
Closed
Posted
CAD Designer Needed for Modular Aquarium Equipment Mounting System I’m looking for an experienced CAD designer to help develop a product system called ReefForm — a modular mounting and organization system for aquarium cabinets. The goal is to create a clean, expandable ecosystem for mounting and organizing aquarium equipment such as controllers, power bricks, power strips, cables, sensors, dosing equipment, tubing, and other electronics. The system would be manufactured primarily through FDM 3D printing, likely using PETG, so the designs need to be created with real-world printability and small-scale manufacturing in mind. The general system concept is: Cabinet → Mounting Rail → Standard Clip/Interface → Accessory/Mount → Equipment The rail would mount directly to the aquarium cabinet using screws. Accessories would then attach to the rail through a standardized removable interface, allowing customers to reposition, add, or swap components without rebuilding the entire setup. We have already explored a few concepts, including a standardized rail clip with a quarter-turn locking interface, but the mechanical design is not finalized. I am specifically looking for a designer who can help improve and engineer the system, not simply recreate an existing sketch. If there is a better solution than the ideas we currently have — such as a dovetail, slide-lock, snap-fit, keyed mount, cam-style connection, captive fastener, or another mechanism — I am completely open to suggestions. The most important requirement is creating a strong, repeatable, universal mounting interface that can be reused across many future ReefForm products. Initial products we want to develop 1. Mounting Rail A low-profile rail that can be mounted horizontally or vertically inside an aquarium cabinet. It should be strong, clean-looking, easy to print, and available in multiple lengths. 2. Standard Rail Clip / Adapter A reusable clip or adapter that attaches to the rail and serves as the common connection point for accessories. This is likely the most important component in the entire system. 3. Controller Mounts Aquarium controllers come in many shapes and sizes, so there may need to be multiple mounting solutions. Some controllers have usable screw holes and may work with a simple X-shaped or flat mounting plate. Others have no usable mounting holes and may require: * snap-fit cradles * edge clips * slide-in mounts * friction-fit holders * adjustable brackets * device-specific mounts We do not expect one bracket to fit every controller. 4. Power Brick / Electronics Mount An adjustable mount for rectangular power supplies and small electronics. Approximate target range: * Width: 30–70 mm * Thickness: 15–35 mm * Height: variable The design should hold equipment securely while maintaining airflow and minimizing unnecessary material. 5. Cable Management We want multiple cable-management products, including: * single cable clips * dual/multi-cable clips * vertical and horizontal cable routing * a larger “Cable Spine” style channel for routing multiple cables together The Cable Spine would likely be a modular channel with openings that allow individual wires to branch out where needed. Future products The core mounting system should be designed with future expansion in mind. Possible future accessories include: * power strip mounts * dosing pump mounts * tubing holders * sensor mounts * small shelves * equipment adapters * lighting controller mounts * additional cable-management products * device-specific mounting brackets Ideally, all of these products would connect to the same standardized ReefForm rail system. Manufacturing requirements These products are intended to be manufactured using 3D printers, not just prototyped. Design considerations should include: * FDM-friendly geometry * minimal supports * good print orientation * strong layer orientation * reasonable print times * efficient material use * repeatable tolerances * appropriate wall thicknesses * durable snap-fit or locking features * commercially clean appearance Using normal hardware is completely acceptable. We are open to: * screws * nuts * heat-set inserts * captive hardware * standard metric fasteners The goal is not to make everything tool-free or screwless. Reliability and manufacturability are more important than creating an unnecessarily complicated mechanism. What is already decided * ReefForm will be a modular rail-based ecosystem. * Products will be manufactured primarily with FDM 3D printing. * PETG will likely be the main material initially. * Accessories need to be removable and reconfigurable. * The system needs a standardized mounting interface. * Products need to look professionally designed and commercially viable. What is still open to design input Almost everything about the exact mechanical implementation is still flexible, including: * rail profile * clip geometry * locking mechanism * quarter-turn concept * snap-fit design * mounting methods * controller retention * power brick adjustment method * cable channel design * tolerances * wall thicknesses * hardware choices * print orientation * assembly methods I would prefer to improve a concept now rather than force a design that could be stronger or simpler. Initial development phase The first goal is to develop and test the core mounting system before creating the entire product catalog. A likely first phase would include: 1. Short rail test section 2. Rail clip/interface 3. Standard accessory connection 4. Basic test bracket 5. One real equipment mount We would then: Print → test → measure → revise → print again Once the core interface is finalized, additional ReefForm products can be developed around that standard. Deliverables I would ideally like: * editable parametric CAD files * STEP files * STL files * clearly adjustable dimensions/parameters where practical I am looking for someone comfortable with iterative mechanical product design, 3D-print manufacturing, tolerances, snap fits, fastening methods, and modular product systems. This is not simply a one-off STL request. The goal is to create the foundation for an expandable product line. If this sounds like a project you would be interested in, please send examples of relevant CAD/mechanical design work and let me know what CAD software you use.
Project ID: 40718596
76 proposals
Remote project
Active 17 hours ago
Set your budget and timeframe
Get paid for your work
Outline your proposal
It's free to sign up and bid on jobs
76 freelancers are bidding on average $42 USD/hour for this job

