6 axis testing device

• Subject Area: Mechanics and Constructive Mechanical Engineering
• Term: Funded in 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 512522340

The aim of the application is to develop and to integrate a multi-axis test rig for human long bones under individual loading scenarios into biomechanical research at Saarland University. The core of the test stand is a 6-axis high-load hexapod, which can realize a wide range of loading conditions due to the possibility of individual control of the respective axes. By using individually adjustable clamping systems, different bones, bone specimens and bone implant systems can be tested in the testing device. The evaluation of the tests is carried out via two built-in 6-axis force and moment sensors, as well as via a 4-camera system with connected digital image correlation. The evaluation system is triggered via an embedded controller and appropriately configured input and output modules. The requested test stand represents an important extension of the biomechanical equipment at Saarland University and will enable the testing of bone and bone-implant systems under loading scenarios in the future, which cannot be realized with the currently existing test stands. In the field of trauma surgery and implant development, the requested test stand will allow for realistic and individualized testing of bone-implant systems based on the clinical care of patients. This is currently only possible to a limited extent at Saarland University with a 3-axis test stand of the Chair of Applied Mechanics and will lead to significant improvements compared to the current situation due to the more realistic loads. The same applies to the planned applications in the field of orthopedics. Here, too, corresponding fittings on long bones can be subjected to personalized loads and thus extensively tested and analyzed on a patient-specific basis. In addition, the camera-based test evaluation and the easily visible test stand allow observation of the specimens under load. This will be specifically incorporated by the applicants into courses for students. The applicants have a high level of expertise in the field of experimental biomechanics and have been linked to each other for some time through joint ongoing projects. In particular, the Chair of Engineering Mechanics has many years of experience in the design, construction and programming of self-developed test rigs. The goal of establishing the requested test bench in research on the Homburg campus will succeed due to the broad support of the medical faculty. The location on the Homburg campus ensures the use of human wet preparations, which for legal reasons are not allowed to leave the Homburg campus. In addition, the existing clinical infrastructure enables optimal use of the preparations.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: 6-Achsen-Prüfstand
• Instrumentation Group: 2990 Sonstige Werkstoff-Prüfmaschinen und Zubehör (außer 290-298 und 410-419)
• Applicant Institution: Universität des Saarlandes
• Leader: Professor Dr.-Ing. Stefan Diebels