Is there a device that acts like a spring (i.e. $F=kx$) but the spring constant, $k$, has different values in compression and tension?
For example, if $k_c > k_t$ (where c and t refer to compression and tension), then the spring would quickly compress und a compressive force but would slowly expand under a tensile force.
I imagine you could design a hydraulic system like this with some check valves and control valves. Is there a single device that does this? Or alternatively, are there practical engineered systems that do this?