Hi, I can design 3Dmechanical equipment designs in high detail. I will provide clean parametric CAD, STEP, and STL files. Please contact me with all the details, so I can start working on it. Please have a look at my portfolio: https://www.freelancer.com/u/babanpreet852.html I have 8 years of experience in 2D drafting and 3D modeling, Rendering, texturing. 3D softwares are following:3Ds Max, Maya, Zbrush , Solidworks, AutoCAD, SketchUp. Thank you for your time and consideration.
$20 USD in 40 days
8.5
8.5

As an experienced mechanical designer and CAD expert, I have spent almost a decade developing extensive knowledge and skills precisely matched to your project's requirements. Over the years, I have honed my abilities in 3D modeling, product design, 3D printing, and mechanical design using tools like SolidWorks. Your project resonates with me as it combines my expertise in these areas to create a clean, modular mounting system that matches your needs. My experience extends to considering manufacturing at every stage of the design m Lastly, while your envisioned initial products excite me to no bounds, what truly intrigues me is the promise of future expansion through standardized mounting rail system. It reflects your foresight in the fluid demands of the market and that is exactly what I look forward to; adapting to new challenges while ensuring continuity and compatibility in the designs. Harnessing my vast experience with mechanical equipment aided by cutting-edge design expertise, I confidently present myself as an ideal fit for crafting marked solutions as part of your ReefForm team.
$20 USD in 40 days
8.5
8.5

With extensive practical experience in product design and development, our team at MHTechFusion brings a unique perspective to your ReefForm project. We've successfully navigated the challenges of designing modular systems, understanding their impacts on manufacturing processes, and offering viable solutions that work reliably in real-world conditions. Utilizing our in-depth knowledge of engineering principles and 3D CAD modeling prowess, we can design a ReefForm system that meets your specific needs and is optimized for large-scale 3D printing. With expertise in tolerance analysis, mechanical simulations, and product optimization, we'll ensure designs are not only FDM-friendly but also efficient in material usage and print times, Furthermore, our proficiency with other engineering tools such as Altium (MCAD integration) and AutoCAD allows us to explore potential integrations with other systems or future enhancements seamlessly. Ultimately, partnering with us will give you access to comprehensive CAD designs, detailed engineering drawings, and clear documentation for prototyping and production that not only meet your specifications but are ready for manufacturing processes such as 3D printing. If you allow us the opportunity, we can create a ReefForm ecosystem that surpasses your imagination with a universal mounting interface for all your present and future products.
$65 USD in 40 days
7.1
7.1

Hello, my name is Gustavo, and I have been an industrial mechanical designer using CAD software for over 25 years. I can design and model rail systems, clips, brackets, and more according to your specifications and preferences. I will provide native Inventor files as well as generic formats (STEP, STL, OBJ) optimized for 3D printing, along with shop-ready drawings—complete with dimensions, notes, and tolerances—in DWG, PDF, and JPG formats. I own 3D printers, so I am well-versed in the design considerations specific to this manufacturing method. Additionally, I will provide photorealistic renderings of the finished product so you can visualize the design and decide on any potential changes. You can view examples of work I have completed for various industries in my portfolio. Best regards.
$25 USD in 25 days
6.7
6.7

