Author: European Springs Web Team

The Industry 4.0, or the Fourth Industrial Revolution, will introduce significant changes throughout industries worldwide. A swift response to these changes will have to be clearly seen in companies’ visions, with the identification of how to invest in advanced equipment and facilities throughout the business. This planned approach does not intend to change companies overnight but to adapt to the occurring changes within the sectors.

Digitalisation is the main focus in the Industry 4.0 with the customers being the driving force behind the streamlining of every process and product. Customised mass production for each individual product will include simulation and virtualisation technology with the safe testing of product mechanics.

Speeding up manufacturing processes will be possible through advanced robotics, which will ensure the well-functioning of companies.

 

Nine Pillars of Technological Advancement

Technological development will be based upon the ‘Nine Pillars of Technological Advancement’, accounting for the growing interconnectivity in the increasingly digital world. These Pillars will ensure the optimisation, integration, and automation of the production flow for improved efficiency and supply chain users along with the relationship between humans and machines.

  • Big Data and Analytics.  Real-time decision making will rely on both the collection and the comprehensive analysis of production equipment and customer-management systems.
  • Autonomous Robots. Increased autonomy will be given to robots for more cooperation and flexibility, leading towards interaction and work alongside humans. Less expensive and smarter, these robots will have more capabilities than present-day robots.
  • Simulation.  Real-time data will be used for simulation success in a virtual world in engineering, with humans, machines, and products aiding in the testing and optimisation of products. This will allow for higher product quality.
  • Horizontal and Vertical System Integration. IT systems from plants to products and to automation will have complete integration, with all elements becoming more cohesive as automated value chains allow for universal data-integration networks.
  • The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Computing and connectivity will be extended to even more devices, with field devices interacting and communicating with each other. In addition, there will be a decentralised production process, with workstations knowing the needed manufacturing steps for each product and being able to adapt to any operation.
  • Cybersecurity. The increased connectivity in the Industry 4.0 and the increased need for cybersecurity will see the latter becoming more and more developed and advanced.
  • The Cloud. Cloud-based software is already in use, however, the performance of this software will be increased and distributed across more channels. Both functionality and machine data will be deployed in higher amounts to the cloud, with a resulting growth in data-driven services.
  • Additive Manufacturing. Additive manufacturing processes will be increasingly utilised for prototyping of customised products in small quantities in lightweight and complex designs. Decentralised and high-performing systems will ensure that all manufacturing processes are streamlined.
  • Augmented Reality. Augmented reality glasses, for example, can be developed in order to provide accurate and real-time data to workers. Work procedures and decision-making will be improved, with workers having a cyber-representation of machines for optimised use.

 

Engineering 4.0 for the Future

A decentralised production network will require the integration of both simulation and product management in addition to further data communication. Device interconnectivity is expected to reach approximately 20.4 billion in number by 2020, allowing for the complete integration and sharing of vital data in the engineering industry.

Innovation processes will be successful through a further partnership between suppliers and customers, with valuable and real-time customer feedback. This will aid engineers in improving their decision-making and in streamlining products as they communicate with customers in real-time.

Predictive maintenance will, for example, be an essential component in the design and manufacturing processes. Machines will be able to find errors that humans won’t, allowing for the elimination of machine downtime and increased user safety. This will be based on data, which will decentralise decision-making and ensure minimal human intervention in smaller processes.

Developing digital skills in young generations will be important for a future in which the Industry 4.0 is beginning to fully develop. The need for specialised knowledge in all sectors of robotics, artificial intelligence, and other digital skills will increase, as will the need for leadership skills in the integration of the initial processes.

Cloud technology will ensure that engineers across the world can easily scale their operations through an increased focus on IT operations and core competencies. This technology functions as an ‘equaliser’, allowing for both small and medium companies to have access to the same software processes and improved computing power.

Here at European Springs Ireland, we invest in the future of engineering and manufacturing processes to ensure that our springs, wireforms, and pressings are of the highest quality. Simply get in touch with our expert team to find out more about how we can help your projects with bespoke solutions.

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There are many routes into the world of engineering; GCSEs to Apprenticeships, A-Levels to an Undergraduate Degree, or even from A-Levels straight into employment for you to climb your way up the ladder.

The number of winding paths and routes may seem infinite, but there could be one that’s right for you. And don’t think that just because you didn’t study certain subjects at school, it’s too late to get into the field – there may be a possible detour on your journey when you realise your passion.

So, if you are thinking of forging a career in engineering, we take a look at two examples of young aspiring engineers in our infographic below who knew that they wanted to venture into the world of engineering.

These two different examples show how you can take a very different path from another individual and still meet your engineering career goals.

Meet Jack and Jill.

European-Springs-Infographic

When many young people think of engineering their mind may automatically relate to areas such as the automobile industry or maybe even civil engineering.

However, one of the (numerous) great things about engineering is that it branches out into many different areas.

With more than 40 different types of engineering specialisms, there are various approaches to reaching your engineering goals.

Engineering is expected to be a huge sector of growth, and with increasing popularity, many young people are aspiring to be the next generation of engineers.

