Systems, methods, and apparatus for automating sample testing

Abstract

A testing system 100 is described for performing specimen testing, such as a residual seal force (RSF) test and / or a compression friction (CF) measurement test. The testing system includes a column 114 supported by a base structure 104, a load cell 106 supported by the column, a specimen plate 110a configured to receive a plurality of specimens 112, a motor 204, and a controller 150. The load cell is configured to move along the column toward and away from the base structure via a crosshead 108 coupled to an actuator 156. The plurality of specimens includes a first specimen and a second specimen. The controller is configured to control the motor to adjust the position of the specimen plate.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 140,069, filed January 21, 2021, entitled "System, Method, And Apparatus For Automating Specimen Testing," and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 578,821, filed January 19, 2022, entitled "System, Method, And Apparatus For Automating Specimen Testing," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to sample testing, and more particularly to systems, methods, and apparatus for automating residual seal force testing and / or compressive friction measurement testing. [Background technology]

[0003] Since the early 20th century, containers (e.g., cartridges, bottles, vials, etc.) with elastomeric stoppers, and in some cases crimped caps, have been the primary packaging system for parenteral (i.e., injectable) medications. Parenteral products housed within such container-packaging systems require a robust seal at the interface between the glass container and the elastomeric stopper to prevent contamination and product leakage. The seal is established during the manufacturing process but must withstand a variety of handling, processing, and storage conditions prior to use.

[0004] In some instances, a container seal is composed of three main components: a glass container, an elastomeric closure (e.g., a rubber stopper), and a cap, such as an aluminum cap, that secures the rubber stopper within the container. When a metal cap is used, the cap, typically aluminum or an aluminum alloy, must be crimped onto the container to be closed with a compressive force that ensures a sufficient fit between the container and the elastomeric closure. In other instances, the cap is removed for further testing. Closure variables that affect a container seal include dimensional properties and tolerances, along with mechanical properties of the closure components, including modulus, hardness, and compression set.

[0005] Manufacturers of parenteral containers are required to employ quantitative methods to measure the force that a closure exerts on a container after the initial seal is formed and throughout the shelf life of the product. For closures that use metal caps, this force is measured using a residual seal force ("RSF") test, while a compression friction ("CF") measurement test is used to evaluate glass containers sealed using a plunger. The CF measurement test is sometimes referred to as a glide test. While existing RSF and CF testers can measure RSF and CF, such tests can be time-consuming, tedious, and labor-intensive. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide more accurate, more robust, and / or automated systems, methods, and devices for RSF and / or CF testing. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Systems, methods, and apparatus for testing are disclosed substantially as shown by and described in connection with at least one of the drawings. More particularly, systems, methods, and apparatus for determining residual seal force and / or compressive friction measurements of containers, particularly parenteral pharmaceutical containers, are disclosed.

[0007] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the devices, systems, and methods described herein will become apparent from the following description of specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like or similar reference characters refer to like or similar structure. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the devices, systems, and methods described herein. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1a] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary test system according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 1b] FIG. 1b is a perspective view of the example test system of FIG. 1a with portions removed to better show the load string. [Figure 2a] FIG. 1 is an enlarged perspective view of an exemplary rotating platen assembly of a testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary rotating platen assembly removed from a testing system to better illustrate the components of the rotating platen assembly. [Figure 2c] 2b is a cross-sectional plan view of the second exemplary rotating platen assembly taken along section BB of FIG. 2b. [Figure 2d] FIG. 2 is a top view of an example rotating platen assembly of the test system. [Figure 2e] 2b is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary rotating platen assembly taken along section CC of FIG. 2a. [Figure 3] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of operating an example test system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It should be understood that items referred to in the singular include the plural of that item and vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise or clear from the description. Grammatical conjunctions are intended to represent any and all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations of joined phrases, sentences, words, and the like, unless stated otherwise or clear from the context. The recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is not intended to be limiting and refers individually to any and all values ​​falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value falling within such range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually listed herein. In the following description, it is understood that terms such as "first," "second," "top," "bottom," "side," "before," "after," etc. are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms. For example, while in some instances a first side is located adjacent or proximate to a second side, the terms "first side" and "second side" do not imply any particular order in which the sides are ordered.

[0010] As used herein, terms such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially," when accompanied by numerical values, are to be construed as indicating a deviation that would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to function adequately for the intended purpose. Value ranges and / or numerical values ​​are provided herein as examples only and do not constitute limitations on the scope of the described embodiments. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as," etc.) provided herein is intended merely to better highlight the embodiments and does not impose limitations on the scope of the embodiments. The terms "e.g., " and "for example" are intended to introduce a list of one or more non-limiting examples, specific examples, or instances. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of an embodiment.

