Description:IOT ENABLED SMART PENETROMETER TO MEASURE THE CONSISTENCY OF BITUMEN
Field of the Invention
Generally, the present disclosure relates to materials testing equipment. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a penetrometer apparatus for bitumen sample analysis.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
In the field of materials engineering, particularly in the analysis and testing of bituminous materials, accurate measurement of material properties is crucial. Bitumen, commonly used as a binder in road construction, requires thorough characterization to ensure suitability for its intended application. The penetration test, a method to evaluate the hardness or softness of bitumen, emerges as a fundamental assay in assessing bitumen's performance characteristics. Traditionally, penetration tests are conducted using penetrometer apparatuses that manually or semi-automatically measure the depth a needle penetrates into a bitumen sample under specific conditions.
One well-known method involves a mechanical setup where a needle is manually positioned above the bitumen sample and allowed to penetrate under the force of a standard weight for a fixed duration. The depth of penetration is then measured, providing an index of the bitumen's hardness. This method, while widely used, presents several limitations. The accuracy of penetration depth measurements can be compromised by human error in positioning the needle and reading the penetration depth. Additionally, the manual or semi-automatic control systems limit the precision with which the penetration process can be executed and repeated, leading to variability in test results.
Further advances in penetrometer design have introduced more sophisticated mechanisms for controlling the needle's penetration. These include automated systems that use motors to lower the needle into the bitumen sample and electronic sensors to measure penetration depth. Despite these improvements, challenges remain, particularly in terms of the accuracy and reliability of the penetration depth measurements. Inconsistent application of the penetration force and limitations in detecting the precise moment of needle contact with the bitumen surface contribute to potential inaccuracies.
Moreover, the development of electromagnetic actuators has opened new possibilities for precision control of the penetration needle. Such actuators offer the advantage of smooth and adjustable motion control, enabling the needle to be lowered into the bitumen sample with high precision. However, integrating electromagnetic actuators into penetrometer apparatuses and ensuring their effective operation requires sophisticated electronic control systems. These systems must accurately coordinate the actuator's movements, the applied penetration force, and the measurement of penetration depth.
The introduction of ultrasonic distance measurement units represents another technological advancement aimed at enhancing the accuracy of penetration depth measurements. These units can precisely measure the distance traveled by the penetration needle, offering a potential improvement over traditional mechanical or electronic depth measurement methods. Nonetheless, the integration of ultrasonic measurement technology into penetrometer apparatuses poses its own set of challenges, including ensuring compatibility with existing penetration test procedures and achieving consistent, reliable measurements across a range of bitumen sample conditions.
In light of the above discussion, there exists an urgent need for solutions that overcome the problems associated with conventional systems and/or techniques for bitumen sample analysis.
Summary
The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
In an aspect, the present disclosure aims to provide a penetrometer apparatus (100) for analyzing bitumen samples. The apparatus comprises a platform (102) to support the bitumen sample and a rigid body (104) that extends vertically from the platform. A needle holder (106), designed to position a penetration needle precisely over the sample, incorporates multiple electromagnetic actuators controlled by an electronic controller for accurate needle movement during penetration tests. A counterweight (108) is also employed to ensure the consistent application of force during testing. To augment the apparatus's precision, a lifting unit (110) regulates the vertical movement of the needle holder, and an ultrasonic distance measurement unit (112) calculates the needle's penetration depth.
Enhancements to the basic apparatus include an electronic controller with an LCD for depth display, a push-pull solenoid actuator for precise needle manipulation, and temperature control mechanisms such as a water bath and thermoelectric cooler to maintain the bitumen sample at a steady temperature. Additionally, the platform features a mold holder for securing the sample, while the ultrasonic distance measurement unit comprises an ultrasonic sensor module and signal processing unit for accurate distance measurement, considering environmental factors. A servo system within the lifting unit enables refined control over needle movement, and a load cell measures the actual force applied during the penetration test. Preparation of the bitumen sample is achieved through a specific heating and cooling protocol, ensuring consistency and bubble-free properties for the testing procedure.
The disclosed penetrometer apparatus is meticulously designed to improve the accuracy, reliability, and ease of conducting bitumen sample tests, thereby facilitating enhanced quality control in materials such as those used in road construction.
