Muscle Levers

300 Series Muscle Levers

Series 300C Dual-Mode Muscle Lever Systems

Models 300C, 305C, 309C and 310C
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300 Series Muscle Levers

Instruments for measuring the dynamic physical properties
of muscles and connective tissues.

Features

  • Modes of operation: Length Control (Isometric) and Force Control (Isotonic).
  • Step change in length as fast as 600 microseconds.
  • Negligible length measurement error.
  • No transients when switching between force and length control.
  • Force signal generated electronically without external transducer.
  • Mechanical error contributions to force signal cancelled electronically.
  • Complete systems, including electronics, motor, torque arm and cables.

Comparison Chart

Dual-Mode Systems (Control and Measure Length and Force)

Model # 300C 300C-LR 305C 305C-LR 309C 310C 310C-LR
Length Control (Isometric) Mode
Max. Force [N] 0.5 1.0 5.0 10.0 20.0 50.0 100.0
Torque Arm Length [cm] 3.0 3.0 4.0 4.0 6.0 8.0 8.0
Max. Arm Excursion [mm ptp] 10.0 10.0 20.0 20.0 30.0 40.0 40.0
Length Signal Resolution [micron] 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Length Change Step Response Time [millisec] 2 1.3 1.3 2.0 2.0 5.0 8.0 8.0
Sinusoidal Frequency Response (-3dB)[Hz] 530 530 330 330 135 90 90
Force Control (Isotonic) Mode
Force Signal Resolution [mN] 4 0.3 0.3 1.0 1.0 4.0 10.0 10.0
Force Change Step Response Time [millisec] 2 1.3 1.3 2.0 2.0 4.0 8.0 8.0

The 300C Series of Lever Systems are an improved version of the original 300B instruments. These products were designed for the measurement of the dynamic physical properties of all types of muscle and connective tissue. In addition to biological specimens, they can also be used to evaluate natural and synthetic polymers, fibres, films and coatings. The 300C Series offer unique features and specifications that are not otherwise available. Details and specifications for all models can be found by clicking on the links provided in the table above.

Dual-mode operation
300C dual-mode instruments can measure and control both length and force. These instruments can operate isotonically (force is held constant while length is measured), isometrically (length is held constant while force is measured) or auxotonically (both force and length are varied). The dual-mode instruments can be switched between force and length control without introducing any transient errors. The unique capabilites of the 300C series of dual-mode lever systems allow them to be used for in situ and in vitro studies.

Instruments for a wide range of muscle sizes
With force ranges from 0.5 N (50 grams) to 100.0 N (10,000 grams) the 300C series covers a wide range of muscle sizes. Our instruments have been used to test the muscle tissue from insects, birds, frogs, mice, rats, cats and dogs. The instruments are suitable for skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle, tendons, cartilage, eardrums, artificial muscle and other biological and industrial materials.

Inputs, outputs, and controls
The sample length is controlled by input of an electronic waveform to the Length In connector. The actual length, as a function of time, is provided as a high-level analog signal at the Length Out connector. A velocity output signal can be provided upon request.

An arbitrary force can be applied to a sample by input of an electronic signal via the Force In connector. The actual force, as a function of time, is provided as a high-level analog signal at the Force Out connector. This force signal has been electronically corrected to remove mechanical errors thus providing a direct measure of the force in the sample and eliminating the need for a separate force transducer. An output of dF/dt can also be provided upon request.

Two manual controls are included on the front panel which provide adjustment of the steady-state rest position of the arm and the operating force level. The system design includes circuitry which prevents the motor from being driven beyond its safe operating limits. The instrument includes an inhibit function which cuts power to the motor. The instrument can be inhibited by using either a front panel switch or via a digital input also located on the front panel.

Notes:

  1. 2mm for 300C, 4mm for 305C, 6 mm for 309C, 8mm for 310C.
  2. 1 to 99% critically damped.
  3. Over any 2mm for 300C, 4mm for 305C, 6 mm for 309C, 8 mm for 310C.
  4. Direction of operation CCW, factory set.

General Specifications Power Requirements:
120VAC ±10%, 50/60Hz, 5 amps max. 100, 220 and 240VAC available.

Cable Length Supplied:
Power Cable: 6 feet (1.8 m), Motor Cable: 10 feet (3.0 m).

Dimensions Electronics Enclosure:
5.25 in. (13 cm) high, 19 in. (48 cm) wide (standard 19-in. rack mount), 12.5 in. (32 cm) deep.

Weight of Electronics:
Approximately 20 lbs (10 kg).