[Various mechanic characteristics of bony structures of the temporo-mandibular joint in several classes of mammals studied by measurement of hardness and resistance to penetration].

Applying the principles of mechanics, the authors have studied and compared the bony structures of the temporo-mandibular joint. Using the means of investigation usually implemented in the metallurgical sector, they have tried to establish a link between the morphology and mechanical strength of the various components of this joint in some subjects belonging to the mammals classification and with various feeding modes. The results obtained by hardness micrometry tend to show that during masticatory movements, the temporo-mandibular joint works in a hanging rather than in a compressed mode.