 12a via the notch 11B, and falls onto the upper surface 7b of the housing 7B (see FIG. 8).
[0077]
Next, the process enters the extrusion process of the sample cassette 11a. That is, by turning on the left limit switch 16 b of the moving actuator 15, the tip (not shown) of the support member 17 reaches the left limit position in the moving actuator 15 inside the moving actuator 15. As a result, the cassette push-out bar 13 slides so that the engagement portion 13A comes into contact with the base end of the sample cassette 11 as shown in the figure, and pushes out the sample cassette 11a (see FIG. 9).
[0078]
In this case, the engaging portion 13A of the cassette pushing bar 13 is formed in a tapered shape, and the height of the engaging portion 13 is higher than the installation height of the support rod 12a. Simultaneously with the pushing out of the sample cassette 11a, the bottom surface of the base end of the next sample cassette 11b on the upper side is pushed up by the tapered shape of the engaging portion 13A and floated. Then, the movable frame 12 slides immediately back to the original position by the urging force of the spring 14, and as a result, supports the upper sample cassette 11b on the support rod 12a (the support rod interposed on the right side in the figure). (See FIG. 10).
[0079]
Thereafter, the cassette pushing bar 13 slides so as to push out the lowermost sample cassette 11a dropped by the engaging portion 13 while pushing up the bottom surface of the upper sample cassette 11b by the tapered shape of the engaging portion 13A. (See FIG. 11), the sample cassette 11a is slid to the position where the sample cassette 11a is completely pushed out of the magazine table 7B (see FIG. 2B).
[0080]
FIG. 12 shows a state immediately before the completion of the sample cassette pushing operation. The sample cassette 11 b is pushed up by the engaging portion 13 A of the cassette pushing bar 13, and the movable frame 12 is slid by the urging force of the spring 14 to slide the sample cassette. 11b will be completely supported on the support rod 12a, and at the same time, the lowermost sample cassette 11a will be completely pushed out by the sample cassette outlet provided in the magazine base 7B, and the sample shown in FIG. At the transfer position, only the test sample is sucked by the sample head transfer arm 5 shown in FIG. 1 (b) and transferred to the upper and lower automatic gripping chucks 4A and 4B.
Thereafter, a feed signal is supplied to a control unit that drives and controls the moving actuator 15, and based on the sending signal, the control unit recognizes the driving state of the moving actuator 15, that is, the sliding operation of the cassette push-out bar 13, based on the sending signal. By controlling the driving of the moving actuator 15, each time the cassette pushing bar 13 reciprocates in the moving frame 12 (in the magazine table 7B), the sample cassettes 11b, 11c, and 11d are read from the cassette stack in the magazine 8. .. One by one can be easily taken out to the last sample cassette. In addition, by adding the sample cassette 11 to the magazine 8 from above during use, the test can be performed continuously. In addition, by using the sample cassettes having different internal shapes, different test samples can be handled.
[0081]
Note that, in the present embodiment, the empty sample cassette after the test sample has been adsorbed is pushed out by the sample pushing-out operation of the cassette pushing-out bar 13 so that the sample cassette accommodating box (not shown) arranged near the end of the housing. ), And is automatically collected each time a cassette removal operation is sequentially performed.
[0082]
Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to reliably and smoothly take out the stacked sample cassettes from the lower part of the magazine with a simple and inexpensive configuration, and to automate the transport of the sample cassettes to the testing device and the material testing operation. This makes it possible to realize an automatic sample cassette unloading device capable of achieving the above.
[0083]
In this embodiment, the shape of the notch 11B of the sample cassette 11 has been described as a configuration in which a notch is formed in a square shape. However, the shape is not limited to this shape. Each of the notches 11B has a tapered shape or an R-shaped one-sided shape so that the support rod 12 can slide smoothly and securely into the notch 11B. May be. This makes it possible to further smoothly perform the sample cassette removal operation.
