Sensor-Driven Pattern Marker Prototype

Job Title:
Mechanical Prototype Engineer – Marker Dispensing Mechanism (Patent-Pending System)

Project Overview
I am seeking a mechanical engineer, product designer, or robotics prototyping specialist to assist in developing a functional proof-of-concept prototype for a patent-pending system.
The system is designed to:
• Store stacked marker elements (sports training markers)
• Select between multiple stacks
• Reliably dispense one marker at a time
• Direct the marker to a release position
This project is focused specifically on demonstrating three core mechanisms:
1. Selection Mechanism
2. Singulation Mechanism (single-item release)
3. Dispensing Pathway

Project Goal
Develop a bench-top working prototype that clearly demonstrates:
• Reliable release of one marker at a time
• Selection between at least two compartments
• Controlled downward movement of markers
• Repeatable operation (minimum 10–20 cycles without failure)
This is not a full robot build.
Mobility, electronics, and navigation are not required at this stage.

Scope of Work
The selected freelancer will:
1. Concept Interpretation
• Review provided sketches / diagrams / description
• Translate concept into a manufacturable prototype design
2. Mechanical Design
• Design core components including:
o Retention mechanism (upper restraint)
o Support/release mechanism (lower support)
o Sliding or alternative selector system
o Basic chute or release pathway
3. Prototype Build
• Fabricate prototype using:
o 3D printing (preferred)
o Laser cutting (optional)
o Off-the-shelf components
4. Testing & Refinement
• Ensure:
o Single-item release reliability
o Smooth operation of selector mechanism
o Minimal jamming or misfeeds
5. Deliverables
• Physical prototype (shipped)
• CAD files (STEP/STL)
• Basic assembly documentation
• Short demonstration video of operation

Technical Requirements
• Strong mechanical design experience
• Experience with:
o 3D printing / rapid prototyping
o Mechanisms (linkages, gates, sliding systems)
• Ability to design for gravity-fed stacked objects
• Practical problem-solving (anti-jamming, tolerances, alignment)

Preferred Experience
• Robotics prototyping
• Product development (early-stage)
• Experience with dispensing systems
• Experience with nested or stacked objects

Prototype Constraints
• Approximate footprint: ≤ 450mm x 450mm
• Stack configuration: 2 x 2 compartments (preferred), minimum 2 for prototype
• Marker dimensions (approximate):
o Base: ~150mm x 150mm
o Height: ~70mm
• Markers must:
o Stack/nest
o Be released individually

Important Notes
• This is a patent-pending concept
• Confidentiality required (NDA may be requested)
• Simplicity is preferred over complexity
• Focus is function over appearance

Project Type
• Fixed price or staged milestones
• Potential for ongoing work if successful

Budget
Open to proposals based on experience and approach.

To Apply
Please include:
• Relevant past work (mechanical prototypes or similar)
• Brief explanation of how you would approach:
o Single-item dispensing
o Stack control
• Estimated timeline

Future Opportunity
This project may lead to:
• Full product development
• Ongoing collaboration
• Licensing support prototype refinement