Innovative uses of springs in modern technology continue to drive advancements in spring applications. Though springs are still manufactured to fulfill a specific mechanical function in a particular mechanism, today those springs could be powering medical implants or IoT sensors monitoring industrial production. From robotics to renewable energy, specially designed compression, extension, and torsion springs are essential components in the most innovative applications that enable electronics, communication, automation, medical devices, environmental sustainability, and much more. In that light, here are 5 innovative ways that springs are being used in modern technology:
Electronics
Springs are essential components in the vast majority of electronic devices. They can be found in applications ranging from the small motors that enable smartphones to vibrate or to ensure the vibrations that trigger haptic feedback notifications in smartwatches and fitness trackers. Spring-loaded keys produce sounds on keyboards of all sizes and spring components provide the necessary shock absorption and durability for tablets and cell phones. In automobile audio systems and GPS systems, springs are often used to provide stable electrical connections and vibration dampening between connectors. Compression springs are the most widely used in electronic applications. Each application has unique design requirements, too. With spring size being a crucial factor, modern electronic devices demand increasingly smaller customized springs from exotic materials.
Robotics
Springs are essential components of many robotic systems as they literally play a pivotal role in the smooth operation and human-like mobility of robots. The use of springs in robotic systems ensures precise and accurate movement and enables the machine to maintain its position, move in a controlled manner, and respond to environmental changes. Whatever the required force, springs hold components together securely, exert force to move parts, and can bend or move in various ways. For instance, spring-dampening properties can alleviate stress on a robotic system, which helps to absorb and dissipate energy during movement. In robotic limbs, during a movement, the limb stores energy in the spring, and upon reaching the apex of the motion, it releases this energy, thereby enhancing the speed and efficiency of the movement. This design feature is crucial as it allows robots to perform tasks that require quick and controlled actions, much like their human counterparts.
Medical Devices
Varying types of springs are key components in designing and manufacturing many technology-driven medical devices and instruments. Ultra-small, specially designed compression springs used for arterial dilation, measuring just 0.030 mm, can be implanted directly into a patient’s body. Implantable medical devices such as ICDs and pacemakers utilize internal electrical circuits to regulate heartbeats equipped with specialized springs that secure the leads, which are the crucial connections between the electrical circuits and the heart. Orthopedic implants, such as joint replacements, spinal implants, and fracture fixation devices, utilize springs as a key design component. These springs offer essential support and control for the affected bones or joints and are integrated into the implant structure to promote stability and ensure correct alignment during movement.
Smart Springs and the IoT
The Internet of Things or,, the IoT, is an umbrella term used to describe the billions of physical objects, or “things”, connected to the internet. These objects, like devices and systems, collect and share data with each other over the internet without the assistance of humans. In simpler terms, IoT is about turning everyday objects into internet-connected devices that can communicate with each other. The IoT relies on several technologies for connectivity, networking, and communication functions—access to cloud computing platforms, advancements in AI technologies and machine learning, and reliable sensor technologies that connect anything to everything.
The truly innovative smart spring is among the many smart devices being powered by the IoT. Essentially, smart springs blend traditional mechanics and modern technology where traditional springs are integrated with complex sensor technologies for use in a wide range of spring applications. These springs not only perform their basic mechanical function but have the ability to interact with their surroundings. They can sense and respond to changes in the working environment and communicate vital information throughout the system. Primary examples of smart spring applications include automotive suspension systems, which utilize smart spring sensors to enable cars to adjust to different road conditions. In manufacturing, industrial smart springs in machinery allow companies to monitor machine performance to facilitate predictive maintenance, minimize downtime, and boost productivity. In the aerospace industry, sensors integrated within smart springs facilitate continuous monitoring of the structural integrity of aircraft, thereby ensuring the durability and dependability of all aerospace components.
Renewable Energy Applications
Using coil springs and wire forms in renewable energy technologies and systems significantly affects operational efficiency and sustainability. Improved spring designs contribute to smoother, more reliable operations, reducing the risk of downtime and ensuring consistent energy production. Coil springs, including microinverter cable mounts and clamp spring assemblies, are essential for solar power mounting systems. They are also vital components in solar tracking system applications, necessary to maintain tension and facilitate precise movement of solar panels for optimal alignment with the sun throughout the day, thereby maximizing energy production. For wind energy, coil springs are used in applications that maintain the pitch control mechanism in wind turbines. This mechanism adjusts the angle of the blades, allowing the turbine to capture maximum wind energy. The use of coil springs in this application is particularly important, as they facilitate precise and smooth adjustments to the blade angles, even in challenging weather conditions.
At James Spring & Wire Company, our primary goal is customer satisfaction backed by exceptional products that deliver effective solutions. We are leaders in spring manufacturing and design, including standard and custom springs for the most innovative applications. If you’re in the market for a specific type of spring or custom wire forms, contact us today!
