Constant Force Spring: Characteristics and Application Analysis

Constant force spring, as a special type of tension spring, plays an important role in industrial manufacturing and daily life with its unique performance and wide range of applications. This article will introduce the characteristics, working principle and application of constant force spring in various scenarios in detail, but will not cover the future development or expansion of application scope.

1. Basic characteristics of constant force spring

Constant force spring, also known as constant tension spring, is made of flat metal wire to form a coil with almost constant pre-stress. This spring can maintain a relatively constant force output when stretched, and its coefficient is close to constant (zero). This means that during the stretching process, the force of the spring does not change significantly with the increase in elongation, thus providing a stable and reliable force output.

The material of constant force spring is usually 301 stainless steel, which has good corrosion resistance and mechanical properties, ensuring the long-term stability of the spring in harsh environments. In addition, the tolerance control of constant force spring is very strict, and the width and size tolerances are usually within ±0.005 inch (0.13 mm), ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the spring.

2. Working Principle of Constant Force Spring

The working principle of constant force spring is based on the internal stress of flat metal wire, which resists the load when stretched. When the spring is stretched, the inner bent part of the metal flat wire generates stress, which resists the external load and maintains the constant force output of the spring. The force output of the spring is usually determined by the thickness, width and wire diameter of the material.

In practical applications, constant force springs are usually tightly wound on a drum with the free ends connected to the load. When the load is applied to the spring, the spring stretches and generates a constant force to balance or support the load. At the same time, sufficient space (usually 0.8 times the inner diameter) and at least 1.5 turns of spring coils must be reserved on the drum to ensure normal operation of the spring.

3. Constant Force Spring Application Scenarios

Constant force springs have proven their unique advantages in many fields. These advantages not only improve the performance and reliability of the product, but also meet the needs of various industries for precise control and stable performance. Here are some typical application scenarios:

Medical equipment: In medical equipment, constant force springs are used to provide constant support or adjustment functions, such as supports, lifting beds, etc. By adjusting the elastic force of the spring, it is possible to ensure that the patient is in a comfortable and safe position during treatment.

Industrial Machinery: In the field of industrial machinery, constant force springs are used to maintain the position of mechanical parts or provide constant pressure to ensure the normal operation of mechanical equipment. For example, in automated production lines, constant force springs can be used in transmission mechanisms and buffer devices.

Automotive Industry: In the automotive industry, constant force springs are widely used in components such as console covers, cup holders and glove boxes to ensure that these components maintain smooth and controlled movement when opening and closing.

Furniture and home furnishings: In furniture design, constant force springs are used in furniture components such as mobile lift doors and fan lifts to provide a stable support force that allows users to easily perform lifting operations.

Electronic Products: In the field of electronic products, constant force springs are used in components such as monitor stands to provide constant lifting functions. This design allows users to easily adjust the height and angle of the monitor according to their personal needs.

In summary, with their unique performance and wide range of applications, constant force springs play an important role in industrial manufacturing and daily life. By having a deep understanding of its characteristics, working principles and application scenarios, we can better utilize this spring to provide stable and reliable force output for various devices.