News

Unusual uses for springs.

STORIES FROM OUR TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Even after many (many!) years in the spring industry, I am still amazed at the endless list of spring applications and where the springs may end up. I thought it might be of interest to name a few we have been involved with….

Spring legs for a giant pig -

Springs used to support contestants sitting on this pig, during a Saturday night television show.

Springs for a horse’s head -

Springs used to mount the head of a horse, used in the London West End musical production of Lord of the Rings.

Springs used to support plants -

Springs attached to the top of garden canes, which allowed twine to be attached quickly and easily, so that the gardener could make a bespoke plant support. They also prevent gardeners from poking their eyes out when bending down!

Springs on Christmas trees -

Yes, many bells, stars, and even angels, can be attractive made from wire.

Wonky shopping trolleys -

I have lost count of the number of Inventors who are convinced they will make a fortune from solving the problem of wayward shopping trolleys using spring suspensions. I haven’t given up on that one myself yet!

Tracking Whale Sharks -

A couple of years ago we were approached by a UK University, who were studying the habits of these creatures (they are actually giant fish), because so very little is known about them. They needed to be able to attach a radio device to the whales, which would send back the information they needed, and stay attached for a predictable length of time. The idea was to use a sharp pointed spring clamp that would dig into, and hold onto, a dorsal fin. (I was assured this was quite humane).

Anyway, the device was developed very successfully and some whales were “clamped” somewhere off the coast of Australia. I have no idea where the springs are now!

Also see our March Newsletter for some photograghs. This can be accessed from the link on the Left Hand side of our Home Page.