How do you calculate the energy stored in a power spring?

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SUMMARY

The energy stored in a power spring, particularly in the context of a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS), can be calculated using the modified potential energy formula for rotational springs. The traditional equation PE = 1/2 k x^2 applies, but the spring constant (k) must be determined based on the specific geometry of the power spring. The discussion emphasizes the need to adapt the standard spring equations to account for the rotational dynamics involved in power springs.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential energy equations in mechanics
  • Familiarity with spring mechanics, specifically power springs
  • Knowledge of rotational dynamics and torque calculations
  • Basic grasp of Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems (KERS)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to calculate the spring constant for power springs
  • Explore the principles of rotational dynamics and torque output
  • Study the design and functionality of KERS in automotive applications
  • Learn about energy storage systems in mechanical engineering
USEFUL FOR

Mechanical engineering students, automotive engineers, and anyone involved in the design and analysis of energy recovery systems in vehicles.

Webbd050
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How do you calculate the energy stored in a power spring? For a uni project one of my concepts is a KERS which stores the cars kinetic energy in a power spring. under braking a shaft connected to the cars drive train is engaged which is connected to a few power springs as shown here http://www.spiroflex.com/pdfs/Mtr_spr_A_B_eng.pdf when the shaft rotates it coils the springs around it. How can i calculate the energy stored and torque output?
 
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Webbd050 said:
How do you calculate the energy stored in a power spring? For a uni project one of my concepts is a KERS which stores the cars kinetic energy in a power spring. under braking a shaft connected to the cars drive train is engaged which is connected to a few power springs as shown here http://www.spiroflex.com/pdfs/Mtr_spr_A_B_eng.pdf when the shaft rotates it coils the springs around it. How can i calculate the energy stored and torque output?

Since this is your schoolwork project, you need to tell us about your thoughts, before we can be of much tutorial help.

What is the traditional equation for the energy stored in a spring? How is that different or modified for the spring geometry you are asking about?
 
Its for university not school hahaha. Well a standard spring is either compression or extension a power spring is rotational. The equation for a standard spring is PE= 1/2 k x^2 which i suppose could be used I am just unsure of how to work out the spring constant.
 

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