Strain-gage techniques in biomechanics

Abstract

In order to successfully use strain gages to monitor the mechanical response of biological systems to mechanical inputs, new techniques have been developed.

Special procedures for wiring, bonding and waterpooofing strain gages are illustrated. These may change with the type of biological specimen being studied—living or dead—the length of time the gages must function, and the depth of the desired point of application below the surface of the body.

Strain gages have been successfully applied deep into the thoracic cavity of a cadaver and have remained operable for a month which is well beyond the required time. Gages applied to the rib cage and the facial bones have been used over a two-month period with no loss in function. For animal tests, applications of up to three weeks are possible with longer periods available with more involved techniques.

Strain gages have a distinct advantage over any other type of measuring device which might be employed in that a correlation between static and dynamic results can be determined; this makes it a most useful and valuable tool for the investigator in biomechanics.