As an accomplished mechanical engineer and designer, I can bring your ReefForm project to life with great precision and practicality. With a diverse experience spanning twelve years, I have engineered various projects that encompassed complex mechanisms, bespoke components, and optimized manufacturing strategies, making me particularly skilled to handle the intricacies of your modular aquarium mounting system. My proficiency in 3D design and modelling tools such as SolidWorks and Fusion 360 is crucial for the FDM 3D printing-intensive nature of the project. I specialize in developing models with FDM-friendly geometry that require minimal supports while maintaining strong layer orientation and ideal print times, ensuring effective production which is important for you. Additionally, my expertise extends to not only creating reliable CAD models but also into functional product engineering. Having worked on designs ranging from furniture to industrial equipment like cooling systems, I'm adept at designing for manufacturing and assembly. My knowledge of these aspects guarantees your ReefForm products will be not just prototyped but actualized with repeatable tolerances, reasonable print times, efficient material use, and most importantly an emphasis on maintenance of functionality across evolving future products - exactly what you are seeking.
$75 USD in 40 days
6.6
6.6

As someone who has specialized in CAD modeling and 3D printing for years, I am confident that my skills and expertise are a perfect match for your Modular Aquarium Equipment Mounting System project. My understanding of CAD and 3D printing process makes me adept at designing products that are optimized for manufacturing and can be successfully reproduced through FDM 3D printing. Throughout my career, I have successfully engineered complex designs with versatility, modularity, and durability as core focuses - exactly what your ReefForm system requires. I have extensive experience with Solidworks, which is renowned for its power in translating design intentions to FDM friendly geometry. Not only will this streamlines your manufacturing process but also ensures repeatable tolerances, efficient material use, and reasonable print times. Additionally, I am highly accustomed to maintaining clear lines of communication throughout the design process. Being receptive to client suggestions and open to improvements has become a hallmark of my work personality. Thus, considering your openness to alternative design approaches, I can assure you that I will actively explore multiple mechanisms like dovetail, slide-lock, snap-fit keyed mount or cam-style connection etc. to find the best-fit solution for your project's needs. When it comes to CAD design projects, my motto is precision without compromise - so let's engineer well thought-out aquarium equipment mounting solutions together!
$13 USD in 2 days
6.5
6.5

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
$41 USD in 40 days
5.8
5.8

Hello, I have extensive experience designing modular 3D-printed mechanical products, including rail systems, snap-fits, quarter-turn locks, adjustable mounts, cable-management parts, and PETG components. I’ve developed reusable interfaces where strength, print orientation, tolerances, material efficiency, and repeated assembly must work together across an expanding product family. I’ll engineer the core rail and universal interface first, compare suitable locking concepts, and develop a printable test set for the rail, clip, and initial accessory mount. After physical testing, I’ll refine the clearances and retention features before building the controller, power-brick, and cable-management accessories around the finalized interface. Regards
$40 USD in 40 days
6.0
6.0

With over a decade of experience in CAD design and manufacturing optimization, my company and I are well-equipped to tackle your project head-on. Our ability to create precise, 3D-model designs that take into account aspects like FDM-friendly geometry, print orientation, layer orientation and efficient material use aligns perfectly with your requirements. We understand the need for strong, clean-looking designs that meet real-world manufacturing constraints like minimizing supports, print times and tolerances. My team and I have an impressive record in designing modular systems that can be expanded upon to cater for future needs. This translates to our ability to envision the various accessories you may require in future such as power strip mounts, dosing pump mounts and tubing holders, just to mention but a few. We are therefore well-suited to design a strong, repeatable universal mounting interface that can be reused across many future ReefForm products.
$55 USD in 40 days
5.7
5.7

Hello, I’m a professional Mechanical & Product CAD Designer with 10+ years of experience in 3D modeling, SolidWorks, Mechanical design, product development, Prototyping, and 3D Printable design. I carefully reviewed your ReefForm modular aquarium mounting system, and I understand that you need more than just CAD modeling. The key is developing a strong, repeatable and universal mounting interface that can be expanded into multiple future products. I can help you design and optimize: • Modular mounting rail and standardized clip/interface • Quarter-turn, snap-fit, dovetail or other locking mechanisms • Controller and power-brick mounts • Cable management and modular cable spine • Proper tolerances, wall thickness and clearances for PETG/FDM • Strong print orientation with minimal supports • Heat-set inserts, screws, captive hardware and fastening solutions • Fully editable parametric CAD models • STEP and STL files ready for prototyping and manufacturing I can work in SolidWorks and develop the system with real mechanical functionality and manufacturability in mind. I’m also comfortable with an iterative workflow: design → print/test → adjust tolerances → refine. My goal would be to first establish a reliable core rail + clip/interface system, then build the remaining accessories around that standardized platform. I’d be happy to start with the initial test rail, clip/interface and one accessory mount and develop it into a clean, commercially viable system.
$17 USD in 40 days
5.6
5.6

