Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for multiple degree-of-freedom fatigue testing of a specimen. The apparatus includes a first platform, a second platform, a plurality of actuator assemblies, a load cell, a mounting plate, a specimen support, a direct-strain imaging system, and a local sense and control system. Each actuator assembly includes a servo-control, a position encoder, and a piston that is constructed to move in a linear direction in accordance with the servo-control. Each piston is rotatably connected to the second platform. The load cell is connected to the second platform and constructed to output force measurements in three orthogonal directions and torque measurements about the three orthogonal directions. The mounting plate is constructed to hold a portion a specimen. The specimen support is constructed to hold another portion of the specimen. The direct-strain-imaging system includes a camera that is constructed to record a plurality of images of the specimen during fatigue testing.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for multiple degree-of-freedom fatigue testing of a specimen. The apparatus includes a first platform, a second platform, a plurality of actuator assemblies, a load cell, a mounting plate, a specimen support, a direct-strain imaging system, and a local sense and control system. Each actuator assembly includes a servo-control, a position encoder, and a piston that is constructed to move in a linear direction in accordance with the servo-control. Each piston is rotatably connected to the second platform. The load cell is connected to the second platform and constructed to output force measurements in three orthogonal directions and torque measurements about the three orthogonal directions. The mounting plate is constructed to hold a portion a specimen. The specimen support is constructed to hold another portion of the specimen. The direct-strain-imaging system includes a camera that is constructed to record a plurality of images of the specimen during fatigue testing.