Outdoor Mechanical Device - From Conception to Prototype

Mechanical Product Development Engineer Needed – Prototype Development & Testing

Project Overview

I am looking for an experienced Mechanical Product Development Engineer to help develop a simple, durable outdoor mechanical device from concept to production-ready prototype.

This is not a CAD-only project. I am looking for someone who enjoys building, testing, improving and iterating real mechanical products.

The product consists of several laser-cut steel components assembled without tools into a compact portable structure. It contains a purely mechanical rotating element (“carousel”) that automatically changes the position of several small hanging plates after interaction, creating a repeatable sequence of movements. No electronics, motors or batteries are involved.

The goal is to design a mechanism that is:

* reliable,
* inexpensive to manufacture,
* easy to assemble,
* resistant to repeated outdoor use,
* tolerant of manufacturing variations,
* suitable for mass production.

Scope of Work

The selected engineer will work together with me to:

* evaluate existing concepts,
* propose mechanical improvements,
* build physical prototypes,
* perform practical testing,
* identify weak points and failure modes,
* improve manufacturability (DFM),
* simplify assembly,
* optimize weight, stiffness and durability,
* prepare the design for small-scale production.

I already have preliminary CAD models and several prototype concepts. What I need is engineering judgment and practical development experience rather than someone who only redraws parts.

Desired Experience

Ideally you have experience with:

* mechanical product development,
* prototype fabrication,
* laser-cut sheet metal,
* welded steel structures,
* press-brake bending,
* mechanical linkages,
* rotating mechanisms,
* tolerance analysis,
* Design for Manufacturing (DFM),
* rapid prototyping,
* product testing.

Experience developing outdoor consumer products, sporting equipment, industrial devices or mechanical equipment is a significant advantage.

Collaboration

I am looking for a long-term collaboration lasting several months.

If you have your own workshop or easy access to fabrication equipment, that is a major advantage.

Communication in English is sufficient.

Please include examples of products you have personally helped develop from prototype to production.