Universal modular test accessory

Abstract

Universal modular test accessory. The present invention relates to a modular test accessory that is configured to quickly support test samples of different configurations for testing.

Description

1 / 27 “UNIVERSAL MODULAR TEST ACCESSORY” Cross-reference to related orders

[0001] This application claims priority for U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 901,122, filed September 16, 2019, and for U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 914,274, filed October 11, 2019, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. Field of Invention

[0002] The embodiments in this description refer to modular test accessories having different configurations, which can be used for a variety of mechanical tests of samples. Fundamentals of the Invention

[0003] Test fixtures are used to support samples subjected to testing on a testing machine (such as, for example, a universal testing machine or UTM). If the samples being tested have a similar configuration or shape (e.g., a tensile test of a rod), a test fixture configured to support only similarly shaped samples (e.g., gripping rods) is used on the testing machine. However, if different sample configurations and / or different types of tests (e.g., needle cap removal strength test, flange break strength test, etc.) are performed, the test fixtures (grips, etc.) supporting the samples during the test will typically have to be replaced to accommodate a different sample and / or test configuration. Replacing or reconfiguring the test fixture between tests takes time and decreases efficiency.In these cases, it is desirable to use a test accessory configured to support samples of different sizes in a configuration that allows the desired type of force to be applied to the sample with minimal changes to the test accessory. The embodiments of the present description include modular test accessories that can be easily adapted or configured to support different sample configurations subjected to different types of tests on a test machine. The scope of the present description, however, is defined by the appended claims, and not by the ability to resolve any. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 7 / 47 2 / 27 specific problem. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0004] The attached drawings, which are incorporated into and form part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present description and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the description. Each of the embodiments described in this document may include one or more of the features described in conjunction with any of the other embodiments described.

[0005] Figures 1A-1D illustrate different views of an exemplary test accessory of the present description.

[0006] Figure 2A illustrates a top view of the top plate of the test accessory of Figure 1A with the sample holder of the top plate removed.

[0007] Figure 2B illustrates the top plate of Figure 2A with a sample holder attached to it.

[0008] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary sample holder.

[0009] Figures 3A and 3B show exploded views of exemplary sample supports with a top plate.

[0010] Figures 4A-4C illustrate different views of a finger assembly used with the exemplary test accessory of Figures 1A-1D.

[0011] Figures 5A-5E show exemplary replacement parts.

[0012] Figure 6 shows an example of the present description. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0013] This description describes an exemplary test accessory that can be used in conjunction with a universal test machine (UTM), such as, for example, an Instron test machine. Although the principles of the present description are described with reference to a test accessory for a UTM, it should be understood that the description is not limited to them. Instead, the test accessories described can be used alone or in conjunction with any type of apparatus or machine (used in any application). In general, the terms relating Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 8 / 47 3 / 27 used in this description, such as “about”, “substantially” or “approximately” are used to indicate a possible variation of ± 10% in the stated value. Any implementation described here as exemplary should not be interpreted as preferential or advantageous over other implementations. Instead, the term “exemplary” is used in the sense of example or illustrative.

[0014] Figures 1A-1C illustrate different perspective views of an exemplary test accessory (test device) 100 of the present description, and Figure 1D illustrates a bottom view of the test accessory 100. In the discussion that follows, reference will be made to Figures 1A-1D. In the embodiment illustrated in these figures, the test accessory 100 includes a top plate 10, an intermediate plate 30, and a bottom plate 50 spaced in the z direction (see XYZ triad in Figures 1A-1C). In the discussion that follows, the z direction will be described as the vertical direction, and the end marked “A” will be described as the front end of the test accessory 100, and the end marked “B” will be described as its rear end. However, it should be noted that references to “front”, “rear”, “top”, “bottom”, etc. are merely for convenience and are not a requirement.

[0015] As illustrated in Figures 1A-1D, the top plate, the middle plate, and the bottom plate 10, 30, 50 can be generally planar structures extending in the xy plane, and thus each can be substantially parallel to the other. Although not a requirement, in some embodiments, the top, middle, and bottom plates 10, 30, and 50 can have a generally rectangular shape (in the XY plane) as shown in the figures. The top, middle, and bottom plates 10, 30, and 50 can be formed from any material and can be formed in any suitable manner. Although not a requirement, in some embodiments, these plates 10, 30, 50 can include a plastic or polymeric material (such as, for example, nylon, glass-filled polyamide, epoxy resin, polycarbonate, etc.). These plates can be formed or manufactured in any suitable manner (machining, molding, etc.).In some embodiments, some or all of these plates can be manufactured using 3D printing. In some embodiments, one or more sheets of reinforcing material can be incorporated into the top plate 10. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 9 / 47 4 / 27 intermediate plate 30 and / or bottom plate 50. For example, one or more of the plates may include printed metal sheets or fiberglass within a 3D printed polymer plate.

[0016] The upper, middle, and lower plates 10, 30, 50 can be coupled together, for example, near their corners, by posts 12, 14, 16 and a movable assembly (e.g., screw) 20. As illustrated in the figures, posts 12 and 14 can couple plates 10, 30, 50 together at the front end A of the test accessory 100, and post 16 and the movable assembly 20 can couple plates 10, 30, 50 together at the rear end B of the test accessory 100. As best seen in Figure 1C, at the rear end B, the upper and lower plates 10 and 50 are also coupled to each other by a column 60. The movable assembly 20 and the column 60 will be described later. Although posts 12, 14, and 16 are illustrated as being cylindrical structures similar to columns having a diameter (in the XY plane), this is only illustrative. In general, these posts 12, 14, and 16 can have any suitable configuration or shape (rectangular, square, etc.).In some embodiments, as best seen in Figure 1A, posts 12 and 14, which are positioned at the front end A of test accessory 100, may have a smaller diameter (or width in embodiments where these posts are not cylindrical) than post 16, which is positioned at its rear end B. Positioning smaller diameter posts 12 and 14 at the front end A may provide more space between these posts 12 and 14 and thus allow samples (syringes, beakers, etc.) to be loaded into test accessory 100 more easily. Although not a requirement, in some embodiments, posts 12 and 14 may have substantially the same diameter or width, while in other embodiments, posts 12 and 14 may have different diameters and / or widths (each being smaller than a corresponding diameter and / or width of post 16). Posts 12, 14 and 16 can generally be made of any suitable material and can be formed in any suitable manner.In some versions, these posts 12, 14 and 16 may be made of a metallic material, such as, for example, stainless steel, aluminum, etc., although it is considered that in other versions, posts 12, 14. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, p. 10 / 47 5 / 27 and / or 16 can be formed from a polymeric material or a combination of metal and polymer. In some embodiments, posts 12, 14 and / or 16 can be formed by 3D printing. It is considered that test accessory 100 can be coupled to a Universal Testing Machine (UTM), such as a UTM produced by Instron or ZwickRoell. For example, the bottom plate 50 can be coupled to a UTM through a hole 50C (see Figure 1A) which is configured to receive a screw from the UTM. The screw can be of any suitable size, such as, for example, an M6 screw or an M10 screw.

