In support of projects to examine the behavior of Michell-like trusses conducted by Lieutenant Colonel Curtis L Decker, working for the US Army Research Laboratory's (ARL) Materials Response and Design Branch (MRDB), and on topological optimization conducted by Andrew T Gaynor (ARL/MRDB), this report describes the fixture used to test these trusses, along with procedures used to enhance the performance of the fixture and recommendations to further improve the fixture. Difficulties encountered in the testing and procedures used to perform the testing are discussed. The use of digital image correlation and resistive-type strain gauges to measure strain in the trusses is detailed, along with discussion on why the results from the two techniques vary.
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