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Go Direct® Materials Test Frame User Manual

Order Code: GDX-MTF

Go Direct Materials Test Frame

The Go Direct Materials Test Frame is an adaptive platform for materials testing. It has applications for material science, engineering, and biomechanics.

The platform comes with standard fixtures for compression and tension testing and can accommodate a variety of samples. The load cell, rated for +/- 4000 N, is mounted on a base plate. The optical encoder, used to measure displacement, measures degrees of rotations of a lead screw that moves the actuator plate. Using both sensors, you can record maximum loads, as well as load versus displacement characteristics.

The base plate is secured in place with locking handles. The actuator plate has a maximum travel of 23 cm. The total length of the base is 91 cm, and when extended fully, has 68 cm between the load cell and the actuator plate. The base plate is secured in place with two adjustable locking handles.

The Test Frame comes equipped with two fixtures - a set of platens for compression testing and a set of grips for tension. The actuator plate has a matrix of holes to allow for fixturing to be mounted at various heights, matching similar mounting locations for the load cell on the base plate.

Note: Vernier products are designed for educational use. Our products are not designed nor are they recommended for any industrial, medical, or commercial process such as life support, patient diagnosis, control of a manufacturing process, or industrial testing of any kind.

What's Included

  • Go Direct Materials Test frame with force and displacement sensors
  • handle with post connector
  • 4 stabilizing feet
  • electronics box with mounting bracket and cable management
  • USB-C to USB-A Cable
  • compression platens
  • tension grips
  • 5/32” Hex wrench
  • 3/8” Hex wrench
  • spring (nominally 284 N/mm)

Compatible Software

Choose a platform below to see its compatibility requirements.

LabQuest
InterfaceLabQuest App
LabQuest 3Full support
LabQuest 2Full support 1
LabQuestIncompatible

Compatibility Notes

  1. Wireless connection of this sensor to a LabQuest 2 requires a Go Direct Bluetooth Adapter (discontinued) when used with some older LabQuest 2 models.
Computers
Software
InterfaceGraphical AnalysisGraphical Analysis (Web App)
No interface requiredFull supportFull support
LabQuest 3Full support 1Incompatible
LabQuest 2Full support 1 2Incompatible

Compatibility Notes

  1. Connect this sensor directly to a computer or Chromebook via a USB or wireless Bluetooth® connection for best results. Alternatively, this sensor is fully supported when used with LabQuest 2 or LabQuest 3 when the LabQuest is connected via Wireless Data Sharing.
  2. Wireless connection of this sensor to a LabQuest 2 requires a Go Direct Bluetooth Adapter (discontinued) when used with some older LabQuest 2 models.
Chromebook
Software
InterfaceGraphical Analysis (Web App)
No interface requiredFull support
iOS
Software
InterfaceGraphical AnalysisGraphical Analysis GW
No interface requiredFull supportIncompatible
LabQuest 3Full supportFull support 1
LabQuest 2Full support 2Full support 1 2

Compatibility Notes

  1. iOS and Android™ devices can only connect to LabQuest 2 or LabQuest 3 via Wireless Data Sharing.
  2. Wireless connection of this sensor to a LabQuest 2 requires a Go Direct Bluetooth Adapter (discontinued) when used with some older LabQuest 2 models.
Android
Software
InterfaceGraphical AnalysisGraphical Analysis GW
No interface requiredFull supportIncompatible
LabQuest 3Full supportFull support 1
LabQuest 2Full support 2Full support 1 2

Compatibility Notes

  1. iOS and Android™ devices can only connect to LabQuest 2 or LabQuest 3 via Wireless Data Sharing.
  2. Wireless connection of this sensor to a LabQuest 2 requires a Go Direct Bluetooth Adapter (discontinued) when used with some older LabQuest 2 models.
Python
Software
InterfacePython
No interface requiredFull support
Javascript
Software
InterfaceJavascript
No interface requiredFull support
LabVIEW
Software
InterfaceNI LabVIEW
No interface requiredFull support

See www.vernier.com/manuals/gdx-mtf for a list of software compatible with the
Go Direct Materials Test Frame.

Assemby Instructions

For detailed assembly instructions, see www.vernier.com/gdx-mtf_assembly

Quick Start: Vernier Graphical Analysis® and Bluetooth®

  1. Charge your sensor for at least 8 hours before first use.
  2. Turn on your sensor. The LED will blink red.
  3. Launch Graphical Analysis, then click Sensor Data Collection.
  4. Select your sensor from the list. The sensor ID is located on the sensor label near the bar code. Note: If you don’t see a list of available sensors, click WIRELESS. After selecting your sensor, click Pair.
  5. The active channel is listed in the Connected Devices Sensor Channels list. To change channels, select the check box next to the Sensor Channel(s) you would like to activate.
  6. Click DONE. You are now ready to collect data.

