Soldering Gun
The Brief
January 2019
Design a soldering gun for an existing tool brand which fits in with their brand language and breaks away from the uninspiring designs of existing products.
Design
3 distinct concept directions were produced, each with unique features and innovations to existing products.
Concept 3 was taken forward but with the idea of integrating in the LED work light from concept 2.
Development
3D Printed rapid prototpyes were used extensively in the design development stage. Adjustments to the shape and proportions were considered both on paper and with models to assess the fit and feel.
Final Design
The soldering gun features a unique quick release mechanism which means the element can be swapped out with one twist rather than needing to unscrew each end.
Bi-injection moulded TPE gives the product a strikign contrast and highlights the elements of the design which you interact with.
The rear face of the soldering gun is level with the handle which means it can be set down on a surface, keeping the heating element away.
Designed for Manufacture
The soldering gun has been designed for injection moulding with locating pins, hardware bosses and a uniform wall thickness.
The casing is formed of two bi-injection moulded halves which assemble with three screws.
Snap fits secure the front cap and rear cover into place.
Design Validation
The final injection mouldable parts were 3D Printed to test their fit.
Internal components from a donor soldering gun were combined with the 3D printed parts to produce a fully working prototype as well.
