Abstract: To measure the stress resistance of a material sample, the motions of two jaws which hold the material sample are kinematically coupled via the sample. The jaw which is on the side toward which the motion takes place is subjected to a local variable force (F) which is transmitted to the sample as stress. The sample breaking moment is detected and knowing the relationship between the motion of the jaw which is subjected to the force and said force, it is possible to calculate the stress to which the sample is subjected. By taking into account the detected translation required for the test and by optionally proceeding to time measurements with a given translation speed, it is possible to adjust the motion of the jaws.