Discovery Rock Tumbler — 2023

Working with the MerchSource Design Team, we designed a stylish and capable rock tumbler for Discovery Mindblown. This type of device is typically somewhat crude and mechanically simple. For our design, we added several thoughtful features to polish the experience without inflating the MSRP.

We began the project with a consideration of internals and mechanical requirements. There were several drum orientations possible, each with associated benefits. For simplicity and longevity, we chose a direct drive between the motor and the drum. This gave easier access to the drum without having to first remove a drive belt and reduced safety concerns. We also needed to dedicate significant space to gear reduction for the motor to be capable of tumbling a large capacity.

After establishing a basic mechanical plan, we ideated many form possibilities for the housing. Building upon the existing Discovery design aesthetic, we developed a clean, futuristic shape with a stable and grounded presence. The design also presents the user with a helpful polishing guide on the product, just above a drawer useful for storing abrasive media. A TPE rubber ring around the lip of the polishing drum serves dual purpose to both seal the inner chamber and make grippy contact with the drive wheel. Ribs formed into the drum agitate the contents and are easy to injection mold. The final design is a solid addition to the Mindblown product family, supporting STEM interest and demonstrating the amazing erosive forces that shape our world.