Virginia Tech is internationally recognized for pushing the boundaries of engineering and materials science. At Virginia Tech, research is not just about developing models—it’s about proving how materials behave in the real world.
As research projects grow more complex, understanding how materials absorb and dissipate impact energy becomes critical. Cushioning behavior, in particular, plays a key role in material development, performance evaluation, and engineering decision-making. And this is something that simply cannot be fully understood through simulations alone.
Virginia Tech knew that to move forward, they needed to bring controlled physical testing into the heart of their laboratory work.
Investing in real-world insight through physical testing
To strengthen its experimental capabilities, Virginia Tech decided to expand its laboratory with a system dedicated to material cushioning and impact analysis. The goal was clear: move from assumptions to measured, repeatable data that could support real research decisions.
The research team wanted to test foam- and paper-based cushioning materials, focusing on how these materials absorb and dissipate impact energy under controlled conditions. To meet this need, Virginia Tech invested in the innShock Cushion Tester, a system specifically designed for controlled cushioning and impact testing.
With the innShock Cushion Tester, researchers can directly observe how cushioning materials respond to impact events, analyze energy absorption, and understand how different material configurations influence performance—bringing physical testing to the center of their research workflow.
A system adapted to real research needs
Once the equipment was selected, Safe Load Testing Technologies focused on making sure the system was configured to match Virginia Tech’s specific requirements.
Our technical team traveled on site to install and commission the innShock Cushion Tester, ensuring it was correctly set up and fully operational. The system was adjusted based on the university’s testing needs, so researchers could begin working immediately, using parameters aligned with their research objectives.
This approach ensured that the equipment was not just installed, but ready to be used effectively from day one.
From impact events to reliable experimental data
With the innShock Cushion Tester in operation, Virginia Tech can now perform controlled, repeatable cushioning tests that deliver reliable experimental data.
Researchers are able to:
- Analyze energy absorption and damping behavior
- Generate cushioning curves for different materials
- Compare material performance under consistent conditions
Physical testing now complements theoretical work with measured, real-world data.
Supporting research and engineering education
Beyond research projects, the system also supports engineering education, giving students and researchers hands-on experience with advanced testing technology and reinforcing the link between theory and practical application.
Are you looking to enhance material research, engineering education, or experimental validation?
Discover how our testing equipment can support your laboratory with tailored solutions, expert implementation, and reliable testing results.
