A gas spring is a type of spring that, similar to a typical mechanical spring that relies on elastic deformation, uses compressed gas contained within an enclosed cylinder sealed by a
sliding piston to pneumatically store potential energy and withstand external force applied parallel to the direction of the piston shaft.
Common applications include automobiles (where they are incorporated into the design of struts that support the weight of the hatchback tailgate while they are open) and office chairs. They are also used in furniture, medical and aerospace applications.