The engineering industry is certainly thriving and, while there are over 1.7 million people employed in engineering in the UK, there are still many more opportunities simply waiting for young people to get involved.

Some of the more common engineering sectors involve:

  • Radio
  • Aerospace
  • Automobiles
  • Computing
  • Construction
  • Trains
  • Project Management
  • TV or Broadcasting

 

So there we have it! Now it’s over to you to mould your own future. It’s sure to be an exciting one if you choose to delve into engineering.

European Springs Ireland are great believers in motivating the new generation of engineers. After all, you could be part of a team making our next version of cars, computers, space shuttles and even springs!

Interested in how you can inspire future engineers? You can read our previous blog here.

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Perhaps one of the most common types of metal spring, the compression spring is used either as an energy producer, a shock absorber, a vibration damper or a force generator. They are used in everything from the automotive industry to furniture and are an essential part in the functioning of many products upon which we depend.

Due to their effective energy build up, they have countless potential applications, hence their use in many objects. Through the various types of compression springs, from conical to barrel and even variable pitch, whatever type of compression spring, high quality is of extreme importance. How you determine the quality of a compression spring is equally important as you need to know if you are using the correct spring for the job. So, what are some of the ways you can find the best quality compression spring for the intended application and how can it affect the way your compression spring does its job?

Motorcycle suspension

Force

Your selection of compression spring for specific uses is directly linked to the amount of force you will need. If the spring you use in your product or item cannot compress as desired when a load is applied to it, then it is most likely not going to perform how it is meant to.

A spring which is too strong won’t compress sufficiently, but a spring which is too weak will not generate enough force for a heavy load and its pressure. You will need to calculate the exact amount of required force for the design process in order to get the highest of quality compression spring.

springs shoot on closeup

Height

In terms of compression springs, the term ‘Solid Height’ refers to the point where all the coils of the spring are touching- essentially the point where the spring cannot gain any more force. The solid height is vital to the quality of your compression spring and your product. Compression springs should never be compressed to the solid height.

Design

Since there is more than just one type of compression spring and they all have different intended purposes, you will need to figure out the exact design you will need. Think of factors such as the shape and length and diameter. Ask yourself questions such as:

  • Is a conical shape going to work?
  • Would I benefit from a barrel shaped compression spring?
  • How long does the spring need to be?
  • What about the diameter?

This can often be a complex task and if you aren’t completely sure about what you require, don’t just guess, as if you want your compression spring to of the highest quality. Consult a manufacturer or expert with plenty of experience for the best results and the best quality compression spring.

metal springs

Materials

The type of material used for your compression spring should be informed by your intended purpose or product.

If you only need a light load you will not need to utilise expensive and heavy-duty steel alloys, as materials such as normal carbon spring steel would do the job. If the force needed is heavy, like in a car the spring would need to withstand the pressure and be much stronger.

You don’t want your spring to break with any impact, so be sure to get the materials to be the thickest and strongest necessary, and of course the highest quality material needed, especially for heavy industrial uses.

Functionality

Like even many everyday objects, compression springs are used in an array of items and are a vital tool to industries such as home furnishings, automotive fields and even stationary. The humble pen wouldn’t work without a compression spring!

If you aren’t using the right spring for your need, the quality diminishes and you can destroy the functionality of the product. When it comes to quality everything matters from the materials to the force, the solid height, the design and above all the suitability to specific requirements.

After all, you need to make sure your compression spring is reliable, safe, durable and of the highest of quality!

Suspension Compression Spring

European Springs are a proud compression spring manufacturer and produce only the highest quality of springs, both from our stock catalogue and bespoke to your needs.

If you require any more information regarding our compression springs, and require a spring for your product, we can help you with the details. Don’t know what force is required, or what the solid height you will require? Well, our team at European Springs Ireland do! Don’t hesitate to spring to your phone and have a chat with us– we would love to help!

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One of the most common springs is the compression spring. The helical shape of this spring is probably what comes to mind when you think of springs. So, while we know that there are many applications for the compression spring, do you know what they are?

Suspension Compression Spring

Pens

On a small scale, you are likely to find a compression spring in the pens you use every day. If they have a click top, they will contain a small compression spring which provides the tension necessary to keep the nib inside the casing when it is not in use and to push it out when the click top is pushed.

Suspension

Compression springs are often used in suspension systems as they are capable of compressing when a load is applied. This means that they are perfect for acting as shock absorbers so they are often used in cars and other vehicles to provide suspension.

Oil Rigs

You will be able to find a specific type of compression spring, the garter spring, on an oil rig. This spring is used here to ensure that underwater oil pipes keep the oil in and the water out. As they provide an inward radial force, they are able to secure a joint in the pipe.

Switches

Just by looking around the room you are in, you will probably be able to spot plenty of switches. Compression springs are present within these switches as they keep the switch in the ‘on’ or ‘off’ position.

Keyboards

When you type on some computer keyboard, you are pressing the keys down onto tiny compression springs known as buckling springs. The springs allow the key to spring back up and pushes a hammer which strikes the electrical contact, telling the computer which key has been pressed.