[0017] Posts 12, 14 and 16 can be fixedly coupled to the upper and lower plates 10, 50 and slidingly coupled to the intermediate plate 30. In other words, the upper and lower plates 10, 50 are fixed in relation to posts 12, 14, 16, and the intermediate plate 30 is sliding in the vertical direction and in relation to posts 12, 14, 16. Posts 12, 14 and 16 can be fixedly coupled to the upper and lower plates 10, 50 in either way. In some embodiments, these posts 12, 14 and 16 can be press-fitted into the upper and lower plates 10, 50. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, screws or other types of fasteners can be used to attach the posts 12, 14, 16 to the upper and lower plates 10, 50 (see, for example, Figures 1D, 2A and 2B).In some embodiments, bearings 18A, 18B, and 18C (e.g., linear motion bearings) may be coupled to the intermediate plate 30 to allow the intermediate plate 30 to slide with relative ease on posts 12, 14, and 16. These bearings 18A, 18B, and 18C may also allow or assist in centering posts 12, 14, and 16 in the corresponding through hole or cavity in the intermediate plate 30 through which these posts 12, 14, and 16 extend. In some embodiments, as illustrated in the figures (see, for example, Figures 1A-1C), the bearings 18A-18C are coupled to the intermediate plate 30 using fasteners (for example, four fasteners) which are arranged substantially symmetrically around the respective posts 12, 14, 16. Since the suitable bearings 18A, 18B and 18C that can be used to slidingly couple the intermediate plate 30 to the posts 12, 14 and 16 are known to those skilled in the art, they... Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 11 / 47 6 / 27 are not described here in detail. Bearings 18A, 18B and 18C are shown in the illustrated embodiment as fixed to a lower side of intermediate plate 30 (i.e., closer to the lower plate 50 than to the upper plate 10). This configuration may help to create additional space on intermediate plate 30 for samples. However, it is considered that one or more of bearings 18A, 18B and / or 18C may be positioned on top of intermediate plate 30 (i.e., closer to the upper plate 10 than to the lower plate 50).

[0018] The top plate 10 may have a first lateral end surface 10A at the front end A, and a second lateral end surface 10B at the rear end B. The first lateral end surface 10A may be substantially parallel to the second lateral end surface 10B. Similarly, the intermediate plate 30 may have a first lateral end surface 30A at the front end A, and a second lateral end surface 30B at the rear end B. The first lateral end surface 30A may be substantially parallel to the second lateral end surface 30B. It is also considered that the lateral end surfaces 10A, 10B, 30A and / or 30B may be substantially parallel to each other.In some embodiments, posts 12 and 14 may be positioned closer to the first lateral end surfaces 10A and 30A than to the second lateral end surfaces 10B and 30B. In some embodiments, post 16, column 60, and mobile assembly 20 may each be positioned closer to the second lateral end surfaces 10B and 30B than to the first lateral end surfaces 10A and 30A.

[0019] The top plate 10 and the intermediate plate 30 may each have a central cavity or recess 15, 32 extending from the front end A of the test accessory 100 toward its rear end B. In particular, the cavity 15 may extend from an opening 10C in the first lateral end surface 10A of the top plate 10 toward the second lateral end surface 10B. Similarly, the cavity 32 may extend from an opening 30C in the first lateral end surface 30A of the intermediate plate. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 12 / 47 7 / 27 30, towards the second lateral end surface 30B. In some embodiments, it is considered that the openings 10C and 30C are facing the same direction (i.e., facing the front end A of the test device 100). However, this is not a requirement, as it is considered that the opening 10C may extend through the second lateral end surface 10B, so that the cavity 15 extends from the second lateral end surface 10B towards a center of the top plate 10. In the alternative embodiment, the opening 15C may face the rear end B. Although not a requirement, in some embodiments, as illustrated in the figures, the central cavity 15 may be positioned substantially centrally in the width of the top plate 10, and the central cavity 32 may be positioned substantially centrally in the width of the intermediate plate 30.The central cavity 15 in the upper plate 10 can extend from the front end A to a rear (closed) end 15A (see Figure 2A), and the central cavity 32 in the intermediate plate 30 can extend from the front end A to a rear (closed) end 32A (see Figures 1A, 2A). The central cavity 15 in the upper plate 10 and the central cavity 32 in the intermediate plate 30 can be arranged in their respective plates so that they are vertically aligned. That is, when viewed from above the test accessory 100, the central cavity 15 can be located directly above the central cavity 32 (see Figures 2A, 2B). In other words, one or more longitudinal axes (substantially parallel to the Z-axis) may intersect each of the cavities 15 and 32. The intersecting longitudinal axes may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axes of posts 12, 14, and 16, column 60, and moving assembly 20.As will be described later, a support 80 (for example, a U-shaped support that holds different types of samples) can be attached to the central cavity 15 in the top plate 10. When the test accessory 100 is used to support a sample during a test, the sample can be positioned (or inserted) into the test accessory 100 through one or both of the central cavities 15, 32. The central cavities 15 and 32 can have any shape and size. In general, the shape and size of the central cavities 15 and 32 can depend on the size and... Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 13 / 47 8 / 27 Configuration of the samples intended for use with test accessory 100. In some embodiments, one or both of the central cavities 15 and 32 may be generally rectangular or U-shaped. In general, the central cavities 15 and 32 may be dimensioned so that these cavities 15, 32 do not extend from the front end A to the rear end B of the test accessory 100. That is, as seen in Figures 1A, 1C, 2A and 2B, the top plate 10 and the middle plate 30 may include a strip of material extending from the rear ends 15A, 32A of their respective central cavities 15, 32 to the rear end B of the test accessory 100. Furthermore, the rear (closed) ends 15A and 32A may be positioned closer to the second side end surfaces 10B and 30B than to the first surfaces. lateral end 10A and 30A.

