====== Cooper Union Open Source Mechanical Tester ======

{{start:projects:mechanical_loaderdale:mechanicaltester:maintesterpic.jpg?600|}}


The Cooper Union Open Source Mechanical Tester is used to measure position and load on a sample undergoing standard tests.  It is designed with the testing of tissue properties in mind, but can be customized for other uses.  Check out the [[pages:mechanicaltester:help:tests|tests]] page for video and sample test results.

[[start:projects:mechanical_loaderdale:mechanicaltester:narrative|A formal description of the project]]

===== Build =====
The build cost of the tester is roughly $5,000, mainly in sensor costs.  Building the tester requires a lathe but no mill, but some ingenuity in redesinging parts around availible equipment may get around this requirement.  See the [[start:projects:mechanical_loaderdale:mechanicaltester:build|build]] page for more details and parts.

Previous Build page:

[[http://daleshort.cc/doku.php?id=pages:mechanicaltester|Open Source Mechanical Tissue Tester]]

===== Image Gallery =====

[[start:projects:mechanical_loaderdale:mechanicaltester:gallery|Gallery]] 


===== Software =====

The software is written in python.  You need to have installed [[http://www.ni.com/dataacquisition/nidaqmx.htm|NIDaq MX]] to use the software.  To run the software open mechtest.exe in the folder.  There is a known bug in that sometimes the software wont close, even if you click the "x".  You need to close the software by killing the process in task manager. 

**This Software is outdated.  Contact me if you need the latest build**

To build it from source these [[start:projects:mechanical_loaderdale:mechanicaltester:software:libraries|libraries]] need to be installed. 

{{:start:projects:mechanical_loaderdale:mechanicaltester:codeforwebsitev01.zip|Source Release V0.1}}

===== Help =====
[[start:projects:mechanical_loaderdale:mechanicaltester:use|Directions for Running a Test]]

[[pages:mechanicaltester:help:tests|Help and descriptions for tests]]

[[start:projects:mechanical_loaderdale:mechanicaltester:help:lvdtcal|Calibrating the LVDT]]