Instrument for measuring mechanical properties of supple surfaces - incorporates excitation chamber in which pressure can be varied, linked by duct to measuring chamber

摘要

The instrument consists of a closed excitation chamber (1) in which a pressure variation is created by means of an energy source in a second chamber (2). The pressure variation is transmitted through a duct (3) of small diameter to an open measuring chamber (4). When a surface (7) being tested closes the chamber (4), the pressure inside the chamber can be measured by a sensor (5), e.g. linked to a measuring system (6). A complementary device (8) allows the pressure of chamber (4) against the test surface to be monitored, and at the same time it can be linked to a ring (9) which applies a lateral or radial tension to the test surface. The instrument can employ a single fluid in the excitation chamber (1), duct (3) and measuring chamber (4) or three different fluids. USE - Suitable for measuring mechanical characteristics, e.g. acoustic impedance, Young module and elasticity of supple surfaces such as human skin.