User:Dr.benjie/Ergograph

An Ergograph is a device used to measure work done by a single muscle or set of muscles. The word Ergograph is derived from the Greek erg meaning a unit of work, and graphe (writing) from graphein which is to write.

Mosso Ergograph
The Mosso Ergograph is named after its founder Angelo Mosso (1846-1910), an experimental physiologist from Turin, Italy. Mossos's main interest in the instrument was because of its potential to measure fatigue. However, it also enabled the testing of many complex variables and their effects on muscular strength, such as a lack of food, sleep, forced marches, mental fatigue, and the effect of substances such as coffee, sugar, and even emotional affect.

In this device, the forearm and all the fingers except the middle finger is strapped on a board. The middle finger is able to move against resistance offered by hanging weights connected by a thread. Movements of the thread were recorded usually by a kymograph (a pen or stylus makes markings on a rotating drum).

More reading
http://www.cultureandcommunication.org/deadmedia/index.php/Mosso_Ergograph