Robotics relies on parts and assemblies that move smoothly and in a controlled manner to perform tasks efficiently. One of the components that help drive movement, gripping power, and regulate tension is springs.
John Evans’ Sons brings nearly two centuries of company experience to every project, including spring applications for robotic arms and equipment. Our expertise encompasses a wide range of springs, including design and engineering expertise, custom manufacturing, and a deep understanding of industry standards. We partner with OEMs and engineers to serve companies across the aerospace, industrial, medical, and scientific markets to provide springs that fit the space and performance requirements in industrial robots.
Understanding How Springs are Used in the Robotics Industry
Industrial robots hold instruments, tools and welding guns, pick up and move objects, sort parts, and hold workpieces, among other functions. They consist of multiple arm and joint assemblies made of mechanical parts, sensors, actuators, and integrated software to operate autonomously or with minimal human support. Robotic arms and systems also need long-lasting wire mechanisms that can complete repetitive motions reliably over thousands of cycles, so quality materials and manufacturing are critical.
At Johns Evans’ Sons, we are a trusted manufacturer that understands this, and we specialize in springs that can perform consistently without unscheduled downtime or inefficient wear. Our custom spring solutions meet or exceed the industrial standards for robotics in aerospace, agriculture, defense and security, healthcare, logistics and warehousing, and manufacturing.
What Robotics Industry Applications Use Springs?
State-of-the-art robotics systems incorporate multiple different spring systems for balance, motion control, and fine movements. Our custom-designed products play a role in these critical applications:
- Linear or rotary actuation.
- Clamping and retained hold.
- Counterbalancing articulated assemblies.
- Isolating or reducing vibration.
- Managing cables and hoses.
- Propulsion.
- Steering.
- Suspension.
- High-energy deployment mechanisms for NASA.
Types of Springs We Manufacture
We manufacture a comprehensive range of precision wire form and spring products, as well as custom mechanical assemblies that integrate with them. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Constant force springs. These springs provide a constant load in extending or retracting motions, replacing expensive or bulky motors to make devices simpler, more cost-effective, and smaller.
- Isolators. Isolators protect sensitive components and assemblies from vibration and other adverse forces.
- Spiral torsion springs. Spiral torsion springs provide rotary motion for applications that need less than a 360-degree range of motion and can obtain a lot of torque with relatively little rotation.
- Spring reels. Customers can choose from different cable lengths, travel options, mounts, and overall force capabilities to create spring reels with the right capabilities.
The Benefits of Custom Manufactured Springs in Robotics
Springs play many important roles in robotic arms, grippers, actuators, and other components. Because they enable precision movement and can be used for many different types of motion control, they are a flexible and versatile addition to automation equipment. Some main benefits include:
- Precision control.
- Energy storage and release.
- Energy efficiency.
- Compact force output.
- Dependable durability.
- Safety.
- Customization and versatility.
- Regulatory compliance.
What are the Performance Considerations for Springs in the Robotics Industry?
Our spring design takes into account these performance factors:
- Operating conditions. Temperature extremes can weaken or embrittle different metals. High humidity or exposure to chemicals can also cause corrosion unless it’s stainless steel or a properly coated alloy.
- Material suitability. Different applications require metals with varying strength and performance characteristics, weights, and other factors.
- Space constraints. Many robotic assemblies are becoming more compact and require small or lightweight spring assemblies that fit inside.
- Spring type. Load conditions, or the types of forces the springs need to handle, dictate which springs are best for different applications. Popular options are:
- Compression springs.
- Constant force springs.
- Extension springs.
- Leaf springs.
- Power springs.
- Spiral torsion springs.
- Spring reels.
- Torsion springs.
- Vibration isolators.
- Wire forms.
Industry Experience and Certifications
At John Evans’ we are committed to high-quality design, materials, and production methods so each order meets or exceeds customer requirements. We have over 175 years of experience creating hardworking wire forms and springs, and we continue to develop performance-grade products for multiple industries. Today, our company is ISO 9001:2015-certified and we comply with quality standards under ISO 13485:2016 and AS9100.
Your Robotics Spring Manufacturing Partner
From the design stage to the prototype, John Evans’ Sons is your contract manufacturing partner for your robotic mechanical components. Our engineering team is here to help ensure your design specifications are accurate and complete, reducing development costs and lead time. We’ll evaluate whether standard springs, custom springs, or assemblies are the best solutions for your device.
We provide unique capabilities and outstanding customer service throughout the manufacturing process, starting with our in-house tooling capabilities through quality assurance. Contact us to learn more about partnering with America’s Oldest Springmaker, or request a quote today.
