System and method for testing mechanical response of a test article

Abstract

A system for testing the mechanical response of a test article, the system including a frame having a base and an upper rail spaced from the base along a vertical axis, the upper rail extending along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the vertical axis, at least one clamp assembly adjustably disposed on the base and configured to retain a test article, at least one load actuator assembly configured to extend parallel to the vertical axis and apply a load to the test article, at least one linear drive assembly coupled to the at least one load actuator assembly, the at least one linear drive assembly configured to translate the at least one load actuator assembly along the longitudinal axis, and a scanning module comprising at least one motor and translatably mounted to the upper rail, the scanning module configured to detect at least one geometric profile of the test article.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TESTING MECHANICAL RESPONSE OF A TEST ARTICLE CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This Application claims the benefit of priority to US Provisional Application No.63 / 738,141, filed on December 23, 2024. The entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND

[0002] There is a particular need for improved, innovative testing systems for products and equipment used in outdoor activities, which are exposed to variable terrain conditions, high loading, and temperature extremes. Applications include, but are not limited to, equipment testing systems for skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports, water sports, and other outdoor sports activities. These systems should provide more objective, reliable and repeatable data gathering capability, without the manifest limitations of other, more traditional systems, as known in the prior art.SUMMARY

[0003] The purpose and advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be set forth in and apparent from the description that follows, as well as will be learned by practice of the disclosed subject matter. Additional advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be realized and attained by the methods and systems particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof, as well as from the appended drawings.

[0004] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the disclosed subject matter, as embodied and broadly described, the disclosed subject matter includes a system for testing the mechanical response of a test article, the system comprising a frame comprising a base and an upper rail spaced from the base along a vertical axis, the upper rail extending along a longitudinal axis of the frame perpendicular to the vertical axis;1FH13227652.4at least one clamp assembly adjustably disposed on the base, the at least one clamp assembly configured to retain a test article; at least one load actuator assembly configured to extend parallel to the vertical axis and to apply a load to the test article; at least one linear drive assembly coupled to the at least one load actuator assembly, the at least one linear drive assembly configured to translate the at least one load actuator assembly along the longitudinal axis; and a scanning module comprising at least one motor and translatably mounted to the upper rail, the scanning module configured to detect at least one geometric profile of the test article.

[0005] The herein disclosed subject matter is also directed to a method of determining a mechanical response of a test article, the method comprising: providing a frame having a base and an upper rail, the upper rail spaced from the base along a vertical axis and the upper rail extending along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the vertical axis; positioning at least one clamp assembly on the base along the longitudinal axis, the at least one clamp assembly configured to retain a test article; detecting, via a scanning module, an initial geometric profile by scanning the test article at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis; positioning at least one load actuator along the longitudinal axis to a loading position; actuating the at least one load actuator to exert a predetermined load on the test article at the loading position; and detecting, via the scanning module, a second geometric profile by scanning the test article at the predetermined intervals.

[0006] Both the foregoing summary and the following detailed description provide examples and are explanatory only. Accordingly, the foregoing summary and the following detailed description should not be considered to be restrictive. Further, features or variations may be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, embodiments may be directed to various feature combinations and sub-combinations described in the detailed description. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the2FH13227652.4following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide further explanation of the disclosed subject matter claimed.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] A detailed description of various aspects, features, and embodiments of the subject matter described herein is provided with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. The drawings are illustrative and are not necessarily drawn to scale, with some components and features being exaggerated for clarity. The drawings illustrate various aspects and features of the present subject matter and may illustrate one or more embodiment(s) or example(s) of the present subject matter in whole or in part.

[0008] Furthermore, the drawings may contain text or captions that may explain certain embodiments of the present disclosure. This text is included for illustrative, non-limiting, explanatory purposes of certain embodiments detailed in the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a system for testing the mechanical response of a test article (or testing system) according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a left, front isometric view of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a right, front isometric view of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4A is a front isometric assembly view of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4B is a back isometric assembly view of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a frame of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.3FH13227652.4

[0015] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a control panel of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a detail view of a horizontal actuator (linear drive) assembly of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a detail view of a vertical actuator (load actuator) subassembly of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a detail view of a clamp assembly of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 10A is an isometric view of a scanning module mounted to the upper rail of the frame without actuator subassemblies present (for clarity) according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 10B is a front elevation view of the scanning module mounted to the upper rail of the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a flowchart depicting an exemplary method for testing the mechanical response of a test article using the testing system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, are included to illustrate and provide a further understanding of the method and system of the disclosed subject matter. Together with the description, the drawings serve to explain the principles of the disclosed subject matter.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Described herein is a testing machine, system, and techniques, comprising various aspects which differentiate it from currently existing machines, systems, and techniques. As described here, the system can be configured to test a variety of articles, for example skis and snowboards, of any suitable size, and over a broader range of geometries 4FH13227652.4than existing technologies. The disclosed machines, systems, and techniques may also be used for testing other articles / equipment, for example articles for use in water sports and other outdoor sporting activities. This contrasts with many existing machines, which are exclusive to one type of article, for example skis. In many embodiments, the disclosed machines, systems, and techniques are useful in assessing the characteristics of a test article in response to an applied load or force.

[0024] There is a need to develop more robust, safer, and more efficient gear for skiing, snowboarding and other outdoor sports activities. Innovative technologies can be utilized to test these products, using wear testing and other laboratory data to help refine research and development, provide more reliable reporting on how products perform over time, identify design challenges, and guide engineering development toward better product delivery.

[0025] Data can be collected for tensile strength, load distribution and design life.System-based laboratory analysis can thus complement human product testing, reducing subjective personal variables to provide more objective, laboratory-based quantitative data. The results can be used to improve product performance and material sustainability, and to generate more accurate, controlled-environment product ratings, based on sound engineering principles.

[0026] The improved testing systems described here can also provide for more precise numerical control of the loading; e.g., via a dedicated control system adapted for positioning of fixtures (such as clamps or clamp assemblies), actuators, end effectors, and other loading and sampling elements. This contrasts with existing machines, which are often manually controlled e.g., by hand).

[0027] In addition, sensor systems are described for use with the disclosed machines, systems, and techniques. In many cases, the disclosed sensor systems do not necessarily require physical contact with the surface of the equipment, article, product or part being 5FH13227652.4tested. This contrasts with existing machines, which often require sensors to contact the part’ s surface.

[0028] Skis are one article that may benefit from testing using the disclosed machines, systems and methods. Currently, traditional testing data regarding the mechanical properties of skis, snowboards, wake boards, and other outdoor sports equipment is often generated in ambiguous or inconsistent form (or both), when it is available at all. In general, outdoor sports equipment manufactures may advertise selected geometric properties of a given model, for example length, tip width, side cut radius, as well as “stiffness” and other mechanical properties. While length, tip width, side cut radius may involve discrete measurements, stiffness and other mechanical properties are generally subjective or relative terms with little ability to compare between different models, let alone among different products or manufacturers.

[0029] As noted above, there is currently no standardized method for objectively testing and reliably reporting engineering-based mechanical properties, applicable across equipment categories. For example, a qualitative, unsubstantiated numerical “stiffness” rating (e.g., “5”) from one manufacture may or may not equate to the same rating from another company. Other outdoor sports equipment manufacturers may not report any stiffness metric at all, or they may report metrics that purport to have engineering value, but do not.

[0030] As a result, there is a very high degree of ambiguity in the available testing data. Even when different manufacturers may nominally measure similar properties, not all manufacturers will report all of the same data points, for all of their different equipment models. Thus, there is a lack of consistency between different equipment from different manufacturers, regarding not what data will be reported, but also with respect to what the data actually represent.

[0031] In these cases, the technical issue that arises is the problem of better6FH13227652.4understanding how the design and construction of skis, snowboards and other water sports or outdoor sports equipment correlates to overall performance, not only with respect to the user’s perception of feel and personal experience on the mountain (or other environment), but also in terms of more objective metrics. The goal is to develop more standardized methods of acquiring the information required to address these problems, and to apply that information to aid manufacturers in developing new, improved equipment models, and to assist consumers in understanding the engineering properties of the products in which they are investing. More broadly, the system should also be adaptable for testing a wider range of different products, using different, more objective and reliable methods than existing testing machines.System for Testing a Mechanical Response of a Test Article

[0032] Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, a front elevation view, left perspective view and right perspective view of a testing system (or apparatus) 100 for testing the mechanical response of a test article 200 is shown, respectively. In various embodiments, the test article 200 may be, but is not limited to, a ski, a snowboard, outdoor sports equipment, or other elongate member that may undergo physical or mechanical deformation upon application of a load, such as a force, moment, torque or other application modality.

[0033] Testing system 100 may include a frame 110. Frame 110 may be formed from generally elongate structural members affixed at their respective ends to form a substantially rigid, rectilinear assembly. A detail view of frame 110 without other components (for clarity) is shown in FIG. 5. Frame 110 may include a base 104 formed as a planar assembly of struts, namely base 104 can include two elongate longitudinal members 105, each extending along a longitudinal axis 101. Longitudinal members 105 may be spaced apart and parallel to one another. Base 104 may further include transverse base members 106 extending between longitudinal members 105 at the respective ends thereof. Transverse base 7FH13227652.4members 106 may be shorter than longitudinal members 105, although one of skill in the art would appreciate that the dimensions of the base 104 may be selected to accommodate variously sized test article 200 or to accommodate a range of sizes. Each of the longitudinal members 105 may be formed with slots, grooves or other recesses in which one or more components can be slidingly and / or fixedly connected, as will be described below. Frame 110 may include vertical members 107 extending along a vertical axis 102 and normal to the base 104. Any number of vertical members 107 may extend from base 104, such as two opposite and opposing vertical members 107 extending from the ends of the base 104.

