Mechanical Design Consultation Needed

I have an early-stage consumer product idea at the concept-development phase and want an experienced mechanical engineer to guide the next steps. The core of the engagement is a focused consultation: I will share sketches, functional requirements, and market positioning, and I need you to challenge the assumptions, refine the mechanism, recommend suitable materials, and outline a clear path toward an initial prototype.

The deliverable I expect after our collaboration is a brief but actionable report that captures:
• key design risks you identify and how to mitigate them,
• preliminary calculations or hand-sketches that validate critical dimensions or forces,
• suggestions on off-the-shelf components versus custom parts,
• a proposed CAD file structure or reference geometry so I can move smoothly into detailed modelling.

A background in consumer product design—particularly where ergonomics, aesthetics, and cost-effective manufacturing must balance—is essential. Familiarity with rapid-prototyping methods, common polymers, and assembly strategies will help us move fast. I handle the industrial design visuals; you focus on mechanical feasibility.

Availability for one or two real-time calls during the first week, followed by asynchronous feedback, will fit my timeline. If this compact scope sounds like a good match, let’s talk specifics and set milestones.