With many businesses in the manufacturing and engineering sector heading back to work in recent weeks, there has been some trouble getting back to normal working practices for some. With social distancing measures a requirement within the workplace, it has been challenging for many in the sector to maintain high production standards.

Businesses who had previously invested in robotics and AI technologies prior to the outbreak have found the transition a much smoother process, and in this article, we will explore some of the reasons why. We will also take a closer look at how robotics are already being used within a number of industries around the world to minimise the risk of infections.

Manufacture robot

Robotics Leading The Way In Deep Cleaning Practices

One of the main ways that robotics is helping to tackle the COVID-19 outbreak is by assisting in deep cleaning methods in premises throughout the world. In some areas, it is simply too dangerous for humans to go in and deep clean all areas of a premises, and this is where robots come in.

Danish manufacturer, UVD Robots, has seen a huge spike in the number of machines being ordered across Europe and in China. The company specialises in ultraviolet-light-disinfection robots, which are capable of replacing cleaners in many settings. There is obviously worldwide demand for robots with cleaning capabilities, as they are far more likely to maintain more rigorous cleaning regimes than their human counterparts; all of which is required in a pandemic such as this.

Outside of manufacturing, American retail giant, Walmart, are using robots to scrub their floors instead of humans during the coronavirus outbreak. There is plenty of evidence to suggest that many other industries and companies around the world will adopt similar measures in the coming months to reduce the chances of cleaners coming into contact with harmful bacteria on a daily basis.

With robots now capable of leading the way when it comes to deep cleaning practices, employees can rest assured that each day after they finish their shift, a robot will have effectively cleaned up their workspace by the next morning. This will give all employees peace of mind that they are working in as safe an environment as possible, whilst also giving employers confidence they are continuing to abide by social distancing and cleaning best practices during the coronavirus pandemic.

Concept of a Robot that vacuums digits on the floor. 3D illustration. Isolated. Contains clipping path

Robotics Helping Businesses Prepare For The Future

With social distancing measures set to stay in place for the foreseeable future, with some experts stating they could roll over well into 2021, robotics is set to play a vital role in manufacturers getting back to normal operational levels in the coming months. AI technologies have long been used within the engineering and manufacturing industries, but now is the time to review existing processes and identify opportunities for machines to take on some of the more menial tasks normally carried out by humans in the workplace.

One of the main way’s robotics can help businesses in the short term is by taking on the role of some employees, to aid with social distancing measures in the workplace. If manufacturers are able to ensure that robots successfully carry out repetitive tasks that were once carried out by employees, they can reduce the need for as many employees in the business at any one time. This is a vital step for employers to take, and could help minimise the risk of transmission of coronavirus within the workplace.

It’s also worth noting that manufacturers who already have robotic technologies integrated within their existing business model will have a kickstart when they get back to work. All tasks that were originally carried out by robots can continue to be carried out right away, meaning that no social distancing measures are required to be put into force. Productivity can pick up exactly where it left off for some components, whilst managers focus their attentions on enabling employees to come back to work in a safe environment.

At the Factory: Automation Engineer Uses Laptop for Programming Robotic Arm. New Era in Automatic Manufacturing Industry.

Here at European Springs & Pressings, we have been fortunate enough to continue working safely throughout the entirety of the pandemic thanks to a combination of forward planning and robotic technologies we have invested in over the years. Our team have adapted well to working under new social distancing guidelines, whilst continuing to provide vital components for a variety of healthcare equipment, such as ventilators.

As one of the country’s leading spring manufacturers with over 70 years’ experience in the industry, we realise just how important it is to continually invest in the very latest technologies to continue expanding our output capabilities on a consistent basis. That’s why we have always taken steps to purchase the very latest manufacturing equipment and robotic innovations that are capable of assisting us with manufacturing processes, which has allowed us to be in the position we are in today.

With the recent release of the IDC report “IDC FutureScape: Worldwide Manufacturing Predictions 2018”, the team here at European Springs couldn’t help but think about what the future holds for the industry. When this firm conjured up its predictions they examined experiences and ecosystems, greater intelligence in operational assets, processes, data and convergence of IT.

While many of these predictions consisted of a change in digital transformation on a wider scope, there will be many impacted technologies; a prominent one being the evolution of cloud-based technologies. With this in mind, what are some of the notable changes and developments we will see, not just in 2018, but beyond?