[0034] Frame 110 may further include an upper rail 108 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis 101 and between the first and second vertical members 107. Upper rail 108 may be spaced from base 104 along the vertical axis 102, that is to say that the base member and upper rail 108 may each be parallel to the longitudinal axis 101. Upper rail 108 may be oriented between the first and the second longitudinal members 105 of the base 104, i.e., the upper rail 108 may extend parallel to and between the longitudinal members 105 of the base 104, when viewed from an above plan view.

[0035] Each structural member of the frame 110 may be formed of prefabricated or custom-manufactured extrusions. In various embodiments, each structural member of frame 110 may be formed from aluminum, steel, another metal or metal alloy, or suitable composite materials.

[0036] Any portion of structural members, such as longitudinal members 105, transverse base members 106, vertical members 107 and upper rail 108 can each be mechanically connected each to one another via a series of bolts, screws, brackets, welds, or other mechanical couplings 112.

[0037] Various horizontal structural members, such as longitudinal members 105, transverse base members 106, may be joined together to form a rectilinear base 104, with 8FH13227652.4vertical members 107, and transverse base members 106 can be attached together with different mechanical couplings 112 to form a generally vertical portion of frame 110, having the upper rail 108 opposite base 104 (see FIG. 5).

[0038] Each subsystem or subassembly of system 100 can be mechanically connected to the frame 110, as to be described below. For example, and without limitation, one or more of at least one control panel 120, at least one linear drive assembly 130, at least one load actuator 140, at least one clamp assembly 150 and at least one scanning module 160 may be coupled to or otherwise attached to frame 110 to form testing system 100. Each component may be configured to move, translate, rotate, extend or otherwise actuate relative to the frame 110, and may be mechanically coupled to frame 110 to accommodate these motions.

[0039] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, testing system 100 may include at least one clamp assembly 150. FIGS. 2 and 3 show the testing system of FIG. 1 in perspective views. FIGS. 1-3, for example, and without limitation, depict system 100 having exactly two clamp assemblies 150 and 154, however, a plurality of clamp assemblies 150 may be affixed to frame 110 and configured to operate similarly or identically to the at least one clamp assembly 150.

[0040] A detail view of the clamp assembly 150 is shown in FIG. 9, having other components hidden for clarity. Clamp assembly 150 may include one or more of a clamp upper member 710 (or interchangeably ‘clamp upper 710’), a clamp lower member 720 (interchangeably ‘clamp lower 720’), and a pair of clamp posts 730. A first clamp post 730 may be slidingly attached to the first longitudinal member 105 of base 104 and a second clamp post 730 may be slidingly attached to the second longitudinal member 105 of base 104 such that each clamp post 730 can be adjustably positioned along the longitudinal axis 101. In various embodiments, each clamp post 730 may be manually positioned on base 104 and along the longitudinal axis 101, or automatically driven to a longitudinal position by 9FH13227652.4one or more actuators, whether automatedly or manually controlled.

[0041] Clamp assembly 150 may include a clamp lower 720 coupled to each clamp posts 730 and extending therebetween. Clamp lower 720 may be rotatably coupled to each clamp post 730 such that the relative position of each clamp post 730 defines an angle at which the clamp lower 720 extends over base 104. Each clamp post 730 may be selectively and adjustably positioned on base 104 along the longitudinal axis 101 such that the angle of clamp lower 720 can be defined by one or more of a user or computing system in order to affect one or more desired testing modalities. Clamp lower 720 is configured to support test article 200 when engaged on a lower surface thereof, i.e., the test article 200 may be placed on an upper surface of the clamp lower 720. Clamp assembly 150 may further include a clamp upper 710 coupled to clamp posts 730 and extending therebetween. Clamp upper 710 may be configured to extend parallel to and above the clamp lower 720.

[0042] For example, a ski, snowboard or other outdoor equipment, or any embodiment of test article 200 can be disposed between the clamp upper 710 and clamp lower 720, using one or more clamp slides (or clamp sliders) 740 to position the clamp assembly 150 along the base 104 and thereby adjusting the clamp upper 710 and clamp lower 720 along the upper and lower surfaces of the equipment 200, respectively. One or more clamp knobs or other manual or mechanical controllers 750 can be provided to adjust the force on the corresponding equipment surfaces, in order to maintain or control the position of the test article 200 during testing.

[0043] Returning to the testing system depicted in FIGS. 1-3. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, testing system 100 may include two clamp assemblies 150, 154, each configured to support the test article in tandem. Each clamp assembly 150, 154 (or any number thereof) may be adjustably positioned along base 104 at a predetermined or user-defined position and orientation angle relative to the longitudinal and transverse axes. The one or more clamp 10FH13227652.4assemblies 150 can thus be configured to fix test article 200 (such as a ski, snowboard or other equipment) in a variety of different configurations, depending on the equipment type and model, and the testing to be performed. Clamp upper 710 is configured to engage the upper surface of test article 200 and clamp test article 200 between clamp upper 710 and clamp lower 720 in a mechanical fashion, for example by tightening the clamp knob 750. The clamp members 710, 720 can be held at a fixed or preselected height via the clamp posts 730, and positioned along the longitudinal axis 101 via one or more clamp slides 740, depending on the equipment configuration and desired testing. Alternatively, the heights of the clamp posts 730 can be fixed or may vary, or clamp posts 730 can be provided in an adjustable configuration.

[0044] In various embodiments, and according to the desired testing configurations, each clamp assembly 150, 154 may be adjustably positioned along longitudinal axis 101 and be configured to have a distinct clamping angle over the test article to mimic the location and angle of ski or snowboard bindings. For example, and without limitation, as shown clearly in FIGS. 2 and 3, each clamp assembly 150, 154 may be selectively positioned proximate the central portion of the test article 200 and at opposite angles in the plane of the test article 200, said clamp assemblies 150, 154 may be oriented to mimic an intended user’s feet when affixed to the test article 200 (here, embodied as a snowboard, for example), in order to test the mechanical response of test article 200 as it bends with a user standing thereon. As discussed above, each clamp post 730 of any number of clamp assemblies (150, 154) may be manually or automatically adjustable along base 104 such that desired predetermined clamping angles may be achieved over the test article 200.

[0045] With continued references to FIG. 1, testing system 100 may include at least one load actuator assembly 140. As shown in FIG. 1, testing system 100 may include two load actuator assemblies, a first load actuator assembly 140 and a second load actuator assembly 11FH13227652.4144. Each load actuator assembly 140, 144 may be configured to extend parallel to the vertical axis 102 from an initial retracted position to an extended position, thereby contacting the test article 200 from below and applying a load at a predetermined longitudinal loading position, i.e., a desired location along the longitudinal axis 101 to apply a force to the test article. For example, and without limitation, each load actuator 140 may be configured to extend an end effector, piston or other member along the vertical axis 102 until a load is applied to the test article. Each load actuator assembly 140 may be automatically positioned at the loading positions via one or more linear drives 130, to be described below.

[0046] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, each of first and second load actuator assemblies 140, 144 may be embodied as pairs of load actuators. A detail view of load actuator assembly 140 is shown in FIG. 8, and will be referred to intermittently to describe each load actuator assembly (140, 144). As shown in FIG. 8, a first load actuator assembly 140 may include a first pair of load actuators 141a, 141b. First load actuator assembly 140 may include two opposite load actuators 141a, 141b commonly mounted to a mounting plate 540 of a linear drive (described below). The first load actuator 140 is thereby configured to longitudinal positioning proximate and within base 104. Each load actuators 141a, 141b may include at least one motor 610 mounted on a motor mount bracket 620 and motor mast 630 extending upwardly along the vertical axis 102. Each motor mast 630 may be configured to house one or more pistons, rods, threaded rods, or other extending member configured to translate (or additionally translate and rotate) along the vertical axis 102 towards the test article 200. Each motor mast 630 may include a load cell 640 disposed underneath a hinge 660, the hinge 660 configured to establish a pinned connection between each load actuator 141a, 141b and a load bar 650.

[0047] In various embodiments, load cell 640 may be disposed on each load actuator of 12FH13227652.4the load actuator assemblies 140, 144, such as disposed atop each actuator 141a, 141b, and 145a, 145b. In certain other embodiments, load cell 640 may be disposed between a portion of load actuators assemblies, such as disposed on load bar 650. Further, load cells 640 may be disposed on another portion of load actuators assemblies 140, 144, such as within motor masts 630 or within a linkage or transmission thereof. In certain other embodiments, each load cell 640 may be attached to a portion of test article 200.

[0048] Load bar 650 may be formed as a planar member pinned at the termini of each load actuator 141a, 141b, forming load bar hinges 660 and configured to travel upwards under the power of the load actuators to contact a surface (here, the underside) of test article 200. One of skill in the art would appreciate that the surface which the load bar 650 contacts may be an upper surface of test article 200, if for example, test article 200 is engaged and retained upside down relative to load actuator assembly 140. Load bar 650 may be configured to contact the test article 200 in a plane parallel to the base 104, that is to say, that each load actuator 141a, 141b is configured to extend together such that load bar 650 remains horizontal through its travel. In certain embodiments, load bar 650 may be configured to contact test article 200 at an angle, for example, by having one load actuator 141a extend farther than a second load actuator 141b of the pair, thereby applying a load to test article at a first loading angle. As used herein, ‘loading angle’ means the acute angle between the longitudinally spanning load bar and a horizontal plane parallel to the base, measured in the vertical-transverse plane, and is determined by the relative extension of the paired load actuators in a load actuator assembly.