[0020] Column 60, which couples the upper and lower plates 10, 50, can extend through the intermediate plate 30 via a vertically extending cavity 36 (or a through hole) positioned between the rear end 34 of the central cavity 32 and the rear end B of the test accessory 100 (see Figure 1C). The cavity 36 can be dimensioned so that column 60 extends through the intermediate plate 30 without interfering with the vertical movement of the intermediate plate 30 (which will be described later). For example, in some embodiments, the cavity 36 can be dimensioned so that column 60 can extend through the intermediate plate 30 without making physical contact with it. Column 60 can be fixedly coupled to the upper and lower plates 10, 50, for example, using fasteners. For example, as seen in Figure 1C, fasteners 52A, 52B can extend through cavities in the column to attach the column 60 to the lower plate 50.Similar fasteners (not shown) may extend through cavities 16A and 16B in the top plate 10 to attach column 60 to the top plate 10. These fasteners, which are used to attach column 60 to the top plate 10, may extend through cavities 16A, 16B into the center cavity 15 (of the top plate 10) through the rear end 14 of the center cavity 15. The portion of these fasteners that extends into the center cavity 15 may be used to attach support 80 (or other suitable support, replacement part or similar) to the cavity. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 14 / 47 9 / 27 central 15. Although column 60 is illustrated as a rectangular-shaped part, this is only illustrative. In general, column 60 can have any suitable shape and size (e.g., width, thickness, etc.) that provides sufficient rigidity to test fixture 100. In some embodiments, column 60 may be dimensioned and include material (or otherwise be configured) to provide sufficient stability to test fixture 100 to resist torsional and / or bending forces that may result during testing (e.g., torsional and bending forces resulting in test fixture 100 from samples supported by test fixture). Column 60 can be formed in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, column 60 may be a 3D-printed component that is configured to provide additional rigidity in the length direction. More particularly, column 60 may generally be a 3D-printed polymeric component.In some embodiments, one or more sheets of reinforcing material may be incorporated into column 60. For example, column 60 may be printed from a plastic composite material having one or more reinforcing materials, for example, metal wires. In another example, column 60 may include printed metal sheets or fiberglass within a 3D printed polymer plate. The inclusion of 3D printed reinforcing material can help ensure that column 60 has sufficient rigidity to withstand the torsional and / or bending forces that may result during testing, as well as being quick and easily manufactured on demand. As discussed above, column 60 may have plates integrated into it to help achieve sufficient torque on the screws that extend throughout the 100 fixture.The upper through bolts that make the accessory 100 a single continuous unit can, in some embodiments, introduce play between the components which can affect the rigidity of the accessory 100. Thus, in at least some embodiments, it is desirable that the single continuous unit – accessory 100 – be rigid for accurate test results.

[0021] The repetition test was used to demonstrate the effectiveness of column 60, with and without reinforcement. During the repetition test, a load was applied to the top plate 10. The load was approximately 200 N, and the deflection of the top plate Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 15 / 47 10 / 27 was measured over time during load application. This approximate load is significantly greater than the loads applied during the use of test attachment 100 in various medical syringe tests, including, for example, 1) sliding release force tests (e.g., below about 1 N to about 20 N), 2) replacement force tests for locking mechanisms (e.g., from about 50 N to about 100 N), 3) injection force tests for autoinjectors (e.g., from about 50 N to 100 N), and 4) cap removal force tests (e.g., from about 50 N to about 100 N). During sliding release force tests, displacement per unit force can be measured for about 15 mm to about 20 mm of displacement, for example. These tests typically last about 3 seconds to about 5 seconds, or up to about 10 seconds.However, these durations are only illustrative, and other durations are also considered. At this approximate load, and after reinforcing column 60 with metal plates as described above, the measured displacement of the top plate 10 at a load of approximately 200 N was approximately 0.225 to 0.242 mm (a sample of data is shown in the “Displacement - supported” column of Table 1 below), with a standard deviation of 0.0049 mm. In yet another test, on a fitting without any column 60, the measured displacement of the top plate 10 at the same load of approximately 200 N ranged from 1.164 mm to 1.193 mm (a sample of the data is shown in the “Displacement - unsupported” column of Table 1), with a standard deviation of 0.0068 mm. The repeat test described here was performed in April 2019.During the repeat testing, an ElectroPuls Instron machine was used to apply a 200 N load in the upward direction, and then in the downward direction to the top plate 10, cyclically. Each cycle (including the application of the upward and downward force) lasted one second, and the test of each accessory was performed for 72 hours (259,200 cycles or 259,200 seconds). The displacement of the top plate 10 was measured every five cycles (seconds). Table 1 reflects a sampling of the data collected during the repeat testing. The supported and unsupported accessory tests occurred on different days. The difference in displacement for equivalent cycles between the two tests varied from... Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, p. 16 / 47 11 / 27 0.927 mm to 0.964 mm, with a standard deviation of 0.0349 mm. It was observed that a large part of the (relatively small) deviation in the displacement data collected during the repetition test was attributable to temperature changes in the test area. In yet another test not shown in Table 1, where column 60 was made only of plastic and without any reinforcing material, the displacement of the top plate 10 was approximately 0.35 to 0.40 mm. Total Cycles Supported Displacement (mm) Unsupported Displacement (mm) Displacement Difference 5 0.225104387 1.186095711 0.960991325 5000 0.226091607 1.188097868 0.962006261 10000 0.225102543 1.182101008 0.956998465 15000 0.226107589 1.177102041 0.950994452 20000 0.227088495 1.173071463 0.945982968 25000 0.228100526 1.171105851 0.943005325 30000 0.228104046 1.171096575 0.942992529 35000 0.227086986 1.171095905 0.944008919 Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 17 / 47 12 / 27 40000 0.227086819 1.170096782 0.943009963 45000 0.227090115 1.168083672 0.940993557 50000 0.227099894 1.166106102 0.939006208 100000 0.237105707 1.177081366 0.939975659 150000 0.238084937 1.16809686 0.930011923 200000 0.237095593 1.18107931 0.943983717 250000 0.233097816 1.185098488 0.952000672 259200 0.237105987 1.190109637 0.95300365 Table 1: Sampling of Repeat Test Data on Supported and Unsupported Test Accessories

[0022] Thus, by adding column 60, the displacement exhibited by the top plate 10 under load (200 N) was reduced compared to a test fixture without column 60. Furthermore, by adding printed metal supports to column 60, the displacement exhibited by the top plate 10 under load (200 N) was reduced compared to a test fixture having a column 60 composed only of printed plastic. In certain embodiments, test fixture 100 can be configured so that when a load of 200 N is applied to top plate 10 Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 18 / 47 13 / 27 over 72 hours, the upper plate 10 may show a displacement of no more than about 0.40 mm, about 0.35 mm, about 0.25 mm, about 0.24 mm or about 0.23 mm. The upper plate 10 may be physically coupled to the lower plate 50 so that when a load of 200 N is applied to the upper plate 10 over 72 hours, the upper plate 10 may show a displacement of no more than about 0.40 mm, about 0.35 mm, about 0.25 mm, about 0.24 mm or about 0.23 mm.

