Abstract: An optical fiber of the present invention comprising a bare optical fiber and one or plural coating layers on the bare optical fiber, wherein Y, the Young's modulus of the outermost coating layer is in the range of 400 to 1000 and ?, a coefficient of kinetic friction which occurs between the outermost coating layers is equal to or larger than 0.15, and further satisfying the following formulas (a) and (b); ???0.9822 Log Y+3.45156 ??(a) ???0.5418 Log Y+1.74128, ??(b) wherein the unit of Y is MPa. By the present invention, optical fibers with a low rate of occurrences of the attenuation discontinuity in a measurement result by OTDR and the method of measuring the coefficient of kinetic friction of optical fiber with high reliability are offered.

Abstract: A methodology is provided for designing traction surfaces intended to grip and provide traction on substrate surfaces. Fractal geometry is used to design tire treads, shoe treads, elastomeric traction surfaces, drive rollers, friction wheels for material locomotion or power transmission and belts for pulley drives, and such related devices requiring friction to transmit a tractional force. The methodology is performed empirically and/or analytically. The empirical method involves iterative design and testing of traction surfaces having fractal characteristics to maximize traction against a particular substrate surface. The analytical method uses analysis of substrate surfaces, and the design and development of appropriately scaled and contoured traction surfaces having fractal characteristics. The tread pattern generally contains design motifs spanning at least two doublings in linear dimension as to length, width and/or depth.

Abstract: A method for evaluation whether oscillations in a control process depend on static friction in an actuator. A signal from the actuator or the signal from the process is measured. The measured signal is signal processed for the purpose of detecting whether the measured signal comprises abrupt inclination changes. It is decided whether there is static friction in the actuator based on whether the signal comprises abrupt inclination changes.

Abstract: A friction force measurement apparatus which measure friction force between a fixed member fixed on a main body of a magnetic tape drive and a magnetic tape abrading the fixed member is characterized by being equipped with a vibration detector which is joined with the fixed member and a vicinity of the fixed member and detects vibration in abrasion of the magnetic tape with the fixed member, and a calculation device which calculates the friction force between the fixed member and the magnetic tape based on a signal from the vibration detector.

Abstract: A device for the determination of the frictional characteristics of large surfaces comprising: a frame; a drive motor mounted atop the frame; a drive train; a horizontal measurement arm attached to the drive train and capable of circular rotation; a spherical frictional slider attached to the distal end of the measurement arm that contacts and slides along a surface under evaluation; the frictional slider comprising a spherical member that directly engages the surface under evaluation; and a tangential force detector on the measurement arm to measure the resistance encountered by the spherical member as it slides along the surface under evaluation.

Abstract: A method for selecting a sleep system comprises positioning a person on a mattress in a lying position. One of the person's arms extends generally perpendicular to the person's torso. A first pillow is positioned underneath the person's head, and a force is applied to the person's arm in a direction generally toward the person's feet. An amount of resistive force supplied by the person's arm is estimated and used to determine whether the proper combination of mattress and pillow is achieved.

Abstract: Exemplary methods for the characterization of proton dissociation and transport for hydrophilic components of hydrated Polymer Electrolyte Membranes (PEM's) is described. Disclosed features and specifications may be variously implemented, controlled, adapted or otherwise optionally modified to improve differential hydrophilicity of the sidechain of any ionomeric PEM material. A representative embodiment of the present invention generally provides for the amelioration of electro-osmotic drag of water by protons, for example, in Direct Methanol Fuel Cells.

Abstract: A slip resistance measuring device features a magnetic actuator pivotally mounted on a portable frame positioned on a test surface to apply a linear force to a test specimen for engagement with the test surface at a preselected inclination angle thereto. The linear force is applied to the test specimen through a strain gauge plate which thereby undergoes stress sensed by a load cell mounted thereon from which strain stress signals are delivered under automatic testing operation to provide slip resistance measurement data for the test surface.

Abstract: A method of testing corrosive lubricating media using a wear testing apparatus without a mechanical seal. The wear testing apparatus and methods are effective for testing volatile corrosive lubricating media under pressure and at high temperatures.

