From wooden pegs to smart fasteners: A small component that has witnessed three millennia of technological leaps in human civilization.
Release date:
2025-10-31
What may seem like ordinary screws and nuts are, in fact, the "connecting code" that has shaped human civilization throughout history. Archaeological findings reveal that as early as the 4th century BCE, ancient Greece already used primitive fasteners made from wooden pegs and ropes. Meanwhile, advancements in metalworking during the Roman era gave rise to the earliest prototypes of screws and nuts, laying the groundwork for securing mechanical devices.
The Industrial Revolution marked a turning point in the development of fasteners. By the late 18th century, mechanized production ushered fasteners into an era of standardization, while steel began replacing copper and iron as the dominant material. This shift not only enhanced precision and durability but also enabled fasteners to meet the demands of emerging industries like steam engines and railways.
As the 20th century dawned, the rise of cutting-edge sectors such as aerospace and electronics spurred further technological advancements: materials like titanium alloys and PEEK polymers gradually replaced traditional steels, allowing fasteners to withstand extreme temperature ranges from -60°C to 260°C. These innovations also paved the way for specialized applications, including requirements for non-magnetic properties and biocompatibility.
Today, fasteners have entered the "intelligent era." By integrating sensors and wireless communication modules, these new-generation fasteners can monitor connection status and mechanical changes in real time. Meanwhile, 3D printing technology enables the personalized manufacturing of intricate structures. From wooden pegs used in ancient architecture to titanium alloy nuts in MRI equipment, the evolution of these "small components" vividly mirrors humanity's ongoing journey of technological innovation.
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