[0023] Furthermore, according to the present description, column 60 may or may not be reinforced. In some embodiments, reinforcement may not be necessary when column 60 is configured to support loads that are expected to be applied during operation (e.g., testing of medical injection devices). In other words, reinforcement may not be necessary when column 60 is capable of supporting top plate 10 such that top plate 10 exhibits acceptably low or no deformation under the loads considered during testing of medical injection devices. For example, it is believed that when the components of accessory 100, including column 60, are manufactured from plastic (and without reinforcement) on a single 3-D printing machine on the same day, the performance (i.e., lack of deflection of top plate 10) of such column 60 would be comparable to the performance of column 60 having reinforcing material in it.

[0024] The intermediate plate 30 may also include a recessed cavity or track 38 extending in the transverse (or substantially perpendicular) XY plane to the central cavity 32 (see Figure 1A). The track 38 may include a first part 38A extending on one side of the central cavity 32 and a second part 38B extending on the opposite side of the central cavity 32. The first part 38A may be collinear with the second part 38B. The track 38 may be a slotted cavity configured to slide on one or more components. A set of fingers 40 may slide on each part 38A, 38B of the track 38 (only one set of fingers 40 (on the first part 38A) is shown in Figure 1A). Each set of fingers 40 may be configured to slide on the track 38 toward and away from the central cavity 32. Although it is not Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 19 / 47 14 / 27 a requirement, in some embodiments, each set of fingers 40 may be a spring component (or set of components) that is driven into the central cavity 32. That is, the set of fingers 40 in the two parts 38A and 38B of the track 38 may be driven towards each other.

[0025] Each set of fingers 40 may include a base 42, or a carriage, which is configured to slide on the track 38 toward and away from the central cavity 32. Although not required, in some embodiments (not shown), a butterfly screw (or other mechanism such as, for example, slots, etc.) may be provided to lock the base 42 in a desired location on the track 38. A finger element, or a finger 46, may be coupled to the base 42 of each set of fingers 40 using a butterfly screw 48. As best seen in Figure 1A, the finger 46 may be an elongated component extending from an end near the butterfly screw 48 to an opposite end toward the central cavity 32. The finger 46 is coupled to the base 42 so that the length of the finger 46 makes an angle with the base 42. That is, the finger 46 may be angled relative to the base 42. The angle The position of finger 46 with base 42 can be changed using butterfly screw 48.For example, loosening the butterfly screw 48 (e.g., by turning the butterfly screw 48) allows the finger 46 to be rotated around the butterfly screw 48, and the angle between the finger 46 and the base 42 is changed.

[0026] In embodiments where the finger assembly 40 is spring-loaded, a spring 45 can tilt the finger 46 in an upward direction (i.e., towards the upper plate 10 and away from the lower plate 50). The spring 45 can be coupled to a pin 46a disposed on the underside of the finger 46. In particular, the spring 45 can be received by a groove (not shown) in or adjacent to the pin 46a. The spring 45 can also be coupled to a screw or other fastener 46b. The fastener 46b can couple the base 42 to a protrusion that is received by the slot or recess of the track 38. Thus, when a downward force (by a sample or test instrument) is applied to the finger 46, the spring 45 can compress to allow the finger 46 to articulate downward. After the downward force is released, spring 45 can expand to its resting state, and finger 46 can return to its own original and / or resting position. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 20 / 47 15 / 27 In some embodiments, the presence of the 45 spring may allow testing of samples without any fixation of the samples. For example, in some embodiments, the samples may be fixed only by tension.

[0027] The finger end 46 positioned towards the central cavity 32 can be configured to contact and support a sample in the test accessory 100 during testing. For example, in an embodiment where a syringe is supported in the test accessory 100 for testing, the syringe body can be supported vertically by the fingers 46 of the finger assemblies 40 on either side of the central cavity 32, so that the syringe extends through the central cavity 32 towards the lower plate 50. While in this configuration, a loading arm of the UTM can descend to the test accessory 100 through the central cavity 15 in the upper plate 10 and apply the desired type of force (traction force, compression force, etc.) at a desired location on the syringe. The ability to translate the finger assembly 40 onto the track 38 (e.g., in the X direction in Figure 1A) allows for different sample sizes (e.g., syringes, beakers, etc.)) are supported on the test accessory 100 using fingers 46. Furthermore, the end of finger 46 positioned towards the central cavity 32 may include an inward-facing recess 46c which can be used to support a flange of a syringe or injector being tested (such as, for example, a syringe finger flange). It should be noted that although a particular configuration of the finger assembly 40 with fingers 46 is illustrated in the figures, this is only illustrative. In general, the finger assembly 40 and fingers 46 can have any configuration.

[0028] As explained previously, the intermediate plate 30 of the test accessory 100 is slidingly coupled to posts 12, 14, 16. The movable assembly 20 can be used to slide the intermediate plate 30 onto posts 12, 14, 16, and move the intermediate plate 30 in the vertical direction (i.e., towards or away from the upper or lower plates 10, 50). With reference to Figure 1C, the movable assembly 20 includes a screw 22 which is supported in a collar, such as a clamp 56 (e.g., a McMaster clamp), provided on the lower plate 50. In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 1C, the clamp 56 may be provided or Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 21 / 47 16 / 27 embedded in a correspondingly shaped cavity formed in a handwheel 54 formed in the lower plate 10. In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 1C, the handwheel 54 is a tire-shaped projection on the lower plate 50 that includes a central cavity supporting the clamp 56.

