When the ball and clubface meet, the clubface can either close only (horizontal hinge action), close and layback (angled hinge action) or layback only (vertical hinge action).

I still don't understand this sentence after all these years of the Golfing Machine.

Best Video ever made explaining Hinge Action: http://www.lynnblakegolf.com/index.p...on-part-1.html

Also see video #2 in the series.

When your brain grasps this Hinge Alignment geometry concept, it will be a light bulb moment.

But one thing. It's not a "When the Clubface and Ball meet". It's a "the Clubface is making one of three motions" as it meets the Ball and travels through the Impact Interval.

I like to watch the Tom Tomesello video. He's got an excellent example of the three types of hinges in action. Sometimes it's easier to grasp the concept be watching the player do it than by reading it.
The hinge action refers to how the clubface meets the ball rather than a specific joint say the wrist hinge. The arms shoulders and wrist and torso work together to create a "hinge" action to impart the various hinging action.
These motions have their own distinct timing and direction.

Try short chip like shots with wedge using all three hinge actions. Once you "get" it you will notice there will be a feeling of roll, no roll or reverse roll of the clubface as it meets the ball. These are the layback and closing feelings of the clubface that was describe in earlier posts.