[0011] As used herein, the term "and / or" means any one or more of the items in the list connected by "and / or." As an example, "x and / or y" means any element of the three-element set {(x), (y), (x,y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y." As another example, "x, y and / or z" means any element of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x,y), (x,z), (y,z), (x,y,z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" means "one or more of x, y and z."

[0012] As used herein, "circuitry" or "circuitry" includes any analog and / or digital components, power and / or control elements, e.g., microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), software, etc., discrete and / or integrated components, or portions and / or combinations thereof.

[0013] As used herein, the terms "compression rod" and "compression pin" refer to a rigid structure configured to apply a compressive force to a sample positioned within a test system. In the case of CF testing, for example, a compression pin can be used to compress an elastomeric stopper into a rigidly supported parenteral container, such as a vial.

[0014] As used herein, the terms "driving coupled," "driving coupled to," and "driving coupled with," respectively, refer to a mechanical connection that allows a driver, device, apparatus, or component to transmit mechanical force to a driven part, device, apparatus, or component.

[0015] As used herein, the term "processor" refers to processing devices, apparatus, programs, circuits, components, systems, and subsystems, whether implemented in hardware, tangibly embodied software, or both, and whether programmable or not. As used herein, the term "processor" includes, but is not limited to, one or more computing devices, hardwired circuits, signal modifying devices and systems, system controlling devices and machines, central processing units, programmable devices and systems, field programmable gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits, systems on a chip, systems comprising discrete elements and / or circuits, state machines, virtual machines, data processors, processing facilities, and any combination of the above. A processor may be, for example, any type of general-purpose microprocessor or microcontroller, a digital signal processing (DSP) processor, or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). A processor may be coupled to or integrated into a memory device.

[0016] As used herein, the terms "memory" and / or "memory device" refer to computer hardware or circuitry that stores information for use by a processor and / or other digital device. The memory and / or memory device can be any suitable type of computer memory, or any other type of electronic storage medium, such as, for example, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), cache memory, compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), electro-optical memory, magneto-optical memory, programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, solid-state storage, computer-readable media, etc.

[0017] A quantitative method for measuring the closure force exerted on a sealed container can be performed using a constant-rate compression tester. By applying a slow, constant rate of compression to a sealed container, a stress versus time curve can be generated to determine the residual sealing force (RSF) measurement of a given closure seal in the sample. RSF measurements can be obtained for a variety of containers with various closure sizes and shapes. RSF measurements can be used, for example, to demonstrate the safety of a container closure as part of a manufacturer's quality control. The initial force with which the closure compresses the container is a function of the vertical and horizontal compression forces applied during application (e.g., crimping) of an aluminum cap, but due to the viscoelastic relaxation behavior of rubber, the force of the closure pressing against the container decays as a function of time, elastomer composition, and the results of various processing procedures. In another example, a compression friction (CF) measurement test can be performed using a compression tester to confirm the qualification of glass containers sealed using elastomeric closures (e.g., plungers). CF measurement tests are sometimes referred to as sliding tests.

[0018] To assess seal integrity, manufacturers sometimes use manual testing systems as part of their quality control processes to measure the RSF or CF of parenteral packages produced during the container sealing process. Typically, manufacturers test small batches or small quantities (e.g., lot or line samples) as part of their quality control efforts. Because RSF and CF testing are considered destructive (i.e., the product is no longer sealable), manufacturers are limited to testing 0.5%–1.25% of production, or approximately 0.66% of production. Furthermore, operators, already overwhelmed with other production-related tasks, are only allowed limited time (e.g., approximately 1–2 minutes per sample) to perform each test. However, automating the RSF and CF testing process can increase testing speed and the volume of product that can be tested. To automate RSF and CF testing, precautions must be taken to ensure that samples are properly loaded into the testing system to ensure accurate measurements.

[0019] Figure 1a shows a perspective view of an exemplary testing system 100, and Figure 1b shows a perspective view, with portions removed for clarity, of a load frame 102 of the exemplary testing system 100. The testing system 100 generally includes a load frame 102, a load cell 106 attached to a crosshead 108 of the load frame 102, a platen assembly 110 in a base structure 104 of the load frame 102, and a controller 150. As discussed, the platen assembly 110 is configured to support one or more specimens 112 during compression testing (e.g., RSF or CF testing), whether through a manual or automated process.

[0020] As best shown in FIG. 1a, the load frame 102 includes a base structure 104, one or more columns 114, a movable crosshead 108, and a top plate 116. The load frame 102 serves as a rigid support structure against which test forces (e.g., compressive forces) act during testing (e.g., RSF testing, compressive friction measurement testing, etc.). As shown, the load frame 102 may be comprised of a single column 114, although multiple columns 114 can be employed, for example, in a dual column configuration. The base structure 104 generally serves to support the one or more columns 114 and the platen assembly 110 that supports the specimen 112, while also housing various circuitry and components, such as a controller 150.

