Abstract: A device for measuring rigidity, flexibility, and other properties associated with deformation of a thin planar material sample such as carpeting is described. The device is portable and can be manually operated. The device includes a movable testing assembly which is used to urge a testing member against a sample and measure compressive force(s) relative to deformation of the sample.

Abstract: A load cell alignment apparatus for aligning a load cell during an axial tension test of a brake cable. The apparatus includes a mounting structure, an alignment structure, a biasing device, and the load cell. The alignment structure is connected between the mounting structure and the biasing device. The biasing device is connected to the load cell and applies a tension preload to the load cell, and the alignment structure, in response to the tension preload, properly aligns the load cell with an axis for subsequent measurement of applied tension on the brake cable. The alignment structure permits only linear axial tension to be applied to the load cell in response to application of a further tension load on the load cell.

Abstract: A load cell alignment apparatus for aligning a load cell during an axial tension test of a brake cable. The apparatus includes a mounting structure, an alignment structure, a biasing device, and the load cell. The alignment structure is connected between the mounting structure and the biasing device. The biasing device is connected to the load cell and applies a tension preload to the load cell, and the alignment structure, in response to the tension preload, properly aligns the load cell with an axis for subsequent measurement of applied tension on the brake cable. The alignment structure permits only linear axial tension to be applied to the load cell in response to application of a further tension load on the load cell.

Abstract: A method and device for testing a metal part for weakness to deformation. The device includes a motor that moves a shaft and a load applicator toward and away from a part being tested. The motor is activated in accordance with a predetermined sequence and in dependence upon pressure sensed by a load cell associated with the shaft. In the method, displacement is measured by a displacement measuring device throughout the testing sequence in order to determine the part's resistance to deformation.