[0049] Depending on application, one or more vertical actuator motors 610 can be mounted onto one or more corresponding motor mount bracket 620, each being mechanically fixed to a motor mast 630 to provide for proper vertical orientation of the respective load actuator assembly 140, 144. One, two or more load cells 640 can be13FH13227652.4configured to provide data for evaluating the force input to the test article 200 during testing or other experimental application. For example, the load can be applied using a load bar 650 with one or more load bar hinges 660 and load bar cover members 670, as configured to allow for the application of differential loads between two vertical actuator assemblies 140; e.g., to create a bending or torsional load on one or more surfaces of the test article 200.

[0050] In various embodiments, load actuator assembly 140 can be attached to a mounting plate 540 of a linear drive assembly 130 according to FIG. 7, and configured to control the vertical actuator motion used to apply loads to test article 200. For example, two substantially similar or identical load actuator assemblies 140, 144 can each be connected to a mounting plate 540 of a respective linear drive assembly 130, 134 disposed along or adjacent the bottom frame portion or base 104, with the load bar 650 extending across the upper or top portion of each load actuator assembly 140. Alternatively, one or more load actuator assemblies 140 may be provided with the same, similar or different configurations, and connected to one or more similar mounting plates 540, or coupled directly to the frame 110 of the testing system 100, with or without all the additional components of one or more corresponding linear drive assemblies 130, 134.

[0051] With continued reference to FIGS 1-3, testing system 100 may include at least one linear drive assembly 130. Linear drive assembly 130 may be any longitudinal (horizontal) actuator oriented along the base 104 and configured to translate along the longitudinal axis 101. For example, and without limitation, linear drive assembly 130 may include a threaded rod having a stage mounted thereon. Upon rotation of the threaded rod under the power of one or more motors, the stage may be configured to translate along the axis of the threaded rod.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, testing system 100 may include two linear drives 130 and 134, each mounted on opposite sides of the base 104 and extending along the 14FH13227652.4longitudinal axis 101. Each linear drive assembly 130, 134 may be configured to translate independently along the longitudinal axis 101. FIG. 7 depicts an isometric view of a linear drive assembly 130. Linear drive assembly 130 may include a mounting plate 540 translatably coupled to a rod 533 and one or more guide rods 550 and configured to translate along the longitudinal axis 101. Linear drive assembly 130 may include at least one motor 510 mounted to a motor mount 520 and further to a portion of the base 104, such as a transverse strut 106 as shown. Motor 510 may be operatively coupled to the threaded rod 533 by a pulley bearing assembly 530, configured to rotate the threaded rod 533 to translate the mounting plate 540. Linear drive 130 may also include a cable guide 560 configured to transmit power and / or signals to and from the mounting plate 540 and motor 510 while the mounting plate 540 translates along the longitudinal axis 101.

[0053] Mounting plate 540 of linear drive 130 may be configured to support one or more load actuator assemblies thereon and position said load actuator assembly to the loading position along the longitudinal axis 101. The linear drive assembly 130 can be configured to control the longitudinal (horizontal) location of one or more load actuator assemblies 140 with respect to the test article 200, for example with respect to the tip or tail of the test article 200, as described herein. As shown in FIGS. 2-4B, a pair of load actuators 141a, 141b may be mounted on a respective mounting plate 540 and configured to translate together to a position along the longitudinal axis 101.

[0054] One two, or more linear drive assemblies 130 and load actuator assemblies 140 can be provided on the frame 110, e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In various embodiments, a single mounting plate 540 of a respective linear drive 130 may be configured to support a single load actuator 141 (a or b), a first load actuator assembly 140, or more. The linear drive assembly (horizontal actuators) 130 and load (vertical) actuator assemblies 140 can be provided in isolated or singular subassembly form e.g., as shown in either half of testing 15FH13227652.4system 100), or combined into paired linear drives 130, 134 and load actuator assemblies 140, 144, depending on application. In general, for example, the system can utilize a combination of both linear drive assemblies 130 and load actuator assemblies 140 for each test; e.g., with the load actuator assembly 140 mounted to the mounting plate 540 on the linear drive assembly 130, or otherwise configured for positioning at the convenience of the user, and adapted for the selected testing procedures, on a particular type and model of test article 200.

[0055] In the particular example of FIG. 7, one or more longitudinal (horizontal) actuator motors 510 are mounted on one or more longitudinal (horizontal) motor mount brackets 520, which can be connected via pulley and bearing assemblies 530 to drive longitudinal (horizontal) motion of the mounting plate 540, along the guide rail 550. One or more cable guides 560 can be arranged to keep connecting cables from interfering with the machine during operation, e.g., for power or data connections as described herein.

[0056] Each linear drive assembly 130, 134 may be configured to translate each load actuator assembly 140, 144 to respective loading positions, such as a first loading position and a second loading position. The first and second loading positions may be the desired or commanded longitudinal positions along the test article 200 in which load will be applied to the test article 200 by the load actuator assemblies 140, 144.

[0057] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, testing system 100 may include a scanning module 160 translatably mounted to upper rail 108. Scanning module 160 may include at least one motor configured to translate the scanning module 160 along the longitudinal axis 101. In various embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to translate along a transverse axis 103 perpendicular to both the vertical axis 102 and the longitudinal axis 101, i.e., across the transverse axis 103 of the test article 200.

[0058] Turning now to FIGS. 10A and 10B. In various embodiments, testing system 10016FH13227652.4may include at least one multi-position scanner mount 820, at least one belt and pulley assembly (or pulley system) 830, at least one scanner motor 840 configured for scanner control, and one or more cable carriers 850.

[0059] The testing system 100 can be arranged to control the motion of the scanning module 160, which is configured for data acquisition to determine the geometric profile of a ski, snowboard or other equipment 200 mounted to the testing system 100, as described herein. For example, the scanning module 160 can be configured to move substantially horizontally along the longitudinal axis 101 of testing system 100 and test article 200 retained thereon via the scanner motor 840 and a belt and pulley system or assembly 830, or other suitable mechanical arrangement, taking position data at discrete increments and selected positions along the surface (or surfaces) of the test article 200, throughout the course of testing.

[0060] In various embodiments, multi-position scanner mount 820 is configured to allow for an expanded data capture range (along both longitudinal axis 101 and transverse axis 102) at various different positions and angles or orientations of the scanning module 160 with respect to the test article 200, in order to analyze, larger, smaller, or extra-large (XL) equipment and product models as needed.

[0061] In various embodiments, cable carrier 850 may be configured to provide data and power connections to the scanning module 160, for example similar to a cable guide 560 as described above. Scanning module 160 may include any suitable scanners and / or similar sensor systems, including optical, laser, radio frequency, sonic, and other contactless scanning systems, configured to provide data that can be analyzed to determine the precise position and geometrical configuration of the surface (or surfaces) of the test article 200 in response to the preselected loading conditions applied by the load actuator assemblies 140, 144 at positions defined by the one or more linear drive assemblies 130. 134. As will be 17FH13227652.4described herein below, the at least one geometric profile, including the position data of test article, may be combined with the loading data (input into the system and measured by the at least one load cells 640) to determine the mechanical response of the test article 200 to the imposed loads, in order to more accurately and reliably determine the stiffness and / or other mechanical properties of each different type and model of test article 200.

[0062] The scanning module 160 may be configured to detect and measure at least one geometric profile of the test article 200 as it translates from an initial scanning position to an end scanning position along the upper rail 108 along the longitudinal axis 101.

[0063] As used herein, ‘scanner’ or scanning module may include both the emitter and detector. Scanning module 160 may be configured to emit a particular beam or radiation 170 that interferes with the test article 200 at line segment 171 and measure the reflected signal at the scanning module 160 to create or determine a geometric profile. For example, and without limitation, scanning module 160 may include a laser scanner, configured to emit electromagnetic radiation and detect the reflected radiation at a detector, said scanning module 160 configured to detect data for creation of at least one geometric profile of the test article 200. In certain other embodiments, a sonic scanner may be employed, wherein one or more sound waves are emitted and deflected waves are detected to create the at least one geometric profile of the test article 200. In certain embodiments, the scanning module is configured to measure a test article 200 in multiple passes or sweeps. For example, and without limitation, scanning module 160 may be configured to measure the test article 200 at rest, i.e., before loading, in order to establish a baseline point cloud corresponding to the initial position and orientation of at least the upper surface of the test article - that is, to create a resting or first geometric profile. Then, in one or more embodiments, the scanning module 160 may be configured to perform a second measuring step of the test article 200 after predetermined loading condition(s) is applied by the one or more load actuators 140,18FH13227652.4144, in order to create a loaded or second geometric profile, i.e., a point cloud corresponding to the loaded position and orientation of the test article.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the scanning module 160 may be configured to detect the distance of a surface (here, the top surface, for example) of test article 200 relative to the position of the scanning module 160. In certain embodiments, the scanning module 160 may be configured to detect said distances along a line segment 171 of a surface (here the top surface) of the test article 200 along the transverse axis 103, and successively detect and measure a plurality of parallel lines segments along the longitudinal axis 101. In other words, scanning modules 160 may be configured to measure the distance of points on transverse line segments 171 at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis 101, forming the geometric profile by combining a plurality of parallel slices, each perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 101 and spaced there along. In various embodiments, point cloud data may be generated based on one or both of the geometric profile or raw distance data. For the purposes of this disclosure, “point cloud” or “point cloud data” is a discrete set of data points in space.

