Patent ID: 7694593
Filing Date: 2010-04-13
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A system for applying mechanical stimulation to a plurality of samples, the system comprising: a plurality of sample chambers, each having first and second sample grips therein; a support structure for removably holding at least two of the sample chambers in fixed positions relative to an actuator; a push-bar assembly having mechanical couplings, along a first axis, for transmitting force from the actuator to the first sample grips of as many sample chambers as are coupled to the support structure; a reaction crossbar coupled to the support structure and having mechanical couplings for supporting the second sample grips of as many sample chambers as are coupled to the support structure; a flexure mounted to the support structure, the flexure allowing motion in a first direction with low friction and having high-rigidity resisting motion in at least one second direction; and a support rod having a linear axis, rigidly coupled at a first end to the push-bar assembly and coupled at a second end to the flexure; the flexure, through the support rod, allowing motion of the push-bar assembly parallel to the linear axis of the support rod and resisting rotation of the push-bar assembly in a plane defined by the push-bar's first axis and the support rod's linear axis.