Compression springs are used in more applications than you may think! In fact, you can probably a lot more just by looking around the room that you are in. If you are interested in finding out more about any of our products or would like to talk about your next project, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of our team who will be more than happy to advise you further. You can contact us by calling 028 9083 8605, emailing ieinfo.bec@europeansprings.com or by filling out our online contact form.

In the meantime, make sure to find us on Facebook and Twitter.

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We have been fascinated with space exploration for many years, and as we make our way further into space, more and more interesting questions are raised about how to solve particular problems that come with being in zero gravity. One of the things that we are interested in, however, is how springs such as constant force springs and pressings incorporated into the machinery and devices which use springs work in space. So, do springs work in space?

Astronaut on Spacewalk

How Do Springs Work?

Before we can answer whether springs work in space, we must first look at how springs actually work.

Springs can store or absorb energy, and they work with the application of force. Depending on the type of spring, they will work in different ways, but typically, springs, whether they are compression springs or tension springs, want to return to their original shape. This may mean that they spring back when they are extended or when they are compressed. The extent of the force applied will determine how far the spring is extended or compressed.

Do Springs Work in Space?

So, with the previous question answered, we can now address the question of if and how they work in space.

Despite the fact that in space, we are dealing with conditions of zero gravity, springs can still work just as they would on earth. As springs do not use gravity, but the application of force, they can provide useful functions in space.

Jupiter

How Are Springs Used in Space?

While astronauts may be on the International Space Station (ISS) for six months at a time, it is important that they have technologically advanced equipment and solutions to a range of things that they will encounter during their lives. Many of these items will feature springs in order to work.

One example of the use of springs in space is in the Juno probe which was launched to learn more about the planet Jupiter. Only a few months ago, Juno sent pictures back which showed a storm the size of earth on the surface of Jupiter.

Amongst other key components, Juno relies on over 60 different springs which enable it to carry out a range of tasks, from opening and latching doors to deploying the arms which are used to measure the structure of Jupiter.

Without the use of these springs, many of the tasks carried out in space, and therefore the discoveries we are making in space would be impossible.

Springs have an incredibly important role to play, both in space and on earth, and we understand just how important it is that they are perfect for your project. That’s why we are dedicated to providing high-quality springs and pressings which match your requirements perfectly.

If you would like to find out more about any of our products or services including torsion springs, compression springs and wave springs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team by calling us on 028 9083 8605, emailing us at ieinfo.bec@europeansprings.com or by filling out our online contact form and we will be more than happy to help.

Get In Touch

All over the world, there are groups of knowledgeable individuals and teams on a constant search for new and innovative solutions in science, engineering and technology. Here at European Springs Ireland, we love to keep on top of it. We have a great piece of news for all those interested in related news and research, and this one is sure to put a spring in your step. That’s right… Energy recycling stairs which are spring-loaded! But what is this innovative technology and how will it work?

stairs1

Research from the US

Researchers in the US have built energy recycling stairs that can store the user’s energy during their movement, returning the energy to the user during the ascent. This ultimately makes their trip easier and could be a potential way to improve health and help certain injuries and mobility issues.

Easy on the Knees and Ankles

The invention of these stairs can not only save energy through impact but can brake forces from the ankle by 26%. When a person is ascending the stairs, the technology will give the user a boost as it releases the stored-up energy from the descent. It will make it 37% easier on the knee compared to conventional stairs. This lower power device doesn’t require a complete separate staircase but can be placed on an existing one. It also doesn’t have to be permanent.

stairs2

Spring in Your Step

When we thought going up stairs was a bit too difficult, springs come to the rescue! It works through each and every step being tethered by springs and also equipped with pressure sensors on each step. When the walker descends the staircase, each step will slowly sink until it locks and is level with the next step. The stair then stays this way until someone walks up the stairs.

When someone then goes to ascend the staircase on the sensor, the latch on the lower step releases and the energy which has been stored in the springs are released, lifting the back leg.

The research was published in a journal in the US in PLOS ONE, where the author explained their initial idea to use energy recycling prosthetic shoes to assist in going up stairs. Karen Liu, an associate professor in Georgia Techs school of Computing, states:

“Unlike normal walking where each heel-strike dissipates energy that can be potentially restored, stair ascent is actually very energy efficient; most energy you put in goes into potential energy to lift you up”

 “But then I realised that going downstairs is quite wasteful. You dissipate energy to stop yourself from falling, and I thought it would be great if we could store the energy wasted during descent and return it to the user during ascent.”

She worked alongside a professor in Biomedical Engineering at the same university to develop the research and prototypes.

stairs3

The Story and The Benefits

When conducting the research, they didn’t expect, prior to the design, that their invention would actually see ease of impact. The professor initially got the idea when she attended an industry conference where she saw an ankle brace that did a similar thing using springs, to store and release energy. When she thought about her 72-year-old mother and her difficulties upstairs, she knew that she would never wear the brace. Then came the idea of smart stairs.

The researchers believe that the stairs could have numerous health benefits and also be extremely helpful to anyone recovering from surgery or for pregnant women. It could be useful for people who only need assistance for a short amount of time.

This is proof that with innovative thoughts, an engineering mindset, some springs and some research, you can conjure up an engineering marvel!

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