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We're looking for an experienced mechanical/electromechanical designer to develop a working prototype of an automated machine that removes lids from small, sealed food containers without any user interaction. The machine will be a compact, household-appliance scale and will combine several lid-opening units into a single integrated device. This project is part of a larger household appliance line for automated food dispensing. Scope of work: Milestone 1 — Concept Design - Propose a mechanism and actuation approach for automatically removing peel-tab foil lids from small containers (roughly cup-sized, various shapes/materials) - Provide a brief comparison of actuator/mechanism options with a recommendation - Preliminary sizing and force estimates - Concept review and approval before proceeding Milestone 2 — Detailed Design & Fabrication Package (upon concept approval) - Complete CAD design of the full assembly - STL files for 3D printing — each mechanical part delivered as a separate file, sized for PETG printing - DWG fabrication drawings with dimensions, tolerances, materials, and fasteners - Final documentation: BOM, assembly instructions, and design notes Key requirements: - Fully automatic, no-touch operation - Compact, appliance-appropriate footprint - Reliable operation across a range of container sizes and materials - Food-safe design: no contamination of contents! Ideal Freelancer for this Project: - Mechanical/electromechanical design experience, especially with mechanisms that move or actuate (dispensing, packaging, or similar) - Can propose their own mechanism/actuator approach from a functional brief - Strong CAD skills with production-ready fabrication drawings, not just concepts - Experience designing for 3D printing (PETG a plus) - Comfortable signing an NDA and assigning IP as standard practice - Clear communicator who flags trade-offs rather than guessing Note: This project involves proprietary and patent-sensitive mechanical designs. You will be required to sign an NDA and an Intellectual Property Transfer Agreement before receiving detailed specifications, reference images, or the full technical brief.
Project ID: 40736955
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The critical part of this design is making the opening sequence repeatable: locate the container, secure it, grip the foil tab, and peel the lid without spilling or introducing debris into the food. I can develop the mechanism in two stages: - **Concept:** Compare practical gripping, peeling, and actuator arrangements; estimate the required forces and travel; and recommend an approach based on the container range, footprint, and cleaning needs. - **Detailed design:** Build the integrated CAD assembly, with individual PETG-ready STL files and dimensioned DWG drawings covering materials, tolerances, and fasteners. - **Build package:** Provide the BOM, assembly instructions, and design notes, including how food-contact areas are kept clear of the mechanism. I’m comfortable working under an NDA and IP transfer agreement before reviewing the detailed brief. I would also define the validation cases at concept review so the design is judged against the actual containers it must open. Do the target containers have a consistently exposed peel tab, or must the machine also locate and lift tabs that lie flat against the rim?
$800 USD in 28 days
5.6
5.6
56 freelancers are bidding on average $28 USD/hour for this job

With more than 8 years of experience in mechanical and electronics engineering, I have honed my skills in designing complex systems with a unique perspective. This project you've described, integrating multiple lid-opening units into a compact, automated device for food containers aligns perfectly with my expertise. Throughout my career, I've developed a firm understanding of mechanisms and actuators as I consistently designed systems that move or actuate such as automated food dispensers and packaging solutions. My depth of experience ensures that I can not only propose a reliable mechanism/actuator approach but also provide you with detailed and anatomically sound CAD designs ready for fabrication. Having a strong background in 3D printing adds another relevant feather to my cap. Moreover, your requirement for a clear and honest communicator who highlights potential trade-offs rather than gambling on uncertainties is something I live by. For all the unique designs I've crafted so far, I've ensured they were functional, lean, safe for use, and achieved their intended purpose. This commitment to excellence also extends to IP protection as I'm well accustomed to handling proprietary projects and assigning IP as standard practice.
$18 USD in 40 days
8.5
8.5

Several openers have to share one body small enough for a kitchen counter. How the cups load will change where every unit can sit. Layer lines on a PETG print trap food and don't wipe clean. So nothing printed should sit over a cup once the foil is off. I'd sketch a few layouts of the whole appliance first so you can pick one before I build the CAD. Then you'd get the SolidWorks assembly, one STL per part, DWG drawings and a BOM. I'm fine signing the NDA before the full brief. How do the cups get into the machine: by hand into a tray or fed in from the dispensing side?
$30 USD in 30 days
8.0
8.0

