Quantification of mechanical behavior of rat tail under compression

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Occupational Health
• Materials Science

Background:

• Vibration-induced finger disorders are linked to combined static and dynamic responses to vibration.
• A rat-tail model simulates finger vibration and pressure exposure, but its mechanical behavior requires further understanding.
• Improved understanding of rat tail mechanics under compression is crucial for refining this model.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the static and time-dependent force responses of rat tails during compression.
• To characterize the nonlinear and time-dependent mechanical properties of rat tails.

Main Methods:

• Cadaver Sprague-Dawley rat tails underwent compression tests using a micromechanical system.
• Tests were performed at varying deformation velocities and magnitudes, measuring force, deformation, and contact width.
• Prony series analysis was employed to model the observed force-relaxation behavior.

Main Results:

• Rat tail force-deformation and stiffness-deformation relationships exhibited strong nonlinearity and time dependence.
• Increased deformation and deformation velocity led to higher force and stiffness.
• The force-relaxation characteristics were accurately modeled using a Prony series.

Conclusions:

• Static and time-dependent force responses of rat tails under compression were successfully quantified.
• The characterized mechanical behavior of the rat tail is vital for improving the existing model and its applications.
• This research contributes to a better understanding of biomechanical responses relevant to occupational safety.