Mechanical Design Expert for Retractable Reel Locking Mechanism (Moonshot Concept – 3 Phases)
Budget: $100 – $150 USD
We’re developing a retractable cable reel mechanism with dual-mode behavior and a precision locking mechanism. The goal is to replace existing flawed prototypes (TNB1, TNB5, TNB6) with a smarter, simpler, and more manufacturable solution.
Our client is specifically interested in exploring a “moonshot” concept — where no manual switch is needed. Instead, the cord locks automatically if released slowly at ~75% extension, and bypasses the lock on rapid release.
This project is divided into 3 phases. We're hiring for Phase 1 now, but the right candidate will be retained for all phases if successful.
What We’re Looking For
We need a mechanical design expert with:
Strong mechanism design experience (gears, cams, latches, spring-based triggers)
Proven skills in SolidWorks or equivalent CAD tools
Comfort with reel, spring, and locking systems
Ability to consider DFM, assembly simplicity, and part tolerances
Optional: Experience in prototyping and 3D-printing prep
You’ll work under an experienced design consultant guiding the direction and liaising with the client. You won’t be alone — we just need your mechanical brilliance.
Phase 1 — Concept Development (Now Hiring)
Deliverables:
2+ working mechanism sketches addressing dual-mode:
Mode 1: Always retract
Mode 2: Lock at ~75% extension, unlock on 6–12” tug
A moonshot concept (lock on slow release, bypass on rapid)
Simple animation or diagram (optional but preferred)
Design pros/cons, risk areas, manufacturability notes
A mode-switch concept (if moonshot proves unworkable)
Reel target size: 30–34 mm diameter
Cord length: 30–48 inches
Future Phases (Not Part of This Post, But For Context)
Phase 1.2 — 3D CAD + STL/2D drawings for prototyping
Phase 2 — Final DFM-ready engineering package (tooling, tolerance control, BOM, etc.)
To Apply:
Please include:
A short message about why this excites you
Examples of mechanical products or locking mechanisms you’ve worked on
Your availability this week to begin Phase 1
Budget & Timeline:
Phase 1 budget: $100–150 USD
Timeline: ~5–7 days from start
Future phases are well-funded and follow-on work is very likely for the right person.
Our client is specifically interested in exploring a “moonshot” concept — where no manual switch is needed. Instead, the cord locks automatically if released slowly at ~75% extension, and bypasses the lock on rapid release.
This project is divided into 3 phases. We're hiring for Phase 1 now, but the right candidate will be retained for all phases if successful.
What We’re Looking For
We need a mechanical design expert with:
Strong mechanism design experience (gears, cams, latches, spring-based triggers)
Proven skills in SolidWorks or equivalent CAD tools
Comfort with reel, spring, and locking systems
Ability to consider DFM, assembly simplicity, and part tolerances
Optional: Experience in prototyping and 3D-printing prep
You’ll work under an experienced design consultant guiding the direction and liaising with the client. You won’t be alone — we just need your mechanical brilliance.
Phase 1 — Concept Development (Now Hiring)
Deliverables:
2+ working mechanism sketches addressing dual-mode:
Mode 1: Always retract
Mode 2: Lock at ~75% extension, unlock on 6–12” tug
A moonshot concept (lock on slow release, bypass on rapid)
Simple animation or diagram (optional but preferred)
Design pros/cons, risk areas, manufacturability notes
A mode-switch concept (if moonshot proves unworkable)
Reel target size: 30–34 mm diameter
Cord length: 30–48 inches
Future Phases (Not Part of This Post, But For Context)
Phase 1.2 — 3D CAD + STL/2D drawings for prototyping
Phase 2 — Final DFM-ready engineering package (tooling, tolerance control, BOM, etc.)
To Apply:
Please include:
A short message about why this excites you
Examples of mechanical products or locking mechanisms you’ve worked on
Your availability this week to begin Phase 1
Budget & Timeline:
Phase 1 budget: $100–150 USD
Timeline: ~5–7 days from start
Future phases are well-funded and follow-on work is very likely for the right person.