Testing apparatus for structural members

Abstract

Testing apparatus for measuring the load bearing capabilities of structural members under a uniform load comprises a fixed base that supports one side of the structural member; a flexible, inflatable tube engaging the length of a second side of the structural member opposite the first side; a restraining mechanism extending along the length of the tube and adapted to urge the tube against the second side of the structural member as the tube is inflated; a suitable air pressure source for inflating the tube; and a load sensing device for measuring the load placed on the structural member by the inflation of the tube. The restraining mechanism comprises a plurality of channel sections arranged end to end and positioned over the inflatable tube a predetermined distance from the second side of the structural member. The channel sections are mounted on brackets that are in turn slidably mounted on parallel guide rails that run transversely to the structural member. Fasteners are provided in the mounting brackets so that the channels can be fixed in any position at any point along the guide rails, thereby permitting the channel sections to be relocated to conform with the outer contour of structural members having a variety of different shapes.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.