Quick answer: Only when the design requirement and measured behavior support it. Specify loading and unloading separately when their functions differ.
Should both directions share one acceptance curve?
A device may need gentle outward motion and stronger return behavior at a particular point. Friction and the spring mechanism can produce directional differences. Keep these visible rather than treating one curve as representative of both movements.
A practical verification method
Measure matched positions in both directions and compare each with the relevant functional limit.
| Item | What to record | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Reference configuration | Part or assembly identity and drawing revision | Make comparisons traceable |
| Test conditions | Relevant position, direction and operating condition | Compare the same characteristic |
| Decision evidence | Measure matched positions in both directions and compare each with the relevant functional limit. | Resolve the specific question before approval |
Use the result in an engineering request
Describe the observed condition and the required function separately. Include the relevant drawing revision and your results from the check above. If an acceptance limit has not been established, identify it as an open design input rather than treating a successful trial as approval.
Review the related Leading Spring product information. For a project-specific review, send the mechanism description, available geometry and the evidence relevant to this decision through the contact page.
Editorial note: AI-assisted engineering guidance, prepared from the topic-specific reasoning shown here and the company’s public product context. Illustrations explain decisions; they are not customer-case photographs or test results. Product-specific suitability requires review against your approved requirements.