Brief Description of the Drawings
The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of the penetrometer apparatus (100) for analyzing bitumen samples, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary IoT-based penetrometer setup showing interconnection of various electronic components, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
The term "penetrometer apparatus" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a device designed for the analysis of bitumen samples by measuring the penetration depth of a needle into the sample under specified conditions. The penetrometer apparatus, comprises a platform, a rigid body, a needle holder, a counterweight, a lifting unit, and an ultrasonic distance measurement unit, each playing a critical role in facilitating accurate penetration testing of bitumen samples.
The term "platform" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to a structural component configured to support a bitumen sample during penetration testing. The platform, serves as the base upon which the bitumen sample is placed, ensuring stability and proper alignment of the sample relative to the penetration needle.
The term "rigid body" as used throughout the present disclosure denotes a sturdy structure extending vertically from the platform. This body, provides support to the needle holder and ensures the perpendicular alignment of the needle holder with respect to the platform and the bitumen sample, thereby facilitating accurate penetration testing.
The term "needle holder" as used throughout the present disclosure describes a mechanism mounted to the rigid body and aligned perpendicularly at a distance from the platform. The needle holder, is adapted to grip and position a penetration needle above the bitumen sample. It comprises multiple electromagnetic actuators capable of expanding or contracting to respectively lower the penetration needle into the bitumen sample for penetration testing and retract it thereafter. This functionality is controlled by an electronic controller, ensuring precise control over the needle's movement.
The term "counterweight" as used throughout the present disclosure pertains to a mass associated with the needle holder. The counterweight, applies force during the penetration test, aiding in the consistent application of pressure by the penetration needle into the bitumen sample.
The term "lifting unit" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to a mechanism designed to control the vertical movement of the needle holder. The lifting unit, plays a crucial role in adjusting the height and position of the needle holder, thereby facilitating precise control over the penetration process.
The term "ultrasonic distance measurement unit" as used throughout the present disclosure describes a system configured to measure the distance traveled by the penetration needle and calculate the penetration depth within the bitumen sample. Positioned in relation to the needle holder, this unit, employs ultrasonic technology to accurately determine the penetration depth, enhancing the reliability and accuracy of the penetration test results.
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of the penetrometer apparatus (100) for analyzing bitumen samples, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The block diagram of the penetrometer apparatus (100) for analyzing bitumen samples, demonstrating an arrangement of key components within the apparatus (100). At the foundation of said apparatus, a platform (102) is provided, configured to support a bitumen sample during analysis. Extending vertically from said platform (102), a rigid body (104) is depicted, which furnishes stable support to other components of the penetrometer apparatus. Attached to said rigid body (104), a needle holder (106) is mounted and positioned perpendicularly to the platform (102). Said needle holder (106) is adapted to secure and align a penetration needle precisely above the bitumen sample. In further detail, a counterweight (108) is shown in association with said needle holder (106), which applies the necessary force during the penetration test. A lifting unit (110) is also depicted, responsible for controlling the vertical movement of said needle holder (106), thus enabling precise adjustments to the position of the penetration needle. Additionally, an ultrasonic distance measurement unit (112) is illustrated as being disposed in relation to said needle holder (106). Said measurement unit (112) is configured to measure the distance traveled by the penetration needle and to calculate the penetration depth within the bitumen sample. The block diagram succinctly outlines the interrelationship between the components of the penetrometer apparatus (100), emphasizing the modularity and functional integration critical to the apparatus's operation. The diagram serves to facilitate an understanding of how said components cooperatively function to enable the accurate analysis of bitumen sample hardness, thereby underscoring the inventive step and advancement over prior art within the domain of material testing equipment.
In an embodiment, the electronic controller of the penetrometer apparatus (100) is enhanced to display the penetration depth on a liquid crystal display (LCD). This configuration provides a direct, user-friendly interface for real-time monitoring of penetration depth, facilitating immediate analysis and recording of data during bitumen sample testing. The integration of the LCD into the electronic controller simplifies the operation process by offering a visual representation of the penetration depth, which is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the penetration tests. The LCD display allows for easy reading of penetration depths, reducing the likelihood of human error in recording test results. This advancement in the penetrometer apparatus underscores the commitment to enhancing usability and precision in bitumen sample analysis, thereby contributing to more reliable and efficient testing procedures.
In another embodiment, the electromagnetic actuator within the needle holder (106) of the penetrometer apparatus (100) is specified as a push-pull solenoid actuator. This actuator is controlled by a relay module responsive to the microcontroller board, enabling precise control over the movement of the penetration needle. The push-pull solenoid actuator provides a robust mechanism for accurately lowering and retracting the penetration needle, enhancing the penetrometer apparatus's capability to conduct penetration tests with high precision. The relay module, in response to commands from the microcontroller board, facilitates the rapid and accurate control of the actuator, ensuring that the penetration needle's movements are precisely synchronized with the test parameters. This configuration not only improves the apparatus's operational efficiency but also increases the reliability of penetration depth measurements by minimizing mechanical errors and enhancing the control over penetration force.