[0084]
FIG. 13 is a side view illustrating a second embodiment of the automatic sample cassette unloading device according to the present invention, and illustrating the system configuration of a test device equipped with the device and a dimension measuring device. In FIG. 13, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. Only different portions will be described.
[0085]
In the present embodiment, even if the test apparatus for performing the tensile test of the first embodiment is provided with a measuring device for measuring the thickness of the test sample, the system is configured with a simple configuration and reliably from the magazine. The first embodiment is configured such that the sample cassette can be automatically taken out and transported to a test device, and the entire inspection process including the thickness measurement process can be automated. It is different.
[0086]
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, in the present embodiment, in addition to the test apparatus 1 and the automatic sample cassette unloading apparatus 7 of the first embodiment, the thickness of the test sample of the sample cassette 11 is A measuring device 20 capable of measurement is provided, and is configured as a test device system 1d.
[0087]
Accordingly, the automatic sample cassette unloading device 7 according to the present embodiment has been improved in order to fully automate the entire inspection process. Specifically, the sample cassette transport direction of the housing 7C of the device 7 has been improved. Are formed so as to have a longer length than in the first embodiment.
[0088]
For example, a housing 7C of the automatic sample cassette removing device 7 has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment, and a magazine base 7A is installed at a predetermined position on an upper surface 7b of the housing 7C. Magazine 8 is installed. In this case, the magazine base 7A includes a sample cassette transfer position where the sample cassette 11 can be mounted by rotation of the sample head transfer arm 5, and is set on the upper surface 7b at a position corresponding to the length of the three sample cassettes 11. Have been. That is, an area corresponding to the length of the sample cassette 11 on the upper surface 7b dropped from the lower portion of the magazine table 7A is defined as L1, an area corresponding to the length of the sample cassette 11 following the L1 is defined as L2, and the area following the L "is defined. The area corresponding to the length of the sample cassette 11 (the transfer position of the sample cassette) is L3.Therefore, when the length relation of these areas is shown, L1 = L2 = L3, and the housing is provided with such a relation. 7C is configured.
[0089]
The measuring device 20 is arranged on the area L2 on the upper surface 7b of the housing 7C. In this case, the through-hole 11D (see FIG. 4) of the sample cassette 11 conveyed to the area L2 is positioned with high precision at a corresponding inspection section in the installed under-size measuring device 20. Is installed.
[0090]
The size measuring device 20 measures the thickness, width, etc. of the test sample in the sample cassette 11 transported and set in the area L2, and a control result for controlling the system test device (not shown). Output to the section.
[0091]
In this embodiment, on the upper surface 7b of the housing 7C, a portion corresponding to the sample cassette transport line in the areas L1 to L3 or the areas L2 to L3 is not shown in the same manner as in the above embodiment. A pair of guide plates 1c (see FIG. 2B) corresponding to the width dimension of the sample cassette 11 are extended to transport the sample cassette 11 while reliably guiding it.
[0092]
The other configuration of the automatic sample cassette removing device is the same as that of the first embodiment.
[0093]
Therefore, according to the above configuration, as in the first embodiment, one sample cassette 11a stored in the magazine 8 is dropped by the automatic sample cassette removal device 7 to the area L1 on the upper surface 7b of the housing 7C. Then, it is moved to the area 2 by being pushed out of the magazine table 7A by the cassette pushing bar 12.
[0094]
Then, in the area L2, the thickness, width, and the like of the test sample in the sample cassette 11a are measured by the dimension measuring device 20, and after the measurement is completed, the next sample cassette 11b is attached to the housing 7C by the automatic sample cassette removal device 7. The sample cassette 11b is dropped on the upper surface 7b and pushed out by the cassette pushing bar 13 in the same manner as described above. Then, the extruded distal end of the sample cassette 11b comes into contact with the base end of the sample cassette 11a after the completion of the measurement arranged in the area L2, and is extruded. At the same time, the sample cassette 11b is arranged in the area L2 that can be measured by the dimension measuring device 20 at the same time when the sample cassette 11b is moved to the area L3 that can be adsorbed.