  1. Enhancing Investments Through Digital

One of the predictions is that by 2020 a huge 60% of top manufacturers will be relying heavily on digital platforms to enhance their systems. It is said that these platforms will support as much as 30% of their entire revenue.

The main system to become prominent is thought to be cloud-based. Employees, customers, suppliers and partners can all benefit from the easy information exchange and simplified connectivity, whilst still ensuring high-security levels. It is also said that by 2019, 50% of manufacturers will be collaborating through cloud-based crowdsourcing.

  1. Dependent on Embedded Intelligence

It is predicted that by 2021 20% of the biggest manufacturers will depend on a secure backbone of embedded intelligence using IoT, blockchain and cognitive which will allow them to automate processes on a larger scale and speed up execution by up to 25%.

Most manufacturers will look for ways they can automate processes, mostly using embedded intelligence. Most will find the outcome through intelligent ERP systems with integration into the IoT. These systems will also make use of cloud technologies.

  1. Industry Cloud and Data Contributions

A third amazing prediction for the industry is again cloud-related. By 2020, 75% of all the manufacturers in the industry will be a part of industry clouds, however, one-third of these only will be monitoring their data input.

Industry clouds are an appealing option for many businesses due to their sharing and analysing capabilities. Manufacturers will also look to them for sourcing and supplier management.

  1. Analytics-Driven Capabilities

By the end of 2020, a third of all supply chains within manufacturing will be making use of analytics-driven cognitive capabilities. This is thought to increase the efficiency of costs by 10% and further increasing service performance by 5%.

The data gained from utilising this technology will help to create a supply chain that accounts for all kinds of data, including environmental, seasonal and economic as well as being able to predict inventory and logistics requirements accurately.

This will not only help with managing inventory, but it also helps with customer demand and can reduce overall supply chain operation costs while increasing service levels.

  1. The Gig Economy and Augmented Reality

Independent contracting became more common because of the 2008 recession as full-time workers were replaced with part-time or temporary work. The ‘gig economy’ has now become a sizable portion of the global workforce, especially in countries which have digital infrastructures. After all, it enables talent accessibility.

It is predicted that by 2020, augmented reality and mobile devices will drive the transition to the ‘gig economy’ in the service industry with ‘experts to hire’. Beginning with durables and electronics, this is predicted to replace 20% of dedicated customer and field service workers.

In the manufacturing industry, an increase of ‘experts for hire’ is predicted as customer demand increases. This can not only save costs through a variable workforce but can help with customer demand and customer service. This is all made possible by mobile devices and augmented reality.

 

Technology is surely progressing, and springs will be a part of it all. We are proud to be a part of such a growing sector and we look forward to what the future holds for further development in technology and intelligence. If you would like further information about our range of springs you can simply get in touch with our highly skilled team at European Springs.
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Springs are a fascinating creation which are used throughout the world on a daily basis. One of the great things springs offer is their functionality for numerous industries, from engineering, to automotive and healthcare. Springs are hidden in many medical applications, contributing greatly to our health.

At European Springs, we care about our customers health, and following on from part 1, here are how springs help with your health.

Senior Male Patient Working With Physiotherapist In Hospital

Stents

A stent is incredibly similar to a spring, and they are used to help clear blocked arteries and treat coronary conditions. This procedure is known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), which is used to restore normal blood flow in arteries.

Stents can be used for numerous applications, such as for the heart of those who have suffered a heart attack. A heart stent is a tiny metal, mesh tube which is inserted permanently into the artery. Stents can also be used for urinary purposes; urinary stents are used to aid the passing urine if an individual is suffering from a kidney stone or inflammation of the prostate.

Stents are incredibly important in medical procedures as they help to ease pain and stress in the body.

Illustration of a stent used to open blocked artery on a white background

Spring Loaded Stairs

Today, springs can be found everywhere, even in your stairs! A group of American medical engineers have developed ‘energy-recycling’ stairs which helps to save energy when both climbing and descending. When an individual descends, the spring-loaded stairs save 26% of that person’s energy as it dampens the impact. When climbing, the stored energy from the springs boosts an individual’s step by 37%.