With over a decade in the mechanical/electromechanical design field, I possess immense skills and experience that align perfectly with the needs of this project. My proficiency in mechanisms that move or actuate for packaging, dispensing and other similar operations is unparalleled. This expertise gives me the capacity to propose innovative and efficient solutions to meet your unique requirement of a fully automated, touch-free machine that safely opens various food containers. Moreover, my strong command over CAD design enables me to construct comprehensive 3D models and fabrication drawings not only at a conceptual level but also at a production-ready standard. I am well-versed in designing for 3D printing and proficient with PETG, offering you an added advantage. As someone who holds utmost respect for the integrity of client's projects, I am familiar with non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and standard intellectual property (IP) transfer practices. Another crucial aspect that sets me apart is my knack for flagging potential trade-offs instead of making assumptions. This ensures transparency through the entirety of a project's scope. Your complex project requires a rare set of skills, reliable communication, and an individual who can deliver solutions within stringent patent-sensitive boundaries – I humbly express my confidence in being that person for you. Let's join hands to revolutionize food automation together!
$12 USD in 40 days
7.8
7.8

Hi, As a Senior Industrial & Product Designer (FADU-UBA) with 9+ years of experience, I specialize in turning product concepts into factory-ready reality. Beyond aesthetics and ergonomics, my primary focus is production viability. Working in SolidWorks, I apply strict DFM (Design for Manufacturing) principles across any material combination. By optimizing draft angles, wall thicknesses, and tolerances from day one, I minimize your tooling costs and eliminate factory errors. You will receive complete factory-ready deliverables: -Universal 3D CAD (STEP, IGES, Parasolid) -2D manufacturing drawings with tolerances and BOM -High-end 4K photorealistic renders (KeyShot) Click Chat to review your technical requirements. I am ready to start immediately. Best regards, Damian Raffaele Senior Industrial & Product Designer
$20 USD in 40 days
7.1
7.1

With my combined skills in Mechanical Design, 3D Modelling, and Product Design, I believe I'm the ideal candidate for your Automated Food Container Lid-Opener Prototype project. I have an in-depth understanding of mechanisms and actuators and have successfully designed automated systems involving dispensing and packaging. Hence, I can propose a mechanism for removing different types of food container lids that guarantees reliable operation and requires no user interaction. Moreover, my considerable knowledge of PETG-based 3D printing is an asset to this project as it entails designing parts that are suitable for fabrication. Adept at signing NDAs and transferring Intellectual Property rights as standard practice, you can be assured that your patented designs are in safe hands. Finally, my approach during the project will prioritize clear communication. I will always ensure to keep you updated with any design trade-offs rather than making assumptions that may impact the final product's functionality. Remember, a problem-solving approach is what makes a design successful. So let us work together to create a compact, fully-automatic lid opener that is efficient across various container sizes and materials while ensuring the contents are never contaminated. I look forward to discussing this project further with you!
$12 USD in 4 days
7.5
7.5

With over a decade of experience in mechanical and electromechanical design, I'm confident that I can fulfill the unique requirements of your automated food container lid-opener prototype. My involvement in various projects - ranging from bespoke product design to industrial equipment - have strengthened my abilities to develop working prototypes from conceptualization to fabrication stage with utmost precision. An essential task, especially for a project like yours, relies on being able to propose and build functional mechanisms from scratch. My verified proficiency in CAD and subsequent preparation of production-ready fabrication drawings would be key in delivering an accurate and efficient prototype. Every design will be created keeping 3D printing method/processes in mind for easy fabrication using PETG materials while providing a detailed BOM, assembly instructions, and design notes for your convenience. I understand you are looking for precise design work while keeping everything under budget, which is why I assure you that my skills extend beyond creating accurate physical models but also being well-equipped with performing an elaborate analysis on them ensuring its efficiency, productivity, cleanliness and adhering to all food-safe regulations. I look forward to applying my skills and expertise to bring your vision for a fully automated, compact lid-opening machine into reality.
$12 USD in 40 days
6.7
6.7