[0095]
Thereafter, similarly, the sample cassettes 11c... Are taken out by using the automatic sample cassette taking-out device 7, and at the same time, a plurality of sample cassettes are transported at a time by using the dropped sample cassettes.
[0096]
However, according to such a method, the uppermost (last) sample cassette 11 stored in the magazine 8 cannot be transported to the area L3 where the tensile test is performed.
[0097]
Therefore, in the present embodiment, at least one dummy sample cassette 11da that does not store a test sample is provided, and this dummy sample cassette 11da is stored at the top of the magazine 8. Thus, the last sample cassette 11 for performing the test can be pushed out by the dummy sample cassette 11da and reliably transported to the area L3 without providing a new member and without any trouble of the operator. It is possible to automate the entire process of the test.
[0098]
Therefore, according to the present embodiment, in addition to obtaining the same effects as those of the first embodiment, even when a system is configured by adding a dimension measuring device for measuring the thickness and width dimensions of the test sample. With a simple configuration, the sample cassette can be automatically transported reliably, and the entire test process can be fully automated. Further, the present invention can be implemented without providing a new member, which greatly contributes to cost reduction.
[0099]
FIG. 14 shows a third embodiment of the automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to the present invention, and shows a configuration of an apparatus which enables a sample removing operation without using a sample cassette by changing the position of a support bar of a moving frame. 14A is a top view, and FIG. 14A shows a relationship between a moving frame and a support bar when the dumbbell sample is dropped on the upper surface of the housing; FIG. 14B shows a state where the dumbbell sample is supported by the support bar; Is shown. In FIG. 14, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. Only different portions will be described.
[0100]
In the first and second embodiments described above, the case where the test sample is a test sample such as a thin rubber is described. However, in the present invention, of course, the effect can be obtained even with a dumbbell-shaped test sample having sufficient rigidity. It is possible to get.
[0101]
More specifically, the test sample used in the present embodiment is made of a material having sufficient rigidity, and has a shape in which both ends are wide and narrow through the central portion, that is, a dumbbell shape, as shown in FIG. Use what was done. Further, such a dumbbell-shaped test sample 30 is formed so as to have substantially the same height and length as the sample cassette 11 used in the first and second embodiments. A notch similar to the sample cassette (corresponding to the sample cassette 11C) is provided at the end portion.
[0102]
Further, the moving frame 12 used in the present embodiment is configured such that the support bar 12a is located at the position shown in FIG. 14 with the use of the dumbbell-shaped test sample 30.
[0103]
Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.
[0104]
With the above configuration, if the dumbbell-shaped test sample 30 is directly accommodated in the magazine 8 without using the sample cassette 11, the moving frame 12 slides to support the dumbbell-shaped test sample 30 in the same manner as the sample cassette removal operation in the first embodiment. The support state is released at a position where the rod 12a extends from the wide portion to the narrow portion of the dumbbell-shaped test sample 30, and as a result, the dumbbell-shaped test sample 30 falls into the shape of the upper surface 7b of the housing 7B (FIG. 14 (a)), after that, when the dumbbell-shaped test sample 30 is extruded by the cassette extrusion bar 13, the bottom surface of the next dumbbell-shaped test sample 20 is supported by the support rod 12a (FIG. 14 (b)). )reference). The subsequent operation is the same as that of the first embodiment.
[0105]
Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the dumbbell-shaped test sample 30 can be reliably and smoothly removed from the magazine only by changing the position of the support bar 12a of the moving frame 12 without using the sample cassette 11. , To the test apparatus. Other effects are the same as those of the first embodiment.
[0106]
15 and 16 show a fourth embodiment of the automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 15 is a view for explaining the configuration of the main components which are the features of this embodiment. FIG. 15A is a perspective view showing main components such as a moving frame and a cassette push-out bar provided on a magazine base. FIG. 15B is a perspective view showing the structure of the moving frame. FIG. 16 is an improved view. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of an accommodation component part. 15 and 16, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. Only different portions will be described.
