Validation of Digital Image Correlation Techniques for Strain Measurement in Biomechanical Test Models

Many previous biomechanical studies of bone and bone substitutes have estimated strains in these materials using strain gages. The purpose of this study was to compare digital image correlation (DIC) strain measurements to those obtained from strain gages in order to assess the applicability of DIC technology to common biomechanical testing scenarios. Compression and bending tests were conducted on aluminum alloy, polyurethane foam, and laminated polyurethane foam specimens. Results showed no significant differences in the principal strain values (or the variances) between strain gage and DIC measurements on the aluminum alloy and laminated polyurethane foam specimens. There were significance differences between the principal strain measurements of the non-laminated polyurethane foam specimens, but the deviation from the theoretical results was similar for both measurement techniques. In summary, DIC techniques provide similar results to those obtained from strain gages and also provide full field strain results.