A methodology for interpreting instrumented sharp indentation with dual sharp indenters with different tip apex angles is presented by recourse to computational modeling within the context of finite element analysis. The forward problem predicts an indentation response from a given set of elasto-plastic properties, whereas the reverse analysis seeks to extract elasto-plastic properties from dep...

The recently developed Reference Point Indentation (RPI) allows the measurements of bone properties at the tissue level in vivo. The goal of this study was to compare the local anisotropic behaviour of bovine plexiform bone measured with depth sensing micro-indentation tests and with RPI. Fifteen plexiform bone specimens were extracted from a bovine femur and polished down to 0.05µm alumina pas...

Different hardness measures as Vickers, Brinell and Meyer hardness are discussed with respect to their physical interpretation. Meyer hardness is found to be best suited as a measure of plastic properties. The outline of a depth sensing nanoindentation experiment is described, and particular emphasis is given to the correct deduction of the contact area from indenter penetration data. Experimen...