[0021] The platen assembly 110 can be manually or automatically adjusted (or otherwise controlled) to move or transport the sample 112 to a testing position, where the sample 112 is typically aligned beneath the test head 136, testing device, or other testing accessory. The sample 112 can be, for example, a parenteral pharmaceutical container 140, as shown in FIG. 1b. In one example, as best shown in Detail A of FIG. 1b, the container 140 (e.g., a bottle having a flange 144) defines an opening 142 and the flange 144. An elastomeric stopper 146 covers the opening 142. A cap 148 is crimped beneath the flange 144, compressing the elastomeric stopper 146 and sealing the opening 142. In another example, as best shown in detail B of Figure lb, cap 148 may be omitted and elastomeric stopper 146 fits within opening 142 of container 140 (e.g., a vial) and presses against the interior surface of container 140 to seal opening 142. Sample 112 is shown as container 140 both with and without flange 144 and / or cap 148, although other types of sample 112 are contemplated.

[0022] Each of the one or more columns 114 includes a guide column and a ball screw 154 drivingly coupled to an actuator 156. The ball screw 154 is a form of mechanical linear actuator that converts rotary motion (e.g., from an actuator 156, such as a motor) into linear motion with little friction. In one example, the ball screw 154 can include a threaded shaft that provides a helical raceway of ball bearings, acting as a precision screw. As shown in FIG. 1b, the ball screw 154 is housed within the one or more columns 114 between the base structure 104 and the top plate 116. The actuator 156 that drives the ball screw 154 is controlled via the controller 150. A column cover 118 can be provided to protect the ball screw 154 from dust, dirt, and damage, as well as to protect the user from harm during operation. The test system 100 includes various sensors to monitor its operation. For example, testing system 100 may include upper limit switch 132 and lower limit switch 134 to prevent crosshead 108 from straying from an acceptable range of motion along axis A. Triggering upper limit switch 132 or lower limit switch 134 may cause controller 150 to stop (or reverse) actuator 156 to prevent damage to testing system 100 or specimen 112.

[0023] The crosshead 108 is attached to both a guide column and a ball screw 154, which supports the load cell 106. The ball screw 154 is driven (e.g., rotated) via an actuator 156. Rotation of the ball screw 154 drives the crosshead 108 up (away from) or down (toward) relative to the base structure 104, while the guide column provides stability to the crosshead 108. The load cell 106 may be removably coupled to the crosshead 108 via one or more mechanical fasteners 138 (e.g., screws, bolts, cap screws, etc.) to allow an operator to replace the load cell 106 when desired. For example, the load cell 106 may be damaged, or a different type of load cell 106 may be desired or required, which may vary from test to test (e.g., RSF or CF test).

[0024] The display device 126 (e.g., a touchscreen display), the control panel 128, and / or the remote control 130 (e.g., a handset) may be used by an operator to monitor and / or control the operation of the test system 100. In some examples, the control panel 128 and the remote control 130 may each provide one or more switches, buttons, or dials (e.g., an emergency stop button) that control or adjust the operation of the test system 100. The control panel 128 and the remote control 130 may further provide one or more status indicators (e.g., LEDs, lights, etc.) that provide the status of the test system 100. The remote control 130 may be wired or wireless.

[0025] To provide additional protection and enhance safety, the load string 101 can be housed within a housing 120 that defines a test chamber 122. The housing 120 can be made of a transparent material (e.g., glass, plastic, plexiglass, etc.) to allow an operator to observe the load string 101. A door or access panel 124 can be provided to allow access to the test chamber 122 within the housing 120. The load string 101 generally refers to the components installed between the movable crosshead 108 and the base structure 104 (or the fixed lower crosshead, if applicable). Typically, the load string 101 includes the load cell 106, the test head 136, any adapters necessary to connect the components, and the specimen(s) 112 to be tested. Typically, for RSF testing, the load cell 106 is mounted on the crosshead 108, the test head 136 with anvils is mounted to the load cell 106, and the specimen 112 is positioned on the base structure 104 (e.g., using the platen assembly 110). Similarly, for CF testing, the load cell 106 is mounted on the crosshead 108, the compression rod is attached to the load cell 106, and the sample 112 is positioned on the base structure 104 (eg, using the platen assembly 110).

[0026] The operation of the test system 100 may be automatically controlled and / or monitored via a controller 150. The controller 150 may include a processor 150a and a memory device 150b configured with executable instructions. The controller 150 may be operatively coupled to and configured to control various actuators (e.g., actuator 156 driving ball screw 154), sensors (e.g., load cell(s) 106, upper limit switch 132 and lower limit switch 134), user interfaces (e.g., display device 126, control panel 128, and / or remote control 130), etc.

[0027] During RSF testing, for example, the crosshead 108 moves downward (toward the base structure 104) along axis A of the load frame 102 to apply a compressive load to the specimens 112 via a test head 136, test fixture, or other test accessory coupled to the load cell 106. The test head 136 can be or include an anvil (also known as a dorn) configured to contact and compress one or more specimens 112. The test head 136, test fixture, or other test accessory can be coupled directly to the coupler 152 of the load cell 106 or can be coupled via a compression rod or pin.

