Vectis™ Technology: Counterbalance Motion Control Video Tutorials

Choosing the right motion control solution can involve some tricky elements. When it’s time to understand the type of counterbalance or spring-assist hinge you need and the best way to move forward with the installation, it helps to have a visual guide as a resource. The Vectis pages provide both written content and videos that do everything from explaining how a Vectis hinge can be a better choice than a gas hinge to how to install and adjust the hinge solution you choose. 

Counterbalance hinges use springs and linkages to counterbalance the force of gravity while opening, closing, lifting or lowering an object. A lot of counterbalance applications involve heavy lids and the weight is referred to as lid weight.  However, the pivoting load that needs to be counterbalanced does not need to be a lid.

A typical lid will require two hinges, and sometimes more, to provide adequate mechanical support. When deciding how many hinges should be used, you should consider what load the hinge was designed to handle, the need for support for the middle of a longer lid, and the size of the lid. Large lids can require several hinges to provide the spring energy needed to counterbalance the weight. 

There are many situations where it is desirable to limit your lid or load’s travel to less than the full 90-degree rotation range, including keeping it within convenient reach for the operator or avoiding obstacles that are located in the area of the rotating load. 

Other reasons include controlling the rotation range to prevent an opening or closing bias condition near the lid's full open position.

Vectis Counterbalance Hinges are designed to counterbalance a wide range of loads that pivot up to 90 degrees about a horizontal axis.

During the manufacturing process, Vectis Counterbalance Hinges are tailored to apply specific torques at specific angles to match your unique counterbalancing needs.  

The Video Tutorials page provides an overview of what Vectis Technology is, comparisons of Vectis Counterbalance Hinges to pivot hinges, and guides for installation and adjustment. 

Introducing Vectis Technology

Located in the second row of videos, this seven-minute-long segment provides context and clarity regarding counterbalance hinges and the process used to design hinges to fit client needs. It then explains how Vectis Technology provides a cost-effective method to manufacture small to medium quantities of custom-tailored hinges optimized for your specific application needs. 

Vectis Technology provides optimized torque characteristics at a price point lower than what one would expect when paying for engineering and tooling. 

For those who are considering the factors relevant to the counterbalance hinge (weight, operating angle, torque), using the Vectis DYO app can help illuminate your design needs.

Vectis Technology can fulfill the need for a fully customized design as well. Engineers are available to help with this process, and an idea of that opportunity is explained further in this video. 

Demonstration: Vectis Technology Is An Alternative Gas Cylinders

Vectis Counterbalance Hinges provide a precise feel and a high-cycle life. Vectis is a reliable, safe counterbalance solution. Watch this demonstration of a simple pivot hinge versus the new Vectis Counterbalance Hinge. See how the coconut fares with both hinges. 

Vectis DYO Tutorial: How To Design Your Counterbalance Hinge

Learn about the process to design your Vectis Counterbalance Hinge using Vectis DYO, an online resource. This tool helps tailor the torque characteristics of your Vectis Counterbalance Hinge before you put in an order. 

Vectis Counterbalance Hinges allow a 90-degree rotation between a closed position and a fully open position. The hinge can include an open stop and be used to stop anywhere in the range in between. For example, an open stop can be included at 45-degrees. 

Variables can be specified and adjusted at any time while using the resource, in order to find the right combination to tailor the hinge to your individual needs. 

Watch the demonstration to find out more.  

Vectis System: Side by Side Counter Balance Comparison

This demonstration pits plain hinge pivots against Vectis Counterbalance Hinge components, both located on 36-lb simulated grill lids. This provides an idea of both the operating force and the control available while opening and closing a lid of this size, depending on the hinge that is in use.

Vectis Installation and Adjustment Instructions

The two final videos on the page provide accurate and precise information on the installation and adjustment of the Vectis Counterbalance hinge once it is in place. The second video also provides guidance on how to avoid damage to the hinge while adjusting it correctly. 

For any further questions or concerns, Weber Knapp engineers are available to discuss and address issues today. To learn more about our lineup of industrial hinges, check out the guide below: