Kapselilähteet

Kapselilähteet, often translated as capsule springs or coil springs, are a type of spring mechanism primarily used in older mechanical timepieces and some other intricate mechanical devices. They consist of a tightly wound spiral of flat spring steel, typically housed within a barrel or drum. The outer end of the spring is anchored to the barrel, while the inner end is attached to a winding arbor or shaft.

When the spring is wound, energy is stored by coiling it more tightly. As the spring unwinds, it exerts a constant torque, driving the gears of the timepiece. This gradual release of stored energy is what powers the movement. Kapselilähteet were a dominant power source in clocks and watches for centuries before the advent of more efficient and durable spring designs.

The primary advantage of kapselilähteet was their ability to provide a relatively consistent force over their unwinding cycle, crucial for maintaining accurate timekeeping. However, they also had drawbacks. The force delivered by the spring diminishes as it unwinds, which can affect accuracy. Furthermore, the spring material was susceptible to fatigue and breakage, especially under frequent winding or if subjected to shock. Modern watches and clocks predominantly use different types of mainsprings that offer better performance and longevity. Despite their obsolescence in many applications, kapselilähteet remain historically significant in horology and can still be found in antique timepieces.