The Lab Reference
A Glossary of Materials, Mechanisms, and Design Concepts Behind Our Experiments
Welcome to The Lab Reference - a living glossary of the materials, mechanisms, and design principles that shape our products. Every experiment released from our Lab, whether it's a jig, a component, a household tool, or a new idea entirely, is built on thoughtful design, careful prototyping, and purposeful engineering.
This reference exists to give you clarity, transparency, and insight into the building blocks behind our work.
As our brand evolves, this page will continue to grow with new terms, new technologies, and the expanding world of ideas we are creating.
A–Z TERMS
A
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
A tough, impact-resistant thermoplastic used in functional prototypes and durable printed components.
Acrylic
A rigid and transparent material used where clarity, precision, or clean aesthetics matter.
Aluminum (Machined)
Lightweight, strong, and premium in hand feel. Ideal for refined components and mechanisms requiring high accuracy.
Arbor Press
A manual press used for precise insertions, seating parts, and achieving consistent assemblies.
Assembly Methods
The techniques used to bring components together — from press fits to threaded fasteners, adhesives, and heat-set inserts.
(Future Placeholder – Add more A terms anytime)
Examples: Anodizing, Adjustment Range, Alignment Features
B
Brainstorming Iterations
Internal design sessions where we explore ideas, refine functionality, and pressure-test concepts before prototyping.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Bushing, Bracket, Bend Radius
C
CNC Machining
Computer-controlled cutting for producing finely detailed and precise parts.
Clamping Force
The controlled pressure applied by a mechanism to stabilize or hold an object without damage.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Counterbore, Compression Fit, Composite Material
F
Friction Lock
A mechanism where controlled friction maintains position without external hardware.
Fixture
A tool or positioning aid designed for repeatability, stability, and accuracy.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Fulcrum, Flexure Mechanism
G
Gear Mechanism
Toothed components that transfer motion or torque with mechanical precision.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Guide Rail, Grip Surface
H
Hand Tools
Precision tools used for finishing, adjusting, and refining prototypes and assemblies.
Heat-Set Inserts
Metal inserts installed with heat to create durable threads in 3D-printed parts.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Hardness Rating, Hybrid Mechanism
J
Jig
A tool or guide designed to simplify and improve repetitive tasks, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Joint Tolerance, Jig Alignment Slot
M
Mechanism (General)
A system of interacting parts that produces controlled function or motion.
Modular Components
Elements designed to work independently or connect to create larger systems. Encourages creativity and customization.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Magnetic Latch, Motion Path, Molded Component
P
Pawl
A pivoting latch used with gears or ratchets to permit movement in one direction and lock in the other.
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
A renewable, lightweight 3D-printing material used for early prototypes and non-load-bearing components.
Press Fit
A friction-based connection where parts lock together cleanly without visible hardware.
Prototyping Iterations
The cycle of testing, refining, and evolving designs through physical builds.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Pivot Point, Polymer, Patterning
R
Ratcheting Mechanism
A system allowing incremental adjustments through teeth and a pawl, delivering controlled mechanical feedback.
Rubber (Elastomers)
Flexible, grippy materials used for damping, traction, or soft contact points.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Reinforcement Rib, Rotational Stop
S
Silicone
A heat-resistant and flexible material ideal for soft grips or cushioning surfaces.
Soldering Iron
A controlled-heat tool used for embedding inserts or joining components.
Steel
A strong and reliable metal chosen for reinforcement, wear surfaces, or structural elements.
Sliding Mechanism
A guided system enabling smooth linear motion with minimal friction.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Surface Finish, Structural Support, Shock Absorption
T
Tolerance
The acceptable variation in dimensions that ensures parts fit and function as intended.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Thread Pitch, Texture Pattern
W
Wood
A natural, warm, tactile material used in jigs, tools, and components requiring strength and character.
Workspace Tools
Accessories designed to enhance organization, workflow, and creative or technical environments.
(Future Placeholder)
Examples: Wear Layer, Weight Distribution
THE LAB PHILOSOPHY
Every experiment we create - whether it’s a component, jig, household improvement, workspace enhancement, or a new idea entirely - follows the same principles:
Purposeful Function
We design products that genuinely improve how people work, live, or create.
Thoughtful Engineering
Every material, mechanism, and detail is intentional and refined through multiple iterations.
Premium Experience
Our products are built to feel high-end, durable, and satisfying in daily use.
Endless Exploration
There are no categories. We build what solves problems, sparks curiosity, or enhances everyday processes.
Creativity & Collaboration
Our tools are designed to inspire creativity and serve as platforms for users’ own ideas and builds.
Designed for Growth
This reference is intentionally built to evolve.
As we explore new materials, mechanisms, collaborations, and product directions, this page will expand with us and become a long-term foundation for The Lab.