[0065] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, testing system 100 may include at least one control panel 120. Control panel 120 may be mounted to a portion of frame 110, for example, proximate base 104 for access by a user, computing system, or one or more electronic components configured for control and measurement of one or more aspects of testing system 100. Control panel 120 may be configured to operatively communicate with any component of testing system 100, such as scanning module 160, at least one load actuator assembly 140, at least one linear drive 130, at least one clamp assembly 150, or a portion thereof. A detail view of control panel 120 is shown in FIG. 6 and is described below. In certain embodiments, control panel 120 can be provided with a suitable housing 410 disposed on or toward the back side of a frame 110, as described above. Alternatively, a 19FH13227652.4suitable controller 120 can be provided with or without a housing 410, and disposed on the front, top, bottom, or either the left or right side of the frame 110 or separate from frame 110 and communicatively coupled as needed thereto.

[0066] In various embodiments, control panel 120 may include a controller and power supply 420 and a scanner / sensor controller 430 disposed within or mounted to / on housing 410. The controller / power supply 420 and scanner / sensor controller 430 may include one or more computer processors and memory components adapted to operate the testing system 100, as described herein, for example by executing computer code stored on a non-volatile (non-transitory) data storage medium.

[0067] The controller / power supply 420 and scanner / sensor controller 430 can be mechanically connected to the housing 410, and the housing 410 can be mechanically coupled to a portion of frame 110, as described above. Electronic power and data connections can be provided to connect the controller / power supply 420 with the scanner / sensor controller 430, in order to apply one or more loads to test article 200, such as a ski, snowboard or other outdoor sports equipment, and to acquire data responsive to the applied loads thereto; e.g., using one or more linear drives 130 and one or more load actuator assemblies 140, one or more clamp assemblies 150, and one or more geometric scanners or scanning modules 160, as described herein.

[0068] Additional power and data connections can be provided to communicatively connect control panel 120 to a user interface for operating the testing system 100, for example a graphical user interface operating on a personal computer or mobile device, or a suitable user interface can be integrated into the control panel 120. Suitable power and data connections include, but are not limited to, power bus and data bus connections, wireless and radiofrequency (RF) or inductive power and data connections, optical connections, and other suitable hard-wired or wireless data and power connections.20FH13227652.4

[0069] Having broadly described the components of testing system 100, below an embodiment of the testing system will be further explained in reference to FIGS. 4A-4B. As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, testing system 100 includes a frame 110, one or more control panels (control systems) 120, one or more linear drive assemblies (longitudinal or horizontal actuator assemblies) 130, 134, one or more load actuator assemblies 140, 144 (vertical actuator assemblies) configured to impose one or more loads on the surfaces of test article 200. One or more clamp assemblies 150, 154 can be provided to secure the test article 200 (a ski, snowboard, or other outdoor sports equipment) to the testing system 100 and one or more geometric profile scanning assemblies (scanning module) 160 configured to provide data that can be analyzed to determine the response of the equipment 200 to the loads.

[0070] Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4B, a front perspective view and back perspective view of testing system 100 is shown, respectively. As discussed above, testing system 100 may include a frame having a rectilinear base 104 and an upper rail 108 spaced from the base along the vertical axis 102. The upper rail 108 may extend along the longitudinal axis 101 between a first end and a second end, each aligned with the terminal portions of the base 104 below. Base 104 may be formed from two opposite and parallel longitudinal members 105 having slots formed therein, with a plurality of transverse struts 106 extending between the longitudinal members 105.

[0071] Testing system 100 may further include a first clamp assembly 150 and a second clamp assembly 154. The clamp assemblies 150, 154 can be positioned across opposing surfaces of the test article 200, either transversely or at an angle with respect to the equipment surface as shown. In order to do so, each clamp assembly may include two opposite posts extending upwardly from each longitudinal member 105 of base 104that can each be slid along longitudinal members 105 and parallel to the longitudinal axis 101 to selectively orient and position each clamp assembly 150, 154. Further, as discussed, each 21FH13227652.4clamp assembly may include a clamp lower and a clamp upper, each coupled to and extending between the posts. The position of each clamp post along the longitudinal axis 101 may orient a respective clamp assembly 150, 154 relative to the base 104. That is to say, clamp assembly 150 may be oriented perpendicular or at an angle to the longitudinal axis 101 by positioning of each clamp post along the base 104.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 4A, clamp assembly 150 may be oriented at an angle to the longitudinal axis 101 that mimics a snowboarding binding or ski binding of a user.Similarly, the clamp posts of second clamp assembly 154 may be similarly adjustably coupled to base 104 such that the user may manually set the position and angle of the clamp over the test article 200. In various embodiments, each clamp assembly 150, 154 may be automatically adjustable via one or more actuators disposed proximate base 104 and configured to translate the clamp posts along the longitudinal axis 101. In certain embodiments, each clamp assembly 150, 154 may be configured to automatically open and / or close to support and retain the test article 200 relative to frame 110.

[0073] In contrast to existing designs, testing system 100 provides a clamp assembly 150; e.g., as shown in FIG. 9, allowing for surprisingly improved testing techniques. For one example, the disclosed clamp assemblies 150, 154 do not require rollers to interface with the test article 200; instead, the clamp assemblies 150, 154 may be configured to move freely along the length (position along the longitudinal axis 101) of the test article 200 and testing system 100, e.g., using clamp posts 730 and slides 740 to define the longitudinal (horizontal) and vertical positions of the clamp upper 710 and clamp lower 720, rather than being permanently fixed in a particular location or area of the frame 100 (as shown in FIG.9). The present clamp posts 730 can also be provided in interchangeable or adjustable configurations, in order to provide longer or shorter height adjustments, or the height of the clamping posts can be predetermined, depending on equipment type and model, and desired 22FH13227652.4testing procedures. Once positioned, the clamp assemblies 150, 154 can also maintain their position at a fixed height. The slides 740 can either be provided in manual form, or as automatic linear actuator systems; e.g., similar to those shown in FIG. 9.

[0074] With continued reference to FIGS. 4A-4B, testing system 100 may include a first linear drive 130 and a second linear drive 134, each disposed proximate the base 104 and coupled thereto. As shown in FIG. 4A, specifically, first linear drive 130 may be extended between transverse struts 106 of the base 104 and extend along the longitudinal axis 101. Each linear drive 130 may include at least one motor in communication with a transmission, such as a belt and pulley assembly as described above, to translate a first mounting plate along the longitudinal axis 101 and within base 104. The second linear drive 134 may be similarly coupled to the opposite end of the base 104, such that each linear drive 130, 134 selectably translates respective mounting plates along approximately half the length of base 104.

[0075] With continued reference to FIGS. 4A-4B, testing system 100 may include first load actuator assembly 140 and second load actuator assembly 144. First load actuator assembly 140 may be supported on first mounting plate of first linear drive 130. As shown in FIG. 4A, first load actuator assembly 140 may include two load actuators 141a, 141b, each coupled to and supported on the first mounting plate and spaced apart parallel to the transverse axis 103. First load actuator assembly 140 may be translated along the longitudinal axis 101 under the power of the first linear drive 130. That is to say, the first linear drive 130 may translate the first load actuator assembly 140 to a desired first loading position, i.e., the point along the longitudinal axis 101 the user or computing system elects to exert a load on the test article 200 via the first load actuator assembly 140. Similarly to first load actuator assembly 140, second load actuator assembly 144 may be affixed to and supported on second mounting plate of second linear drive 134. Second load actuator 23FH13227652.4assembly 144 may be similarly embodied as a pair of load actuators, each configured to extend parallel to the vertical axis 102 to exert a load on the test article. Second linear drive 134 can similarly be configured to selectively position second load actuator assembly 144 to a second loading position, i.e., the loading position selected by the user for the second load actuator assembly 144 exerts a load on test article 200. Each linear drive 130, 134 may be configured to be independently controlled, such that each load actuator assembly 140, 144 can be individually positioned along the longitudinal axis 101. Although shown as pairs of load actuators, each load actuator assembly 140, 144 can be individually adjustable actuators positionable along the longitudinal axis 101, i.e., a single load actuator can be individually positioned such that all four load actuators can be translated to a distinct position along base 104 and therefore along the longitudinal axis 101. In certain embodiments, each load actuator may be coupled to a distinct linear drive.

