Uniaxial Mechanical TEsting Device

A custom-built, low-cost device for precise tensile and compression testing. It combines modular hardware with easy-to-use software to deliver repeatable force–displacement data and optical measurements without the price of commercial systems.

Purpose

Characterize material properties under uniaxial loading.
Provide a reconfigurable and budget-friendly platform for rapid experimental setups.

Mechanical Design

Load cell — FUTEK 10 N (swappable for other capacities).
Actuation — Zaber stepper motors driving lead screws.
Travel — 102 mm maximum displacement at speeds up to 20 mm/s.
Frame — Aluminum T-slot extrusion for rigidity and modularity.
Mounting — Custom 3D-printed linear stage mounts for quick fixture changes.

Control & Data Acquisition

Interface — Custom LabVIEW-based GUI for test control, live display, and data logging.
Connection - All USB connections make for easy setup and connection to the device.
Sensors — Integrated motor encoders and load cell for synchronized force–displacement measurements.
Sampling — Adjustable to match test requirements.

Imaging Capability

Attachable camera for synchronized image capture.
Enables digital image correlation (DIC) to map strain fields after tests.

Key Benefits

Modular and low-cost (< $3,000) architecture supports different load cells and sample grips.
Compact footprint with high precision motion control.
Integrated software simplifies test setup and data export.

DIC on a rubber sample tensile test conducted with the uniaxial device