[0107]
In the present embodiment, the main components of the first embodiment are improved, and as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, a support bar 12a of the moving frame 12 is used instead. A support bar 7d is provided at a position corresponding to the position of the support bar 12a on the inner surface of the magazine table 7A, and a projecting shape is formed on the inner surface of the moving frame lateral bar 7c on the end side of the moving frame 12 in the sample cassette discharging direction. The formed cassette pushing rod 12d is attached.
[0108]
That is, the support bar 7d of the magazine base 7A is for performing the same operation and operation as the support bar 12a of the moving frame 12 (see FIG. 5). At the time of movement of the sample cassettes 11a, the tip ends of the sample cassettes 11a come into contact with the side surfaces of the lowermost sample cassette 11a, thereby moving the sample cassette 11a, and causing the notch 11B of the sample cassette 11a and the support rod 17d to move. There is a role to match the position.
[0109]
Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.
[0110]
According to the above configuration, as shown in FIG. 16, when the moving frame 12 moves with the engagement of the cassette pushing bar 13 with the engaging portion 13A, the side of the lowermost sample cassette is moved by the cassette pushing rod 12d. To move the support rod 7d and the notch 11B of the sample cassette 11a so that the lowermost sample cassette 11a has its own weight on the transfer surface of the housing 7). It can be dropped.
[0111]
Thereafter, one sample cassette 11 is taken out each time the cassette push-out bar 13 makes one reciprocation by operating in the same manner.
[0112]
Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the support bar 7d is provided not at the moving frame 12 but at the corresponding position of the magazine base 7A, and is provided on the inner surface of the moving frame horizontal bar 7c at the end of the moving frame 12 in the sample cassette discharging direction. Even in the configuration in which the cassette pushing rod 12d is additionally provided, it is possible to reliably and smoothly take out one sample cassette 11 as in the first embodiment. Other effects are the same as those of the first embodiment.
[0113]
The present invention is not limited to the first, second, third and fourth embodiments, but may be applied to combinations and applications of these embodiments.
[0114]
In the first and second embodiments, when the thickness of the sample cassette is changed in accordance with the thickness of the test sample, only the engaging portion of the cassette pushing bar, the moving frame and the moving frame stopper need to be exchanged. Thus, a change and application to a sample cassette for a thin test sample becomes possible. For this reason, it is possible to increase the number of sample cassettes accommodating magazines and test more test samples, which greatly contributes to improvement in inspection performance.
[0115]
Further, the first to fourth embodiments relate to a method for collecting a broken sample, wherein the sample is held by suction at a sample transfer head 10 provided at the tip of the sample transfer arm head and stored in a broken sample collection container. In addition to this, for example, a method of sucking and transferring the sample transfer head, releasing the sample cassette on an empty sample cassette, and collecting the sample cassette together with the sample cassette in a sample cassette collection container, or a method using a rotary actuator Either a method of collecting the broken sample with the removal means attached to it or a method of holding the broken sample with the actually used robot hand and storing it in the broken sample collection container, etc. You may adopt it. This makes it possible to automate all the material testing operations.
[0116]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to reliably and smoothly take out the stacked sample cassettes from the lower part of the magazine with a simple and inexpensive configuration, and to transport the sample cassettes to the testing device and perform all the material testing operations. It is possible to provide an automatic sample cassette unloading apparatus capable of automating the process.
[0117]
In addition, even if the system is configured by adding a dimension measuring device that measures the thickness and width of the test sample, the sample cassette can be automatically transported with a simple configuration and reliably, and the entire test process can be completed. Automation becomes possible. Further, the present invention can be implemented without providing a new member, which greatly contributes to cost reduction.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a first embodiment of an automatic sample cassette removal device according to the present invention, and illustrating a system configuration of a test device equipped with the device.
FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram showing the overall configuration of the automatic sample cassette removal device according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a sample cassette used in the apparatus of the present embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view for explaining a specific configuration of a magazine in which a sample cassette can be taken out by a mechanical automatic opening mechanism.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view for explaining the configuration of main components that characterize the present embodiment.
FIG. 6 is an operation explanatory view showing an arrangement state of a cassette push-out bar, a moving frame, and a support rod at the time of starting the apparatus.
FIG. 7 is an operation explanatory view showing a state where the cassette pushing bar is moved and then engaged with the moving frame lateral bar.
FIG. 8 is an operation explanatory view showing a state where the support bar of the moving frame and the notch of the sample cassette coincide with each other and drop on the housing.
FIG. 9 is an operation explanatory view showing a state immediately before pushing a dropped sample cassette by a cassette pushing bar.
FIG. 10 is an operation explanatory diagram showing a state in which the lowermost sample cassette is pushed out while pushing up the next sample cassette using the height of the engaging portion.
FIG. 11 is an operation explanatory view showing a state in which a movable frame is moved by a biasing force of a spring and a support rod comes into contact with a bottom surface of a next sample cassette.
FIG. 12 is an operation explanatory diagram showing an arrangement state of a support rod immediately before completion of cassette extrusion and a cutout of a next sample cassette;
FIG. 13 is a side view illustrating a second embodiment of the automatic sample cassette unloading device according to the present invention, and illustrating the system configuration of a test device equipped with the device and a dimension measuring device.
FIG. 14 is a top view of an automatic sample cassette removing apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention, in which a sample cassette is not required.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a fourth embodiment of the automatic sample cassette unloading device according to the present invention and illustrating the configuration of an improved main component.
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the overall configuration of a main component that has been improved.
FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of a conventional sample take-out device.
FIG. 18 is an explanatory view showing the configuration of another conventional sample removing device.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 ... test equipment,
1A: Testing machine body,
1B ... test table,
1c: Guide plate,
2. Moving crosshead,
3 ... Load cell,
4A: Upper automatic gripping chuck,
4B: lower automatic gripping chuck section
5 ... sample head transfer arm
6A, 6B: rotary actuator,
7 ... Automatic sample cassette removal device,
7A: Magazine stand,
7B ... housing,
7C: protrusion,
7b: upper surface (transport surface),
7c: moving frame stopper,
8 ... Magazine,
8A ... accommodation section,
8B ... lower end,
8a: stopper (opening stopper),
8b ... spring,
9 ... mechanical automatic opening mechanism,
10 ... Sample transfer head,
11a to 11d: sample cassette,
11A: sample receiving groove,
11B, 11C ... notches,
12 ... moving frame,
12a ... support rod,
12c: Moving frame horizontal bar,
13 ... Cassette extrusion bar,
13A: engagement portion,
14 ... Spring,
15 ... moving actuator,
17 support members,
20 ... Dimension measuring device.

Claims (10)

A container for transporting a material test sample, a sample cassette configured by providing two sets of cutouts on both side surfaces,
A magazine capable of vertically stacking the plurality of sample cassettes and receiving the sample cassettes from a bottom surface,
A magazine base having an opening on the bottom surface, in which the magazine is placed and installed,
A housing having a transport surface on which the magazine table is installed and on which the sample cassette dropped from the opening of the magazine table is slid.
