Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed facilitating the application of forces and measurement of dimensions of a test subject. In one arrangement the test subject is coupled to a forcing frame and controlled forces applied thereto. Force applied to the test subject is measured and controlled. A dimensional characteristic of the test subject, such as growth, is measured by a linear variable differential transformer. The growth measurement data can be used to control the force applied. The transducer module receives force and dimensional data from the forcing frame. The transducer module is a separate, microprocessor-based unit that communicates the test data to a controller unit that controls the application of force to the test subject and receives the test data from the transducer module for force control, storage, and/or communication to the user.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed facilitating the application of forces and measurement of dimensions of a test subject. In one arrangement the test subject is coupled to a forcing frame and controlled forces applied thereto by a series of guideways and sliders. The sliders, which contact the test subject are in force transmitting relation to a forcing frame. Tension, compression and bending forces can be applied to the test subject. Force applied to the test subject is measured and controlled. A dimensional characteristic of the test subject, such as growth, is measured by a linear variable differential transformer. The growth measurement data can be used to control the force applied. Substantially uniaxial stretching is achieved by placing the test subject on an elastic membrane stretched by an arrangement of members securing the elastic member to the forcing frame.

Abstract: A sterilizable tissue squeezer is disclosed, comprising a forcing frame fixed to selectively vertically displaceable relative to the lid of a sterile culture vessel. The forcing frame has at its lower end a pair of tissue interface members which may be gradually and accurately adjusted toward and away from each other to provide a direct mechanical force to living tissue growing in sterile culture for manipulating the plane of cell division therein to afford possible control of the emergence of form and promote establishment of stems and roots in culture.