Sidefolding

Sidefolding is a term used to describe a folding configuration in which a component pivots about a hinge located near the edge of a frame and folds along the side of the main body, rather than folding toward the center. It is used in various mechanical and consumer products, most commonly folding knives and pocket tools, but can also refer to foldable panels on electronics, cases, or access doors.

In folding knives and tools, sidefolding describes blades that rotate on a pivot mounted at the edge of the handle, so the closed blade sits beside the handle rather than inside it. The mechanism may use standard locking methods to secure the blade in open and closed positions, and the side placement can influence blade thickness, grip, and ambidextrous use. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with “side-fold” in catalog descriptions, though designers may prefer precise terms like pivot location or locking style.

In structural or product design, sidefolding panels or sections hinge on the exterior edge of a frame, enabling a compact profile when closed. This approach is used to minimize external protrusions and can facilitate deployment in limited spaces. Sidefolding elements require careful edge clearances and sealing to maintain durability.

Variants include left-side and right-side folding, depending on which edge hosts the hinge, and can be combined with other folding directions in multi-part devices. Safety considerations center on reliable locking and smooth operation to prevent accidental closure.