Category: News & Updates

2017 has been an incredible year for engineering and technology. Every year brings new possibilities and innovations throughout many industries and, as we are coming to the end of this year, we at European Springs Ireland have compiled a list of the greatest technology advancements 2017 has seen.

Automation

Driverless cars have been a fascinating topic for many years now, and this discussion has continued throughout 2017. It’s curious to believe technology could one day make this theory a reality, and the excitement level is increasingly rising as technology advancements continue. One of the goals for this innovation is to reduce the amount of road fatalities occurring each year.

Driverless cars reinforce the idea that automation will be more and more present in engineering, and this is set to continue.

Selfdriving car with navigation sensor and satellite vector illustration

The Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things is the interconnection of computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data in real time. Throughout the years, engineers have only scratched the surface of what is possible. Technology today allows for improved security and energy efficiency, which allows us to set or schedule temperatures, noise patterns, lighting and the use of various electronics with digital assistance.

There are many industries who are already using, and starting to use, the Internet of Things, which is improving the way businesses work.

modern factory building and wireless communication network

Robotic Interaction

Advancements within biology and engineering innovations have made it possible to do things which were only theoretical years ago. There are many examples of how far this technology has come, with brain-controlled prosthetics emerging, making it possible for amputees to control prosthetic limbs with their thoughts.

Biomedical engineers are continuing to explore the possibility of reverse engineering pathogens to help create antidotes to infectious diseases, limiting the devastation of pandemics.

Greener Innovation

The human impact on the environment has been a rising concern as, with the effects of global warming, there is a lot of strain on the planet. Engineers are looking for new and innovative ways to decrease environmental damage, from finding ways to counter resource depletion to reversing environmental destruction.

This year has seen some ground-breaking projects regarding this issue, such as an Air Link System, a device which converts pollution into printing ink.

Space Exploration

Engineers are making great steps in facing the challenges space travel brings, with exciting new developments and technological advancements being made. Space travel to Mars is a common topic within this industry (and on the big screen), and it is rapidly becoming a real possibility. There are several space exploration agencies, such as SpaceX, that are even planning a mission to Mars as soon as 2018!

SPACE

Engineers work tirelessly to create new innovative technologies. Here at European Springs Ireland, we understand how greatly engineering developments help improve the industry. Our pressings form an integral part of our business, helping to establish us as a market leader in the spring and high-speed press technology.

If you would like to know more about our products and services, please do not hesitate in contacting us today by calling 0208 663 1800 or emailing ieinfo.bec@europeansprings.com, and we will be happy to help.

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Metal fatigue is the weakening of a metal caused by loads that are applied repeatedly, causing both progressive and localised damage to the structural integrity of the metal. When above a certain threshold, microscopic cracks appear at stress concentrators, such as the metal’s surface or at grain interfaces. Cracks eventually become critical, causing a structure to fracture and collapse.

In a study published in the journal Nature, metal fatigue is demonstrated to be reduced when minute linear boundaries in the atomic lattice of a metal line up, in complimentary pairs called ‘nanotwins’. Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Science and the Brown University showcased how the nanotwins deform into correlated necklace dislocations, or linear bands, under repetitive strain. Remaining parallel to each other, these dislocations don’t block each other’s motion, which means that their effects can be reversed and fatigue reduced.

Professor at Bron University’s School of Engineering and author of the paper, Huajian Gao, states that “in a normal material, fatigue damage accumulates because dislocations get tangled up with each other and can’t be undone.

“In the twinned metal, the correlated necklace dislocations are highly organised and stable. So when the strain is relaxed, the dislocations simply retreat and there’s no accumulated damage to the nanotwin structure.”

Experiments were conducted through electroplated bulk samples of copper composed of closely spaced twin structures. These were compressed and stretched a high number of times at different strain amplitudes, which showcased quick stabilisation responses to stress at each strain amplitude. The nanotwinned copper continued the same even as the experiment cycle was conducted for the second time.

The strain amplitude started at 0.02 percent, which increased every 1,500 cycles to 0.04 percent and to 0.06 percent before the value peaked at 0.09 percent. Similar experiments were conducted on non-nanotwinned samples, showcasing significant softening and hardening that depended on the material. The samples also displayed cumulative effects of fatigue, which are common in most metals.

According to Professor Gao, this “tells us that the reaction to cyclic strain is history-independent – the damage doesn’t accumulate the way it does in common materials.” Researchers hope that nanotwinning can be an inexpensive solution to be applied in large components. This is due to there being a slowing down effect of the fatigue process, even though damage still accumulates at the boundaries between grains.

Within each crystalline grain, there is still damage accumulating at the boundaries between grains. The within-grain resistance to fatigue, however, “slows down the degradation process, so the structure has a much longer fatigue life”, says Professor Gao.

Nanotechnology can provide the answer for engineering problems in the near future, and continual investment in this technology can open the way to fortified metals that will ensure both springs and metal pressings are improved.

Here at European Springs Ireland, we are always enthusiastic about engineering developments and how they help to improve the industry. Get in touch with our expert team to find out how we can help you and learn more about the services we provide.

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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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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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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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