Patent ID: 6301972
Filing Date: 2001-10-16
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
An apparatus for applying a normal, or radial force to a small, fragile specimen, whose weight is in fractions of a gram, and is under test, said apparatus applying said normal, or radial force with a minimum amount of friction, said apparatus comprising:a base for supporting a stationary and movable fluid bearing, respectively;a fixed fluid bearing supported by said base;a preloading, axially movable, fluid bearing spaced apart from said stationary fluid bearing, and supported upon said base;an interface member carried by each fluid bearing that comprises a conforming surface to a small, fragile specimen under test, said specimen weighing fractions of a gram, and being positioned between each respective interface member; and a biasing member disposed adjacent said movable fluid bearing, for biasing said interface member of said movable fluid bearing against the specimen, thus capturing, and applying a normal or radial force against the specimen with a minimum of friction, whereby said specimen is both supported and subjected to a load by the fluid disposed between the fluid bearings.