A cassette pushing bar slidable in the magazine table and for pushing out a sample cassette arranged on a transport surface of the housing;
Driving means provided in the housing, for driving the cassette pushing bar,
The cassette table is slidably provided by being biased in the sample cassette transport direction inside the magazine table, and the cassette pushing bar is slidable inside, and supports the weight of the sample cassette accommodated in the magazine. A moving frame having two sets of support bars provided in accordance with the cutouts of the sample cassette;
By matching the position of the notch of the sample cassette and the position of the support bar of the moving frame each time the cassette push-out bar makes one reciprocation in the magazine table, the lowermost sample cassette in the magazine is moved to the housing. Control means for controlling the driving means so as to drop by its own weight on the transfer surface, take out one sample cassette from the magazine on the transfer surface, and supply the material test sample continuously to the gripper of the testing machine by the transfer arm; ,
An automatic sample cassette removing device, comprising: The magazine has an opening provided on the bottom surface and capable of discharging the stored sample cassette, and an opening stopper provided near the opening and capable of restricting the discharge of the stored sample cassette. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a support member that releases the stopper of the magazine when installed, drops the sample cassette from the opening of the magazine, and supports the sample cassette on the support rod of the moving frame. The automatic sample cassette removal device according to 1. The cassette pushing bar has a tip portion formed in a claw shape, and slides while pushing up the upper sample cassette by the tip portion, and the tip portion is connected to a horizontal bar provided on the rear end side of the moving frame. 2. The automatic sample cassette pick-up according to claim 1, wherein the position of the support bar and the notch is matched by engaging and sliding the moving frame in a direction opposite to the biasing direction. apparatus. 4. The automatic sample cassette removing device according to claim 3, wherein the height of the tip of the cassette pushing bar is higher than the height of a support bar of the moving frame. The sample cassette is provided with an accommodation groove for fixing an accommodation position of the material test sample, and a notch that guides the accommodation direction of the magazine and that fits into a guide portion provided inside the position side surface of the magazine. 2. The automatic sample cassette removing device according to claim 1, wherein A movable frame stopper that engages with a stopper provided on the cassette push-out bar, the movable frame and the magazine base to restrict the sliding of the movable frame is replaceable, so that the thickness of the material test sample can be reduced. 2. The automatic sample cassette unloading device according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of the sample cassette can be changed in response to the change. The sample cassette is provided with a plurality of through-holes in a receiving groove for storing a material test sample, and is provided with a measuring device for measuring a thickness dimension and a width dimension of the material test sample using the through-holes. When the test system is configured, the transport surface of the housing is configured to allocate first to third areas at intervals of the length of the sample cassette, and the magazine table is installed in the first area. The measuring device is installed in the second area, the third area is a transfer area for transferring to a tensile tester, and a material test sample is stored at the top of the magazine. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one dummy sample cassette is accommodated. Guide means for guiding the transfer of the sample cassette is provided on the transfer surface of the housing, and near the end of the housing guided by the guide means, an empty sample cassette to which the material test sample is adsorbed by the transfer arm is provided. 8. A box for accommodating a broken sample and a sample cassette accommodating box in which a judgment sample piece is placed again, collected, and sequentially dropped and accommodated by an extruding operation of a cassette extruding bar is provided. The automatic sample cassette removal device described in the above. The material test sample is formed in a dumbbell shape using a rigid material at both ends in a wide width and a narrow width through a central portion, and an arrangement position of the support bar of the moving frame is adjusted to the dumbbell shape. By using the sample cassette, the lowermost material test sample in the magazine can be dropped by its own weight onto the transfer surface of the housing without using the sample cassette, and one sample can be taken out of the magazine on the transfer surface one by one. 2. The automatic sample cassette unloading device according to claim 1, wherein the broken dumbbell-shaped sample can be collected in a collection box. By providing the support bar on the magazine table in place of the support bar of the moving frame and attaching a cassette push rod to a horizontal bar provided on the end side of the moving frame in the sample cassette discharge direction, the movement of the moving frame is achieved. In this case, the cassette pushing rod is moved in contact with the side surface of the lowermost sample cassette, and the position of the support rod and the cutout of the sample cassette are matched, whereby the lowermost sample cassette is placed in the housing. 2. The automatic sample cassette removal device according to claim 1, wherein the automatic sample cassette removal device is caused to fall by its own weight onto the transfer surface of the sample cassette.

Images