This is an incredible invention for the healthcare sector, as those who have weak or troubled knees, ankles and other associated joints issues can find stairs easier to navigate, as the stairs ease pressure on each step. Offering various health benefits, these stairs can be helpful for many individuals, including those who are recovering from treatments and surgery amongst pregnant women.

 

Artificial Pacemakers

An artificial pacemaker is a medical device which uses electrical impulses to regulate the beating of the heart. It is used for individuals who suffer from slow heartbeats (bradycardia) or fast heartbeats (tachycardia). Springs are used as a part of the design in pacemakers, contributing to the many thousands of lives that are saved.

Springs are used to ensure the leads connecting the electrical circuits to the heart do not become disconnected. This is crucial in pacemakers, as a disconnected or dislodged lead can result in damage being inflicted on the heart.

Pace maker

Toenail Clippers

Springs are used in a wide variety of medical tools, which includes helping to relieve the stress of those suffering from ingrowing toenails. Springs are vital to the continued function of clippers; when applying pressure on the handles, the clippers cut through the nail, and when released, the spring allows the clipper to return to its original state.

 

 

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Springs. They are a humble invention which we may not realise serve us in more than engineering and science. They are an extremely vital part in our health care and believe it or not are hidden in many utensils and items which help us towards being healthier and happier! From medical assistance to sporting equipment, the modest spring is a secret part of us staying fit, healthy and having a spring in our step.

Here at European Springs we care about all our customers; your health, happiness and keeping you on top of all the exciting news and innovation around the wonderful world of springs. So, how can springs really help your health?

Help Your Health

Trampolines

No matter how young or old, we all love a bounce on a trampoline. Some people do it for fun, however some do it for fitness, which is a huge part in staying healthy. And if it wasn’t for the marvel of the spring, we wouldn’t have trampolines!

You can burn a huge 160 calories per every half an hour of bouncing on a mini trampoline and unlike any other forms of cardiovascular exercise, such as jogging, trampolining has less impact (thanks to the springs) therefore has less chance of the bouncer generating any bone or joint injuries. Not only is it super fun, but it can improve your balance, coordination, your fitness and ultimately your health!

common4

Inhalers

You may not think that inhalers have a spring in them, but believe us, they do! An internal compression spring is what assists the mechanism, so you can relax and breathe easy. Any typical inhaler consists of three components- a metal spring, a metal ferrule and the remaining parts which are either metal or moulded plastic. The spring is compressed and pushes the canister, where energy is stored and thus the dose is given to the user.

Our inhalers help us in our health in many ways. For some, they are a true lifesaver and for others they provide relief. These devices deliver medicine straight to your lungs and are used for most commonly, asthma and COPD.

inhaler

Mattresses

We all know that springs are in most of our mattresses, which we use every single day when we go to sleep. A good night’s sleep is vital for our health, as it is a key player in healing and repairing your heart and blood vessels. Not only does sleep have many benefits for our health, but it makes you feel refreshed and in a more positive mood. Other research says that a good night’s sleep can improve memory, curb inflammation and even spur creativity.

In terms of our health and in healthcare, don’t forget that hospital beds contain springs. These beds are even more important as they facilitate recovery, and the compression springs make sure we are comfortable and correctly positioned.

sleep

Syringes to Surgery

Innovation is a vital driver in the world of healthcare, and without the modern technology and resources we could not have the medical miracles we have seen lately. Not only are coil compression springs and prototype springs used in auto injector syringes, retractable syringes and epi pens, but they are also important in the surgical operating theatre.

Other important items such as tweezers, grips, surgical scissors and even braces rely on internal springs. Machinery such as X-ray machines also depend on springs to work efficiently.

When you take a step back and look at all the medical instruments which make use of spring mechanisms, there may be more than you expected. Where would we be in the world of surgery without the spring?

surgeons

Artificial Limbs

As time has progressed, so has technology, which means our prosthetic and artificial limbs are increasing in quality and strength. Springs are a main component in many artificial limbs, such as arms and hands. Springs are needed to create a joint like movement, such as in the fingers for grip.

Many prosthetic limbs use a spring-loaded shock absorber and flat springs, especially in shins, feet and heels which can act as an Achilles tendon. Springs are becoming the forefront of technology in this field, as people with disabilities are having their lives transformed through the power the spring can have on such technologies.

prosthetic leg

Whatever the project is, European Springs is here to provide the solution, through springs. We always ensure our products are of the highest quality, so no matter if being used for a trampoline or for surgical instruments (or gardening), we can guarantee only the best.

