Desktop Load/Deflection Measurement

Abstract

In order to achieve a low-cost solution for the collection of load/deflection data, a simple device based upon a balance like mechanism and two variable measurements was designed and tested. The device uses a linear variable differential transformer and a potentiometer to determine the load applied to the test specimen and the extension that the specimen exhibits under such a load. Test samples of known characteristics were used in order to provide a basis for gaging the performance of the device against well-established measurement systems. It was found that the slope of the load/deflection curve obtained with this device was within 10 % of the accepted data. This performance is considered reasonable for a device of this nature and several areas for improvement are discussed.