Information about Gas Springs and their Application

Elements of a gas spring application

 

This is a page describing the different elements that you need to be able to 

identify in a gas spring application. The hinge point is the origin denoted by

(0,0).There are two different mounting points to be identified. A fixed and

a moving point. I am sure this is pretty self explantory. The fixed point

stays still, and the moving point moves with the door.  When using

GASSIM, and most other times, you will specify these points when

the door is closed. The center of gravity willalso have to be specified.

The symbol that is a circle partially filled in is usually used to denote

the center of gravity. Sometimes it is also denoted by an M.

The handle radius is the distance from the handle to the hinge point.

 The handle load is the amount of force you must apply at the 

handle point in order to make it move, either opening or closing. When

working with gas springs you want the spring to be fully extended when

the door is fully opened. This provides the stop for the door. You also want

to insure that the compressed length in the application is not shorter than

the spring you wish to use.