Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

This proposal concerns the establishment of a material testing facility at the Simon Fraser University (SFU). Traditionally, SFU did not have a Mechanical and Material Engineering program or any research activity in these mentioned areas. As a result, for the applicants to be able to conduct research programs, setting up a material experimental facility has a high degree of urgency. MTS Landmark 200 Hz Elastomer Test System is the main equipment requested by this application. The device configured specifically for characterizing the dynamic properties of elastomeric materials, components and devices. The system is optimized for frequencies up to 200 Hz and available with maximum force capacity of 25 kN. It accommodates an array of application software packages that automates almost every standard or custom elastomer test procedure. The integrated packages take advantage of the advanced control, calibration, and characterization capabilities inherent in The MTS Landmark System to deliver highly accurate and repeatable test results. Dr. Arzanpour and four co-applicants in this proposal are actively involved with researches that rely highly on testing of material and systems they develop on a regular basis. The applicants who joined on this proposal are from different departments at SFU including Mechatronic Systems, Engineering Science, Chemistry and Kinesiology. Such wide variation in the applicants discipline well reflects the need for the proposed material testing system at SFU. "Development of Switchable Mounts for Variable Displacement Engines" (S. Arzanpour) "Development of Magnetorheological elastomers" (F. Golnaraghi and S. Arzanpour) , "Smart Photoresponsive Self-Healing Polymers" (N. Branda) , "Active Transducers and Self-Powering for Single-Point Flexible Wireless Sensors" and "Deformable Smart Antennas" (C. Menon) are among the projects that will directly and immediately benefit from the proposed material testing facility.