Miniature compression force tester [2006 Myron Zucker Prize winner]

This report describes the development of a miniature tensile force-testing device used to test automotive pinch strips. The primary purpose of this device is to aid in the characterization of pinch strips by determining the compressive force required to activate a pinch strip over an ambient temperature and the size of an object applying force to the strip. The user software was developed to allow the test operator to run tests and collect and display test data