Abstract: A method for directly and accurately estimating friction coefficient of a road surface independently from the slip rate is disclosed. The method measures tangential and vertical forces acting on an elastic body 3 of an elastic wheel 1, and calculates the friction coefficient of a road surface based on the measured values of these forces and angular rate of the wheel 1.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for continuously or at a rapid rate of repetition measuring friction between a road surface and a tire, especially suitable for evaluating the severity of visually undetectable road ice at traffic speeds, consists of a separate test wheel attached to a vehicle and in contact with a road surface, wherein a controlled slippage of test wheel is created by a compressed spring acting either clockwise or counterclockwise to a hinge with a substantially vertical axis upon which the test wheel arm pivots. Electrical signals are produced varying in accordance with the angle of yaw, the signals being transmitted to an onboard computer or remote receiver. A suspension system links the test wheel to the vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a device to be mounted on a vehicle that is in a position to measure, by means of own equipment, different data which is important for the road safety on roads and runways for aircrafts. The device is among other factors equipped with a measuring cell from which it is possible to directly read the pressure that exerts against the wheel when it impinges on the roadway. It is further possible to read the velocity of the wheel, and the acceleration/retardation.

Abstract: A head stack assembly installation system with a frame supporting a head stack installation tool including a robotic assembly supporting a measurement assembly communicating with a computer hosting an installation software program. The robotic assembly picks and places the head stack assembly into the head disc assembly and the measurement assembly collects and communicates process positions and force parameters to the computer, the computer calculating distance and force data. The installation software program directs and controls enactment of process steps followed by the head stack installation tool to install or abort installation of the head stack assembly based on the position and force data.

Abstract: A novel apparatus and method for calibrating the gap distance between adjacent scrubber brushes with the frictional force of the brushes against a wafer, is disclosed. The apparatus includes a support frame, at least one pair of load cells carried by the support frame, at least one test plate operably engaging the load cells, and at least one electronic indicator operably connected to the load cells, respectively, for indicating a force exerted on the load cells by the test plate. The method includes placing at least one test plate between the adjacent scrubber brushes, rotating the scrubber brushes against the test plate, determining the frictional force of each brush against the plate, and adjusting the gap distance between the brushes to obtain a desired frictional force for the scrubber cleaning of production wafers.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for measuring the green-speed of a putting green including a golf ball rolling ramp. The ramp is supported by adjustable length legs above a green surface at a selected angle. A level vial attached to the apparatus is used to determine when the ramp is at the selected angle. A plurality of parallel grooves extend the entire length of the rolling ramp and allow for sequentially rolling a plurality of golf balls onto a putting green surface. Located at the upper end of each groove is a trigger mechanism for each of said grooves, including a trigger support block and a trigger arm pivotally movable thereon for releasing the golf balls into the grooves and down the ramp. The forward or release end of the ramp is curved for releasing the balls parallel to the local horizontal relative to the putting green surface.

Abstract: A four-ball test apparatus for evaluation of friction and wear characteristics of lubricants is disclosed. The test apparatus includes a motor and adjustable weight assembly that is supported by the upper test ball on the lower test balls positioned in a test cup. All of the weight of the motor/weight assembly is supported by the test ball itself, and thrust bearings or the like are not required for support of the test cup. The four-ball test apparatus eliminates numerous sources of error found in prior four-ball testers, and permits various instruments or fluid lines to be connected to the test cup without introducing errors into the test measurements.

Abstract: A device for measuring the static and/or dynamic friction coefficient of a surface, in particular a natural or artificial grass surface, in which the device includes a frame to which a first arm is pivotally connected with one side, which first arm is pivotally connected at its other side to a bar fitted with a body having a surface which can be placed into contact with the surface to be measured, wherein the bar is furthermore connected to an element for exerting thereon a torque which acts about the pivot point thereon, and wherein loading elements are furthermore present for exerting a force on the bar in the direction of the surface to be measured, wherein the bar is furthermore provided with an element for measuring forces occurring in the bar, which element is present at a point located between the pivot point with the first arm and the side which is capable of carrying said body.