In an embodiment, the platform (102) of the penetrometer apparatus (100) is associated with a water bath designed to maintain the sample temperature within the precise range of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C. This feature ensures that the bitumen samples are tested under consistent temperature conditions, which is crucial for obtaining reliable and repeatable test results. Temperature fluctuations can significantly affect the consistency and accuracy of penetration tests; thus, the integration of a water bath for temperature control addresses this challenge effectively. By maintaining the bitumen sample at a constant temperature, the penetrometer apparatus enables more accurate assessments of bitumen properties, ensuring that the penetration tests reflect the material's true characteristics under standardized conditions.
In another embodiment, the platform (102) comprises a mold holder specifically designed to hold a mold containing the bitumen sample in a fixed position during the penetration test. This feature ensures that the bitumen sample remains stable and correctly aligned under the penetration needle throughout the testing process, which is essential for accurate penetration depth measurement. The mold holder provides a secure and precise positioning system for the bitumen samples, preventing any movement or displacement that could impact the test results. By securing the sample in a fixed position, the penetrometer apparatus enhances the reproducibility and reliability of the penetration tests, facilitating consistent and accurate analysis of bitumen properties.
In an embodiment, the ultrasonic distance measurement unit (112) of the penetrometer apparatus (100) is detailed to include an ultrasonic sensor module and a signal processing unit. The ultrasonic sensor module, positioned to face the needle holder (106), is configured to emit sound waves towards the needle and receive the reflected waves from the needle. This setup allows for the accurate measurement of the distance the needle travels during penetration tests. The signal processing unit, integrated within the electronic controller, processes the time interval data of the emitted and reflected sound waves to calculate the distance based on the speed of sound, accounting for ambient temperature and humidity variables. This configuration enhances the penetrometer apparatus's capability to determine penetration depth with high precision, offering a significant improvement over traditional measurement methods by incorporating advanced ultrasonic technology for distance measurement.
In another embodiment, the lifting unit (110) comprises a servo system that controls both the lifting and the penetration force of the needle. This servo system includes a lead screw mechanism designed for precise vertical movement and force application of the needle holder (106), enabling accurate control over the needle's positioning and penetration force. The integration of a servo system with a lead screw mechanism significantly enhances the penetrometer apparatus's functionality by providing a sophisticated mechanism for controlling the penetration process. This ensures that the penetration tests are conducted with unparalleled precision, directly impacting the reliability and accuracy of the bitumen sample analysis.
In an embodiment, the penetrometer apparatus (100) further includes a load cell directly connected to the penetration needle assembly. This load cell is configured to measure the actual force exerted by and on the penetration needle, providing valuable data on the force dynamics during the penetration test. The incorporation of a load cell enables the precise monitoring and control of the force applied by the penetration needle, ensuring that the penetration tests are conducted under optimal conditions. This feature significantly enhances the penetrometer apparatus's capability to produce accurate and reliable test results by offering direct measurement of the penetration force, a critical parameter in assessing bitumen properties.
In another embodiment, the platform (102) is further associated with a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) integrated beneath the sample platform (102). The TEC is configured to control the temperature of the bitumen sample within the range of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C, ensuring that the penetration tests are performed under consistent temperature conditions. The integration of a TEC offers a precise and efficient method for temperature control, significantly improving the penetrometer apparatus's capability to maintain optimal testing conditions. By ensuring that the bitumen samples are kept at a constant temperature, the penetrometer apparatus facilitates more accurate and reproducible penetration tests, contributing to the reliable analysis of bitumen properties for various applications.
