Weber Knapp Blog

If there’s one thing that commercial and restaurant kitchen appliances need to be, it’s durable. Ovens, grills, sinks, freezers, and microwaves all have to stand up to constant, repeated use. 

When it comes to high-end kitchen appliance design, great performance is as important on the outside as it is on the inside.

Our next stop on the trade show circuit this year takes us deep into the world of hospitality in a city synonymous with it. 

Today’s buyers want more features integrated into their products. They also want something that either doesn't take up a lot of space or uses space in a unique, effective way. So, how does a product designer balance the two?

Have you ever looked at your grill design and thought, “I wish this lid wasn’t so heavy and didn’t slam whenever I let go?” 

Today “motion control” implies automation, robotics, and electronics. But you’d be amazed at what you can achieve when you combine old-fashioned mechanical engineering with a creativity-minded manufacturer.

A busy restaurant with every table full and each bar stool occupied is a restaurant owner’s dream. However, a full house comes with a significant risk of injury to staff and patrons.

Imagine this: A waiter fills a large drink order from the bar. They carefully balance the tray of drinks with one hand as they start toward a table of expectant patrons. Working quickly, the waiter attempts to lift the pass-through with their free hand but has difficulty lifting the 45-pound countertop. While straining to lift with one hand, the waiter loses control of the carefully balanced tray of drinks. 

The mix of broken glass and liquid on the floor creates a significant safety hazard and takes a bite out of the restaurant’s profits. 

If you’re designing a product with a hinge, there’s a decent chance you want it hidden away from the world.