[0029] As would be recognized by one skilled in the art, rotating the hand wheel 54 around the longitudinal axis (Z) of the assembly 20 allows the screw 22 (e.g., worm screw) to rotate on the lower plate 50. The screw 22 may be self-locking and have a screw geometry such that pressure on the intermediate plate 30 will not cause the intermediate plate 30 to translate vertically. Instead, the moving assembly 20 may be configured so that the intermediate plate 30 can be moved vertically only by rotating the hand wheel 54. For example, the intermediate plate 30 may include a bearing, fastener (e.g., a nut) 24 with threads that receive the threads of the screw 22. The upper end of the screw 52 includes a bearing 26 attached thereto. In some embodiments, the bearing 26 may have a hemispherical bore into which the upper end of the screw 52 is fitted. In some models, bearing 26 is not attached to the top plate 10.In some embodiments, the upper part of the bearing 26 may contact the rear surface of the upper plate 10 so that the bearing 26 can slide (in the XY plane) on the upper plate 10 to minimize the impact of misalignment of the moving assembly 20, for example, the rotating screw assembly 20, in the test accessory 100. When the hand wheel 54 is turned (or rotated), the screw 22 (and the bearing 26) rotates relative to the upper and lower plates 10, 50. The screw 22 extends through the intermediate plate 30 by means of a bearing 24 fixed to it. As would be recognized by one skilled in the art, the bearing 24 translates the rotational motion of the screw 22 into linear motion of the intermediate plate 30 fixed to it. Although not seen in the figures, in some embodiments, the intermediate plate 30 may also include a bearing (for example, a brass bearing, bronze bearing, etc.).) positioned in the cavity through which screw 22 extends. Turning the hand wheel 54 causes the ball screw 22 to rotate around the upper plates. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 22 / 47 Rotating the handwheel 54 in one direction causes the intermediate plate 30 to move in one direction (e.g., towards the upper plate 10 or towards the lower plate 50), and rotating the handwheel in the opposite direction causes the intermediate plate 30 to move in the opposite direction. The ability to move the intermediate plate 30 up or down allows different types and sizes of samples to be supported in the test accessory 100.

[0030] It is also considered that the moving assembly 20 may be any suitable linear motion component configured to translate the intermediate plate 30 relative to the upper plate 10 and the lower plate 50 along the Y-axis. For example, the moving assembly 20 may include a pulley system or similar.

[0031] As explained previously, the central cavity 15 of the top plate 10 can support a support 80 (see Figures 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B). An exemplary support 80 that can be supported on the top plate 10 is shown in Figure 3. As best seen in Figures 1A and 1B, the side walls of the central cavity 15 can include a slot 82A (e.g., a rectangular recess, etc.). In some embodiments, the slot 82A extends along the length of the central cavity 15 from the front end A of the test accessory 100 to the rear end 14 of the central cavity 15 (i.e., along the Y-axis, see Figure 2A). The slot 82A in the side walls of the central cavity 15 is configured to slide a corresponding shaped projection 82B on the sides of the support 80.Support 80 can be fixed to the central cavity 15 by engaging projection 82B with slot 82A of the central cavity 15, and sliding support 80 into the central cavity 15 so that the front surface of support 80 is flush with the front surface of the top plate (see Figures 1A, 1B). The fasteners used to attach column 60 to top plate 10 can then be inserted into cavities 16A, 16B (see Figure 1C). These fasteners can extend through top plate 10 into screw holes 86A, 86B (see Figure 3) on the rear surface of support 80 to attach column 60 and support 80 to top plate 10. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 23 / 47 18 / 27

[0032] Support 80 can also be used to support samples in test accessory 100 for testing. The inner end of support 80 may include features 84 that are configured to engage with the sample and support the sample in support 80. It should be noted that support 80 and features 84 illustrated in Figure 3 are only illustrative. In general, the support used and the type of features provided in the support will depend on the type of sample to be supported. In some embodiments, a first support (e.g., support 80) may be used to support one type of sample during a test. After the test, the support may be removed and another support fixed in the central cavity 15 to support a different sample for another test. The ability to quickly switch between supports configured to support different types of samples increases the flexibility of the test device.

[0033] In some embodiments, the features provided in a holder 80 can be configured to support another holder. For example, with reference to holder 80 in Figures 3, 3A and 3B, in some embodiments, the features 84 on the inner surface of holder 80 can be configured to engage and support another holder 80A (e.g., an inner holder 80A that fits into holder 80 and is configured to support some test samples) which is configured to support a sample. In such embodiments, the holder fixed to the top plate 10 (e.g., holder 80) cannot be replaced to support a differently configured test sample. Instead, the inner holder 80A that is supported by the holder 80 fixed to the top plate can be replaced by another inner holder configured to support the new test sample.The ability to quickly replace supports and / or internal holders to accommodate different sample configurations allows the Test 100 accessory to be used to support many different test sample configurations.

[0034] The 80A internal holder may include a circular opening and other suitable features configured to support test samples, such as, for example, syringes. In some embodiments, the 80A internal holder may be configured to receive one or more syringe adapters or discs used in tests conducted by the UTM. The syringe adapters or discs may be commercially available. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 24 / 47 19 / 27 are available or custom-made, and can be individually designed to support different samples, syringes, containers, or similar items. For example, adapters or discs can be configured to accommodate or support various diameters, shapes, configurations of syringes or similar items.

[0035] In some embodiments, the support (e.g., support 80) on the upper plate 10 and the finger sets 40 on the intermediate plate 30 can be configured to jointly support a sample for a test. For example, a syringe extending through (e.g., vertically) both cavities 12 and 32 (of the upper and intermediate plates 10, 30) can be supported by both the support 80 of the upper plate 10 and the fingers 46 of the finger sets 40 of the intermediate plate 30. The ability to change the gap between the upper and intermediate plates 10, 30 by vertically moving the intermediate plate 30 using the hand wheel 54 allows samples of different configurations and sizes to be easily supported in the test device 100 without altering the fixation. The ability to easily reconfigure the test device 100 to test different test samples increases efficiency while saving time and money.

[0036] Figures 5A and 5B show exemplary replacement parts that are mountable on the center plate 30. For example, Figure 5A shows a sample retention arm 500 that can be used to support a sample collection container on a platform 502. For example, the retention arm 500 can be used to support primary “bulk” containers (i.e., syringes) being tested under tension, or the retention arm 500 can be used to hold a waste collection cup when sample weighing is not required. These uses are not limiting, and it is considered that the retention arm 500 can also be used in other test applications. The sample collection container can collect liquids ejected from a syringe or test device during testing. Similarly, Figure 5B shows a support 510 that can be used to support or hold a centrifuge tube or similar.Replacement parts or adapters shown in Figures 5A and 5B may be used in certain tests that do not require them. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, p. 25 / 47 20 / 27 sets of fingers 40. The retaining arm 500 and / or support 510 can be coupled to the center plate 30 by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws) that extend through openings in the retaining arm 500 and / or support 510, and through openings in the center plate 30.

