Bi-stable Tape/Ribbon Spring

[telecomguy]

I am looking for some design info and manufacturer of a bi-stable tape/ribbon spring like the 'slap bracelet' kid's toy. I have found a few research papers online, some of which I'll need to purchase to see the whole thing. But I've not located a manufacturer yet.

Appreciate the assistance,
-tg

 

[israelkk]

Please give more information what you are after. For example:
1. What is the desired force to snap to the second stable position and the force back.
2. What will be the travel from one stable position to the second?
3. How many snaps the spring has to survive?
4. What are the size limitations for the spring?
5. Does it have to be a ribbon shape?
6. Environment?
7. Etc.

If you can attach a picture or drawing it will help because I do not understabd what is: a 'slap bracelet' kid's toy.

 

[telecomguy]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slap_bracelet

1. I am working on the requirements for the design, but was looking for some data on what forces are possible from this type of spring.
2. The spring will coil upon itself.
3. 1000
4. Upto 1" wide
5. The shape is similar to a parenthesis ")"
6. It will be encapsulated by a protective coating. Will need some corrosion protection in raw state. Will see outdoor temperatures and weather conditions. Non-magnetic may be desirable.

Thanks,
-tg

 

[telecomguy]

Just to clarify #1 above, I know the coiling force on these springs is low. I am looking for some data telling me what those forces are so I can choose the encapsulating material and can design the profile/geometry of the coating accordingly. I believe this spring force will drive the design rather than be driven by it.
-tg

Please see FAQ731-376: Eng-Tips.com Forum Policies before flagging posts. Per line item #4, some cross posting is appropriate when done correctly.

 

[sbozy25]

Try contacting Maryland / Rolex spring @ 410-391-7400. If memory serves me correctly, when I last visited them in 2007 they had a product similar to what you are speaking of. They should be able to point you in the right direction.

 

[telecomguy]

Thanks for the lead.

-tg

Please see FAQ731-376 before flagging posts. Per line item #4, some cross posting is appropriate when done correctly.