Springs are devices used as a mechanical way to store energy. Various forms of motion apply tension to the spring, and the spring releases the mechanical energy when to ‘snaps back’
Types of springs:
- Compression: Store energy via compression (Pushing down on the spring). Found in mattresses, pens (think of clicking the button to see the tip) and suspension systems in automobiles and bikes.
- Tension: Store energy via tension (Stretching the spring). Found in trampolines, garage doors, any sort of gates that ‘snap back’ after being pushed.
- Torsion: The least common type of spring, these springs need to be twisted (in torsion) to store energy. Usually found in door hinges, levers and sometimes in clocks.