Abstract: Method for controlling installation of a head stack assembly in a disc drive. The head stack assembly is aligned in a head stack installation tool. A base deck assembly is advanced to the head stack installation tool, the base deck assembly having a post supporting a tolerance ring. A robotic assembly is dispatched to pick and press the head stack assembly onto the tolerance ring and post while mechanical resistance and distance traveled parameters by the head stack assembly are measured. The installation is aborted or completed in relation to the mechanical resistance encountered and the distance traveled, thus allowing use of minimum and maximum force thresholds with respect to insertion distance and assuring correct installation of the head stack assembly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inspection apparatus for tires having a positioning device for the tire to be inspected and a laser inspection device. In accordance with the invention, the inspection device comprises several measuring heads, in particular laser measuring heads in order to reduce the inspection time. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, several observation units and associated lighting sources are integrated in each measuring head.

Abstract: A machine adapted for testing wear, wear-preventative and friction characteristics between a rotating specimen axially loaded against one or more non-rotated test specimens includes a load mechanism in the form of a low-friction, pneumatic diaphragm actuator, a load sensor in the load path to provide visual confirmation and feedback for automated load control, a linear motion sensor aligned with the load path for detection of specimen wear during the test, and a torque sensor for detection of the friction generated between the test specimens.

Abstract: A method for measuring road surface friction of a road surface uses a vehicle that moves across the road surface. An auxiliary independent wheel is interposed between the vehicle and the road surface. The auxiliary wheel is freely rotatable by movement of the vehicle and is toed in (skewed) with respect to a direction of travel of the vehicle so as to create an axial force on the auxiliary wheel. The axial force on the auxiliary wheel is isolated and measured while the vehicle moves across the road surface. The measured axial force is correlated with the road surface friction.

Abstract: Method for measuring friction in a hair sample, comprising: (a) providing a friction member; (b) drawing it through the hair, generating a frictional noise signal; and (c) capturing the signal by a noise sensor. Device suitable for use in said method, comprising comb means having a plurality of tines and a noise sensor arranged to capture frictional noise generated by passage of comb means through the hair. System for assessing the level of damage in a hair sample, comprising: (a) defining hair categories; (b) associating with each category a standard trace representative of the frictional noise signal generated when a standard sample in that category is subjected to said method; (c) assigning the sample to one of the categories; (d) carrying out said method on the sample; (e) visually displaying the frictional noise signal generated as a trace; (f) and comparing the sample's trace with the standard trace associated with the category.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing properties of materials under operating conditions of the materials. The apparatus includes a hermetically sealed vessel in which a tribology tester is mounted. The tribology tester includes a pair of lever arms having first and second ends with the first end of each lever being pivotally connected. A spring is located between the second end of each of the lever arms with a test block assembly being mounted between the lever arms in a position between the pivotal connection and the spring. The test block assembly includes a pair of test blocks and a pin with the spring biasing the test blocks into contact with the pin. Drive means, such as a motor, is magnetically coupled to the tribology tester to rotatively drive the pin against the test blocks to test the properties of the materials.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing properties of materials under operating conditions of the materials. The apparatus includes a hermetically sealed vessel in which a tribology tester is mounted. The tribology tester includes a pair of lever arms having first and second ends with the first end of each lever arm being pivotally connected. A spring is located between the second end of each of the lever arms with a test block assembly being mounted between the lever arms in a position between the pivotal connection and the spring. The test block assembly includes a pair of test blocks and a pin with the spring biasing the test blocks into contact with the pin. Drive means, such as a motor, is magnetically coupled to the tribology tester to rotatively drive the pin against the test blocks to test the properties of the materials.