[0028] The load cell 106 converts this load into an electrical signal, which the testing system 100 measures via the controller 150 and displays to the operator via the display device 126. In one example, the test head 136 can be advanced at a constant rate (e.g., approximately 0.01 inches per second). In other words, in this example, for every 0.001 inch of travel of the crosshead 108 along the column 114 (along axis A), the controller 150 automatically records the force exerted by the specimen 112 in response to the test head 136 imposing motion (strain) on the specimen 112. The constant rate can be adjusted for a given specimen 112. The controller 150 also automatically records corresponding strain data. The resulting data set includes a sequence of stress-strain measurements that can be graphed to approximate a curve with a predictable shape. In the case of an RSF, a proper seal can be determined by monitoring for an inflection point in the resulting curve (e.g., indicating that the elastomeric plug 146 has transitioned from a bent state to a rigid state, thus sealing the opening 142).

[0029] The test head 136 can be designed for RSF and / or CF testing. For example, the test head 136 can be a compression rod for CF testing, or it can be equipped with anvils for RSF testing, e.g., a test head with adjustable matching anvils. As can be appreciated, certain tests may require specific types of test heads 136. For example, the test head 136 used during RSF measurements may be equipped with anvils that are sized and shaped to correspond to the size and shape of the stopper of a parenteral container. Thus, while the test head 136 is generally configured for RSF testing in FIGS. 1a and 1b, a compression rod (and associated load cell) could instead be used for CF testing.

[0030] The test head 136 may be interchangeable to allow the test system 100 to be used for various types of tests (e.g., RSF, CF, tension, compression, bend, etc.). In other words, the test head 136 may be configured to removably couple to the load cell 106, for example, via a coupler 152 or other means, to allow an operator to swap or replace the test head 136 with another test head 136, test apparatus, or other test accessory. The coupler 152 may employ one or more of a collar fitting (e.g., a collar with one or more locking pins or threads), a clevis fitting, a sleeve fitting, or a threaded fitting (e.g., a threaded rod). Thus, while the coupler 152 is shown as a female collar coupler with locking screws and / or locking pins, other types of fittings are also contemplated.

[0031] One or more samples 112 are supported on the base structure 104 by a platen assembly 110. Similar to the test head 136, certain tests may require specific types of platen assemblies 110. For example, the platen assembly 110 used during RSF measurements may include one or more stations sized and shaped to correspond to the size and shape of the parenteral container 140 (or other sample 112). To that end, the platen assembly 110 may include a test-specific or sample-specific sample plate 110a and a base plate 110b supported by the base structure 104 and configured to support the sample plate 110a. The sample plate 110a may be removably coupled to the base plate 110b to allow an operator to select the appropriate sample plate 110a for a particular test. In one example, the sample plate 110a is a plate or table sized and shaped to support one or more samples 112 (e.g., via one or more recesses), while the base plate 110b can be a plate configured to support and / or secure the sample plate 110a relative to the base structure 104. In some examples, the sample plate 110a is configured to move relative to the base plate 110b. For example, the sample plate 110a can be configured to rotate or tilt relative to the base plate 110b to accommodate the appropriate angle of the test head 136 during compression.

[0032] Figure 2a shows an enlarged perspective view of an exemplary rotating platen assembly 200 of test system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2b shows a perspective view of the exemplary rotating platen assembly 200 removed from test system 100 to better show the components of rotating platen assembly 200, and Figure 2c shows a top cross-sectional view of a second exemplary rotating platen assembly 200 along section BB of Figure 2b. Finally, Figure 2d shows a top view of the exemplary rotating platen assembly 200 of test system 100, and Figure 2e shows a top cross-sectional view of the exemplary rotating platen assembly 200 along section CC of Figure 2a.

[0033] A testing system 100 for performing automated residual seal force (RSF) testing includes a column 114 supported by a base structure 104, a load cell 106 supported by the column 114, a sample plate 110a, and a controller 150. As discussed with respect to Figures 1a and 1b, the load cell 106 is configured to move along the column 114 toward and away from the base structure 104 via a crosshead 108 coupled to an actuator 156.

[0034] The sample plate 110a is configured to receive multiple samples 112 (e.g., at least a first sample 112 and a second sample 112). To facilitate automated testing, the controller 150 is configured to adjust the position of the sample plate 110a via one or more actuators (e.g., electric motors 204) to position the desired sample 112 at a test location 226 for testing. For example, as best shown with reference to FIGS. 2d and 2e, the test system 100 includes a test location 226 that is aligned beneath a test head 136, test fixture, or other test accessory. In other words, although the sample plate 110a is shown having multiple (e.g., 12) stations 202, only the stations 202 (and associated samples 112) positioned at the test location 226 are contacted / compressed by the test head 136 during RSF testing.

