Hello!
Link to the project (prototype V1) - citadeldock.com - here you will briefly see the main functions, I will send you the .blend file if needed. The design reference for us was - logitech mx keys.
The project is being developed for launch on Kickstarter.
The main target audience is guys from the USA aged 23–40, who love gadgets, geek aesthetics, beautiful desktop setups, and value both functionality and emotions.
The product is planned to be sold in two main versions, and all versions will include a character figure (mascot).
Base / Display version – a completely physical organizer without electronics, but with a mascot.
Charge / Pro version – the same organizer, but with a built-in charging block (USB ports), also with a mascot.
Additionally, there will be separate extension modules (for headphones, wireless, and other ideas), which will be sold as separate addons or as a “full set”.
Mascot – the soul/character, but should not turn everything into a “toy with a stand”! (height approx. -10cm)
The idea is that there will be different archetypes of characters (for example, a more “gaming” / space hero for the youth and a more strict “dark guardian (like Darth Vader) of order on the desk” or Popeye - who eats spinach - to play on nostalgia for an older audience, etc.)......
The specific set of characters is still in the selection process, but it is important to provide a universal place and mount for any of the figures (height approximately), so they can be displayed in different variations on the landing page and in advertising creatives.
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Idea
I want to create a desktop organizer that combines practical utility and emotion: not just a stand, but a small “citadel” with a mascot, storage modules, and the ability to integrate charging for gadgets.
Unlike ordinary organizers, the product should provide not only order on the desk but also pleasure/atmosphere through the character and well-thought-out usage scenarios.
After the first visualization and demand check (I am attaching the current version of the organizer as a reference - I will also send the .blend files with the first visualization), I want to complete the product design – refine the concept into a convenient and logical product.
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Task for the product designer
At this stage, concept and ergonomics are important, NOT technical design for 3D printing and NOT electronics development. After this stage, the model will go to the engineer.
Needed:
Work out usage scenarios
Where the phone is placed, where the headphones (airpods, including large overhead ones), where small items (pens, paperclips, flash drives, etc.).
How a person interacts with the organizer throughout the day: charging the phone, working on a laptop, focus/Pomodoro mode, quick desk cleanup.
From which side and in what quantity it makes sense to place the ports in the version with electronics – currently, the guideline is 4 ports all FAST (2 USB-A + 2 USB-C), but I am waiting for your suggestions on quantity and placement, based on real usage scenarios.
Think through modularity + add something interesting and useful
Basic physical organizer without electronics (simple version).
Version with a charging module (USB-A / USB-C ports).
Additional modules that can be combined like “lego” / through magnets / other convenient connections (this needs to be thought out as a principle):
module for large headphones,
module with wireless charging,
“cup”/tray for small items or other useful add-ons.
It is important to think about how the modules can be easily removed/rearranged so that the user can customize their “citadel” to their habits.
Wireless charging as a semi-separate module
A platform for wireless charging that can be used:
together with the organizer (connects from the top/side),
or as a separate small module standing alone.
If the module is on the base of the organizer – provide a neat short connection (for example, a 3–5 cm cable that connects the wireless module to the main part) - neat, unobtrusive.
It is important to think about where exactly it is convenient to place this platform, so it feels natural to put the smartphone on it without snagging other items.
Cable and hidden compartment
In the Charge / Pro version, there will be a block with ports inside (guideline: 4 ports – 2×USB-C + 2×USB-A).
It is planned to include at least one quality USB-C cable.
A well-thought-out hidden compartment / niche for this cable, similar to the example in the reference (see attached render):
the cable can be connected to one of the ports,
when not in use, it easily and neatly hides inside,
while it can always be quickly retrieved and stretched to the phone/gadget on the desk,
the cable must be removable and easily replaceable (this is not a “permanently built-in” wire).
Currently, the concept of the organizer already has a similar compartment, but it needs to improve ergonomics: make access more convenient, think about how the cable does not tangle and lays out nicely.
Character / mascot
The character figure must be removable - with a round base:
so it can be placed on the pedestal/shelf of the organizer,
and if desired, used as a separate model/statue, without a base - which can be placed nearby or simply put away on a shelf.
It is necessary to think about the attachment (magnets, pins, etc.) and the placement of the figure in the overall composition.
Important: detailed design of the character – a separate task, but if you can and want to participate in the development of the figure itself, it will be a plus.
What NOT to do at this stage
There is no need to create a final technical model for 3D printing (this will be the next stage – engineering).
There is no need to design/calculate the charging itself, power supplies, electronics, etc. – after agreeing on the concept, I will go to the engineer and electronics specialist to place ready modules inside and run cables.
Requirements for the performer
Creativity and a desire to truly immerse in the project.
Willingness to think not only about “how beautiful,” but also how really convenient to use every day, especially for the target audience: guys from the USA aged 23–40, who love setups and gadgets.
Experience in:
You can propose your own rate – if you justify it with experience and approach, I am open to discussion.
To increase your chances
In your response, please:
Briefly write how you understood the task and what you want to improve in it.
Provide 1–2 of your projects that you would recommend as stylistic references (links).
Optionally: suggest one new function/idea.
Example: “a small hidden compartment/shelf that opens via magnet” or any other thought of yours on how to make the organizer even more useful/interesting for the user.
References of similar ideas for inspiration:
- ref 1
- ref 2
Freelancehunt
