Testing machine with workflow based test procedure

A testing machine system configured to apply tests to a test specimen and obtain measurement therefrom, the testing machine system comprising:

• at least one computer, the computer having a graphical user interface;
• a test procedure generator configured to operate on said at least one computer, the test procedure generator including a workflow program configured to receive user input using the graphical user interface and create a test procedure represented by connected graphical icons, wherein the test procedure generator is configured to output a textual output readable by a human representing the test procedure;
• a test machine comprising an actuator assembly configured to apply a load to or displace the test specimen;
• and
• an execution engine module configured to operate on said at least one computer, the execution engine configured to receive the textual output and provide a command for use as a basis to control the actuator assembly as defined by the test procedure.

A computer implemented method for controlling a test machine pursuant to a test procedure, the test machine having a plurality of modules, wherein each of the modules correspond to an element of the test procedure, the method comprising:

• operating a workflow program on a computer with a graphical user interface to configure a test procedure using connected graphical icons representative of elements of the test procedure;
• operating the workflow program to generate a textual output data in a form readable by a human representing the test procedure;
• and
• accessing the textual output data to initiate a selected module of the plurality of modules based on a portion of the textual output, the module configured to control a controllable element operably coupled to a test specimen.

A testing machine system configured to apply tests to a test specimen and obtain measurement therefrom, the testing machine system comprising:

• at least one computer, the computer having a graphical user interface;
• a test machine having a controllable element configured to apply a test to a test specimen;
• and
• a test procedure generator configured to operate on said at least one computer, the test procedure generator including a workflow program configured to receive user input using the graphical user interface and create a test procedure represented by connected graphical icons representing corresponding activities for controlling the controllable element.