Hi, At Vutuk Design and Media, we bring over 15 years of core mechanical engineering, additive manufacturing DfAM engineering, rapid prototyping, and high-impact visual media expertise. Our team develops complete equipment hardware packages—combining precise DfAM/DFM CAD modeling with photorealistic 3D renders and exploded assembly animations for manufacturing and product launches. To help us scope your mechanical equipment project effectively: Do you have specific off-the-shelf hardware (e.g., bearings, motors, fasteners, linear rails) that must be integrated? What are the primary working conditions or environment (e.g., indoor desktop, high temp, outdoor dynamic loads) for this equipment? Will the design require moving kinematic linkages, gearboxes, or multi-part interlocking joints? Would you like photorealistic 3D product renders or short animated exploded-view assembly videos created for pitch decks or user manuals? We invite you to visit our profile and portfolio page to evaluate our past mechanical designs and 3D visual showcases. Let's discuss your project! Best regards, Vutuk Design and Media
$55 USD in 40 days
5.6
5.6

I am here to bring your product to life. I'm a mechanical engineer with 11 years of experience designing industrial product, furniture product, plastic product and machine, automatic system Experience type: 3D, 2D models, Render, Sheet Metals, Machines and Devices, Industrial Products, Plastic Molds, Plastic Parts Software program: Autodesk Inventor, Solidworks, Autocad , NX-Siemens I am always glad to cooperate, I guarantee quick lead-time, information of the project is always confidential . Your project will be developed with speed and high quality, as well as all the jobs already accomplished. Please send me a message
$35 USD in 40 days
6.0
6.0

Hi there, I’m a Mechanical Engineer experienced in SolidWorks, Fusion 360, product design, 3D printing, and functional mechanical systems. ReefForm is a project I’d be interested in, especially the development of a strong standardized rail and accessory interface that can support the future product range. I can help engineer the rail, clip/locking mechanism, test bracket, and initial equipment mount with FDM/PETG manufacturing in mind. I’ll consider print orientation, wall thickness, tolerances, snap-fits, heat-set inserts, fasteners, strength, assembly, and ease of printing. I’m comfortable with an iterative Print → Test → Revise workflow and can provide editable parametric CAD, STEP, and STL files. I use SolidWorks and Fusion 360 and can start with the core interface prototype. Best regards
$30 USD in 40 days
5.3
5.3

Hello, I’m Mohand, a mechanical CAD and product-design engineer experienced in parametric modeling, FDM 3D-printing, snap-fits, fasteners, and modular mechanical systems. I can help engineer the ReefForm ecosystem from the rail and standardized clip through the first controller, power-brick, and cable-management mounts. My approach will focus on a strong, repeatable interface that is easy to print in PETG, uses efficient material, requires minimal supports, and remains reliable through repeated installation and removal. I can evaluate quarter-turn, dovetail, slide-lock, snap-fit, cam, and captive-fastener concepts before selecting the most practical solution for strength, tolerance, assembly, and appearance. The initial scope can include a test rail, universal clip/interface, basic accessory mount, and one real equipment bracket, followed by print-test-revise iterations. I will provide editable parametric CAD files along with STEP and STL exports, clear dimensions, print-orientation guidance, hardware recommendations, and organized design history.
$40 USD in 40 days
5.4
5.4

Hello, I reviewed the ReefForm concept, and the real challenge is engineering a universal rail and accessory interface that is strong, repeatable, FDM friendly, and flexible enough to support the entire future product ecosystem. I would focus the initial development on the rail, locking interface, test bracket, and one equipment mount, validating tolerances, print orientation, wall thickness, retention, and assembly before expanding into additional accessories. I have worked on similar parametric CAD, mechanical product design, and 3D printing projects and can share relevant examples along with the CAD software I use once we connect in chat. Also a quick question, will you be able to print and physically test the first rail and interface prototypes so we can iterate the fit and locking force against real PETG prints? Best Regards, Muskan
$10 USD in 36 days
5.3
5.3