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Spring and summer is the time where we start to see some of the world’s most anticipated sporting events take place.

Sport is something that we all love to be a part of, and at European Springs we were fortunate enough to be involved with sport last year when Fabric Architecture approached us to help install canopies over the retractable seating voids in West Ham’s stadium!

However, when it comes to engineering in sports, there’s a whole lot more to it than that; here are a few examples where engineering plays a massive part in the sporting industry.

Engineering in Motorsport

Formula 1 is one of the most widely watched sporting events in the world, with just under half a billion people watching the 2014 season, and the art of Formula 1 lies in the construction of the vehicles that are used.

For example, one of the most important parts of a Formula 1 vehicle is understanding how the vehicle moves through the air, also known as aerodynamics. When Formula 1 constructors build the Formula 1 cars, they use the latest technology to make sure that their car is the fastest on the track.

This can include anything from high-quality wind tunnels to understand how the air flows around the vehicle, to investigating the engine and splitters that are located at the bottom of the vehicle to try and gain an advantage on the race track.

Race Track Start and Finish

Engineering in Football

Every four years, countries from around the world all come together for one of the widest watched sporting tournaments – the legendary  FIFA World Cup.

The group stages kick off (pun intended!) on the 14th June, with a match between Russia and Saudi Arabia. For one month, all corners of the world will be glued to the TV in support of their favourite teams.

Football

Maybe somewhat unsurprisingly, springs are used in football. From the training and fitness tests undertaken in the lab, in which the footballers utilise shock absorber treadmills containing springs, to the innovative trainers that the players wear which are directly influenced with spring technology, you are never too far away from springs in football!

Engineering in Cycling

This sports discipline is another one that benefits from aerodynamics. Even though cycling focuses on the endurance, stamina, and strength of the cyclist, there is also an element that focuses on aerodynamics and achieving the best results on a scientific level.

For example, most sports cyclists, such as ones in the Olympics or Tour de France, require the most aerodynamic clothing and bikes to ensure that they have the greatest chance of winning. For example, in Rio 2016, Team GB used the latest aerodynamical technology to win… and they stormed the cycling scene!

Keep an eye out for springs during this year’s Tour de France, which runs between 7th July and 29th July 2018.

Line of bicycle riders on a race

Science and engineering are very important when it comes to the sporting world, and it’s fair to say engineering will still be at the forefront of sporting technology for years to come.

As specialist spring manufacturers, we understand the importance of engineering and manufacturing in various industries, which is why we provide the highest quality springs, wire forms, pressings, and stampings to an array of clients around the world.

Get in touch for more information about how we can help transform your business.

If you were to go back and read science fiction novels written 50 years ago, you would discover countless descriptions of dream technologies. Well, believe it or not, most of these imagined technological advances are now used in everyday items, and the current generation is growing up amongst some of the most innovative products known to man.

Engineering has come far within a relatively small window of time, with technologies such as 3D printing and self-driving cars, once strictly the realm of sci-fi fiction, now being a reality. Whilst we may already be familiar with most of these technological advances, even taking many of them for granted, there are still some that remain on the fringe of public awareness, and even more that are on that precarious threshold bridging sci-fi and reality.

Here are just a few of the technological marvels now on our horizon.

1. Invisibility

Invisibility has long been considered futuristic technology, if not purely science fiction, but modern technology is very much on the cusp of making it a reality. One of the first manifestations of this was in the technology used in camouflaging stealth aircraft. In terms of the kind of total invisibility that has captivated the imaginations of generations ever since H. G. Wells’ The Invisible Man, there are now a couple of technologies that can actually achieve this.

 

nyhetsbild

Metamaterials

One method for making an object invisible is the use of optical metamaterials. These are materials that have refractive properties as a result of their structure, rather than the substances they are composed of. The surface structure of the material guides lights around an object, giving the illusion of invisibility.

Currently, this method can only be used in certain applications and is not quite at the level of a practical invisibility cloak. Scientists managed to demonstrate that this method could make an object shrouded in some sort of fog completely invisible. For example, an object in clouds, fog or murky water could disappear completely with just a thin layer of this metamaterial.

