How Are Locking Hinges Used?

Common hinges, such as those used on doors and cabinets, have only two main positions: open and closed. In some unique circumstances, however, hinges need to lock into place at specific angles in order to properly position, tilt or angle special kinds of equipment. These kinds of applications require specialized locking hinges, hinges capable of securely locking into place at precise angles.

Because locking hinges are often required for industrial, heavy duty and precision applications, these types of hinges must often be equipped with other unique features. Locking hinges which will be used to lift and control heavy equipment must be able to withstand rugged torque. When precise angles and control are required, locking hinges may need electronic or pneumatic release activation features to quickly lock and unlock hinges into place.

While the number of possible applications for locking hinges is virtually limitless, these are the most common industries in which they are used:

Ergonomic Equipment

Industrial manufacturing settings often require personnel to perform repetitive physical tasks for long periods of time, which may lead to worker injury if the workers comfort is not taken into account. The process of making a workers physical environment less likely to induce injury is called "ergonomics", and ergonomic equipment is an important part of the workforce. Locking hinges which provide incremental locking are often used to make equipment adjustable, allowing workers to adjust equipment to positions they are most comfortable with. End effectors, a type of handheld robotic machinery used in automotive manufacturing settings, can be made ergonomic by installing locking hinges into the handles.

In the IT and computer technology sector, locking hinges are extremely useful in creating devices for positioning, holding and tilting devices such as laptops and monitors.

Medical Appliances and Equipment

In the medical industry, theres virtually no end to the number of applications which require specialized, custom equipment. New medical devices are being invented every day to meet the needs of patients with unique disabilities and conditions. Many of these devices require precise, controlled hinge movement, making incremental locking hinges ideal for a wide range of medical appliances and equipment types.

Locking hinges are commonly used in wheel chairs, platform positioning chairs and other specialty chairs to provide custom tilt, wheel locking and easy, stable foot rest positioning. Other devices which benefit from precision locking hinges include adjustable racks and orthopedic devices.

Tooling and Manufacturing

When it comes to tooling and manufacturing, the precise control and positioning of equipment is vital. Manufacturing equipment such as welding torches and tool arms can be extremely heavy, so heavy duty locking hinges must provide both precise control and rugged torque resistance. If the hinges need to be locked and unlocked automatically, the locking hinges may need to be equipped with pneumatic or electronic release activation features.

Because locking hinges offer so many options for customization, they are ideal for use in tooling and manufacturing applications such as positioning automatic welding fixtures.