[0076] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, each load actuator of first load actuator assembly 140, i.e., each upwardly extending piston or extending member, may be configured to actuate individually. As described above and in reference to FIG. 8, each load actuator can be individually and independently controlled to extend a distinct stroke length and to exert a distinct force on test article 200. For example, and without limitation, each load actuator 141a, 141b of first load actuator assembly 140 can extend a desired distance, such that the load bar 650 extending between the distal ends of the actuators may be oriented at an angle relative to the transverse axis. In embodiments where each load actuator can be longitudinally controlled, i.e., their individual positions along the longitudinal axis 101 can be controlled, the load bar 650 may similarly be oriented at a non-transverse angle to test article 200 and / or base 104. In said embodiments, the couplings between load bar 650 and load actuator assembly 140 (and 144) may be configured to accommodate different longitudinal offsets.24FH13227652.4

[0077] Each load actuator may include one or more load cells 640. The load cells 640 may not themselves clamp to the surface of the test article 200, unlike the first and second clamp assemblies 150, 154, but can be disposed adjacent to the corresponding surface at a free location. The load cells 640 need not make physical contact with the surface of test article 200 being tested; instead, load cells 640 can be mounted below the load bar 650 and / or load bar cover 670; e.g., adjacent the load bar hinges 660 as shown in detail in FIG.8, and configured to provide force feedback as the load bar 650 and / or load bar cover 670 interact with the test article e.g., to impose loads on one or more of the equipment surfaces). A rotating motor and secondary reciprocating system (e.g., crank and rod assembly) is not required to apply cyclic loading; instead, the load bars 650, load bar covers 670, and / or other loading components can be directly controlled (e.g. via feedback provided by the load cells 640).

[0078] The physical location of the load cells 640 is defined with respect to the load actuator assembly (vertical actuator assembly) 140, 144; e.g., beneath load bar 650, on top of the actuator piston to assess force response as shown in FIG. 8. More generally, the position of the load cells 640 can be adjusted longitudinally (horizontally) by moving the linear drive assemblies (horizontal actuator assemblies) 130, 134, and vertically by loading the test article 200; e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. System 100 also accommodates electronics on board the testing system, for example a control panel 120 mounted to the frame 110, as described herein.

[0079] In contrast to other testing systems where a torque mechanism is clamped to the end of a ski (or test article of interest) to apply a rotating force or torsional load, the load cells 640 of system 100 do not need to be clamped into position, and two or more load actuator assemblies (vertical actuator assemblies) 140, 144 can be used to apply torque or torsional loading at any position along the surface of the test article 200; e.g., as shown in 25FH13227652.4FIGS. 4A and 4B. The clamp assemblies 150, 154 can also be provided in manual, mechanically adjustable form, or electromechanical clamp assemblies 150, 154 can be used, and moved along the test article 200 to define a singular testing configuration for a combination of different mechanical bending and torsional tests, without requiring separate physical reconfigurations of the actuator assemblies 130, 140 and clamp assemblies 150 for each different testing operation.

[0080] Other testing systems utilize loading mechanisms for bending test articles (e.g., skis) by typically applying loads vertically downwards onto the top of the ski center. Linear drive assembly 130 and load actuator assembly 140 of system 100, in contrast, can be adapted to apply loads vertically upward to or toward the bottom of the ski or other equipment (test article 200), and at any location along the length of the test article 200.

[0081] With continued reference to FIGS. 4A-4B, testing system 100 may include scanning module 160 translatably mounted to upper rail 108. Scanning module 160 may include one or more motors configured to translate the scanning module 160 along the longitudinal axis 101, e.g., over the length of test article 200 and transversely, e.g., back and forth over the width of test article 200. Scanning module 160 may be configured to detect and measure an at least one geometric profile. In certain embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to measure a line segment 171 wherein the scan meets at least an upper surface of test article 200, said line segment 171 oriented along the transverse axis 103. Scanning module 160 may be configured to measure a plurality of line segments at discrete predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis 101, while the scanning module translates itself along the longitudinal axis 101. In various embodiments, scanning module 160 can also be configured to translate (or reciprocate) along the transverse axis 103 at each discrete step along the longitudinal axis 101 to accommodate oversize test articles, e.g., test articles in which the width of the scan cannot capture data along the entire the width of the 26FH13227652.4test article 200.

[0082] In various embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to capture at least one geometric profile corresponding to the position and orientation of test article 200. In certain embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to scan test article 200 in multiple states. For example, and without limitation, scanning module 160 may be configured to capture an initial geometric profile of the test article retain within clamp assemblies 150, 154 prior to loading, i.e., at rest. Then, once the load actuators assemblies 140, 144 are positioned to the desired first and second loading positions along the longitudinal axis 101 under the test article 200 by the first and second linear drives 130, 134, respectively, said first and second load actuator assemblies 140, 144 may be extended to exert a predetermined load on test article 200. First and second load actuator assemblies 140, 144 may be configured to apply a distinct force on test article 200, at predetermined loading positions and at first and second load angles, respectively. Said load angles may be defined by the angle at which respective load bars 650 are oriented when extended to the desired position and at the desired force. One of skill in the art would appreciate that when each load actuator of the pair of load actuators (first load actuator assembly 140) are extended at distinct vertical strokes, the load bar 650 would be oriented at an angle in the plane formed parallel to the vertical and transverse axes, thereby applying asymmetrical load to the test article, i.e., a torque may be applied to the test article 200. Scanning module 160 may then scan the test article 200 in the loaded state. The initial geometric profile and the loaded geometric profile may be compared to determine one or more mechanical parameters of the test article 200, such as stiffness, stress, strain, spring stiffness / spring constant or the like.

[0083] The scanning module 160 can be mounted to upper rail 108 at the upper portion of frame 110, and configured to move along the length of the test article 200 to provide a 27FH13227652.4complete geometric profile along the longitudinal axis 101 of at least an upper surface of test article 200. For example, the scanning module 160 can be configured and operated to determine an original, first, initial, or starting geometric profile along the surface of the test article 200, absent test loading, and the scanning module 160 can be configured and operated to determine changes in the geometric profile, responsive to various applied test loads, that is a difference between a first and a second geometric profile.

[0084] In various embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to detect the relative position of a plurality of points on one or more surfaces (e.g., the top or upper surface as shown in the figures) of test article 200 compared to the scanning module 160. Therefore, each geometric profile of test article 200 as measured by scanning module 160 may be formed as a point cloud corresponding to the surface contours of the test article 200, whether at rest or loaded to any predetermined loading position. In various other embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to scan test article at a plurality of points in time or in response to detected load conditions by the plurality of load cells 640. For example, and without limitation, each scan of scanning module 160 may be initiated when a predetermined loading condition is determined, such as by detected stroke length of load actuator assembly 140, longitudinal position of linear drive assemblies 130, exerted force as detected by one or more load cells 640, or between distinct loading conditions. That is to say, a first scan may correspond to a first loading condition, wherein the load actuator assemblies (140, 144) are positioned to deform the test article 200 in a first loaded orientation, and a second scan may correspond to a second loading condition, wherein the load actuator assemblies are commanded to deform the test article differently, e.g., a different loading position, different loading angle, or different force exertion on test article 200.

[0085] In various embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to scan test 28FH13227652.4article 200 in discrete intervals along the longitudinal axis 101 of upper rail 108. For example, and without limitation, scanning module 160 may be configured to scan between an initial scan position and an end scan position, which may be provided by one or more of the user or computing system or control panel 120. The initial scan position may be input by a user or detected by scanning module 160, such as a first end of upper rail 108, e.g., the scanning module 160 is at the leftmost (or aftmost) position on the upper rail 108, and the end position may be the second end of the upper rail 108, e.g., the scanning module 160 is at the rightmost (of forwardmost) position on the upper rail 108. In various embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to scan transverse line segments 171 at any interval along the longitudinal axis 101, said intervals may be input by one or more of the users, computing systems, testing protocols, or control panel 120, such as about every 20-30 millimeters (mm) along the longitudinal axis 101.

[0086] Other testing systems typically require multiple test fixtures in one or more machine configurations in order to accomplish both torsion testing and three-point bending tests. Testing system 100 can be adapted to use a singular setup to test both torsion and different types of bending response, including but not limited to three-point testing response. In contrast to other systems, scanning module 160 can be configured to determine the complete geometry of the test article 200 under load, rather than inferring the geometry from other data. The scanning module 160 can be configured to measure the geometry of the surface(s) of the test article 200 directly, rather than inferring the geometry by mechanical or other means. Center spring constant and fatigue testing can be provided in the same testing system 100, using a singular set of data for both analyses. Torsional and combined flexing and torsional loading can also be imposed, with commensurately more detailed data and analysis of the mechanical response of the test article 200.

[0087] With continued reference to FIGS. 4A-4B, testing system 100 may include one29FH13227652.4more control panels 120 coupled to a portion of frame 110 or separate therefrom and communicatively coupled to one or more movable components of testing system 100.Method for Testing the Mechanical Response of a Test Article

[0088] Referring now to FIG. 11, a method 1100 for testing the mechanical response of a test article is shown in flowchart form. Method 1100, at step 1105 may include providing a testing system such as testing system 100, having frame 110 with base 104 and an upper rail 108. Testing system 100 may include at least one clamp assembly, such as clamp assemblies 150, 154 coupled to base 104 and configured to be adjustably slid along a portion of base 104 along the longitudinal axis 101 to a selected position and orientation and engage and retain test article within the clamp assemblies 150, 154. System 100 may include at least one linear drive assembly, such as first and second linear drive assemblies 130, 134.Further, at least one load actuator assembly, such as first and second load actuator assemblies 140, 144 may be affixed, coupled or supported on the linear drives 130, 134 such that longitudinal movement of the linear drives selectively translates the vertically oriented load actuators to desired loading locations for contact with the test article 200.

[0089] With continued reference to FIG. 11, method 1100, at step 1110, may include positioning at least one clamp assembly (150, 154) on base 104 along the longitudinal axis 101. Testing protocols stored on one or more computing devices or user- selected clamp positions may be affected by automatically or manually positioning clamp posts along base 104 to a desired or predetermined clamp location along base 104, which may be a desired angle relative to base and a test article.

