once the probe triggers on the surface it then proceeds to penetrate to a depth of 2mm within the sample. at this point the force value is recorded and taken as a measure of 'hardness' of the sample. the probe then withdraws from the sample at which point the maximum force to withdraw or 'stickiness' is recorded. the curvature of the plot appears to indicate flow of the sample as the probe is penetrating to the required depth. an increase in hardness of the sample would give an increase in
the relative force values with an anticipated change in curvature as flow decreases.