Abstract: A rotary seal machine is provided and includes a motor drive shaft which extends into and through a canister. A test seal specimen surrounds the shaft in the outer wall, and contaminant circulates through the canister for inducing leakage of the contaminant through the seal being tested. The seal and protruded shaft are visually exposed from outside the outer wall so that contaminant leakage past the seal can be visually detected.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for measuring a coefficient of friction by which a coefficient of static friction and a coefficient of dynamic friction at such places utilized by people as the paved surfaces of sidewalks, promenades, or amusement parks, or the floor surfaces of buildings, gymnasium and the like.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for continuously or repeatedly monitoring road surface friction utilizes a separate test wheel attached to a vehicle and in contact with a road surface and a device for detecting slippage of the test wheel resulting from applying either a braking or accelerating torque on the test wheel. A signal corresponding to the applied braking or accelerating torque at the moment slip is detected and used to provide an indication to the driver of the slip condition. The method and apparatus is useful in vehicles as well as aircraft or in other applications where it is desired to monitor road friction. An embodiment of the invention applies and maintains a measured vertical force to the surface of the test wheel of the friction monitor utilizing an electromagnetic force field under processor control. The processor can combine signals from the vertical force torque motor circuit, and the test wheel torque motor circuit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for measuring the static and/or dynamic friction coeficient of a surface, in particular a natural or artificial grass surface, in which the device comprises a frame to which a first arm is pivotally connected with one side, which first arm is pivotally connected at its other side to a bar fitted with a body having a surface which can be placed into contact with the surface to be measured, wherein said bar is furthermore connected to a means for exerting thereon a torque which acts about the pivot point thereon, and wherein loading means are furthermore present for exerting a force on the bar in the direction of the surface to be measured, wherein the bar is furthermore provided with means for measuring forces occurring in the bar, which means are present at a point located between the pivot point with the first arm and the side which is capable of carriying said body.

Abstract: A friction force measurement apparatus which measure friction force between a fixed member fixed on a main body of a magnetic tape drive and a magnetic tape abrading the fixed member is characterized by being equipped with a vibration detector which is joined with the fixed member and a vicinity of the fixed member and detects vibration in abrasion of the magnetic tape with the fixed member, and a calculation device which calculates the friction force between the fixed member and the magnetic tape based on a signal from the vibration detector.

Abstract: A method for selecting a sleep system comprises positioning a person on a mattress in a lying position. One of the person's arms extends generally perpendicular to the person's torso. A first pillow is positioned underneath the person's head, and a force is applied to the person's arm in a direction generally toward the person's feet. An amount of resistive force supplied by the person's arm is estimated and used to determine whether the proper combination of mattress and pillow is achieved.

Abstract: A device for determining a coefficient of friction is disclosed. The device entails means for applying a normal force to a test piece via a die, means for subjecting the test piece to a torque and means for measuring the torque transmitted to the die via the test piece. Also disclosed is a multi-steps process for determining the coefficient of friction.

Abstract: A modified atomic force microscope (AFM) is used to perform contact resistance and/or current-dependent stiction measurements for conductive thin films at controlled values of applied force. The measurements are preferably performed under conditions approximating the operation of the thin films as electrodes in microswitch array fingerprint sensors. A first, planar thin film is contacted with a second, curved thin film deposited over a round ball having a diameter of a few microns to a few tens of microns. The second film is preferably a coating deposited over the ball and over the arm controlling the ball motion. The coating deposited over the arm provides an electrically conductive path to the contact surface of the ball.

Abstract: A system and method for assessing a health and functionality of a locomotive friction modifying system wherein the locomotive has a friction modifying applicator associated with a wheel of the locomotive for applying a friction modifying agent to a rail on which the wheel is traversing. The system and method comprise a sensor detecting a predetermined operational condition of the locomotive. The system and method also comprise a controller associated with the sensor and responsive to input from the sensor determining a per unit creep of an axle of the locomotive. The controller also determines a tractive effort of the axle of the locomotive and determines a friction modifying applicator state for the applicator associated with the axle.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to both an apparatus, a test form and a method for evaluating sock-drop. More particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus able to simulate particular forces exerted by human movements, a test form resembling a human leg as well as a method for testing sock-drop so that properties such as compression and comfort can be balanced.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for continuously or repeatedly monitoring road surface friction utilizes a separate test wheel attached to a vehicle and in contact with a road surface and a device for detecting slippage of the test wheel resulting from applying either a braking or accelerating torque on the test wheel. A signal corresponding to the applied braking or accelerating torque at the moment slip is detected and used to provide an indication to the driver of the slip condition. The method and apparatus is useful in vehicles as well as aircraft or in other applications where it is desired to monitor road friction. An embodiment of the invention applies and maintains a measured vertical force to the surface of the test wheel of the friction monitor utilizing an electromagnetic force field under processor control. The processor can combine signals from the vertical force torque motor circuit, and the test wheel torque motor circuit.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and method for determining interface strength in situ. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a plurality of load cells, wherein each load cell obtains an in situ measurement of interface strength at each measurement depth that corresponds to location of each load cell on the attachment module. Each load cell obtains the in situ measurement of interface strength without using the measurement data of a penetrating tip member. In another embodiment, an apparatus for determining interface strength in situ comprises an attachment module coupled to a penetrating tip, wherein the attachment module includes a plurality of load cells. Each load cell includes a friction sleeve, which the friction sleeve of at least one load cell is configured with a different surface texture than another load cell.