[0035] In operation, the controller 150 is configured to position the sample plate 110a in a first position that positions the first sample 112 in the test position 226 of the testing system 100. The controller 150 then advances the crosshead 108 along the column 114 toward the base structure 104 via the first actuator 156 to compress the first sample 112. During compression, the controller 150 determines the residual seal force of the first sample 112 via the processor 150a, which is operably coupled to the load cell 106. Once the RSF test is completed for the first sample 112, the controller 150 retracts the crosshead 108 along the column 114 away from the base structure 104 via the first actuator 156. The controller 150 then positions the sample plate 110a in a second position that positions the second sample 112 in the test position 226 via the second actuator 204.

[0036] The controller 150 then advances the crosshead 108 along the column 114 toward the base structure 104 via the first actuator 156 to compress the second sample 112. During compression, the controller 150 determines the residual seal force of the second sample 112 via the processor 150a. Once the RSF test is completed for the second sample 112, the controller 150 retracts the crosshead 108 along the column 114 away from the base structure 104 via the first actuator 156. This process can be repeated for each sample 112 mounted on the sample plate 110a. While twelve stations 202 (and thus a maximum of twelve samples 112) are shown, the sample plate 110a can be scaled depending on the amount of samples 112 for testing.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 2c, in one example, the rotating platen assembly 200 includes an electric motor 204, a sample plate 110a, and a base plate 110b. The electric motor 204 is configured to output rotational force about a rotation axis 222 via a drive pulley 208. In some examples, the electric motor 204 is a stepper motor. The base plate 110b is configured to support the sample plate 110a. The sample plate 110a includes a plurality of stations 202 (e.g., 2 to 24 stations 202, or about 12 stations), each configured to receive a sample 112. The sample plate 110a can be fabricated from plastic, composites, metal, and / or metal alloys. In some examples, each of the plurality of stations 202 is molded or drilled into the sample plate 110a. In some examples, the sample plate 110a is removably coupled to the base plate 110b. The sample plate 110a can be removably coupled to the base plate 110b via one or more dowels 216, which can prevent the sample plate 110a from rotating relative to the base plate 110b. In some examples, the sample plate 110a and the base plate 110b can be manufactured as a unitary structure or as separate structures that are coupled together (e.g., fixedly or removably coupled).

[0038] The base plate 110b includes a driven pulley 210 that is drivingly coupled to a drive pulley 208. In some examples, the driven pulley 210 is drivingly coupled to the drive pulley 208 via a belt 212. In operation, the electric motor 204 is configured to rotate the base plate 110b about an axis of rotation 214. The base plate 110b and the driven pulley 210 can be manufactured as a unitary structure or as separate structures that are coupled together. In some examples, the electric motor 204, the driven pulley 210, and the drive pulley 208 are fixed in position relative to one another by a mounting plate 206. The driven pulley 210 can be mounted to the mounting plate 206 via one or more ball bearings 214. To increase the strength of the rotating platen assembly 200 during compression, the one or more ball bearings 214 can be positioned within a recess 220 formed on or in the mounting plate 206. In some examples, each of drive pulley 208 and driven pulley 210 is a timing pulley, and belt 212 is a toothed belt.

[0039] The rotating platen assembly 200 can further include a position sensor 218 configured to determine the rotational position of the base plate 110b about the rotation axis 214. In one example, the position sensor 218 uses a combination of a motor encoder to determine the position of the motor and an optical sensor to determine the home position. In other examples, the position sensor 218 can use, for example, a Hall effect sensor, a resolver, or a rotary potentiometer. For example, the controller 150 can be operably coupled to the position sensor 218 and configured to monitor the position of the motor in real time or near real time.

[0040] 3 is a flow chart depicting one example method 300 for conducting automated residual seal force (RSF) testing in test system 100. While RSF testing is described, compressive friction measurements can similarly be performed via test system 100. Test system 100 includes a load cell 106 configured to move along a column 114 toward and away from a base structure 104 via a crosshead 108.

[0041] In step 302, a plurality of samples 112 are loaded onto the sample plate 110a. The plurality of samples 112 loaded onto the sample plate 110a can be loaded through a manual process or an automated process. The plurality of samples 112 includes a first sample 112 and a subsequent sample 112 (e.g., a second sample 112).

[0042] In step 304, the sample plate 110a is positioned in a first position that positions the first sample 112 in the test position 226 of the test system 100. The sample plate 110a can be positioned in the first position manually (e.g., by an operator before starting the test) or via the electric motor 204.

[0043] In step 306 , the actuator 156 advances the crosshead 108 along the column 114 toward the base structure 104 to compress the first sample 112 .

[0044] In step 308, the processor 150a, which is operatively coupled to the load cell 106, determines the residual seal force of the first sample 112.

