Panel testing apparatus and method

Abstract

Apparatus and method for non-destructively testing the stiffness of wood panels. The apparatus comprises a support framework having infeed, center and outfeed support assemblies mounted to the framework in spaced, successive positions. Each support assembly is adapted to contact the opposed panel surfaces of each panel to define a travel path along which the panel is advanced through the assembly. A first deflection member is provided intermediate the infeed and center support assemblies and is movable to contact one of the panel surfaces as each panel extends between the infeed and the center support assemblies. The first deflection member acts to bend the panel to a first pre-determined curvature. In a similar manner, there is a second deflection member intermediate the center and outfeed support assemblies movable to bend the panel to a second pre-determined curvature. Load cells associated with the first and second deflection members measure the force require to bend the panels to the pre-determined curvatures for calculation of the stiffness of the panels. The infeed, center and outfeed support assemblies are movable relative to each other to position the support assemblies such that the travel paths through the support assemblies define a generally 'C' shaped path through the apparatus that accommodates the curvatures that each panel adopts in travelling through the apparatus. The apparatus provides a compact panel testing unit by virtue of the 'C' shaped travel path though the apparatus that is able to operate at the high speeds of a production line.