Abstract: The invention is based on a process for determination of a coefficient of friction (&mgr;) of a hydraulically activated coupling (4, 5, 6) or brake (7, 8, 9) in a load-shifting transmission (1). It is proposed that a drive shaft (14) of the transmission (1) be driven with a specified torque (T), that an output shaft (15) of the transmission (1) is blocked with a closed coupling (4, 5, 6) or brake (7, 8, 9) during a calibration run, the activation pressure (p) of coupling (4, 5, 6) or brake (7, 8, 9) is reduced in accordance with a specified course over time, the differential rotational speed (&Dgr;n) between the input (17, 18, 19) and the output (20) of the coupling (4, 5, 6) or brake (7, 8, 9) is recorded, the activation pressure (p) is ascertained in which the differential rotation speed (&Dgr;n) is greater than zero and a separation coefficient of friction (&mgr;separation) is computed on the basis of torque (T), activation pressure (p) and a construction-conditioned coupling constant.

Abstract: The present invention provides a traction coefficient measurement device having a driving roller rotated around a driving shaft, a driven shaft is rotated together with a driven shaft, corresponding to the rotation of the driving roller, based on the engagement with the driving roller, and a load device for applying a resistance to the driven shaft against the rotation, wherein the driving shaft is fixed in position and the driven shaft is supported so as to move to and from the driving shaft, and a press apparatus is used to force the driven shaft to the driving shaft for measurement operation, and the driven shaft is positioned lower than the driving shaft in height, and the traction force acting on the engagement portion between the driving roller and the driven roller is directed in a direction to push the driven shaft downward.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to both an apparatus, a test form and a method for evaluating sock-drop. More particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus able to simulate particular forces exerted by human movements, a test form resembling a human leg as well as a method for testing sock-drop so that properties such as compression and comfort can be balanced.

Abstract: A modified atomic force microscope (AFM) is used to perform contact resistance and/or current-dependent stiction measurements for conductive thin films at controlled values of applied force. The measurements are preferably performed under conditions approximating the operation of the thin films as electrodes in microswitch array fingerprint sensors. A first, planar thin film is contacted with a second, curved thin film deposited over a round ball having a diameter of a few microns to a few tens of microns. The second film is preferably a coating deposited over the ball and over the arm controlling the ball motion. The coating deposited over the arm provides an electrically conductive path to the contact surface of the ball.

Abstract: A modified atomic force microscope (AFM) is used to perform contact resistance and/or current-dependent stiction measurements for conductive thin films at controlled values of applied force. The measurements are preferably performed under conditions approximating the operation of the thin films as electrodes in microswitch array fingerprint sensors. A first, planar thin film is contacted with a second, curved thin film deposited over a round ball having a diameter of a few microns to a few tens of microns. The second film is preferably a coating deposited over the ball and over the arm controlling the ball motion. The coating deposited over the arm provides an electrically conductive path to the contact surface of the ball.

Abstract: A modified atomic force microscope (AFM) is used to perform contact resistance and/or current-dependent stiction measurements for conductive thin films at controlled values of applied force. The measurements are preferably performed under conditions approximating the operation of the thin films as electrodes in microswitch array fingerprint sensors. A first, planar thin film is contacted with a second, curved thin film deposited over a round ball having a diameter of a few microns to a few tens of microns. The second film is preferably a coating deposited over the ball and over the arm controlling the ball motion. The coating deposited over the arm provides an electrically conductive path to the contact surface of the ball.

Abstract: An apparatus (20) for testing the co-efficient-of friction of a road surface (78) of a road (79) including a electronic digital device (22) that senses through its sensor (75) the speed of a toothed sprocket wheel (71) and by which through the dropping of a frame (24) by means of a tripping mechanism (80) that trips upon a rotating motor (34) accelerating and by which a predetermined value in device (22) is reached by the speed of a tire flat (61) that strikes road surface (78).

