Crave lock prototype
Crave Lock is a smart utility device designed to help users manage food cravings by securely locking away tempting treats. The product uses controlled locking mechanisms to restrict impulsive access, supporting healthier habits through a physical intervention.
Project Details
Brief, Materials, Process & Validation
Design Scope & Functional Targets
The CRAVE LOCK prototype project was commissioned to evaluate industrial design ergonomics, aesthetic proportions, and mechanical assembly feasibility before high-volume tooling. The brief specified an elevated brand aesthetic, intuitive operator touchpoints, and structural ribbing engineered for production manufacturability.
Engineering Materials & Surface Finishes
Fabricated using production-intent engineering materials: Plastic, . Key structural enclosures utilize vacuum-cast flame-retardant polyurethanes with custom CMF satin finishes, paired with precision CNC-machined metal fasteners and wear-resistant bushing inserts.
Model Making & Rapid Tooling Workflow
The prototyping process utilized high-precision stereolithography (SLA) 3D master prints for dimensional fit checks, followed by room-temperature vulcanizing (RTV) silicone tooling. Parts were vacuum-cast to achieve uniform wall thickness and sharp character lines, followed by hand-sanding, priming, custom metallic CMF painting, and UV-cured topcoat.
Quality Benchmarking & Ergonomics
Validation protocols included mechanical drop and vibration testing, continuous duty-cycle thermal airflow logging, parting line alignment checks under simulated operating loads, and tactile feedback evaluation across targeted user cohorts to confirm production readiness.
What We Set Out to Solve
Creating a secure yet user-friendly locking mechanism Balancing strength, aesthetics, and ease of access Ensuring enclosure feels premium, not punitive
How We Approached It
Mechanical + electronic lock feasibility tested via RPT Modular design for easy iteration of lock types Smooth edge radii and neutral form language for acceptability
From Concept to Completion
The complete prototype development journey for this project.
SLA-ABS RPT - 3D Printing
Prototype parts are 3D printed using ABS-like material as per the final design. This step quickly creates accurate parts for evaluation and fit checks.
Post Processing
Printed parts are cleaned and support material is removed. Surfaces are refined to prepare the parts for painting.
Final Painting and surface Treatment
Parts are painted to achieve the required color and finish. Surface treatment improves appearance and overall quality.
Assembly
All finished parts are assembled into a complete prototype. Basic checks are done to ensure proper fit and alignment.
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