HI, KINDLY READ THROUGH MY PROPOSAL I will develop a compact, fully automatic prototype machine that reliably removes peel-tab foil lids from small sealed food containers with no user interaction, ready for integration into your household appliance line. MY APPROACH ✅ Concept design with clear mechanism and actuator comparison plus recommendation ✅ Preliminary sizing, force estimates and concept approval gate ✅ Complete CAD assembly optimised for compact appliance footprint ✅ Separate STL files for PETG 3D printing of every mechanical part ✅ Dimensioned DWG fabrication drawings, BOM, assembly instructions and design notes ✅ Food-safe design that avoids contamination of contents DELIVERABLES - Milestone 1: Concept proposal with mechanism options and recommendation - Milestone 2: Full CAD, STLs, DWG drawings, BOM and assembly documentation QUESTIONS 1. Preferred CAD package (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Inventor, etc.)? 2. Approximate target overall dimensions or any existing appliance constraints? 3. Ready to proceed with NDA and IP transfer so the full brief can be shared? Ready to start the concept phase as soon as the NDA is in place and the detailed specifications are provided.
$10 USD in 40 days
6.7
6.7

Hello I am an experienced CAD/CAM designer specializing in CATIA, SolidWorks, and AutoCAD, with over 10 years of professional freelance and teaching experience. I excel at transforming 2D plans into precise, detailed 3D models, creating accurate assemblies, parts, and visualizations ready for manufacturing or prototyping. With my expertise in Part Design, Generative Shape Design (GSD), Drafting, and Assembly Design, I deliver high-quality, production-ready models in STL, STEP, OBJ, or FBX formats. I am detail-oriented, efficient, and committed to exceeding client expectations. You can view my portfolio here: https://www.fr.freelancer.com/u/mouniridmed Best regards, Mounir
$8 USD in 40 days
5.8
5.8

Hi, At Vutuk Design and Media, we bring over 15 years of core mechanical engineering, electro-mechanical product design, automation mechanisms, food-safe DFM, and high-impact technical visual media expertise. Our team delivers complete product development packages—combining robust SolidWorks 3D CAD engineering and prototyping plans with photorealistic 3D renders and animated operational/exploded-view videos for crowdfunding, e-commerce, and manufacturing. To help us scope your automated lid opener project effectively: Do you have initial industrial design sketches, target dimension envelopes, or reference product benchmarks ready? What primary manufacturing processes (e.g., plastic injection molding, die-cast aluminum, rubber overmolding) are planned for mass production? Will the device feature automated sensor detection (e.g., limit switches, optical presence sensors) for hands-free operation? Would you like photorealistic 3D product renders or short animated 3D operational videos created alongside the CAD deliverables for marketing decks? We invite you to visit our profile and portfolio page to evaluate our past consumer product designs and 3D visual showcases. Let's discuss your project! Best regards, Vutuk Design and Media
$12 USD in 40 days
5.6
5.6

Hi, Peel-tab foil lids are deceptively hard to automate. The tab position, angle, and adhesion strength vary across containers, and any mechanism that grips too hard risks puncturing the lid or contaminating contents. That variability is the real design problem here, not just "pull the tab." My initial concept direction: a two-stage approach, a vision or mechanical sensing step to locate the tab position, then a gripping/peel arm (likely a cam-driven or linear actuator pulling at a controlled angle) that peels rather than yanks, reducing tearing and spillage risk. I'd compare this against a rotating-hook approach and a suction-assisted grip in the concept phase, with force and reliability trade-offs laid out clearly before recommending one. For Milestone 1, I'll deliver mechanism concepts with sizing/force estimates and a clear recommendation for your review before any detailed design starts. Milestone 2 would follow with full CAD, PETG-optimized STL files per part, DWG fabrication drawings with tolerances and materials, BOM, and assembly documentation. I'm comfortable signing an NDA and IP Transfer Agreement before receiving the full brief. Happy to walk through my concept thinking on a call. Falaq Vohra
$12 USD in 40 days
5.4
5.4

This is Mohand, a professional mechanical/electromechanical engineer with experience in mechanism design, product development, CAD, prototyping, and 3D-printable assemblies. I can develop the lid-removal mechanism from functional requirements through a tested prototype, focusing on reliable peel-tab engagement, controlled force, container variation, compact packaging, and food-safe separation from the contents. I can compare mechanical, linear-actuator, rotary, and other suitable approaches, calculate preliminary forces and motion requirements, then develop the selected concept into a detailed assembly. I am also comfortable working under NDA and IP-transfer requirements for proprietary designs. My deliverables and scope will include: ☑️ Concept alternatives, actuator/mechanism comparison, preliminary sizing/force calculations, and recommended architecture. ☑️ Complete parametric CAD assembly with individual PETG-ready STL components and practical tolerances. ☑️ Dimensioned DWG fabrication drawings, materials/fasteners, BOM, assembly instructions, and design notes. Main questions for the project: What are the approximate container dimensions, lid materials/thicknesses, expected cycle rate, and number of containers handled simultaneously? I can proceed milestone-by-milestone, flag engineering trade-offs early, and refine the design after concept approval. Thank you.
$15 USD in 40 days
5.4
5.4