[0045] In step 310 , the actuator 156 retracts the crosshead 108 along the column 114 away from the base structure 104 .

[0046] In step 312 , the electric motor 204 positions the sample plate 110 a in a second position that positions the subsequent sample 112 in the test position 226 .

[0047] In step 314 , the actuator 156 advances the crosshead 108 along the column 114 toward the base structure 104 to compress the subsequent sample 112 .

[0048] In step 316, the processor 150a determines the residual seal force of the subsequent sample 112. Steps 312-316 can be automatically repeated for each subsequent sample 112 until each of the multiple samples 112 mounted on the sample plate 110a has been tested.

[0049] Although the present method and / or system has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present method and / or system. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, blocks and / or components of the disclosed examples may be combined, divided, rearranged, and / or otherwise modified. Therefore, the present method and / or system is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Instead, the present method and / or system includes all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims, both literally and under the doctrine of equivalents. [Configuration 1] 1. A testing system for performing automated sample testing, comprising: a column supported by a base structure; a load cell supported by the column, the load cell configured to move along the column toward and away from the base structure via a crosshead coupled to a first actuator; a sample plate configured to receive a plurality of samples, the plurality of samples including a first sample and a second sample; a second actuator configured to adjust the position of the sample plate; a controller operably coupled to each of the load cell, the first actuator, and the second actuator; The controller comprises: positioning the sample plate in a first position that positions the first sample in a test position of the test system; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via the first actuator to compress the first sample; determining a residual seal force of the first sample via a processor operably coupled to the load cell; retracting the crosshead along the column away from the base structure via the first actuator; positioning the sample plate via the second actuator to a second position that positions the second sample at the test position; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via the first actuator to compress the second sample; determining a residual seal force of the second sample via the processor operably coupled to the load cell; and A test system configured to: [Configuration 2] 2. The testing system of claim 1, wherein the first actuator is configured to drive a ball screw. [Configuration 3] 10. The test system of configuration 1, wherein the second actuator is a stepper motor. [Configuration 4] 2. The test system of claim 1, wherein the second actuator is an electric motor configured to drive a rotating platen assembly via a drive pulley. [Configuration 5] 5. The test system of configuration 4, wherein the rotating platen assembly comprises a base plate configured to support the sample plate, the base plate comprising a driven pulley drivingly coupled to the drive pulley, and the electric motor configured to rotate the base plate about an axis of rotation. [Configuration 6] 1. A testing system for performing automated sample testing, comprising: a column supported by a base structure; a load cell supported by the column, the load cell configured to move along the column toward and away from the base structure via a crosshead coupled to an actuator; a base plate supported by the base structure and configured to support a sample plate, the sample plate comprising a plurality of stations, each of the plurality of stations configured to receive a sample; an electric motor configured to output a rotational force to a drive pulley drivingly coupled to a driven pulley, the driven pulley configured to rotate the base plate about an axis of rotation; a controller operatively coupled to each of the load cell, the actuator, and the electric motor; The controller comprises: rotating the base plate via the electric motor to a first rotational position that positions a first specimen in a testing position; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via the actuator to compress the first sample; determining a residual seal force of the first sample via a processor operably coupled to the load cell; retracting the crosshead along the column away from the base structure via the actuator; rotating the base plate via the electric motor to a second rotational position that positions a second specimen at the test position; determining a residual seal force of the second sample via the processor operably coupled to the load cell; and A test system configured to: [Configuration 7] 7. The test system of configuration 6, wherein the electric motor, the driven pulley, and the drive pulley are fixed in position relative to one another by a mounting plate. [Configuration 8] 8. The test system of configuration 7, wherein the driven pulley is attached to the mounting plate via one or more ball bearings. [Configuration 9] 9. The test system of configuration 8, wherein the one or more ball bearings are positioned on or in recesses formed in the mounting plate. [Configuration 10] 7. The test system of configuration 6, further comprising a position sensor configured to determine a rotational position of the base plate or the sample plate about the axis of rotation. [Configuration 11] 11. The test system of claim 10, wherein the position sensor includes at least one of a motor encoder, a Hall effect sensor, a resolver, or a rotary potentiometer. [Configuration 12] 7. The test system of configuration 6, wherein the electric motor is a stepper motor. [Configuration 13] 7. The test system of configuration 6, wherein the sample plate is removably coupled to the base plate via one or