01Hidden Mechanics
How Does a Pin Tumbler Lock Work?
A key works by lining up tiny spring-loaded pins at one exact gap. Here is how a pin tumbler lock decides which key turns,…
01Topic
Hidden Mechanics
How locks, latches, bearings, valves, sensors and other everyday mechanisms actually move, hold and respond. Each explanation follows the parts and forces from input to output.
01Hidden Mechanics
How Do Magnetic Door Catches Work?
A magnetic catch holds a cupboard door with a small magnet, two steel plates and a strike plate. Here is how the magnetic circuit…
01Hidden Mechanics
How Does a Ratchet Mechanism Work?
A ratchet lets something turn or slide one way but locks it the other. Here is how a sprung pawl and angled teeth do…
01Hidden Mechanics
How Does a Ball Bearing Reduce Friction?
A ball bearing swaps sliding for rolling, cutting friction to a fraction of a plain bearing’s. Here is how its rings, balls, cage and…
01Hidden Mechanics
How Do Automatic Doors Know When to Open?
Most automatic sliding doors use two sensors: microwave radar that notices you approaching, and an infrared curtain that detects you standing in the doorway.…