The University of Florida’s Comparative Orthopaedics Biomechanics Laboratory (COBL) is a joint venture between the College of Medicine and the College of Veterinary Medicine. COBL is an innovative laboratory where orthopaedic research is carried out on both human specimens and small animal specimens in the same location. For most parts of the human body, there is an analogue in the mammalian kingdom. This laboratory allows the College of Medicine and the College of Veterinary Medicine to conduct orthopaedic research in a comprehensive and efficient manner.
The mission of the COBL is to assist the Colleges of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine in the advancement of medical practice. Researchers in this facility analyze normal and abnormal joint mechanics, prosthesis, implants and reparative methods for musculoskeletal trauma in the area of orthopaedics. The laboratory offers a setting where faculty, undergraduate students, veterinary students, residents, fellows, medical students, doctoral and post-doctorate students can develop their research interests.
The Comparative Orthopaedics Biomechanics Laboratory occupies a space in the Veterinary Medical Center. The laboratory is dedicated to specimen preparation, fixture assembly and mechanical testing. Available equipment includes:
- MTS 858 MiniBionix Material testing machine (axial)
- MTS 858 MiniBionix Material testing machine (axial/torsion)
- 30 gpm Hydraulic power supply (sufficient for the two existing load frames with the ability to accommodate at least two more)
- Exakt diamond blade band saw
- Exakt grinding system
- 75 cu.ft. freezer for specimen storage
- Surgical supplies for specimen preparation or dissections
- Machine tools for building fixtures
- Instron Mechanical Testing Machine
- I-scan system
- Strain gauges kit
- Output recorder drill press