Tools Organizer
I began by sketching multiple design concepts to explore different forms, storage arrangements, and portability features. Each design was analysed based on storage capacity, accessibility, portability, and aesthetics. Through this process, I compared the strengths and limitations of various ideas before selecting the most suitable design for further development.
CAD Design and Technical Drawings
This stage significantly enhanced my understanding of engineering drawing standards, dimensional accuracy, design visualisation, and manufacturing planning. It demonstrated the importance of digital design tools in modern engineering and reinforced my ability to transform a conceptual idea into a practical and buildable product.
The CAD development phase became the foundation of the entire project, bridging the gap between creativity and engineering by converting sketches into a fully engineered design ready for prototyping and production.
I began by sketching multiple design concepts to explore different forms, storage arrangements, and portability features. Each design was analysed based on storage capacity, accessibility, portability, and aesthetics. Through this process, I compared the strengths and limitations of various ideas before selecting the most suitable design for further development.
CAD Design and Technical Drawings
After selecting the final concept, I developed the design using SketchUp and CAD software to create a detailed 3D model of the Tools Organiser. This stage allowed me to visualise the structure, storage layout, and overall proportions before beginning the manufacturing process.
I experimented with different drawer sizes and compartment arrangements to maximise storage while maintaining portability and ease of use. Several modifications were made to improve efficiency, including adding mini drawers for small components and redesigning the main storage areas for better organisation.
Once the design was finalised, I prepared detailed technical drawings with accurate measurements for each component. These drawings served as a guide during manufacturing, helping me reduce material waste and ensure precision throughout the construction process.
This stage strengthened my skills in digital design, engineering drawing, and manufacturing planning, showing me how a simple idea can be transformed into a practical and fully engineered product.
To better understand the form, proportions, and functionality of my design, I created a scaled 3D printed model of the Tools Organiser. I first exported my CAD design to Bambu Lab software, where I adjusted the scale, orientation, and support structures required for printing. The model was then produced using the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon 3D printer.
Creating this miniature prototype allowed me to transform my digital design into a physical model, giving me a clearer understanding of the organiser's appearance, dimensions, and overall structure. It helped me analyse the placement of drawers, storage compartments, and the balance of the design while identifying any improvements that could be made before constructing the full-scale prototype.
The 3D printed model also gave me the opportunity to study the ergonomics and practicality of the design from different angles. By physically interacting with the model, I was able to evaluate how the organiser would function in a real workshop environment and make design decisions with greater confidence.
This stage introduced me to modern manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing and rapid prototyping, while strengthening my skills in CAD modelling, design evaluation, and engineering development. It demonstrated the importance of testing ideas at an early stage and showed me how engineers use prototypes to refine designs before final production.
Mock-Up Model Development
Following the 3D printed prototype, I developed a larger mock-up model using softboard and laser cutting technology. This stage was essential in bridging the gap between the digital design and the final full-scale product. By creating a physical mock-up, I was able to better understand the organiser's proportions, internal layout, and overall appearance.
The laser cutter enabled me to produce components with precise dimensions and clean edges, allowing me to assemble the model accurately and efficiently. During the assembly process, I carefully studied the placement of drawers, storage compartments, and the available workspace on the top of the organiser. This hands-on experience helped me identify areas where space was being wasted and where the design could be improved for better functionality.
Several modifications were made at this stage, including changes to the drawer arrangement and the internal storage system to maximise space utilisation while maintaining accessibility. I also experimented with different layouts to ensure that the organiser remained compact, practical, and easy to use.
The mock-up model became one of the most important stages of my project. It allowed me to visualise the design from an engineering perspective, test different ideas with minimal material cost, and refine the product before moving to final manufacturing. This experience strengthened my understanding of prototyping, iterative design, and the importance of testing ideas before full-scale production.
3D Printing the Prototype
Manufacturing the Full Prototype
The final product is a fully functional and portable Tools Organiser designed to improve efficiency, accessibility, and organisation within a workshop environment. The organiser was specifically developed to address the common challenges faced by workers, such as cluttered workspaces, difficulty locating tools, and limited portability.The organiser features a multi-compartment storage system with dedicated spaces for different categories of equipment. It includes eight large drawers designed to store power tools and heavy-duty equipment, four small drawers for frequently used tools and accessories, and eight mini drawers for organising screws, bolts, nails, drill bits, and other small components. In addition, I incorporated specially designed sliding holders for chisels, rasps, and wrenches, allowing tools to be arranged vertically for quicker access and better organisation.One of the key features of the design is the working surface positioned on the top of the organiser. This allows users to perform tasks directly above the storage unit and immediately return tools after use, reducing unnecessary movement and increasing productivity.
The enclosed drawer system also protects tools from dust and damage while maintaining a clean and organised workspace.Portability was another major design objective. The organiser is equipped with heavy-duty castor wheels and ergonomic handles, allowing it to be moved easily around the workshop while maintaining stability under heavy loads. The structure was carefully engineered to prevent wobbling or tipping during movement, ensuring safety and durability during everyday use.The product is primarily constructed from plywood and pine wood, materials chosen for their strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The wooden finish gives the organiser a modern and professional appearance while maintaining the structural integrity required to support a large number of tools. The organiser is capable of storing more than 100 hand tools and over 20 power tools, making it a highly practical solution for workshop organisation.This project represents far more than a storage unit. It demonstrates my ability to identify a real-world problem, conduct research, develop multiple design solutions, use CAD and prototyping technologies, and manufacture a functional product through an iterative engineering process. It reflects my passion for Mechanical Engineering and my commitment to creating practical solutions that combine innovation, functionality, and thoughtful design.
Testing and User Feedback
After completing the final prototype, I conducted a series of tests to evaluate the organiser's performance in a real workshop environment. The testing focused on four key aspects: storage capacity, portability, accessibility, and structural durability. I tested whether the organiser could efficiently store a wide range of hand tools, power tools, and small accessories while maintaining an organised and clutter-free workspace. The portability of the organiser was evaluated by moving it around different working areas and testing the smooth operation of the castor wheels under load. I also examined the accessibility of each drawer and storage compartment to ensure that tools could be easily reached without unnecessary bending or movement. In addition, the stability and strength of the structure were assessed to confirm that the organiser remained balanced and durable during regular use. User feedback was collected from teachers, skilled craftsmen, and workshop users, whose suggestions helped me refine certain aspects of the design, including the arrangement of drawers and specialised storage sections. Their feedback played an important role in improving the functionality and practicality of the organiser.
