Recently, a new method has been proposed to characterize tobacco or filter rod firmness. This method, based on an analysis of the crushing deformation, is related to the consumer feeling when crushing the product with the fingers. In order to apply this method, a new apparatus has been developed. This apparatus consists of a proportional commanded electromagnet linked to a strength sensor allowing a step force application on the product, and a displacement sensor for the recording product deformation. Then, a specific algorithm allows the deformation analysis for a full mechanical characterization of the product to test.

From experimental results analysis, we demonstrate :

1. the validity of the theoretical model, confirming a linear variation at a given time of the deformation versus the applied load,
2. the universal aspect of the method, able to forecast with good accuracy the deformation which could be observed with an other crushing force, and
3. the significant decrease of the measurement time (divided by three) whilst at the same time, a more descriptive then more discriminative product characterization.