MTS Inc.offers a solution for low force testing of biomaterials and biomechanical devices. One of these systems, the Tytron 250, incorporates a horizontal low force actuator. The horizontal bath chamber will aid in testing biomaterials. Biomaterials range from materials found in the body (cellular structures to ligaments) to man made materials that are implanted (composites and metallics). All of these require testing in environments that are similar to the ones found in the human body. The problem definition and design specifications for this project were given by MTS Inc. and are specified below.

Problem Definition:
Development of a horizontal bath chamber for the Tytron 250 to test materials under simulated in vivo conditions subject to microforce testing.

Design specifications:

• Specimen has to be fully immersed in 0.9% saline solution
• Laminar flow must be maintained within the chamber
• Monitoring capabilities for maintaining fluid temperatures in the chamber within +/- 1 degree Celcius of the body temperature
• Specimen must be top loaded with three sides of viewing capability
• A lid is required that minimizes contamination and evaporation of the fluid
• Manual fill and drain
• 110 V AC power consumption
• Prototype costs must not exceed $2000.00