[0090] Method 1100 may include, at step 1112, positioning the test article within the testing system. In this step, one or more actuators may be disposed within clamp assemblies 150, 154 and configured to automatically open and / or close clamp upper and clamp lower to engage and initially retain test article 200. This initial retention of test article 200 may 30FH13227652.4establish the rest position of test article 200. Further, each clamp assembly 150, 154 may be configured to engage the test article 200 between respective upper and lower members with a predetermined force.

[0091] With continued reference to FIG. 11, method 1100, at step 1115, may include detecting via a scanning module, an initial geometric profile of the test article at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis 101. Step 1115 may include providing a reference or ‘zero’ point along test article 200 at which the various moving components described herein may reference as an origin. For example, and without limitation, scanning module 160 may be manually or automatedly controlled to translate along the upper rail 108 until it is positioned over the longitudinal center point of frame 110 (the centerline of base 104, for example). In certain embodiments, a user may selectively control the one or more motors to translate said scanning module 160 to the zero point, such as through interaction with a control panel jog control. In certain other embodiments, one or more sensors, such as the scanning module 160 itself, may measure the longitudinal length of upper rail 108 via one or more encoders or the like, and automatedly zero itself over or at a suitable position. In certain embodiments, such as a laser scanning module 160, the zero point may be established by aligning the emitted laser to the centerline of frame 110 or base 104. The longitudinal origin may be established via the scanner carriage encoder and machine centerline; all scan positions may be specified as signed millimeter distances from this origin.

[0092] Once a zero point has been defined, one or more of a user, computing device or processor may select predetermined initial scan positions and end scan positions of the scanning module 160 along the upper rail 108. The initial and end scan positions may indicate the distance (such as a length of travel in millimeters (mm)) from the zero point where the scanning module 160 (e.g., laser) will make its initial (e.g., first) scan and its end 31FH13227652.4(e.g., last) scan. In various embodiments, the initial scan position and the end scan position can be represented by either positive or negative values depending on the side of the machine on which the scan will take place. For example, and without limitation, when looking at the front of the testing system 100 (such as FIG. 2), the right-hand side may be defined as having negative distance values, denoting a location along the longitudinal axis 101 relative to the zero point. Once the range to be scanned has been input, one or more of the user, computing system or processors may input the scan interval which defines a magnitude of distance between each laser scan. In certain embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to scan at intervals between about 20-30 mm. In certain other embodiments, the predetermined interval may be greater than about 1mm, 2mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, 16 mm, 17 mm, 8 mm, 19 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, 40 mm, or more and less than about 50 mm, 45 mm, 40 mm, 35 mm, 30 mm, 25 mm, 20 mm, 19 mm, 18 mm, 17 mm, 16 mm, 15 mm, 14 mm, 13 mm, 12 mm, 11 mm, 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, or 5 mm. In certain embodiments, the predetermined intervals may be regularly or irregularly spaced along the longitudinal axis 101.

[0093] To begin scanning, scanning module 160 may move longitudinally along the upper rail 108 into its starting position. The laser scanning module 160 movements may be controlled by a belt drive with an encoder to monitor the scanning module 160 location along the upper rail 108. The scanning module 160 may move parallel to the transverse axis 103 to offset for scanning large, unique or atypical parts.

[0094] Scanning module 160 may scan line segments (171) of the upper surface of test article 200 at predetermined intervals as the scanning module 160 translates along the longitudinal axis 101 as discussed above. The initial geometric profile may be representative of the surface of the test article, and may be measured as a corresponding point cloud data of 32FH13227652.4test article 200 at an initial position (prior to loading). In certain embodiments, the predetermined intervals may be selected by one or more of a user or users and one or more computing systems or processors. In various embodiments, point cloud data may be representative of the distance between discrete points on the test article 200 and the scanning module 160, such as the emitter of the scanning module 160.

[0095] With continued reference to FIG. 11, method 1100, at step 1120, positioning at least one load actuator along the longitudinal axis 101 to at least one loading position. The at least one load actuator assembly 140 may be disposed on at least one linear drive assembly 130 (and / or 134). Load actuator assemblies 140, 144 may each be independently positioned along the longitudinal axis 101 to predetermined loading positions, i.e., the location along the longitudinal axis 101 at which the user desires to exert a load on test article 200 Each linear drive assembly 130, 134 may translate a respective load actuator assembly 140, 144 to the first and second loading positions along the underside of test article 200.

[0096] In various embodiments, positioning the at least one load actuator assembly may include translating a first load actuator assembly 140 to a first loading position and translating a second load actuator assembly 144 to a second loading position, each loading position may be disposed on a respective half of base 104. In certain embodiments, the first load actuator assembly 140 may include a first pair of load actuators, each configured to be translated to the first loading position along the longitudinal axis 101. In certain embodiments, second load actuator assembly 144 is disposed on a second linear drive assembly 134 configured to translate along the longitudinal axis 101. In certain embodiments, the second load actuator assembly 144 may include a second pair of load actuators, each configured to be translated to the second loading position along the longitudinal axis 101.33FH13227652.4

[0097] In certain embodiments, each load actuator assembly 140, 144 may be configured to engage and retain test article 200 directly, whether the clamp assemblies 150, 154 are present or not. That is to say, in some embodiments, load actuator assemblies are configured to clamp over opposite surfaces of test article 200 to retain the test article to the distal end of respective load actuator assemblies.

[0098] With continued reference to FIG. 11, method 1100, at step 1125 may include actuating at least one load actuator to exert a predetermined load on the test article 200 at the at least one loading position. In various embodiments, one or more of a user, computing device, or processors may input or otherwise provide the required actuator parameters (for load actuator assemblies 140, 144 and linear drive assemblies 130, 134) to testing system 100. The actuator parameters may include at least one loading position, e.g., the first and second loading positions along the longitudinal axis 101, which defines the lateral distance each pair of load actuators of each load actuator assembly 140, 144 will travel prior to applying any loads. At this point, the testing system 100 may prompt a user or otherwise allow the input of the predetermined load to be applied to the test article, said load may include a force to be applied and a loading angle (the angle of load bar 650 as defined by extension of respective pairs of load actuators). In various embodiments, actuating the at least one load actuator assembly may include extending the second pair of load actuators to contact the test article, wherein each of the second pair of actuators is configured to extend a distance along the vertical axis 102, defining a second loading angle.

[0099] Once the load actuators 140, 144 and scanning module 160 (laser scanner) are in position, the control panel 120 may drive the load actuator assemblies 140, 144 upward into contact with the test article until the user-defined load (force and loading angle (if any)) are achieved.

[0100] With continued reference to FIG. 11, method 1100, at step 1126 may include 34FH13227652.4detecting a load exerted on the test article 200 by at least one load actuator assembly via a least one load cell. As described above, each load actuator (the pair) of the first load actuator assembly 140 may include a distinct and separate load cell 640, such that each load actuator assembly includes a pair of load cells 640 disposed proximate the portion of load actuator that contacts test article 200. As described above, each load actuator (the pair) of the second load actuator assembly 144 may include a distinct and separate load cell 640, such that each load actuator assembly includes a pair of load cells 640 disposed proximate the portion of load actuator that contacts test article 200.

[0101] With continued reference to FIG. 11, method 1100, at step 1127 may include adjusting at least one of the first load actuator assembly 140 or the second load actuator assembly 144 based on the detected load by at least one load cell 640. The real time output of one or more load cells (e.g., force as measured in Newtons (N)) may be displayed within the control panel 120 for the duration of the test.

[0102] If both a predetermined force and a predetermined loading angle are defined in the testing procedure, the user and or the testing system will drive the machine to move one load actuator such that it creates the desired angle with respect to the other load actuator in that same load actuator assembly. Once the loading angle is achieved, both load actuators (of the same load actuator assembly) move vertically at the same rate and distance until the resultant load between them achieves that defined by the user. If no loading force or loading angle are applied, which is necessary for determining displacement from scan data, the scanning module 160 may simply scan test article 200 at the defined intervals. If a load (force) is applied without an angle (machine default angle is zero), the load actuator assemblies 140, 144 move upwards until the resultant load observed between the two of them is equal to the user defined load.

[0103] With continued reference to FIG. 11, method 1100 may include, at step 1130,35FH13227652.4detecting, via the scanning module 160, a second geometric profile by scanning the test article 200 at the predetermined intervals. In various embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to detect the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile of the test article between an initial scan position on the upper rail and an end scan position on the upper rail. In various embodiments, system 100 and method 1100 may be implemented to detect, via the scanning module 160, any number of geometric profiles of test article 200 and at any loading condition. In various embodiments, scanning module 160 may be configured to create any number of geometric profiles based on the measured data of the distances of discrete points on the test article relative to the scanning module 160. For example, and without limitation, the initial scan may be performed after loading, thus step 1115 may be omitted or rearranged with respect to step 1120, that is to say, the at least one load actuator may be positioned prior to any scan being performed. In certain embodiments, one or more scans may be performed at alternate loading regimes, such as a first scan at a first loading condition, and a second scan at a second loading condition, and so on.

