The Vernier Structures & Materials Tester (VSMT) is the perfect device for all project-based STEM and engineering classrooms. Use the Tester, along with the engineering design method, to design, build, and test structures, conduct bridge competitions, and investigate and analyze beam designs and material properties.
Exact Force and Displacement for Bends and Breaks
The Tester is equipped with a load cell (measuring up to 1000 N) and a displacement sensor (0.1 mm resolution). Using both sensors allows you to record maximum breaking loads, as well as load/displacement characteristics to allow students to evaluate stress and strain.
Use Logger Pro video analysis in conjunction with your sensor measurements to see how and when things bend and break.
Accurate Positioning for Center and Off-Center Loading
The top support beams of the Tester are designed to easily slide and lock into position. Ruled markings located on the Tester allow you to accurately position the support beams for center or off-center loading.
Easy Loading for Different Sizes and Shapes
The VSMT ships with a well-outfitted VSMT Tackle Kit that includes a 50 x 50 x 6 mm and a 50 x 80 x 6 mm aluminum load plate, chain, rods, U-bolts, and other accessories to make it quick and easy to load bridges, materials, beams, and structures of varying sizes and shapes.
Truss Tester Accessory (Sold Separately)
Bridge building contests are an excellent platform for teaching engineering principles. A single bridge, however, can take a lot of time and material to complete. The Truss Tester Accessory allows students to focus on the design of a single truss, so the opportunity to learn from their efforts and engage in the engineering design process is emphasized, without spending an extraordinary amount of time building several bridges.
Free Bridge Competition Software
Vernier Bridge Competition Software is a free standalone application for Windows® and macOS® computers used for bridge (or other structure) competitions conducted with the Vernier Structures & Materials Tester. The software provides a visual representation of the force acting on the structure, as well as a comparison to previously tested structures.