Perhaps in the future, the method will be able to make all objects disappear, regardless of the surrounding environment.

Active Camouflage

Active camouflage is camouflage that can very rapidly adapt to the surroundings of the object being hidden. This method of invisibility is already used in the natural world by certain species of reptiles, molluscs and flatfish. These animals achieve invisibility by countershading and counterillumination.

This natural phenomenon has inspired technology known as optical camouflage, which involves covering an object in a thin material that displays an image of the scene directly behind it, allowing the object to appear invisible.

This technology is often achieved through the use of cameras and LEDs and is still very much in the development stage. The skin doesn’t adapt quickly enough to the image captured by the camera, creating visible distortion whenever the camouflaged object moves.

2. Entertainment Technologies

Due to the sheer size of the entertainment industry, and the role that it has played in predicting futuristic technology, it’s influence on real-life engineering is understandable.

From the advancements in cinema and filmmaking to TVs and even virtual reality, entertainment technology has come a long way. There are futuristic technologies that are in use today, with upgrades and developments making their way to the market each year.

Springs used in Military Enhancements

Holographic TVs and Phones

Holograms are a staple of sci-fi technology that have appeared in hundreds of futuristic films, and although we haven’t yet seen any real-life practical applications of this technology, it’s now very close to becoming a reality, with holographic phones and TVs currently in the R&D stages of several big technology companies.

Samsung patents from last year refer to this technology and there have been talks of moving it onto the market as early as 2020.

Red surprised everyone back in 2017 with a holographic phone. The company are known for their ultra-high-quality film cameras which are used by production companies and crews all around the world. You can buy this phone right now, but it comes with a hefty price tag.

Another piece of technology that also surprised the market was a 3D holographic projector from Ostendo Technologies Inc. The technology is similar to R2-D2’s famous holographic projection of Princess Leia in Star Wars: A New Hope.

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality is the next step on from TV when it comes to video displays. Virtual reality technology allows audiences to feel like they are actually in the environment depicted in the video display, and not just watching these scenes on a screen. This technology has been developed to allow users a greater sensory experience, well beyond the visual or aural realms.

Most existing virtual reality technologies involve stereoscopic goggles with a display that reacts to the direction in which the user is looking, allowing them to explore a virtual world. To simulate touch, virtual reality technologies use haptic systems that allow users to feel the world that is being re-created. Technologies are even in development for simulating the senses of taste and smell, creating a fully immersive experience.

While virtual reality seemed almost unachievable some years ago, everyone can now buy and experience this at some level – and without a huge price too.

3. Military Technology

 Understandably, military forces need access to the latest technologies. Across history, countries have progressed from entering battle with catapults and bows and arrows to now having access to some of the most advanced weaponry available.

There is emerging technology amongst dozens of ongoing projects, from humanoid robots to bullets that are able to change their own path.  The Defence Advanced Projects Agency is in charge of these ground-breaking advancements.

Iron man technology

Real Life Iron Man

Whilst the fictional Tony Stark famously created his first suit in a cave with a box of scraps, the real-life version has the resources of the US military behind it. The project is formally known as TALOS, which stands for Tactical Assault Light Operator Suit.

The aim, naturally, is to offer soldiers better protection and tactical capabilities. There are rumours that these sci-fi suits of armour may even offer things like super-human strength, sensors responding to brain functions and liquid armour.

Robotics and Unmanned Aircrafts

With soldiers being encased in fully-powered, bullet-proof exoskeletons such as the Iron Man suit, there are also actual robots which may eventually take the place of the humans on land, sea and air.

Military robotics are already beginning to become so advanced that Boeing and Northrop Grumman – two defence firms – are building unmanned fighter jets. Without the need for a human crew, these drones will be able to provide more range, stealth and payload. It is said that by 2050, drones will range from stealthy spies, resembling the smallest of insects, to re-supply and attack models. In 2015, Russia’s deputy prime minister announced that they were also turning their tanks into robots, remotely operated by soldiers with the skills of video gamers.

Springs in army enhancements

Here at European Springs, we’re interested in all forms of technology, whether it’s based in sci-fi or reality. That’s how we’ve become a leading supplier of springs with a huge range of products including tension springs.

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