[0104] At this stage, the scanning module 160 may begin taking transverse scans along the longitudinal axis 101 of the test article at the predetermined intervals. At each point where the scanning module 160, for example embodied as a laser scanner, takes a scan, it gathers raw point cloud data in a line segment (171) crossing the machine’s width. The output is the relative distance along the vertical axis 102 (z-data) relative to the scanning module 160 (laser’s) focal point and the lateral coordinates along the transverse axis 103 may be defined by analyzing the number of pixels in said direction as well as the distance between each pixel. In representative implementations, the scanner outputs z-data along the vertical axis (mm) relative to the scanner’s focal reference and lateral positions across each transverse line (mm) derived from pixel geometry using factory calibration constants. Point clouds from different load states are registered by aligning the encoder-referenced36FH13227652.4longitudinal positions and the scanner’s focal reference to isolate true deformation.

[0105] These two variables, the scanning module focal point and pixel distance, are not user defined and are inherent properties of the scanning module used. In various embodiments. After the scanning module has performed the final scan at the end scan position, the plurality of point cloud data, may be written to a file and saved in a location defined by the user in the testing protocol, e.g., be output into a machine-readable computer file such as a table, spreadsheet or the like. In various embodiments, the method may include determining, based on the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile, at least one mechanical parameter of test article 200. In certain embodiments, the mechanical parameter may be a material characteristic of the test article 200, a static or dynamic characteristic or a combination thereof. For example, and without limitation, the at least one mechanical parameter is one of deformation, bending stiffness or torsional stiffness.Exemplary Embodiments

[0106] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the disclosed subject matter, as embodied and broadly described, the disclosed subject matter includes a system for testing the mechanical response of a test article, the system comprising a frame comprising a base and an upper rail spaced from the base along a vertical axis, the upper rail extending along a longitudinal axis of the frame perpendicular to the vertical axis; at least one clamp assembly adjustably disposed on the base, the at least one clamp assembly configured to retain a test article; at least one load actuator assembly configured to extend parallel to the vertical axis and to apply a load to the test article; at least one linear drive assembly coupled to the at least one load actuator assembly, the at least one linear drive assembly configured to translate the at least one load actuator assembly along the longitudinal axis; and a scanning module comprising at least one motor and translatably 37FH13227652.4mounted to the upper rail, the scanning module configured to detect at least one geometric profile of the test article.

[0107] In some embodiments, the at least one clamp assembly comprises: a first post and a second post, each of the first post and the second post extending upwardly from the base; a clamp lower attached to the first post and the second post and configured to support the test article; a clamp upper attached to the first post and the second post and positioned above the clamp lower and configured to engage the test article therebetween.

[0108] In some embodiments, the first post and the second post are each slidably coupled to the base and configured to be positioned along the longitudinal axis.

[0109] In some embodiments, the system comprises a first clamp assembly and a second clamp assembly, each configured to be adjustably positioned relative to the frame.

[0110] In some embodiments, the at least one load actuator assembly comprises a first load actuator assembly and a second load actuator assembly.

[0111] In some embodiments, the first load actuator assembly comprises a first pair of load actuators.

[0112] In some embodiments, the second load actuator assembly comprises a second pair of load actuators.

[0113] In some embodiments, the first pair of load actuators comprises a first load bar pivotably coupled to each of the first pair of load actuators.

[0114] In some embodiments, the second pair of load actuators comprise a second load bar pivotably coupled to each of the second pair of load actuators.

[0115] In some embodiments, the at least one linear drive assembly comprises a first linear drive assembly and a second linear drive assembly.

[0116] In some embodiments, the first linear drive assembly and the second linear drive assembly are configured to translate along the longitudinal axis independently.38FH13227652.4

[0117] In some embodiments, the at least one linear drive assembly comprises a mounting plate threaded on a lead screw and configured to translate along the longitudinal axis and support the at least one load actuator assembly thereon.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first load actuator assembly is disposed on the mounting plate of the first linear drive assembly, and the second load actuator assembly is disposed on the mounting plate of the second linear drive assembly.

[0119] In some embodiments, the first pair of load actuators are each configured to extend independently.

[0120] In some embodiments, the second pair of load actuators are each configured to extend independently.

[0121] In some embodiments, the at least one load actuator assembly comprises a piston configured to extend parallel to the vertical axis.

[0122] In some embodiments, the at least one load actuator assembly comprises at least one load cell disposed proximate a distal end thereof.

[0123] In some embodiments, the scanning module comprises one of an optical scanner, a laser scanner, a radio frequency scanner, or a sonic scanner.

[0124] In some embodiments, the scanning module comprises a first motor and a second motor.

[0125] In some embodiments, the first motor is configured to translate the scanning module along the longitudinal axis, and the second motor is configured to translate the scanning module along a transverse axis, the transverse axis perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis and the vertical axis.

[0126] In some embodiments, the at least one load actuator assembly is configured to deflect the test article.

[0127] In some embodiments, the scanning module is configured to detect the geometric 39FH13227652.4profile of at least a portion of the test article upon deflection of the test article by the at least one load actuator assembly.

[0128] In some embodiments, the scanning module is configured to detect the geometric profile of at least a portion of the test article at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis.

[0129] In some embodiments, the test article is at least one of a ski or a snowboard.

[0130] In some embodiments, the geometric profile comprises a point cloud corresponding to a surface of the test article.

[0131] In some embodiments, the upper rail is attached to the base by at least one vertical member extending therebetween.

[0132] In some embodiments, the testing system further comprises at least one controller communicatively coupled to the at least one load actuator assembly, the at least one linear drive assembly and the scanning module.

[0133] The herein disclosed subject matter is also directed to a method of determining a mechanical response of a test article, the method comprising: providing a frame having a base and an upper rail, the upper rail spaced from the base along a vertical axis and the upper rail extending along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the vertical axis; positioning at least one clamp assembly on the base along the longitudinal axis, the at least one clamp assembly configured to retain a test article; detecting, via a scanning module, an initial geometric profile by scanning the test article at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis; positioning at least one load actuator along the longitudinal axis to a loading position; actuating the at least one load actuator to exert a predetermined load on the test article at the loading position; and detecting, via the scanning module, a second geometric profile by scanning the test article at the predetermined intervals.

[0134] In some embodiments, the test article is one of a ski or a snowboard.40FH13227652.4

[0135] In some embodiments, detecting the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile of the test article comprises translating the scanning module along the longitudinal axis.

[0136] In some embodiments, detecting the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile of the test article comprises translating the scanning module along a transverse axis, the transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the vertical axis.

[0137] In some embodiments, scanning the test article at the predetermined intervals comprises scanning a plurality of transverse line segments of a top surface of the test article.

[0138] In some embodiments, the predetermined intervals are selectively spaced along the longitudinal axis.

[0139] In some embodiments, the scanning module is configured to detect the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile of the test article between an initial scan position on the upper rail and an end scan position on the upper rail.

[0140] In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing the initial scan position and the end scan position to the scanning module.

[0141] In some embodiments, detecting the initial geometric profile or the second geometric profile of the test article comprises detecting point cloud data corresponding an upper surface of the test article.

[0142] In some embodiments, the scanning module comprises one of an optical scanner, a laser scanner, a radio frequency scanner, or a sonic scanner.

[0143] In some embodiments, positioning the at least one load actuator assembly comprises translating a first load actuator assembly to a first loading position and translating a second load actuator assembly to a second loading position.

[0144] In some embodiments, the first load actuator assembly comprises a first pair of 41FH13227652.4load actuators, each configured to be translated to the first loading position along the longitudinal axis.

[0145] In some embodiments, the second load actuator assembly comprises a second pair of load actuators, each configured to be translated to the second loading position along the longitudinal axis.

[0146] In some embodiments, extending the at least one load actuator assembly comprises extending the first pair of load actuators to contact the test article, wherein each of the first pair of actuators is configured to extend a distance along the vertical axis, defining a first loading angle.

[0147] In some embodiments, extending the at least one load actuator assembly comprises extending the second pair of load actuators to contact the test article, wherein each of the second pair of actuators is configured to extend a distance along the vertical axis, defining a second loading angle.

[0148] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: detecting a load exerted on the test article by the first load actuator assembly via at least a first load cell disposed on the first load actuator assembly and detecting a load exerted on the test article by the second load actuator assembly via at least a second load cell disposed on the second load actuator assembly.

[0149] In some embodiments, the method further comprises adjusting at least one of the first load actuator assembly or the second load actuator assembly based on the detected load of at least the first load cell and at least the second load cell.

[0150] In some embodiments, the first load actuator assembly is disposed on a first linear drive assembly configured to translate along the longitudinal axis.

[0151] In some embodiments, the second load actuator assembly is disposed on a second linear drive assembly configured to translate along the longitudinal axis.42FH13227652.4

[0152] In some embodiments, translating the first load actuator assembly to the first loading position and the second load actuator assembly to the second loading position comprises actuating the first linear drive assembly and the second linear drive assembly, respectively.

[0153] In some embodiments, the method further comprises determining, based on the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile, at least one mechanical parameter of the test article.

[0154] In some embodiments, the at least one mechanical parameter is one of deformation, bending stiffness or torsional stiffness.

[0155] In some embodiments, positioning the at least one clamp assembly comprises orienting the at least one clamp assembly at a predetermined angle relative to the base.

[0156] In some embodiments, positioning the at least one clamp assembly on the base comprises automatically translating the at least one clamp assembly to a desired position.

[0157] In some embodiments, the at least one clamp assembly is configured to automatedly open and close to retain the test article.

[0158] In some embodiments, the method further comprises clamping the test article to the frame by coupling the test article to a load bar pivotably coupled to the at least one load actuator.

