Rapid and cost-efficient approach for non-contact measurement in experimental mechanics

The advancement of computer vision and computational technology is creating revolutionary possibilities for applications in various areas of experimental mechanics. This paper introduces a novel approach that leverages object boundary detection for non-contact displacement measurement in tensile testing. Current marketavailable technologies for displacement measurement often prove to be inefficient due to high initial investment costs and numerous operational limitations. In response, the authors present a new approach with zero investment requirements for well-equipped laboratories. Additional advantages of this technique include versatility, simplicity, and proven accuracy for tensile testing. The system described allows measurements on specimens with both circular and rectangular cross-sections, without stringent requirements for surface preparation or lighting conditions. The technology requires minimal staff training, and is suitable for materials with both, low and high ductility. At the same time, it enables measurements for a wide range of problems, such as tensile testing, creep, thermal expansion, or acceleration measurements. Moreover, thanks to its simplicity and lower computational demands, this technique holds promising potential for real-time evaluation in the future.