Hello, I am a Full Stack Engineer and Embedded Engineer with 10 years of experience, providing electromechanical design, actuator control, prototyping, CAD integration, 3D printing, and automation. In my opinion, I would develop a compact mechanism that securely grips the container and automatically pulls or separates the peel-tab lid with controlled force. I would compare practical actuator and mechanism options based on force, reliability, container variations, footprint, and food-safety requirements before selecting the final approach. This project is very similar to my previous works. I have experience developing automated electromechanical mechanisms and integrating moving assemblies into compact products. I understand the importance of reliable actuation, repeatable motion, mechanical tolerances, and easy fabrication. The most important skill is mechanism design. I will focus on reliable lid removal without damaging the container or contaminating the food, while keeping the design suitable for PETG printing and appliance-scale integration. So, I will divide your project into three major steps. 1️⃣ Develop mechanism concepts, actuator options, force estimates, and recommend the best approach. 2️⃣ Create the detailed CAD assembly and optimize each part for PETG 3D printing. 3️⃣ Deliver separate STL files, DWG fabrication drawings, BOM, assembly instructions, and design notes. Best regards. Maksym
$12 USD in 40 days
5.0
5.0

Hello, With an exemplary track record in the world of 3D modeling, I bring to the table a set of skills perfectly tailored to your prototype needs. My proficiency spans across various industry-standard software including Blender, Solidworks, Zbrush and many more. I am also adept at using high-quality slicing software such as Cura and PrusaSlicer which ensure impeccable print quality and structural integrity. Having optimized a myriad of concepts for 3D printing, I assure you that your proposed Automated Food Container Lid-Opener Prototype will be rendered as detailed CAD drawings with production-ready precision. Alongside this, I can furnish you with STL files specifically sized and compatible with PETG 3D printing material. I believe my experience goes beyond just meeting the technical demands on your checklist; it extends to embodying an understanding of product ideation from concept to creation. This aspect is crucial for our collaborative success during Milestone 1 where we'll conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of options to propose not just one senseless mechanism, but a carefully considered recommendation unique to your project requirements. In utmost respect for your intellectual property, I have been fully accostumed to NDA signings and IP assignments throughout my career.I am ready to embark on this ground-breaking task, and I'm confident that my committed approach, honed skills and close collaboration will r Thanks!
$20 USD in 29 days
4.7
4.7

With my extensive background in Electronics and high-power system design, I bring a unique and valuable perspective to this project. Although not specifically mechanical, my understanding of how mechanisms and actuators function can be leveraged to devise a robust solution for your automated lid opener. In fact, I already have an innovative concept in mind that I believe would be perfect for you. Furthermore, I am well-versed in CAD design and 3D printing, which are essential for producing the detailed fabrication packages that you require. My ability to provide mechanical parts ranging from PETG-sized STL files to detailed DWG fabrication drawings ensures that all pieces will fit seamlessly into your final assembly. Given my skill set, it is safe to say that the culmination of Milestone 2 would be within my wheelhouse. Finally, my entire career is characterized by the respect I place on intellectual property rights. Always comfortable with NDA-signing, IP assigning and the need for confidentiality around proprietary designs (which I understand is crucial for this project), you can rest easy knowing your project is in strong and reliable hands. Let's create an automated food container lid opener prototype that not only functions flawlessly but also protects your patents!
$12 USD in 5 days
4.4
4.4

Hi, I'm Stefan. This caught my attention mainly because the challenge of creating an automated lid-opener is both innovative and practical. I've worked on multiple electromechanical design projects, focusing on creating compact, user-friendly devices that meet specific functional requirements. My experience spans from concept design to detailed CAD documentation, ensuring every aspect is covered. Here's how I'd approach it: ▸ Start with an in-depth analysis of existing lid-opening mechanisms to propose the most efficient actuation method. ▸ Develop a compact design that ensures reliability across various container sizes and materials, while adhering to food-safe standards. ▸ Identify potential challenges in the mechanism’s operation and suggest solutions to enhance performance and user experience. I genuinely enjoy diving deep into projects like this, treating each one as if it were my own creation. Sometimes the next step is just a conversation, so reach out and let's have a proper one. Regards, Stefan.
$8 USD in 7 days
4.2
4.2

