A hinge is a type of bearing that connects two solid objects, typically allowing only a limited angle of rotation between them. Two objects connected by an ideal hinge rotate relative to each other about a fixed axis of rotation. Hinges may be made of flexible material or of moving components.

We’ve known hinges only as a connecting medium between two objects and have always found it to be an outdated and traditional object. Little do we know the importance of hinges and the role they play in our day to day lives? We have been talking about having hinges in doors and furniture, but have we talked about using hinges in computers and laptops? Yes, indeed they are being used in computers and laptops too. Not only that, the hinges that are available in the market these days are fun to own and come in different styles, colors and shapes.

Hinges have been used from ages starting from 1600 BCE (Before Common Era), based on evidences collected by archeological experts from the ancient city of Hattusa. There are different types of hinges like the pivot hinge, which can be termed as a post that rests in a socket or ring of stone, wood, or metal. This kind of basic hinge is designed to allow a door to swing fully open in both directions, or be blocked on one side to stop. This is the primary reason that this type of pivot hinge has been passed down through generations and is still found in many homes and offices, of course in a slightly fancier form. Pivot hinges are commonly found in saloon-style doors and bathroom stall doors.

Romans are believed to be the first people to use hinges and they were well adept in the art of making them. Though Egyptians and Babylonians too used hinges on their doors, they were not that proficient at the art of manufacturing them. Times have evolved and the usage of hinges and the types of hinges have evolved too. Hinges are not only being used on gates and cabinets, they are being used on computers and laptops too. The metals that were used in the manufacture of hinges have undergone a radical change too. These days more and more light materials are being used to make hinges which is also rated highly in terms of quality.

A great deal of attention has to be paid while selecting the right hinges. With many outlets popping up which sell different brands of hinges, choosing the right hinges that suits your needs is an uphill task. First make sure what exactly your need is. When approaching a sales person to buy hinges make sure you have the measurements and color of the hinges you need. If you have a detailed description of the purpose for which the hinges are being bought, it would be easy to select them. Visit a few shops before you decide to buy, since there would be shops that sell for less and also you might get freebies on certain items. So why miss out on these when you have to pay the same amount of money elsewhere which gets you nothing additional.