dynamic tension measurement?

I want to measure dynamic thread tension on an industrial sewing machine without affecting the thread tension.

Is there a strain or tension gauge that can act as a spring as well? The notion being to replace a tension spring on the machine with the gauge, adjust the gauge spring for proper thread tension and then the gauge could provide dynamic tension readings as the machine operates.

Any thoughts appreciated!

Reply to
Trs80
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Dear Trs80:

...

Just a couple...

1) replace / support what holds / tensions the spring with a standard force gauge 2) analyze the oscillations of the thread optically. It will have one component that is a function of machine cycle frequency, and another that is its natural frequency (comprised of mass-per-unit-length and tension).

David A. Smith

Reply to
N:dlzc D:aol T:com (dlzc)

Yes, a spring can be fitted with a strain gauge to measure thread tension. But, it's very difficult to do, and fragile. Can the SPRING MOUNT be instrumented? Given the rate of change, the spring mass probably won't affect the measurement.

Check your email, this is best discussed with pictures.

Dave

Reply to
Mechanical Magic

Reply to
Trs80

I tried another email, using the group main thing. You can get to me using google @ mechanicalmagic.com

(if you put it back together. and the board leaves it alone)

I've done some measurements of strain at 40kHz data rates, down to static load. Instrumenting the machine is the easy part, data gathering may be an issue. Dave

Reply to
Mechanical Magic

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