Precision dynamic force measurements using the levitation mass method (LMM)

Summary form only given. A method for precision mass and force measurement, the levitation mass method (LMM), are reviewed. The LMM has been proposed and improved by the author. In the LMM, the inertial force of a mass levitated using a pneumatic linear bearing is used as the reference force applied to the objects under test, such as force transducers, materials or structures. The inertial force of the levitated mass is measured using an optical interferometer. Since the force is one of the most fundamental physical quantities and the LMM enables very accurate force measurement, the application area of the LMM is wide. The present status and the future prospects of the LMM will be reviewed.