Why Are Springs So Important in Medical Devices?

Springs are critical components in many medical devices, enabling precise control, consistent force, and long-lasting performance. Without them, many drug delivery systems, such as autoinjectors, pen injectors, inhalers, and surgical tools, would simply not function as intended.

What types of springs are used in medical devices, and for what applications?

Medical devices use a variety of spring types, each designed for specific functionalities:

• Compression springs and wave springs: Are Commonly Used in autoinjectors, pen injectors, syringes, inhalers, and wearable pumps to deliver controlled force during activation or provide safety for the user.
• Torsion springs: Often found in surgical tools, retractable mechanisms, or pen injectors, enabling smooth rotational movements.
• Tension springs: Used in mechanisms that require a pulling force, such as staplers, surgical tools, diagnostic devices, or hospital equipment.
• Flat springs or stamped springs: Ideal for miniaturized assemblies and precision components in devices such as pen injectors or inhalers.
• Constant force springs and power springs: Used in autoinjectors, pen injectors, and OBDSs that need consistent force delivery, staplers, surgical tools, or hospital equipment.
• Contact springs and metal contact parts: Ensure reliable energy transfer in next-generation autoinjectors, pen injectors, OBDs, and smart caps to power the communication of usage data to smartphones and other electronic devices.

What are some examples of medical devices that use springs?

Springs are found in a wide range of drug delivery and diagnostic devices, including:

• Autoinjectors and pen injectors
• Inhalers (DPI, MDI, SMI or valves)
• Wearable drug delivery systems (e.g., insulin pumps or OBDS)
• Surgical staplers and surgical tools
• Infusion systems and catheter connectors
• Diagnostic test kits and sample collection devices

Let's engineer confidence into your next medical device

At RPK Medical, we specialize in designing and industrializing custom springs for drug delivery systems and surgical devices.

👉 Contact our sales and engineering teams to develop the spring that meets your exact requirements.

Springs for every medical device need

Springs may be invisible to the end user, but they're essential to the performance and safety of modern medical technology. Behind every reliable drug delivery or surgical system is a spring built with precision, and a partner like RPK Medical is making it happen.

Why are springs so crucial in the design and functionality of medical devices?

Springs ensure:

• Mechanical precision for reliable and repeatable motion
• Smooth and controlled force, essential for medical procedures and device operations
• Durability, withstanding thousands of cycles without failure and preserves mechanical energy for a long time
• Compact integration, fitting within strict spatial constraints
• Support for innovation, adapting to new designs and regulatory standards
• Reliability, ensure the consistent and reliable performance of medical devices

In short, a well-designed spring makes the difference between a device that simply works and one that works safely, efficiently, and comfortably for the patient.