Mechanical Design & Engineering Expertise: Reverse Engineering | Fabrication | DFM | 3D Printing | Concept Design | Product Development | Robotics I am a Mecha1`nical Designer with over 8 years of experience turning complex ideas into functional, manufactured products. I focus on creating designs that aren’t just visually sound, but are technically optimized for real-world performance and efficient production. Software Proficiency: SolidWorks • Autodesk (AutoCAD, Fusion, Inventor) • Maya • Matlab • Rhino • Catia Best Regards, MOHAMED EWAIDA Senior Mechanical Designer
$55 USD in 40 days
4.9
4.9

Hello, As a highly experienced CAD designer specializing in 3D Printing, I'm excited to tackle your ReefForm modular aquarium equipment mounting system. My five years of dedicated proficiency in transforming imaginative concepts into tangible realities makes me an ideal candidate for the unique project requirements you've outlined. Using my command of software including Solidworks, Blender, and ZBrush, I can design elegant, PRINT READY models perfect for FDM 3D printing with PETG. In addition to my design prowess, I have extensive knowledge in optimizing 3D models for printing to ensure each component is not just visually stunning but also structurally stable with minimal supports and appropriate tolerances. Collaboration is key to my methodology; I'm well-versed in translating clients' visions into practical solutions by developing strong and trustworthy partnerships. With your vision as our guiding star, we can strengthen the core mount system design while creating thoughtful variations that accommodate aquarium controllers (with screw holes or without), rectangular power supplies, cable management tailored to your specifications and any future additions while maintaining a universal ReefForm rail system. Let's ensure your aquarium equipment finds its perfect fit! Thanks!
$20 USD in 28 days
4.7
4.7

Hi there ! With over 7 years of experience as a mechanical and product designer, I am confident in my ability to tackle your ReefForm project head-on. I have extensive knowledge and skills in 3D modelling, particularly with FDM-friendly geometry, which is crucial for the 3D printing manufacturing process you plan on using. Aside from this, my background in designing for a range of manufacturing techniques (Sheet Metal, CNC Machining, Injection Molding) means I understand what designs will work best for production. An important aspect of your project is creating a strong universal mounting interface that can be reused across many future ReefForm products. This requires careful consideration of tolerances, efficient material use, and print orientation. My expertise in Solidworks and proficiency in identifying the best print orientations to ensure good layer orientation and minimal supports will play a vital role in ensuring the designs are optimized for printability while maintaining structural integrity. Don't settle for subpar when it comes to bringing the ReefForm dream to reality; choose a professional who truly understands your needs and has a proven track record of translating ideas into beautifully designed products with reliable, functional, and reproducible results. Choose me - Gaurav Sharma. Let's turn your ideas into something incredible! Thanks & regards Gaurav Sharma....
$10 USD in 40 days
4.2
4.2

THIS IS A GREAT MATCH. I have just designed a modular system for mounting aquarium equipment that focuses on efficiency and usability. The goal is to create a strong, expandable system that simplifies equipment organization and enhances user experience. A robust locking mechanism is crucial, as well as ensuring the design is FDM-friendly to minimize print failures. Keeping things simple will make the process smooth and enjoyable for you. REACH OUT, LET'S SEE IF WE ARE A GOOD FIT. ? Regards, Stefan.
$50 USD in 7 days
4.2
4.2

Hi, I have carefully reviewed your project description for the development of ReefForm, a modular mounting and organization system for aquarium cabinets. I am excited about the opportunity to work on this innovative project and bring your vision to life. With over 3 years of experience in 3D Modelling and Solidworks, I am confident in my ability to design the required components such as the Mounting Rail, Standard Rail Clip, Controller Mounts, Power Brick Mount, and Cable Management solutions. I will ensure that the designs are not only visually appealing but also functional and manufacturable using FDM 3D printing with PETG material. I am eager to collaborate with you to refine the details and create a strong, repeatable mounting interface that meets your expectations. Please feel free to reach out to discuss the project further. Looking forward to the opportunity to work together. Thank you.
$55 USD in 300 days
3.7
3.7

Chandler, United States
Member since Sep 18, 2026
$250-750 USD
$250-750 USD
$30-250 SGD
£250-750 GBP
£20-250 GBP
$250-750 USD
₹1500-12500 INR
₹12500-37500 INR
₹75000-150000 INR
$15-25 AUD / hour
₹1500-12500 INR
₹1000 INR
$15-25 USD / hour
$250-500 CAD
₹37500-75000 INR
$30-250 USD
min $50 CAD / hour
$10-30 USD
$300 AUD
₹1500-12500 INR