In an embodiment, the penetrometer apparatus (100) is further adapted to enhance the preparation of the bitumen sample, which is critical to achieving accurate and reproducible penetration test results. The process for preparing the bitumen sample involves heating the sample to a temperature of 90 °C. Heating at this specified temperature is required to obtain a homogeneous, bubble-free consistency, which is essential for ensuring that the properties of the bitumen are uniform throughout the sample. Homogeneity in the sample preparation phase is vital as it directly impacts the reliability of the penetration test by eliminating variables that could affect the needle's movement and the measurement of penetration depth. Following the heating process, the bitumen sample is then cooled to solidify and stabilize its consistency. The cooling phase is carefully controlled by placing the container holding the bitumen sample within a water bath. The water bath is maintained at a strict temperature of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C, which is the standardized testing temperature for penetration tests as it represents the typical ambient temperature for many geographical locations where bitumen will be utilized. The precise control of the cooling temperature ensures that the bitumen sample is conditioned to a state that closely resembles the field conditions under which the bitumen will be applied, thereby ensuring that the test results are indicative of the bitumen's performance in actual service conditions. By specifying the temperatures for both the heating and cooling phases, the penetrometer apparatus (100) facilitates a standardized preparation method that enhances the accuracy of penetration tests. This process serves to precondition the bitumen sample in a manner that is conducive to obtaining reliable and consistent results, thereby contributing to the enhanced assessment of bitumen for applications in road construction and maintenance.
In an embodiment, IoT-enabled smart penetrometer enhances the accuracy and reliability of the bitumen penetration test as outlined by IS 1203: 2022. The test enables determination of assessment and consistency of bitumen, traditionally requires control over various conditions, each prone to human error. The proposed system automates these conditions to ensure precise adherence to testing protocols, thereby mitigating potential inaccuracies in the measurement of Bitumen Penetration Value, a key parameter for evaluating bitumen quality. The bitumen samples are first heated to not more than 90 °C to achieve a homogeneous, bubble-free consistency, then cooled in a container within a water bath maintained at a strict temperature of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C. The temperature control is critical as the sample should solidify under optimal conditions. The penetrometer used in the test measures the penetration depth of a needle that is manually released onto the bitumen surface for a fixed duration of five seconds and requires exact timing to capture consistent data points. The Smart Penetrometer addresses several challenges associated with the traditional testing method. To maintain the water bath at the exact required temperature, a pre-installed temperature sensor linked to a control system actively adjusts conditions to stay within the required range. The issue with manual release of the penetration needle can be overcome by electromechanical actuator controlled by a precision timer circuit. Furthermore, the penetration depth, traditionally noted by visually reading scale marks, is measured using an ultrasonic sensor that provides highly accurate displacement data. This method significantly reduces observational and computational errors by automating the readings and performing multiple measurements to calculate an average penetration value. Furthermore, the present apparatus utilize IoT based temperature sensors, solenoids for actuating the needle release, IoT based ultrasonic distance measurement sensors, and a microcontroller to compute and display results on an LCD. The entire apparatus can be powered from a standard 220V-230V outlet and is designed to consume minimal power.
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary IoT-based penetrometer setup showing interconnection of various electronic components, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The exemplary IoT-based penetrometer setup showing interconnection of various electronic components such as microcontroller, relay module, actuator, platform to receive bitumen sample and the like.
Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘processing means’ or ‘microprocessor’ or ‘processor’ or ‘processors’ includes, but is not limited to, a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor).
The term “non-transitory storage device” or “storage” or “memory,” as used herein relates to a random access memory, read only memory and variants thereof, in which a computer can store data or software for any duration.
Operations in accordance with a variety of aspects of the disclosure is described above would not have to be performed in the precise order described. Rather, various steps can be handled in reverse order or simultaneously or not at all.
While several implementations have been described and illustrated herein, a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein may be utilized, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the implementations described herein. More generally, all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, implementations may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

I/We Claim:
1. A penetrometer apparatus (100) for a bitumen sample analysis comprising:
a platform (102) configured to support a bitumen sample;
a rigid body (104) extending vertically from said platform (102);
a needle holder (106) mounted to the body and aligned perpendicularly at a distance from the platform (102), the holder being adapted to grip and position a penetration needle above the bitumen sample, wherein the needle holder (106) comprising the multiple electromagnetic actuators capable of expanding or contracting to respectively lower the penetration needle into the bitumen sample for penetration testing and retract it thereafter, said actuator being controlled by an electronic controller;
a counterweight (108) associated with the needle holder (106), the counterweight (108) to apply force during the penetration test;
a lifting unit (110) to control the vertical movement of the needle holder (106); and
an ultrasonic distance measurement unit (112) disposed in relation to the needle holder (106), configured to measure the distance traveled by the penetration needle and calculate the penetration depth within the bitumen sample.
2. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the electronic controller is further configured to display the penetration depth on a liquid crystal display (LCD).
3. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic actuator is a push-pull solenoid actuator controlled by a relay module responsive to the microcontroller board.
4. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the platform (102) is associated with a water bath that maintains sample temperature within the range of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C.
5. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the platform (102) comprises a mold holder specifically to hold a mold containing the bitumen sample in a fixed position during the penetration test.
6. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic distance measurement unit (112) comprises:
an ultrasonic sensor module positioned to face the needle holder (106), configured to emit sound waves towards the needle and receive the reflected waves from the needle to measure the distance of needle travel; and
a signal processing unit within the electronic controller, adapted to receive the time interval data of the emitted and reflected sound waves and calculate the distance based on the speed of sound, accounting for ambient temperature and humidity variables.
7. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (110) comprises a servo system that controls both the lifting and the penetration force of the needle, the servo system comprising a lead screw mechanism configured for precise vertical movement and force application of the needle holder (106).
8. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 7, further comprising a load cell directly connected to the penetration needle assembly, wherein the load cell is configured to measure the actual force exerted by and on the penetration needle.
9. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the platform (102) is further associated with a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) integrated beneath the sample platform (102), the TEC configured to control the temperature of the bitumen sample within range of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C.
10. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the bitumen sample is prepared by heating at 90 °C to achieve a homogeneous, bubble-free consistency, then cooled in a container within a water bath maintained at a strict temperature of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C.

Disclosed is a penetrometer apparatus for bitumen sample analysis comprising a platform configured to support a bitumen sample, a rigid body extending vertically from the platform, and a needle holder mounted to the body and aligned perpendicularly at a distance from the platform. The holder is adapted to grip and position a penetration needle above the bitumen sample. The needle holder comprises multiple electromagnetic actuators capable of expanding or contracting to respectively lower the penetration needle into the bitumen sample for penetration testing and retract it thereafter. These actuators are controlled by an electronic controller. A counterweight is associated with the needle holder to apply force during the penetration test. A lifting unit controls the vertical movement of the needle holder. Additionally, an ultrasonic distance measurement unit disposed in relation to the needle holder is configured to measure the distance traveled by the penetration needle and calculate the penetration depth within the bitumen sample. , Claims:I/We Claim:
1. A penetrometer apparatus (100) for a bitumen sample analysis comprising:
a platform (102) configured to support a bitumen sample;
a rigid body (104) extending vertically from said platform (102);
a needle holder (106) mounted to the body and aligned perpendicularly at a distance from the platform (102), the holder being adapted to grip and position a penetration needle above the bitumen sample, wherein the needle holder (106) comprising the multiple electromagnetic actuators capable of expanding or contracting to respectively lower the penetration needle into the bitumen sample for penetration testing and retract it thereafter, said actuator being controlled by an electronic controller;
a counterweight (108) associated with the needle holder (106), the counterweight (108) to apply force during the penetration test;
a lifting unit (110) to control the vertical movement of the needle holder (106); and
an ultrasonic distance measurement unit (112) disposed in relation to the needle holder (106), configured to measure the distance traveled by the penetration needle and calculate the penetration depth within the bitumen sample.
2. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the electronic controller is further configured to display the penetration depth on a liquid crystal display (LCD).
3. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic actuator is a push-pull solenoid actuator controlled by a relay module responsive to the microcontroller board.
4. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the platform (102) is associated with a water bath that maintains sample temperature within the range of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C.
5. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the platform (102) comprises a mold holder specifically to hold a mold containing the bitumen sample in a fixed position during the penetration test.
6. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic distance measurement unit (112) comprises:
an ultrasonic sensor module positioned to face the needle holder (106), configured to emit sound waves towards the needle and receive the reflected waves from the needle to measure the distance of needle travel; and
a signal processing unit within the electronic controller, adapted to receive the time interval data of the emitted and reflected sound waves and calculate the distance based on the speed of sound, accounting for ambient temperature and humidity variables.
7. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (110) comprises a servo system that controls both the lifting and the penetration force of the needle, the servo system comprising a lead screw mechanism configured for precise vertical movement and force application of the needle holder (106).
8. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 7, further comprising a load cell directly connected to the penetration needle assembly, wherein the load cell is configured to measure the actual force exerted by and on the penetration needle.
9. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the platform (102) is further associated with a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) integrated beneath the sample platform (102), the TEC configured to control the temperature of the bitumen sample within range of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C.
10. The penetrometer apparatus (100) of claim 1, wherein the bitumen sample is prepared by heating at 90 °C to achieve a homogeneous, bubble-free consistency, then cooled in a container within a water bath maintained at a strict temperature of 25.0 ± 0.1 °C.