[0037] Figures 5C-5E show exemplary replacement parts that can be used with the top plate 10 to perform tests, for example, on an ISO bottle or other similar container. Figure 5C shows the support 80 used with an inner support 80B (instead of the inner support 80A discussed above). The inner support 80B can be used to support bottles for puncture testing. The inner support 80B may include a coupling flange 80C that is configured to rest on an upper surface of the support 80 in order to couple the inner support 80B to the support 80. The inner support 80B may also include a base surface 80D that is offset from (in a different plane) the coupling flange 80C, although it is considered that in at least some embodiments, the coupling flange 80C and the base surface 80D may be coplanar.A side wall 80E may be disposed between the coupling flange 80C and the base surface 80D and, in some embodiments, may be substantially perpendicular to the coupling flange 80C and the base surface 80D. The side wall 80E may include a partially cylindrical portion that is connected at opposite ends to substantially parallel portions of the side wall 80E. The partially cylindrical portion of the side wall 80E may have a radius that approximates or is slightly greater than the radius of a sample container or vial to be tested. Furthermore, the distance between the substantially parallel portions of the side wall 80E may approximate or be slightly greater than the radius of a sample container or vial to be tested. During testing, a lower portion of a sample container or vial may be supported by the base surface 80D and the side wall 80E.

[0038] Figure 5D shows a support 80F that can be inserted into the top plate 10 in a manner substantially similar to the support 80 discussed here, for example, using protrusions 82B. The support 80F may include a top surface. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 26 / 47 21 / 27 80G, which is positioned above and offset from the protrusions 82B, although they may be coplanar in some embodiments. Support 80F may include one or more posts 80H that extend upward and away from the top surface 80G. In the embodiment shown, support 80F includes three posts 80H, but this number is not limiting, and support 80F may include more or fewer posts 80H. Each post 80H may include a lumen extending through it, and may also include one or more coupling features, such as threads, rails, or the like, in order to receive complementary features of a fastener (such as a screw). Support 80F may include a base surface 80I that is positioned below and offset from the top surface 80G. A side wall 80J may be disposed between and substantially perpendicular to the top surface 80G and the base surface 80I.Similar to the 80E side wall discussed above, the 80J side wall may include a partially cylindrical portion that is connected at opposite ends to substantially parallel portions of the 80J side wall.

[0039] Figure 5E shows a retaining plate 80K that can be coupled and used in conjunction with the support 80F to perform the cap removal force test on a sample container or vial (where the test forces are rotational from one side of the sample container or vial). The retaining plate 80K may include one or more openings 80L extending through it, each configured to be aligned with a corresponding post 80H of the support 80F. In the embodiment shown, the retaining plate 80K includes three openings 80L, but this is not limiting, and the retaining plate 80K may include additional openings 80L or fewer openings. The retaining plate 80K may include a recess 80M that corresponds at least partially in shape to the base surface 80I of the support 80F. Additionally, a side wall 80N may encircle the recess 80M, and parts of the side wall 80N may correspond in shape and geometry to the side wall 80J of the support 80F.The partially cylindrical sections of the side walls 80J and 80N can be aligned vertically when the retaining plate 80K is attached to the support 80F.

[0040] The 80K retaining plate can be attached to the 80F bracket by aligning the Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, p. 27 / 47 22 / 27 openings 80L with the lumen openings of the 80H posts. A fastener (such as a screw) can be inserted through a respective 80L opening / 80H post to secure the 80K retaining plate to the 80F support. The corresponding shapes of the 80K retaining plate and the 80F support can allow the 80K retaining plate and the 80F support to support different parts of the same sample container or bottle. For example, the base surface 80I and the side wall 80J can support a bottom part of a sample container or bottle, while the side wall 80N can support a top or middle part of the same sample container or bottle.

[0041] The components of Figures 5C-5E, similar to other replacement parts described herein, can be designed and manufactured in substantially less time than existing components used to perform the same tests. For example, the components of Figures 5C-5E can be designed in less than three hours, and can be printed in less than ten hours. These replacement parts, as described above, can be used in the testing of ISO vials, while test accessory 100 can help keep samples and replacement parts concentric, and help position sample containers or vials at the minimum test height of the system. Test accessory 100 and its various replacement parts allow for quick modification of test accessory 100 to accommodate the testing of different components (e.g., pre-filled syringes and ISO vials), whereas existing test arrangements require significantly more hardware and setup time / costs.

[0042] The embodiments of the present description may be used in any suitable test setting. For example, the embodiments of the present description may be used to collect force versus data in syringe or autoinjector tests. The devices described may be used in syringe / plunger force tests, such as, for example, pull-off force tests (determining the force required to initially press a plunger) or sustain / slide force tests (determining the force required to keep the plunger in motion). The devices described may also be used in (1) cap Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 28 / 47 23 / 27 of the needle or other displacement tests (e.g., force to remove the needle / safety cap); (2) activation and displacement force tests; (3) tests to determine the force required to displace a needle protector; (4) needle penetration and displacement tests; and (5) Luer cone breakage tests. The devices described can also be used with blister packaging testing, pill crush testing, or for other tests conducted by a UTM that require new support structures to be developed or acquired. Thus, the devices described can be used for any tensile or compression test on a device, container, or sample vial, such as a medical device, that requires the tested device to be coupled or fixed in a specific orientation. The devices described can be used to protect a wide variety of test structures, ranging in volume from about 0.5 mL to about 5 mL or more.Smaller and larger volume containers are also considered, such as, for example, containers having a volume of about 0.5 mL or less, including, for example, about 0.4 mL or less, about 0.3 mL or less, about 0.2 mL or less, or about 0.1 mL or less. Furthermore, containers larger than about 5 mL may be tested, including, for example, containers having a volume of about 10 mL or more, about 20 mL or more, about 30 mL or more, and so on. The containers being tested may be cylindrical, conical, rectangular, pyramidal, irregular, and / or may have any other suitable shape or combination of shapes.