[0159] It will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art that the present disclosure has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the disclosure and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative 43FH13227652.4purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0160] Accordingly, while embodiments are described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present disclosure, and are made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure.

[0161] Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and / or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive.Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention.

[0162] In this description, specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding and explanation of various examples, applications and embodiments of the present subject matter. It will be evident to those skilled in the art that these and other examples and embodiments of the present subject matter can be practiced without all the specific details described here, and that changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted in order to adapt these teachings to different problems, products and applications, and the scope of this invention is not limited except as set forth in the claims.

[0163] While the disclosed subject matter is described herein in terms of certain preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and 44FH13227652.4improvements may be made to the disclosed subject matter without departing from the scope thereof. Moreover, although individual features of one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter may be discussed herein or shown in the drawings of the one embodiment and not in other embodiments, it should be apparent that individual features of one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of another embodiment or features from a plurality of embodiments.

[0164] In addition to the specific embodiments claimed below, the disclosed subject matter is also directed to other embodiments having any other possible combination of the dependent features claimed below and those disclosed above. As such, the particular features presented in the dependent claims and disclosed above can be combined with each other in other manners within the scope of the disclosed subject matter such that the disclosed subject matter should be recognized as also specifically directed to other embodiments having any other possible combinations. Thus, the foregoing description of specific embodiments of the disclosed subject matter has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed subject matter to those embodiments disclosed.

[0165] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the method and system of the disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed subject matter. Thus, it is intended that the disclosed subject matter include modifications and variations that are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.45FH13227652.4

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system for testing the mechanical response of a test article, the system comprising:a frame comprising:a base; andan upper rail spaced from the base along a vertical axis, the upper rail extending along a longitudinal axis of the frame perpendicular to the vertical axis; at least one clamp assembly adjustably disposed on the base, the at least one clamp assembly configured to retain a test article;at least one load actuator assembly configured to extend parallel to the vertical axis and to apply a load to the test article;at least one linear drive assembly coupled to the at least one load actuator assembly, the at least one linear drive assembly configured to translate the at least one load actuator assembly along the longitudinal axis; anda scanning module comprising at least one motor and translatably mounted to the upper rail, the scanning module configured to detect at least one geometric profile of the test article.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one clamp assembly comprises:a first post and a second post, each of the first post and the second post extending upwardly from the base;a clamp lower attached to the first post and the second post and configured to support the test article;a clamp upper attached to the first post and the second post and positioned above the clamp lower and configured to engage the test article therebetween.46FH13227652.

43. The system of claim 2, wherein the first post and the second post are each slidably coupled to the base and configured to be positioned along the longitudinal axis.

4. The system of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the system comprises a first clamp assembly and a second clamp assembly, each configured to be adjustably positioned relative to the frame.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one load actuator assembly comprises a first load actuator assembly and a second load actuator assembly.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the first load actuator assembly comprises a first pair of load actuators.

7. The system of claim 5, wherein the second load actuator assembly comprises a second pair of load actuators.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the first pair of load actuators comprises a first load bar pivotably coupled to each of the first pair of load actuators.

9. The system of claim 7, wherein the second pair of load actuators comprises a second load bar pivotably coupled to each of the second pair of load actuators.

10. The system of claim 5, wherein the at least one linear drive assembly comprises a first linear drive assembly and a second linear drive assembly.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the first linear drive assembly and the second linear drive assembly are configured to translate along the longitudinal axis independently.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the at least one linear drive assembly comprises a mounting plate threaded on a lead screw and configured to translate along the longitudinal axis and support the at least one load actuator assembly thereon.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the first load actuator assembly is disposed on the 47FH13227652.4mounting plate of the first linear drive assembly and the second load actuator assembly is disposed on the mounting plate of the second linear drive assembly.

14. The system of claim 6, wherein the first pair of load actuators are each configured to extend independently.

15. The system of claim 7, wherein the second pair of load actuators are each configured to extend independently.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one load actuator assembly comprises a piston configured to extend parallel to the vertical axis.

17. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one load actuator assembly comprises at least one load cell disposed proximate a distal end thereof.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the scanning module comprises one of an optical scanner, a laser scanner, a radio frequency scanner, or a sonic scanner.

19. The system of claim 1, wherein the scanning module comprises a first motor and a second motor.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the first motor is configured to translate the scanning module along the longitudinal axis and the second motor is configured to translate the scanning module along a transverse axis, the transverse axis perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis and the vertical axis.

21. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one load actuator assembly is configured to deflect the test article.

22. The system of claim 1, wherein the scanning module is configured to detect the geometric profile of at least a portion of the test article upon deflection of the test article by the at least one load actuator assembly.48FH13227652.4CUJ-02425(PCT) 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the scanning module is configured to detect the geometric profile of at least a portion of the test article at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis.

24. The system of claim 1, wherein the test article is at least one of a ski or a snowboard.

25. The system of claim 1, wherein the geometric profile comprises a point cloud corresponding to a surface of the test article.

26. The system of claim 1, wherein the upper rail is attached to the base by at least one vertical member extending therebetween.

27. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one controller communicatively coupled to the at least one load actuator assembly, the at least one linear drive assembly and the scanning module.

28. A method of determining a mechanical response of a test article, the method comprising:providing a frame having a base and an upper rail, the upper rail spaced from the base along a vertical axis and the upper rail extending along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the vertical axis;positioning at least one clamp assembly on the base along the longitudinal axis, the at least one clamp assembly configured to retain a test article;detecting, via a scanning module, an initial geometric profile by scanning the test article at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis;positioning at least one load actuator along the longitudinal axis to a loading position; actuating the at least one load actuator to exert a predetermined load on the test article at the loading position; anddetecting, via the scanning module, a second geometric profile by scanning the test49FH13227652.4article at the predetermined intervals.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the test article is one of a ski or a snowboard.

30. The method of claim 28, wherein detecting the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile of the test article comprises translating the scanning module along the longitudinal axis.

31. The method of any one of claims 28-30, wherein detecting the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile of the test article comprises translating the scanning module along a transverse axis, the transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the vertical axis.

32. The method of claim 28, wherein scanning the test article at the predetermined intervals comprises scanning a plurality of transverse line segments of a top surface of the test article.

33. The method of claim 28, wherein the predetermined intervals are selectively spaced along the longitudinal axis.

34. The method of claim 28, wherein the scanning module is configured to detect the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile of the test article between an initial scan position on the upper rail and an end scan position on the upper rail.

35. The method of claim 34, comprising providing the initial scan position and the end scan position to the scanning module.

36. The method of claim 28, wherein detecting the initial geometric profile or the second geometric profile of the test article comprises detecting point cloud data corresponding an upper surface of the test article.

37. The method of claim 28, wherein the scanning module comprises one of an optical 50FH13227652.4scanner, a laser scanner, a radio frequency scanner, or a sonic scanner.

38. The method of claim 28, wherein positioning the at least one load actuator assembly comprises translating a first load actuator assembly to a first loading position and translating a second load actuator assembly to a second loading position.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein the first load actuator assembly comprises a first pair of load actuators, each configured to be translated to the first loading position along the longitudinal axis.

40. The method of claim 38, wherein the second load actuator assembly comprises a second pair of load actuators, each configured to be translated to the second loading position along the longitudinal axis.

41. The method of claim 39, wherein extending the at least one load actuator assembly comprises extending the first pair of load actuators to contact the test article, wherein each of the first pair of actuators is configured to extend a distance along the vertical axis, defining a first loading angle.

42. The method of claim 40, wherein extending the at least one load actuator assembly comprises extending the second pair of load actuators to contact the test article, wherein each of the second pair of actuators is configured to extend a distance along the vertical axis, defining a second loading angle.

43. The method of claim 38, further comprising:detecting a load exerted on the test article by the first load actuator assembly via at least a first load cell disposed on the first load actuator assembly and;detecting a load exerted on the test article by the second load actuator assembly via at least a second load cell disposed on the second load actuator assembly.

44. The method of claim 43, further comprising adjusting at least one of the first load 51FH13227652.4actuator assembly or the second load actuator assembly based on the detected load of at least the first load cell and at least the second load cell.

45. The method of claim 38, wherein the first load actuator assembly is disposed on a first linear drive assembly configured to translate along the longitudinal axis.

46. The method of claim 38, wherein the second load actuator assembly is disposed on a second linear drive assembly configured to translate along the longitudinal axis.

47. The method of any one of claims 38-46, wherein translating the first load actuator assembly to the first loading position and the second load actuator assembly to the second loading position comprises actuating the first linear drive assembly and the second linear drive assembly, respectively.

48. The method of any one of claims 28-46, comprising determining, based on the initial geometric profile and the second geometric profile, at least one mechanical parameter of the test article.

49. The method of claim 48, wherein the at least one mechanical parameter is one of deformation, bending stiffness or torsional stiffness.

50. The method of claim 28, wherein positioning the at least one clamp assembly comprises orienting the at least one clamp assembly at a predetermined angle relative to the base.

51. The method of claim 28, wherein positioning the at least one clamp assembly on the base comprises automatically translating the at least one clamp assembly to a desired position.

52. The method of claim 28, wherein the at least one clamp assembly is configured to automatedly open and close to retain the test article.52FH13227652.

453. The method of claim 28, comprising clamping the test article to the frame by coupling the test article to a load bar pivotably coupled to the at least one load actuator.53FH13227652.4

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