Discovery & Innovation Reference Point Indentation is a platform technology invented by Professor Paul Hansma at the University of California at Santa Barbara. Click here to learn more about Dr. Hansma and his discoveries leading to his invention. What is Reference Point Indentation (RPI)? A Reference Point Indenter (RPI) is a new technology used to investigate the contribution of a tissue’s material properties to its overall strength. RPI not only provides important information about the tissue, but can also be used to test the tissue in its natural setting (in vivo) without destroying it (non-destructive). How Does RPI Work? RPI works by pushing a thin probe into a material at a known force and measuring the microscopic distance the probe travels into the material. With this “force” and “distance” data, RPI makes calculations that indicate how good or bad the material is. Why RPI? Understanding how material properties influence material performance is a fundamental aspect of assessing an object’s ability to do its job. It is becoming increasingly necessary for researchers in all fields to understand material level properties and how they contribute to a material’s ability to bear load and serve its purpose in situ or in vivo. Tools exist for evaluating material properties, however these conventional tools have limitations. Conventional micro- or nano-indenters, for example, utilize a rigid frame to establish a reference for precise probe placement and measurements. These conventional indenters typically require a strong technical background to operate and also require destructive sample preparation – preventing in situ or in vivo testing. Reference Point Indenters utilize a small cannula reference probe to establish a reference point on or in the material for precise probe placement and measurements. This reference point method eliminates the need for a rigid frame, making the system much easier to use without the need for destroying the object – enabling in situ or in vivo testing.
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