Hi, I can develop the automated lid-opening mechanism from concept through a production-ready CAD and fabrication package, with emphasis on reliable no-touch operation, food safety, and compact appliance integration. I can handle: • Concept development for peel-tab foil lid removal • Comparison of actuator/mechanism options • Preliminary force, travel, torque, and sizing calculations • Multi-container-size accommodation • Food-safe separation between mechanism and contents • Full SolidWorks/CAD assembly • Individual PETG-ready STL files • DWG manufacturing drawings • Dimensions, tolerances, materials, and fasteners • BOM and assembly documentation • Prototype iteration and design-for-manufacture review For Milestone 1, I’ll evaluate mechanisms such as clamp-and-peel, roller-assisted peel, and controlled pull-arm concepts, then recommend the best option based on reliability, footprint, contamination risk, force requirement, and manufacturability. After concept approval, I’ll complete the detailed assembly and fabrication package, including interference/clearance checks and practical serviceability. I’m comfortable signing an NDA and IP Transfer Agreement before receiving proprietary details. I can start immediately and work milestone-by-milestone with clear design reviews before moving into detailed CAD. Best regards Ankit
$10 USD in 40 days
4.0
4.0

Hi there ! With profound experience in mechanical and product design, especially in the domain of motion control systems for packaging and dispensing applications, I have the knowledge and acumen to develop a top-tier automated food container lid-opener. As a mechanical/electromechanical designer, I’m adept at not just creating concepts but optimizing them for efficient manufacturing as well. My expertise spans across 3D printing and I am particularly skilled with PETG, which would be highly beneficial for this project. My approach to work is deeply rooted in understanding my clients' needs. Rather than relying on guesswork, I flag potential trade-offs early on to ensure a result-focused and streamlined design process. With this project involving proprietary designs, be rest-assured that your Intellectual Property rights will be given utmost respect. I completely understand the value of confidentiality given my experience with sensitive project works. By choosing me, you are not just hiring a freelancer but someone committed to bringing your ideas to life with precision, dedication, and on-time delivery. Together, we can create an Automated Food Container Lid-Opener Prototype that exceeds your expectations." Thanks & regards Gaurav Sharma....
$10 USD in 40 days
4.2
4.2

Creating a reliable automated lid-opener is no small task. If the design doesn't account for different container shapes and materials, it could lead to jams or failures. That would make it frustrating for users and hurt the product's success. To tackle this, I would start with a detailed analysis of potential actuation methods. By comparing options, I can recommend the best fit for your needs, ensuring smooth operation across various containers. I’d also provide preliminary sizing and force estimates to back up my proposal. I’m familiar with the requirements, and I believe in refining designs through feedback until you're completely satisfied. I'd love to learn more about your timeline and any existing assets you have. Also, what types of containers are you planning to use with this device?
$8 USD in 7 days
3.6
3.6

Hi, This is an interesting challenge. My background is mainly in electronics and product development, but I have worked on several electromechanical systems involving motors, sensors, and custom mechanisms. Before proposing a solution, I would first evaluate the lid geometry, sealing force, container tolerances, and the required throughput. Based on that, I would compare several approaches such as mechanical gripping, vacuum-assisted peeling, or hybrid mechanisms and select the most reliable option. For the detailed design phase, I can work closely with a mechanical designer if needed to ensure the mechanism, electronics, sensing, and control system are fully integrated into a practical prototype. I would be interested in reviewing the NDA package and technical requirements to determine the most suitable approach.
$15 USD in 40 days
3.0
3.0

Hello, I reviewed the brief, and the main challenge is developing a compact mechanism that can reliably separate peel tab lids across different container shapes and materials without compromising food safety or damaging the containers. I would evaluate the available gripping, peeling, and actuation approaches first, including force requirements and mechanical constraints, then develop the selected concept into production ready CAD, PETG printable parts, fabrication drawings, BOM, and assembly documentation. I have worked on automated mechanical mechanisms, product development, and 3D printable appliance components and can share relevant examples once we connect in chat. Also a quick question, do the containers remain stationary during the lid removal process, or should the mechanism also locate and secure different container sizes automatically? Best Regards, GridSmithLTD
$8 USD in 36 days
3.2
3.2

Orlando, United States
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