Abstract: A device for simulating slip on vehicle test benches wherein a vehicle wheel which rolls on a movable testing surface of a test device such as a test roller or flat belt and performs the object of changing the frictional force between the wheel and the testing surface without necessarily having to change the coefficient of friction, A lifting/lowering device changes the contact force FA of the wheel in a predeterminable way from the tire to an apparatus as the wheel rotates.

Abstract: An early braking system for a vehicle having wheels comprising, a friction element, a brake pedal and a sensor. The friction element inhibits rotation of the wheels of the vehicle with the braking system having a dormant state wherein the friction element is at a first position spaced a first distance from the wheels. The brake pedal is adapted to be depressed to move the friction element into engagement with a portion of the wheels of the vehicle. The sensor senses an operational parameter of the vehicle. The friction element moves from the first position to a second position spaced a second distance from the wheels in response to a predetermined measurement of the operational parameter and before depression of the brake pedal, wherein the second position is closer to the wheels than the first position.

Abstract: Method for measuring friction in a hair sample, comprising: (a) providing a friction member; (b) drawing it through the hair, generating a frictional noise signal; and (c) capturing the signal by a noise sensor. Device suitable for use in said method, comprising comb means having a plurality of tines and a noise sensor arranged to capture frictional noise generated by passage of comb means through the hair. System for assessing the level of damage in a hair sample, comprising: (a) defining hair categories; (b) associating with each category a standard trace representative of the frictional noise signal generated when a standard sample in that category is subjected to said method; (c) assigning the sample to one of the categories; (d) carrying out said method on the sample; (e) visually displaying the frictional noise signal generated as a trace; (f) and comparing the sample's trace with the standard trace associated with the category.

Abstract: The aim of the invention is to provide a device for measuring friction conditions enabling precise measurement and displaying high reproductibility, using simple means. According to the invention, this is achieved by connecting the point of application of force for the introduction of a normal force to the point of application of force of a normal force sensor by means of an elastic flexing element. The flexing element is also connected to the point of application of force for the introduction of a tangential force and the friction force sensor. Connections occur via partial areas with varying flexural strengths and both partial areas are offset at an angle of 90°. The inventive device which examines the friction conditions between friction partners enables a normal force to be applied between two corresponding friction partners and to be determined by means of a normal force sensor.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for measuring the green-speed of a putting green including a golf ball rolling ramp. The ramp is supported by adjustable length legs above a green surface at a selected angle. A level vial attached to the apparatus is used to determine when the ramp is at the selected angle. A plurality of parallel grooves extend the entire length of the rolling ramp and allow for sequentially rolling a plurality of golf balls onto a putting green surface. Located at the upper end of each groove is a trigger mechanism for each of said grooves, including a trigger support block and a trigger arm pivotally movable thereon for releasing the golf balls into the grooves and down the ramp. The forward or release end of the ramp is curved for releasing the balls parallel to the local horizontal relative to the putting green surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides a traction coefficient measurement device having a driving roller rotated around a driving shaft, a driven shaft is rotated together with a driven shaft, corresponding to the rotation of the driving roller, based on the engagement with the driving roller, and a load device for applying a resistance to the driven shaft against the rotation, wherein the driving shaft is fixed in position and the driven shaft is supported so as to move to and from the driving shaft, and a press apparatus is used to force the driven shaft to the driving shaft for measurement operation, and the driven shaft is positioned lower than the driving shaft in height, and the traction force acting on the engagement portion between the driving roller and the driven roller is directed in a direction to push the driven shaft downward.

Abstract: A fray tester for evaluating fray resistance of surgical sutures is provided, which comprises a first and a second pulley rotatably adapted in a spaced relation to each other, a tensioning weight, and a reciprocity driver. A suture having a first end portion, a second end portion and an intermediate portion is mounted in the fray tester such that the first end portion is subject to the tensioning weight, the intermediate portion is mounted to the first and second pulleys and defines a wrapped portion, the second end portion being connected to the reciprocating driver to cause the suture to rub against itself at a wrapped portion. The reciprocating driver includes a rotating wheel connected to a motor for providing the reciprocating movement to the suture to be tested. The tester may further include a revolution counter for counting and displaying the number of reciprocating cycles at the time the suture breaks or seizes.