A novel, unique in vivo method to characterize the biomechanical properties of the nail
For the first time objective, highly accurate measurements on the nail are possible. In collaboration with Prof. Paola Perugini from the University of Pavia in Italy we have developed an absolutely unique, patented device to analyse mechanical properties of nails, such as firmness, elasticity and thickness.
Measurement Principle of the Nail StrainStress Meter
The device features a high precision load cell which measures continuously the pressure needed to step down the special applicator. It is equipped with three different applicator sets for the measurement of various parameters. The applicator heads can be moved down in smallest steps with a precision of 1 µm. The steps can be adjusted to the individual needs. The finger and its nail is conveniently placed on a support in the device. Positioning is monitored by a camera integrated into the side of the device. Correct nail positioning during the measurement ensures high reproducibility of the results. As soon as the head touches the surface of the nail the measured pressure increases. The force needed for the deflection of the nail is displayed in real time as a curve of force and distance (force deflection diagramme). Its slope provides interesting information about the mechanical properties of the nail.
Different Applicators and Parameters
The device is delivered with three different, easy to exchange pressure applicators and nail supports:
Software Advantages
The easy handling of the hardware is supported by a well-organized, convenient and intuitive software application.
- A variety of settings (pressure force, down step size of the applicator, measurement time, etc.) in order to meet your individual application.
- Several safety and comfort features ensure an absolutely pain-free measurement.
- Ghost image of T0 as an overlay in previous time points to aid perfect positioning for optimal reproducibility.
- Average up to 4 curves for one measurement.
- Quality measures of the curves (R² and deviation) in order to see immediately how good the measurement was taken.
- Zoom in and out of the curves.
- Comprehensible calibration check anytime possible.
- Study based simple and quick export of the results in statistical programmes.
Fields of Application
For the first time ever, the mechanical properties of nail can be measured simply and pain-free. This allows to explore a number of new efficacy tests for all kind of nail care products and formulations (nail hardness, firmness, thickness, flexibility/elasticity, structural strength, aging, breaking and more). The device can help to create innovative product and marketing ideas. The system has also application potential in the clinical basic research of nail disorders and diseases as well as other skin diseases presenting nail changes and the quantification of therapies.
Technical Data
Dimensions: approx. 51 (H) x 20.5 (W) x 19.2 (D) cm, Weight: approx. 10.4 kg, Power supply: external 100-240 VAC, 47-63 Hz, DC 12V/9A, Port: USB 2.0, type B connector, Consumption: during measurement approx. 0.3 A, Internal illumination by 18 white LEDs,
Measurement principle: strain-stress measurement of the deflection of the nail by a load/distance diagramme
Distance measurement: maximum 10 mm ± 0.02 mm, steps from 1 to 10 µm, measurement uncertainty: 30-70 µm for load of 10 N
Load measurement: high precision load measurement cell, measurement range 0 – 10 N, measurement uncertainty: ± 0.02 N ± 2% of the respective load value
Camera to monitor nail position: built-in 5 Megapixel USB color camera, resolution: 2592 x 1994 Pixel
Computer: Windows® 10, USB 2.0/3.0, performance must meet system requirements (please ask for computer requirements).
Technical changes may be made without prior notice.
