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Founders Lab

05 Examples

Idea to small batch: example scenarios

These are fictional scenarios that show how typical projects run — not real client work. We’ll add real projects here as clients allow.

Example scenario
A bike phone mount TPU

illustrative drawing

A bike phone mount

A courier startup wants a phone mount that doesn’t shake on the road and clips on and off with one hand.

Input
A hand sketch, the dimensions of the two phones their riders use, and a list of why off-the-shelf mounts didn’t work.
Iterations
  1. v1 PETG body. Holds the phone, but every curb sends a shudder straight to the screen.
  2. v2 Added a TPU layer between body and phone. Much less vibration — but the clamp is a struggle to fit on the bars.
  3. v3 Clamp redesigned as a quick-release clip; brand and serial number laser-engraved underneath.
Result
A small test batch for riders to try in the field, plus a simple assembly card for collecting feedback.
Services used
Product design & 3D modeling3D printing: prototypes & small batchesLaser engraving & cutting
Example scenario
A branded table organizer for a café

illustrative drawing

A branded table organizer for a café

A newly opened café wants a logo’d organizer on every table that holds the menu card, napkins and a QR code.

Input
A logo file (PNG), table dimensions and a few photos of the interior.
Iterations
  1. v1 Glue-free, slot-together plywood box. The napkin compartment was too narrow.
  2. v2 Compartments re-dimensioned, an acrylic front panel added for the menu card. Logo engraved on the side.
  3. v3 The QR code moved from engraving to a separate acrylic plate — when the menu changes, only the plate is replaced.
Result
A small batch shipped flat-packed with assembly instructions; the cut files stay with the café for future branches.
Services used
Product design & 3D modelingLaser engraving & cuttingProduct graphics & launch visuals
Example scenario
A gift set for a handmade candle brand

illustrative drawing

A gift set for a handmade candle brand

A small candle brand wants a box for three jars that makes people go “oh” when they open it — for a crowdfunding video.

Input
Three jar sizes, brand colors, and photos of some packaging they love.
Iterations
  1. v1 Card box and insert. The jars fit, but the insert lifts out with the lid.
  2. v2 Finger cut-outs and a ribbon pull added to the insert; the lid became plywood with an engraved logo.
  3. v3 Dieline adjusted for volume printing; the label design brought in line with the box.
Result
Three sample sets for the shoot and a print-ready dieline file.
Services used
Packaging: box & insert prototypesLaser engraving & cuttingProduct graphics & launch visuals
Example scenario
An enclosure for a sensor device USB

illustrative drawing

An enclosure for a sensor device

A hardware startup needs a housing for a greenhouse humidity sensor that looks good and survives in the field.

Input
A STEP file of the PCB, connector positions and a description of where it will hang (humid, sunny).
Iterations
  1. v1 PETG box with a snap-fit lid. The board fits, but the USB connector hits the wall.
  2. v2 Connector opening fixed, vent grille added. The snap-fit tabs break after a few openings.
  3. v3 Screw bosses instead of tabs and a TPU gasket under the lid; ASA recommended for outdoor use.
Result
A small batch for a pilot installation, with the device ID laser-engraved on the lid.
Services used
Product design & 3D modeling3D printing: prototypes & small batchesLaser engraving & cutting

Real client projects will appear here as clients allow us to share them.

Got an idea? Let’s start there.

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