New Vernier Structures & Materials Tester Helps Students Conduct Bridge Competitions and Test Engineering Concepts

BEAVERTON, Ore., Feb. 4, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Vernier Software & Technology launched the Vernier Structures & Materials Tester (VSMT) to help STEM students from high school to college explore key engineering concepts. Utilizing the VSMT, along with the engineering design method, students can design, build, and test structures, as well as conduct bridge competitions and investigate and analyze beam designs and material properties.

"When I taught, bridge competitions were one of my favorite activities to conduct with my students; however, it was challenging for me to test all of the bridges and accurately apply force in a measured way," said David Vernier, co-founder of Vernier and former physics teacher. "The Vernier Structures & Materials Tester revolutionizes this process. Now, students can use the Tester with sensors and data-collection devices to assess bridges and use the data to refine their designs. This helps students learn engineering design methods and makes the Tester a great device for all project-based STEM and engineering lessons."

Utilizing both load and displacement sensors, the VSMT allows students to evaluate the stress and strain of materials. The VSMT is equipped with a force sensor that measures up to 1000 N and a displacement sensor with a measured precision of 0.1 mm resolution. Using both sensors allows students to record maximum breaking loads, as well as load and displacement characteristics. Students can additionally use Vernier's Logger Pro video analysis software in conjunction with sensor data to visualize the exact moment when their structures bend and break.

The top support beams of the VSMT are designed to easily slide and lock into position and the ruled markings located on the VSMT allow students to accurately position the support beams for center or off-center loading. The VSMT includes a well-outfitted Tackle Kit with a 50 x 50 x 6 mm and a 50 x 80 x 6 mm aluminum load plate, chain, rods, U-bolts, and other accessories to make it quick and easy to load bridges, materials, beams and structures of varying sizes and shapes.

To learn more about the Vernier Structures & Materials Tester, visit http://www.vernier.com/products/sensors/vsmt/.

About Vernier Software & Technology

Vernier Software & Technology has been a leading innovator of scientific data-collection technology for 34 years. Focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Vernier is dedicated to developing creative ways to teach and learn using hands-on science. Vernier creates easy-to-use and affordable science interfaces, sensors, and graphing/analysis software. With world-wide distribution to over 130 countries, Vernier data loggers are used by educators and students from elementary school to University. Vernier's technology-based solutions enhance STEM education, increase learning, build students' critical thinking skills, and support the science and engineering practices detailed in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Vernier's business culture is grounded in Earth-friendly policies and practices, and the company provides a family-friendly workplace. For more information, visit http://www.vernier.com.

SOURCE Vernier Software & Technology

Related Links

http://www.vernier.com

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