[0043] Figure 6 illustrates an exemplary method 600. Method 600 may begin at step 602, where the test device 100 may be coupled or otherwise fixed to a test machine, such as, for example, a universal test machine as set forth above. Method 600 may then proceed to step 604, where a user selects and attaches appropriate inserts or spare parts to the test accessory 100 for a desired first test. For example, the user may select one or more from support 80, internal support 80A, finger assemblies 40, retention arm 500, support 510 and / or any other suitable spare parts needed for the first test. Method 600 may also Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, page 29 / 47 24 / 27 include a step 606 where the test accessory 100 and selected replacement parts can be further configured. This may include, for example, moving the center plate 30 in the vertical direction as needed for the first test, adjusting the tension of the finger assemblies 40, or any other necessary configuration task. Step 606 can occur before, during, or after step 604. Then, method 600 can proceed to step 608, where the first test is performed. In some cases, the user may wish to perform another test using test accessory 100, and thus method 600 can proceed to step 610, where the user can select new inserts or replacement parts to be used during a second or subsequent test.From step 610, method 600 can proceed to steps 612 and 614, which may be substantially similar to steps 604 and 606, respectively, modified as necessary due to differences between the first test and the second or subsequent test. Like steps 604 and 606, step 612 can occur before, during, or after step 610. After step 614, method 600 can be completed or can return to step 610 for further subsequent testing.

[0044] The second or subsequent test may be of the same type of test (e.g., a slip test) as the first test, but may be performed on a different sample or device (e.g., a different syringe). The second or subsequent test may also be a different type of test on the same sample or device used in the first test, or a different type of test on a different sample / device used in the first test. However, regardless of the type of test or sample considered for use in the second or subsequent test, the same test accessory 100 may be used and may simply require a new configuration of replacement parts and / or inserts. For example, a new holder 80 and / or a new inner holder 80A may be used in the test. In some examples, only a new inner holder 80A may be used, or the inner holder 80A may be removed.In other examples, the 500 retaining arm and / or 510 support may be used on the 30 center plate in a second test instead of using 40 finger flanges, or vice versa. In some cases... Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, pp. 30 / 47 In 25 / 27 embodiments, the step of method 610 can occur without uncoupling test accessory 100 from the Universal Testing Machine. However, this is not limiting and, in fact, in some embodiments, it is considered that test accessory 100 can be used with a different Universal Testing Machine or with the same Universal Testing Machine as long as some uncoupling / recoupling is required between different tests.

[0045] The embodiments of the present description may allow testing to be conducted with minimal overhead compared to existing testing solutions. For example, existing testing arrangements range in cost from $100 to over $1,000. Furthermore, new arrangements must be purchased to perform new tests, resulting in the expenditure of capital costs and employee labor costs (which are generally significantly higher than capital costs). Additionally, with existing arrangements, there is a loss of productivity during the design, manufacture, and / or shipment of new testing equipment. However, the modular testing accessory of the present description may help alleviate these problems. For example, after the investment in the initial module and, for example, a 3-D printer (ranging from approximately $300 to approximately $250).(000 or more), new tests can be carried out at significantly lower costs, mainly because many users have already invested in a suitable 3-D printer. Some 3-D printers can be configured to print the insert or replacement part in its final, ready-to-use form, while others can print an intermediate component that needs to be modified. For example, with certain printers, additional support (e.g., a steel bar) may be required, or the intermediate component may need to be milled or machined. For example, new inserts or replacement parts may involve material costs in the order of $10-100. Design time (and therefore employee labor costs) is reduced because only the insert / replacement part needs to be designed, as opposed to the entire module.Furthermore, inserts / replacement parts require less design and manufacturing expertise to create, and therefore individuals who may not have significant experience in instrument making can use them. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, pp. 31 / 47 26 / 27 test (e.g., a chemist, chemical engineer, biomedical engineer, bioscientist, or similar) can still create a suitable insert / replacement part. Furthermore, to the extent that additional assistance is required from an engineering / design / manufacturing specialist, such assistance may be limited compared to when an entire new test arrangement is needed. Even more, many of the inserts / replacement parts in this description can be printed (e.g., by a 3-D printer) on-site, reducing productivity loss, as customized inserts / replacement parts can be ready for use in hours / days, compared to the longer lead times required for new test arrangements to be built and shipped.Furthermore, it is considered that, after the design of the new inserts or replacement parts, the 3D printing of such inserts or replacement parts can be contracted to a third-party 3D printer, with costs to the user ranging from approximately US$400 to approximately US$700.

[0046] In embodiments of the present description, it is considered that the need for a new replacement part can be identified at an early stage, and that the new replacement part can be designed and manufactured (e.g., by 3-D printing) into a ready-to-use component and subsequently used in a tensile or compression test in about 12 hours or less (measured from the early stage). Other time periods are also considered, mainly due to the complexity of certain components. In other embodiments, the new replacement part may be ready for use, and the replacement part actually used in a tensile or compression test, in about 18 hours or less, or about 24 hours or less, measured from the early stage.Furthermore, in at least some embodiments of the present description, a new replacement part can be manufactured solely by 3D printing (i.e., by sending printing instructions to the 3D printer and printing a complete, ready-to-use component without requiring any further milling, machining, or similar processes).

[0047] As used in this document, an insert or replacement part may be any component that is required to support and / or guide a Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, pp. 32 / 47 27 / 27 test sample or container using a modular test accessory, to perform compression and / or tensile tests on the sample or container. The component may come into direct or indirect contact with the test sample or container and may include any structure such as, but not limited to, supports, platforms, support surfaces, posts, flanges, fasteners or similar.

[0048] Although the principles of the present description are described in this document with reference to a test accessory that can be used in conjunction with another device (for example, a UTM), it should be understood that the description is not limited to it. Instead, the systems described herein can be employed in the batteries of any application. Furthermore, those skilled in the art and having access to the teachings provided in this document will recognize additional modifications, applications, embodiments, and replacement of equivalents, all within the scope of the embodiments described in this document. Consequently, the description should not be considered limited by the foregoing description. For example, although certain features have been described in conjunction with various embodiments, it should be understood that any feature described in conjunction with any embodiment described in this document can be used with any other embodiment described in this document. Petition 870220033392, dated 04 / 19 / 2022, pp. 33 / 47

Claims

1 / 6 CLAIMS 1. Modular test accessory for supporting a sample during compression and / or tensile tests on a universal testing machine, characterized in that it comprises: a first platform (50); a second platform (30) including a first cavity (32) having a first opening (30C) extending through a first lateral end surface (30A), an upper end surface and a lower end surface of the second platform, wherein the first cavity extends from the first opening on the upper end surface towards a center of the second platform and through the lower end surface;and a third platform (10) including a second cavity (15) having a second opening (10C) extending through a second lateral end surface (10A) of the third platform, wherein the second cavity extends from the second opening towards a center of the third platform; wherein the second platform: is disposed between the first platform and the third platform with the lower end surface facing the first platform and the upper end surface facing the third platform; and is movable relative to the first platform and the third platform; wherein the modular test accessory additionally includes a movable assembly (20) configured to move the second platform relative to the first platform and the third platform.

