It’s highly unlikely that you might not have noticed the hole in the centre of the plastic stools commonly used at home. Have you ever wondered why certain products are usually designed in specific ways? Is it for aesthetics or functionality? It may surprise you that every small detail in product design serves a purpose.
Regardless of whether the stool is manufactured in India or any other part of the world, factories adhere to universal scientific principles when producing plastic products.
Indeed, you may have observed that the hole in plastic stools is consistently circular in shape. Have you ever wondered why? The reason behind this design choice is to ensure the structural durability of the stool, preventing it from breaking when someone sits on it. If the holes were square-shaped or had multiple angles, the force applied would concentrate on those angles, increasing the likelihood of cracks. However, circular holes distribute the force evenly, maintaining the stool’s strength.
Considering the limited space available in our homes or shops, plastic stools are frequently stacked on top of one another. Just imagine how difficult it would be to separate them if they didn’t have intentionally designed holes. Without these holes, unstacking the stools would be nearly impossible or, at the very least, quite challenging. The purpose of these holes is to prevent the formation of a vacuum between stacked stools. By relieving the air pressure, the holes facilitate the process of unstacking.
These intentionally designed holes in the plastic stools serve the additional function of enhancing comfort and ease while carrying them. However, it’s essential to strike the right balance in hole size. If the hole is too large, it compromises the structural integrity of the stool, resulting in reduced support. Conversely, if the hole is too small, it becomes difficult for fingers to fit through. It’s remarkable to consider the engineering and effort involved in producing these affordable plastic stools, given the careful considerations required for their design and functionality.
These days, I'm as curious about everything and anything as if my middle name were George. If something makes me say "Hmmm," then you know damn well that I'll be the first to get answers.
About a week or so ago, I received an email from a listener by the name of Nelson Conchinha, who saw something and wanted to know my thoughts. It was in regards to a barstool in downtown New Bedford. Right away, I was hooked.
Conchinha writes:
"What is up with the slots on the bases of chairs at bars and restaurants these days?"
I, too, have seen this style of a barstool before but couldn't quite put my finger on it until I had myself a "Sunday Funday" at Play Arcade on Union Street. On the roof deck, surrounding the bar and railing overlooking the New Bedford Harbor were these bright orange barstools, and right smack in the middle was that hole that Conchinha described.
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After digging around online, I found an identical one with a description beneath the photo. The hole's purpose is nothing more than a simple drain hole if you plan on keeping your bar stools outdoors. This way, the water won't puddle up and also allows for quick drying if someone were to accidentally spill their drink or if the staff washes them down.
Again, nothing too mind-blowing, but still a great conversation piece if you ever find yourself on a first date. Now you can wow them with this useless knowledge that will eventually live "rent-free" in your mind.
Cue "The More You Know" shooting star.
From 908 to the Regal Beagle on Acushnet Ave, these are the bars that are no longer with us but never forgotten.