Using other Vernier data-collection apps or connecting via USB?

Visit www.vernier.com/start-go-direct

Note: This sensor also works with LabQuest 2 and LabQuest 3; it does not work with the original LabQuest.

Charging the Sensor

Connect the Go Direct Materials Test Frame to the included Micro USB Cable and any USB charging device for eight hours. NOTE: the electronics box can be removed from the Test Frame to facilitate charging.

You can also charge Go Direct Materials Test Frame using our Go Direct Charge Station, sold separately (order code: GDX-CRG)

Charging

The LED next to the battery icon is solid orange while the sensor is charging.

Fully charged

The LED next to the battery icon is solid green when the sensor is fully charged.

Powering the Sensor

Turning on the sensor

Press the power button once. The Red LED indicator next to the Bluetooth icon flashes when unit is on.
Putting the sensor in sleep mode

Press and hold the power button for more than three seconds to put into sleep mode. The Red LED indicator next to Bluetooth icon stops flashing when sleeping.

Connecting the Sensor

See the following link for up-to-date connection information:

www.vernier.com/start/gdx-mtf

Connecting via Bluetooth

Ready to connect The LED next to the Bluetooth icon flashes red when the sensor is awake and ready to connect.
Connected The LED next to the Bluetooth icon flashes green when the sensor is connected via Bluetooth.

Connecting via USB

Connected and charging

The LED next to the battery icon is solid orange when the sensor is connected to Graphical Analysis via USB and the unit is charging. The LED next to Bluetooth is off.

Connected, fully charged

The LED next to the battery icon is solid green when the sensor is connected to Graphical Analysis via USB and fully charged. The LED next to the Bluetooth icon is off.

Charging via USB, connected via Bluetooth

The LED next to the battery icon is solid orange when the sensor is connected to a charger via USB and the unit is charging. The LED next to the Bluetooth icon flashes green when the sensor is connected via Bluetooth.

Identifying the Sensor

To identify which sensor is connected to Graphical Analysis, open Sensor Information and click Identify. The Bluetooth LED on the connected sensor will flash red and green.

Using the Product

Position the Go Direct Materials Test Frame so that the handle can be rotated with adequate clearance from the supporting surface. We recommend securing the unit to the lab bench using clamps or bolting the unit to the table. Attaching the stabilizing feet to the base will add significant stability.

Connecting the material to be tested securely to the device is critical to the safe and proper use of the Go Direct Materials Test Frame. The device comes with a set of tension grips and a set of flat compression platens for this purpose.

Moving the Base Plate

The base plate can be moved along the track to accommodate a large range of specimen sizes. There are two locking handles that are used to secure the base plate to the aluminum track.

Mounting Fixtures

There are (3) square mounting locations in a square pattern of 1.5” per side and 1” rise on center on the face of the actuator plate. The mounting location through-holes are designed for 10-32 sized screws. (4) 10-32 screws are included, securing the compression platen to the actuator plate. The load cell adjusts to 3 heights that align with the heights of the actuator plate . Threading on the load cell is ½” 20 threading. The securing bolt uses a ⅜” hex wrench.

Rotating the handle counter-clockwise moves the actuator plate towards the load cell. Compression forces on the load cell register positive. This results in compression forces providing positive force and displacement values. Reversing the direction allows the actuator plate to move away from the load cell for tension-related experiments.

Both the direction and force measurements can be reversed in the Graphical Analysis software. You may desire to reverse both readings when using the tension grips so that your graphed data shows positive values.

The primary methods of attaching samples to the test frame are through the tension grips or the flat platens. For compression investigations, adjust the plates so that there is minimal contact between the platens and the sample. When using the tension grips, adjust the test frame so that the sample is held horizontally in place without applying significant force to the sample material.

 

Changing fixtures

The unit ships with the two sets of fixtures: platens for compression testing and grips for testing in tension. Each set of fixtures has one with a ½” threaded bolt that connects to the load cell, and one with a set of 4 threaded holes to attach to the actuator plate.

There are three vertical positions. We recommend using the lowest position that allows for free movement of the mechanism in order to minimize the torque (and associated flex) applied to the plates.

Zeroing the Sensors

Zero both of the sensors before any data collection. Zero the force sensor before affixing the sample in the fixture. Zero the displacement sensor with the sample in place. To zero either sensor click on the live readout and select “Zero”. You can set the displacement to zero upon starting data collection, as well.