more dowels. [Configuration 14] 7. The test system of configuration 6, wherein the driven pulley is drivingly coupled to the drive pulley via a belt. [Configuration 15] 15. The test system of claim 14, wherein each of the drive pulley and the driven pulley is a timing pulley. [Configuration 16] 15. The testing system of aspect 14, wherein the belt is a toothed belt. [Configuration 17] 11. The test system of claim 10, further comprising a controller configured to rotate the base plate to a desired rotational position based on a sensor reading from the position sensor. [Configuration 18] 18. The test system of configuration 17, wherein the desired rotational position is a home position. [Configuration 19] 18. The test system of claim 17, wherein the controller is configured to rotate the base plate via the electric motor through each of the plurality of stations as part of an automated residual seal force (RSF) or compression friction (CF) test. [Configuration 20] 20. The test system of claim 19, wherein the controller is configured to rotate the base plate through each of the plurality of stations in sequence. [Configuration 21] 9. The testing system of configuration 8, wherein the base structure comprises a weld ring adjacent to or around the one or more ball bearings to mitigate liquid penetration into the base structure. [Configuration 22] 1. A rotating platen assembly for use with a testing system during specimen testing, comprising: an electric motor configured to output a rotational force via a drive pulley; a sample plate comprising a plurality of stations, each of the plurality of stations configured to receive a sample; a base plate configured to support the sample plate, the base plate comprising a driven pulley drivingly coupled to the drive pulley; Equipped with The electric motor is configured to rotate the base plate about an axis of rotation. [Configuration 23] 23. The rotating platen assembly of claim 22, wherein the electric motor, the driven pulley, and the drive pulley are fixed in position relative to one another by a mounting plate. [Configuration 24] 24. The rotating platen assembly of claim 23, wherein the driven pulley is attached to the mounting plate via one or more ball bearings. [Configuration 25] 25. The rotating platen assembly of claim 24, wherein the one or more ball bearings are positioned within recesses formed on or in the mounting plate. [Configuration 26] 23. The rotating platen assembly of claim 22, further comprising a position sensor configured to determine a rotational position of the base plate about the axis of rotation. [Configuration 27] 27. The rotating platen assembly of claim 26, wherein the position sensor includes at least one of a motor encoder, a Hall effect sensor, a resolver, or a rotary potentiometer. [Configuration 28] 23. The rotating platen assembly of claim 22, wherein the electric motor is a stepper motor. [Configuration 29] 23. The rotating platen assembly of aspect 22, wherein the plurality of stations includes 12 stations. [Configuration 30] 23. The rotating platen assembly of aspect 22, wherein the sample plate is removably coupled to the base plate via one or more dowels. [Configuration 31] 23. The rotating platen assembly of claim 22, wherein the driven pulley is drivingly coupled to the drive pulley via a belt. [Configuration 32] 32. The rotating platen assembly of claim 31, wherein each of the drive pulley and the driven pulley is a timing pulley. [Configuration 33] 32. The rotating platen assembly of claim 31, wherein the belt is a toothed belt. [Configuration 34] 23. The rotating platen assembly of aspect 22, wherein the sample plate is a metal plate. [Configuration 35] 35. The rotating platen assembly of claim 34, wherein each of the plurality of stations is drilled into the metal plate. [Configuration 36] 36. The rotating platen assembly of claim 35, wherein the base plate and the driven pulley are manufactured as a unitary structure. [Configuration 37] 34. The rotating platen assembly of claim 33, wherein the base plate and the driven pulley are separate structures. [Configuration 38] 1. A method for conducting automated sample testing in a testing system having a load cell configured to move along a column toward and away from a base structure via a crosshead, comprising: loading a plurality of samples onto a sample plate, the plurality of samples including a first sample and a second sample; positioning the sample plate in a first position that positions the first sample in a test position of the test system; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via a first actuator to compress the first sample; determining a residual seal force of the first sample via a processor operably coupled to the load cell; retracting the crosshead along the column away from the base structure via the first actuator; positioning the sample plate via a second actuator to a second position that positions the second sample at the test position; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via the first actuator to compress the second sample; determining a residual seal force of the second sample via the processor operably coupled to the load cell; and A method comprising: [Configuration 39] 39. The method of claim 38, wherein the first actuator is configured to drive a ball screw (154). [Configuration 40] 39. The method of claim 38, wherein the second actuator is a stepper motor. [Configuration 41] 39. The method of claim 38, wherein the second actuator is an electric motor configured to drive a rotating platen assembly via a drive pulley. [Configuration 42] The rotating platen assembly includes: a sample plate defining a plurality of stations, each of the plurality of stations configured to receive one of the plurality of samples; a base plate configured to support the sample plate; Equipped with the base plate includes a driven pulley drivingly coupled to the drive pulley; 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the electric motor is configured to rotate the base plate about an axis of rotation.

