Most wristwatches operate on a set of miniature gears, sequencing through a complicated, finely tuned series of events to produce a precise measurement of time. Unless you are a watchmaker, it’s likely that you rarely think about the complexities that lie within the device. All you ask of the watch is that it tell time.
We believe that, like the parts of a watch, the best features are those that perform at the highest level in the minimal amount of space. One area where we often apply this principle is the hinge. Every step can has a hinge in the upper rear corner which allows the lid to swing open.
To find out more about the engineering challenges that come with creating a hinge, I talked to Dave Wolbert, one our product development managers here at simplehuman. Dave introduced me to what he called the “gooseneck hinge,” which is used in our fingerprint-proof steel bar step can.
“With most hinges, the lid needs clearance to swing open,” Dave explained. “The gooseneck actually pushes the lid up while swinging it back. The action that the hinge creates gives the can a smooth and steady feel.”
The most amazing thing about this hinge is that it’s internal. Most step cans have an exterior hinge which sticks out of the back of the can. The gooseneck hinge is tucked into the interior, maintaining the clean aesthetic of the can.
“The main thing about it is that it’s entirely hidden, giving us a very clean look,” Dave explained. “If we used the more traditional style hinge, we’d have to make compromises in the design to accommodate it.”
The internal hinge also allows the back of the can to sit completely flush against the wall, taking up minimal kitchen space.
As with every part we manufacture, we must also address the issue of durability. Though the hinge is discreet, its mechanism is made from die-cast zinc, meaning it’s unlikely to break.
If you own the steel bar can and have never thought about the internal gooseneck hinge, don’t worry—it means we’ve done our job.
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