Force Sensor Overload Warning

If the force applied to the force sensor exceeds its rated load of greater than 4,000 N (900 lbs) an audible alarm will sound. This is the indication that no additional force should be applied in order to avoid damaging the sensor. Reverse the direction you are rotating the handle to reduce the force in order to avoid damage to the load cell.

Videos

Calibrating the Sensor

The Go Direct Materials Test Frame encoder cannot be calibrated by the user. It is calibrated before the unit ships. The load cell is also calibrated before it ships. If calibration is required, please refer to www.vernier.com/til/27196

Specifications

Range

Force: ±4000  N

Displacement: ~ 0–23 cm

Resolution

Force: 0.18 N

Displacement: 0.51 µm

Battery

650 mAh Li-Poly Rechargeable

Battery life (single full charge)

~10 hours continuous data collection

Battery life (long term)

~300 full charge cycles (several years depending on usage)

Actuator plate

Maximum travel: 23 cm.

Total length of base: 91 cm.

Fully extended: 68 cm between load cell and actuator plate

Grip plates

Depth : 25 mm

Width: 37 mm

Platens

45 mm diameter

Safety

Go Direct Materials Test Frame is capable of storing energy as it applies force to sample materials being tested. Samples that fail under stress may release that energy very quickly. Vernier recommends the use of safety glasses when using the Test Frame to protect eyes from flying debris.

Care and Maintenance

The Go Direct Materials Test Frame lead screw will benefit from regular (annual) cleaning and lubrication with a lithium grease (or similar light lubricating oil).

Battery Information

The Go Direct Materials Test Frame contains a small lithium-ion battery. The system is designed to consume very little power and not put heavy demands on the battery. Although the battery is warranted for one year, the expected battery life should be several years. Replacement batteries are available from Vernier (order code: GDX-BAT-650).

Storage and Maintenance

To store the Go Direct Materials Test Frame for extended periods of time, put the device in sleep mode by holding the power button down for at least three seconds. The red LED will stop flashing to show that the unit is in sleep mode. Over several months, the battery will discharge but will not be damaged. After such storage, charge the device for a few hours, and the unit will be ready to go.

Exposing the battery to temperatures over 35°C (95°F) will reduce its lifespan. If possible, store the device in an area that is not exposed to temperature extremes.

Water Resistance

The Go Direct Materials Test Frame is not water resistant and should never be immersed in water.

If water gets into the device, immediately power the unit down (press and hold the power button for more than three seconds). Disconnect the sensor and charging cable and remove the battery. Allow the device to dry thoroughly before attempting to use the device again. Do not attempt to dry using an external heat source.

How the Sensor Works

Go Direct Materials Test Frame uses a reflective optical encoder to measure rotation of the lead screw which is translated into position. The encoder disc is mounted on the lead screw and has reflective and non-reflective sectors. The encoder produces two pulse output patterns 90Âş apart in phase. The movement of the lead screw is determined by counting the pulses. The phase relationship between the output signals determines the direction of rotation.

Go Direct Materials Test Frame translates this count into the translation of the actuator plate.

The load cell uses strain gauge technology to measure a change in resistance with a change in force applied to the sensor.

Troubleshooting

For troubleshooting and FAQs, see www.vernier.com/til/27011

Repair Information

If you have watched the related product video(s), followed the troubleshooting steps, and are still having trouble with your Go Direct Materials Test Frame, contact Vernier Technical Support at support@vernier.com or call 888-837-6437. Support specialists will work with you to determine if the unit needs to be sent in for repair. At that time, a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number will be issued and instructions will be communicated on how to return the unit for repair.

Accessories/Replacements

Item Order Code
Go Direct 650 mAh Replacement Battery

GDX-BAT-650

USB-C to USB-A Cable

CB-USB-C-A

Warranty

Warranty information for this product can be found on the Support tab at www.vernier.com/gdx-mtf/#support

General warranty information can be found at www.vernier.com/warranty

Disposal

When disposing of this electronic product, do not treat it as household waste. Its disposal is subject to regulations that vary by country and region. This item should be given to an applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring that this product is disposed of correctly, you help prevent potential negative consequences on human health or on the environment. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling this product, contact your local city office or your disposal service.

Battery recycling information is available at www.call2recycle.org

Do not puncture or expose the battery to excessive heat or flame.

The symbol, shown here, indicates that this product must not be disposed of in a standard waste container.

Contact Support

Fill out our online support form or call us toll-free at 1-888-837-6437.

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