Claims

1. 1. A testing system for performing automated sample testing, comprising: a column supported by a base structure; a load cell supported by the column, the load cell configured to move along the column toward and away from the base structure via a crosshead coupled to a first actuator; a sample plate configured to receive a plurality of samples, the plurality of samples including a first sample and a second sample; a second actuator configured to adjust the position of the sample plate; a controller operably coupled to each of the load cell, the first actuator, and the second actuator; The controller comprises: positioning the sample plate in a first position that positions the first sample in a test position of the test system; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via the first actuator to compress the first sample; determining a residual seal force of the first sample via a processor operably coupled to the load cell; retracting the crosshead along the column away from the base structure via the first actuator; positioning the sample plate via the second actuator to a second position that positions the second sample at the test position; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via the first actuator to compress the second sample; determining a residual seal force of the second sample via the processor operably coupled to the load cell; A test system configured to:

2. The test system of claim 1 , wherein the first actuator is configured to drive a ball screw.

3. The test system of claim 1 , wherein the second actuator is a stepper motor.

4. 10. The test system of claim 1, wherein the second actuator is an electric motor configured to drive a rotating platen assembly via a drive pulley.

5. 5. The test system of claim 4, wherein the rotating platen assembly comprises a base plate configured to support the sample plate, the base plate comprising a driven pulley drivingly coupled to the drive pulley, and the electric motor configured to rotate the base plate about an axis of rotation.

6. 1. A testing system for performing automated sample testing, comprising: a column supported by a base structure; a load cell supported by the column, the load cell configured to move along the column toward and away from the base structure via a crosshead coupled to an actuator; a base plate supported by the base structure and configured to support a sample plate, the sample plate comprising a plurality of stations, each of the plurality of stations configured to receive a sample; an electric motor configured to output a rotational force to a drive pulley drivingly coupled to a driven pulley, the driven pulley configured to rotate the base plate about an axis of rotation; a controller operatively coupled to each of the load cell, the actuator, and the electric motor; The controller comprises: rotating the base plate via the electric motor to a first rotational position that positions a first specimen in a testing position; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via the actuator to compress the first sample; determining a residual seal force of the first sample via a processor operably coupled to the load cell; retracting the crosshead along the column away from the base structure via the actuator; rotating the base plate via the electric motor to a second rotational position that positions a second specimen at the test position; determining a residual seal force of the second sample via the processor operably coupled to the load cell; A test system configured to:

7. The test system of claim 6 , wherein the electric motor, the driven pulley, and the drive pulley are fixed in position relative to one another by a mounting plate.

8. The test system of claim 7 , wherein the driven pulley is attached to the mounting plate via one or more ball bearings.

9. The test system of claim 8 , wherein the one or more ball bearings are positioned within recesses formed on or in the mounting plate.

10. The test system of claim 6 , further comprising a position sensor configured to determine a rotational position of the base plate or the sample plate about the axis of rotation.

11. The test system of claim 10 , wherein the position sensor comprises at least one of a motor encoder, a Hall effect sensor, a resolver, or a rotary potentiometer.

12. The test system of claim 6 , wherein the electric motor is a stepper motor.

13. The test system of claim 6 , wherein the sample plate is removably coupled to the base plate via one or more dowels.

14. The test system of claim 6 , wherein the driven pulley is drivingly coupled to the drive pulley via a belt.

15. 15. The test system of claim 14, wherein each of the drive pulley and the driven pulley is a timing pulley.

16. 15. The test system of claim 14, wherein the belt is a toothed belt.

17. The test system of claim 10 , further comprising a controller configured to rotate the base plate to a desired rotational position based on a sensor reading from the position sensor.

18. 18. The test system of claim 17, wherein the desired rotational position is a home position.

19. 20. The test system of claim 17, wherein the controller is configured to rotate the base plate via the electric motor through each of the plurality of stations as part of an automated residual seal force (RSF) or compressive friction (CF) test.

20. 20. The test system of claim 19, wherein the controller is configured to rotate the base plate through each of the plurality of stations in sequence.

21. 10. The test system of claim 8, wherein the base structure comprises a weld ring adjacent to or around the one or more ball bearings to mitigate liquid penetration into the base structure.

22. 1. A method for conducting automated sample testing in a testing system having a load cell configured to move along a column toward and away from a base structure via a crosshead, comprising: loading a plurality of samples onto a sample plate, the plurality of samples including a first sample and a second sample; positioning the sample plate in a first position that positions the first sample in a test position of the test system; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via a first actuator to compress the first sample; determining a residual seal force of the first sample via a processor operably coupled to the load cell; retracting the crosshead along the column away from the base structure via the first actuator; positioning the sample plate via a second actuator to a second position that positions the second sample at the test position; advancing the crosshead along the column toward the base structure via the first actuator to compress the second sample; determining a residual seal force of the second sample via the processor operably coupled to the load cell; A method comprising:

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the first actuator is configured to drive a ball screw (154).

24. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the second actuator is a stepper motor.

25. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the second actuator is an electric motor configured to drive a rotating platen assembly via a drive pulley.

26. The rotating platen assembly includes: a sample plate defining a plurality of stations, each of the plurality of stations configured to receive one of the plurality of samples; a base plate configured to support the sample plate; Equipped with the base plate includes a driven pulley drivingly coupled to the drive pulley; 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the electric motor is configured to rotate the base plate about an axis of rotation.

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