2. Modular test accessory, according to claim 1, characterized in that the mobile assembly has a first longitudinal axis, the mobile assembly being coupled to each of the first platform, the second platform and the third platform, wherein the rotation of the mobile assembly around the first longitudinal axis causes the second platform to move relative to the first platform and the third platform.

3. Modular test accessory, according to claim 2, Petition 870260059694, dated 06 / 18 / 2026, p. 13 / 53 2 / 6 characterized in that at least a part of each of the first cavity and the second cavity is arranged along a second longitudinal axis that is parallel to the first longitudinal axis of the moving assembly.

4. Modular test accessory, according to claim 1, characterized in that the first opening and the second opening face the same direction, the same direction facing the front of the modular test accessory.

5. Modular test accessory, according to claim 1, characterized in that the first platform and the second platform are substantially parallel to each other, and the first platform and the third platform are substantially parallel to each other.

6. Modular test accessory, according to claim 1, characterized in that the first platform and the third platform are fixed to each other.

7. Modular test accessory, according to claim 1, characterized in that the movable assembly includes a worm screw (22), the second platform includes a threaded fastener (24) that receives the worm screw.

8. Modular test accessory, according to claim 2, characterized in that the first platform includes an actuation assembly configured to receive one end of the moving assembly, wherein the actuation assembly includes a hand wheel (54) configured to rotate the moving assembly around the first longitudinal axis, and the actuation assembly includes a collar (56) surrounded by the hand wheel, wherein the moving assembly extends through the collar.

9. Modular test accessory, according to claim 1, characterized in that the second platform includes a first track (38A) and a second track (38B), wherein the first track is configured to receive a first spring-loaded support (40) and the second track is configured to receive a second spring-loaded support (40) and wherein the first spring-loaded support includes a first finger (46) and a first spring (45), wherein the first finger is propelled towards the third platform by the first spring, and the second spring-loaded support includes a second finger (46) and a second spring (45), wherein the second finger is propelled towards the third platform by the second spring.

10. Modular test accessory, according to claim 9, characterized in that the first track and the second track are collinear.

11. Modular test accessory, according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally includes a column (60) fixed to the first platform and the third platform, the second platform including a third opening through which the column extends, wherein the column is adjacent to the closed ends of the first cavity and the second cavity, and wherein the column includes a polymer, and one or more metal sheets arranged within the polymer.

12. Modular test accessory, according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally includes a U-shaped support (80) received in a removable manner by the second cavity, wherein the second cavity includes one or more slots, and the U-shaped support includes one or more protrusions configured to be received by one or more slots.

13. Modular test accessory, according to claim 1, characterized in that: the first platform includes a first lateral end surface and a second lateral end surface substantially parallel to the first lateral end surface of the first platform; and the second platform includes a second lateral end surface substantially parallel to the first lateral end surface of the second platform; and the modular test accessory includes a first post (12) and a second post (14) coupled to the first platform and the third platform, wherein the first post and the second post are positioned closer to the first lateral end surface of the first platform than to the second lateral end surface of the first platform; Petition 870260059694, dated 06 / 18 / 2026, p.15 / 53 4 / 6 where the moving assembly is positioned closer to the second lateral end surface of the second platform than to the first lateral end surface of the second platform.

14. Modular test accessory, according to claim 13, characterized in that it additionally includes a third post (16) coupled to the first platform and the third platform, wherein the third post has a larger diameter than each of the first post and the second post, and the third post is positioned closer to the second lateral end surface of the first platform than to the first lateral end surface of the first platform.

15. Modular test accessory for supporting a sample during compression and / or tensile tests on a universal testing machine, characterized in that it comprises: a first platform (50); a second platform (30), including: a first cavity (32) having a first opening (30C) extending through a first lateral end surface (30A) of the second platform, wherein the first cavity extends from the first opening towards the center of the second platform; and a third platform (10) fixed relative to the first platform, including a second cavity (15) with a second opening (10C) extending through a first lateral end surface (10A) of the third platform, wherein the second cavity extends from the second opening towards the center of the third platform; wherein the second platform: is disposed between the first platform and the third platform;and is mobile in relation to the first platform and the third platform; wherein the modular test accessory additionally includes: a mobile assembly (20) configured to move the second platform in relation to the first platform and the third platform; and Petition 870260059694, dated 18 / 06 / 2026, p. 16 / 53 5 / 6 and a U-shaped support (80) configured to be received in a sliding and removable manner by the second cavity.; 16. Modular test accessory for supporting a sample during compression and / or tensile testing on a universal testing machine, characterized in that it comprises: a first platform (50) configured to be coupled to the testing machine; a second platform (30) including a first cavity having a first opening extending through a first side end surface, an upper end surface and a lower end surface of the second platform, wherein the first cavity extends from the first opening on the upper end surface towards the center of the second platform and through the lower end surface, and the first cavity is configured to allow a portion of the sample to be inserted into the first cavity;and a third platform (10) including a second cavity having a second opening extending through a first lateral end surface of the third platform, wherein the second cavity extends from the second opening towards a center of the third platform and is configured to allow another portion of the sample to be inserted into the second cavity; wherein the second platform: is disposed between the first platform and the third platform; and is movable relative to the first platform and the third platform; wherein the first cavity and the second cavity are aligned along a common axis, so that the second platform and the third platform are collectively configured to receive the sample extending through each of the first and second cavities;wherein the modular test accessory additionally includes a mobile assembly (20) configured to move the second platform relative to the first platform and the third platform. Petition 870260059694, dated 06 / 18 / 2026, p. 17 / 53 6 / 6; 17. Modular test accessory, according to claim 16, characterized in that it further includes a plurality of posts fixedly coupled to the first platform and the third platform, wherein the second platform is slidingly coupled to the plurality of posts by means of a plurality of bearings fixed to the lower end surface of the second platform.

18. Modular test accessory according to claim 16, characterized in that it further includes a retaining arm (500) mounted on the second platform, the retaining arm including a platform (502) configured to support a sample collection container. Petition 870260059694, dated 06 / 18 / 2026, p. 18 / 53

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