Final year project
Adaptable tool to aid gardeners [Read more]
Adaptable tool to aid gardeners
This dual-purpose device saves storage space and cost as well as being more ergonomic than standard tools for the user. Comprising a fork and a shovel, it adds convenience for the user without compromising either tool's performance.
Gardening tool features
The design includes an internal sliding mechanism to change the configuration of the blade. The telescopic, height adjustable handle gives greater comfort for prolonged periods of use.
Disassembled gardening tool
Various materials and manufacturing techniques were researched to ensure the strength and cost of each part of the product was optimised while keeping weight to a minimum.
Gardening tool functional prototype
Prototyping was used so that each feature of the device could be user tested to ensure functionality. This was manufactured to accurately reflect the performance of the finished product.
Anti-vibration part holding device
A jig that I designed and manufactured during my placement, created to be mounted to a drill press. This was designed to stabilise the part while being drilled and is used within the injection moulding production line.
Andy Russell
Enjoying more mechanically based projects, I am a keen designer with a genuine interest in design for manufacture and taking projects from concept to finish.
My final year at Loughborough has given me an opportunity to combine all the skills developed at university and on placement into a few key projects. My strengths include problem solving, having great attention to detail and a sound, working knowledge of SolidWorks. I also have experience of using other software such as AutoDesk Inventor and Vero Visi, KeyShot, Adobe Illustrator and Microsoft Office.
I would like to build upon all the skills I have gained to date by working alongside professionals within the industry to constantly improve and further develop as a designer.
Dissertation
An investigation into industrial level 3D printing, applications and limitations
Final year project
Adaptable tool to aid gardeners
Awards
'20 Diploma in Professional Studies
Experience
My placement year at Rutland Plastics, an injection moulding company, helped me build my knowledge and experience around designing for manufacture as well as exposure to working within a design engineering team. This involved creating solutions to problems on demand and being able to manufacture and complete projects all on site, seeing them from start to finish.
Placements
September 2018 - August 2019
Design Engineer, Rutland Plastics