Sore wrists. A stiff neck. A tired back. 

Spend any amount of time working on an office computer with a keyboard that’s just not positioned correctly, and you’ll likely walk away feeling some discomfort. 

If your office or classroom is spending a good portion of its day sitting at a desk and working on a computer, you probably already know how important it is to promote correct office ergonomics. A healthy work lifestyle reduces back, neck, and eye strain, as well as the risk of desk job-related injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Editor's Note: This piece is an installment of an occasional series that looks at metalworking and fabrication services offered by Weber Knapp.

As we continue on this year’s trade show circuit, we have two more events to add to our Q1 travel list. 

Improving stability.

Upgrading performance. 

Enhancing safety. 

These are just a few of the reasons a design engineer might find themselves calculating the center of gravity for any object. 

In the world of hinge design, this calculation can be used for someone as simple as keeping a lid, door, or cover from slamming into something -- or someone.

Designing a no-slam hinge doesn’t just keep your customers safer, it also keeps you protected … from lawsuits. On a lighter note (pun intended), a steady open/close also improves ease of use for customers.

Finding the center of gravity in objects isn’t always easy; not all objects are perfect circles or simply symmetrical. In fact, most aren’t, and calculating their center of gravity takes a certain level of skill – something an experienced heavy-duty hinge manufacturer possesses. 

In this article, we’ll look at three ways (in order of decreasing difficulty) for how to find the center of gravity of an irregular object. Can't wait? Click on any one of the ways to jump to the corresponding section: 

• The Easy Way
• The Easier Way
• The Easiest Way!

Editor's Note: This piece is an installment of an occasional series that looks at metalworking and fabrication services offered by Weber Knapp.

The right metal finish can make all the difference in the lifespan and functionality of a product.

Just ask those who made the wrong finish choice.

Universities and learning institutions are dynamic environments where knowledge is shared, discoveries are made, and the next generation of healthcare professionals is shaped. 

Your project is unusual. 

You aim to solve a unique problem that requires a custom solution. Adding mechanical motion control would perfect your design. 

But is it possible?

In the world of motion control solutions, there's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach.

You have a beautiful kitchen design in mind, complete with a folding countertop. 

But have you considered the weight of this addition? 

When it comes to folding countertop projects, precision is key. The weight and size of the countertop being lifted can greatly affect the counterbalance of the motion control system, and guessing or estimating can lead to serious problems. 

From the retractable keyboard tray you use at work to the cupboard doors in your kitchen, hinges are a part – often unnoticed – of everyday life. 

Sometimes, they take on bigger applications, such as industrial refrigerator door in the restaurant kitchen or the counter pass-through at a store.

In these more demanding scenarios, selecting the appropriate type of hinge, whether it's robust lid supports or adaptable gas spring hinges, becomes a significant factor in maintaining functionality and longevity.

The term "roughing it" doesn’t apply to "glamping." 

Short for glamorous camping, glamping is a way for people to connect with nature without sacrificing the comforts of modern living. In fact, glamping brings a bit of luxury to a camping scenario. 

When designing glamping furniture, the key is to balance style and functionality.

One crucial component in achieving this balance is using kinematic hinges. These innovative hinges add an element of luxury to glamping furniture design and provide smooth and controlled motion, making them an essential feature for glamping furniture.