6. ENERGY ACCUMULATION MECHANISMS

6. ENERGY ACCUMULATION MECHANISMS
We sometimes need mechanisms that can absorb, accumulate or dissipate the energy that they receive.

6.1. Accumulation: springs
Springs are flexible devices that absorb energy when we apply force to them. Then we can release the energy in a controlled way.

• We push on compression springs. We find these springs in sofas.

 

• We pull on traction springs. We find them in metallic bed frames.

 

• We bend torsion springs. We see these springs in clothes pins.

Uses: There are often springs in sofas, beds, industrial and domestic machines, spring-operated pens, watches, clocks and toys.
                                                        


5.2. Dissipation: suspension systems
Car suspension systems are useful because they absorb and dissipate motion when the road is bumpy.

• Shock absorbers are usually made with spiral steel springs.

                                                     

• Leaf springs are made with long, curved pieces of steel of different lengths placed on top of each other and joined in the middle.

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