Project Showcase

Prototype Development for FLOZ Smart Hydration

Rendering of FLOZ Device

Design & Fabrication

The FLOZ project aimed to develop a cutting-edge electronics enclosure that was waterproof, securely held custom electronics, and ensured safe, prolonged contact with drinking water.

I was brought on board as a mechanical design expert, also contributing to electronics and app testing, as well as the patent application process.

FLOZ Case Study

Project overview

The primary goal was to ensure the enclosure was waterproof, secure, and compliant with NSF/ANSI 61 standards for long-term drinking water exposure. My involvement began with the mechanical design and expanded to include electronics and app testing, as well as contributing to the patent application process.

Throughout the project, we overcame significant challenges, including inconsistent waterproofing results and coordinating a team spread across five cities and three time zones. Our commitment to thorough testing and rigorous standards ensured that we developed a product that exceeded expectations.


Key achievements

Throughout my work on the FLOZ project, I achieved several key milestones and contributed to the project's overall success.


Project initiation

The project began with a clear objective: to develop an electronics enclosure that was not only waterproof but also secure and safe for prolonged contact with drinking water. My role as a mechanical engineer quickly expanded as I took on responsibilities in electronics and app testing, as well as contributing to the patent application process. From the outset, I was committed to meeting stringent standards and delivering a high-quality product.


My First Concept Design for the FLOZ Device

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4-Axis CNC Milling of Plastic Enclosure Time Lapse

Midway Through the Assembly of 5 v1.2 Prototypes

Project progress

As the project progressed, we encountered challenges with achieving consistent waterproofing results. To address this, I implemented thorough assembly preparation and multiple layers of adhesive, which ultimately resolved the issue. Coordination among a team spread across five cities and three time zones was another challenge. We overcame this through regular communication and detailed project management, ensuring everyone was aligned and informed. Establishing communication channels with suppliers and manufacturers in China was also critical to the success of this project.

In defining the project requirements, including standards for long-term drinking water exposure (NSF/ANSI 61), I selected adhesives and materials for the enclosure that met these stringent requirements. Our efforts culminated in the delivery of a v1 prototype, which we iterated upon to develop v1.1 and v1.2 versions, addressing initial issues and improving the design before finalizing the development of v2. My contributions to the electronics and app testing ensured seamless integration and functionality.


Project outcome

Upon completion of the project, we had successfully developed a reliable and safe electronics enclosure that met all the specified requirements. The final prototypes were not only waterproof but also secure and compliant with NSF/ANSI 61 standards for long-term drinking water exposure. Our work resulted in 10 fully functional v2 prototypes and a provisional patent application, followed by the submission of a utility patent, showcasing the innovative nature of our design.

Exploded View of FLOZ v2 Prototype

Client feedback

"Working with Preston was a game-changer for our start-up. His expertise in mechanical engineering and prototyping brought our ideas to life with incredible creativity and results.

Preston's innovative approach to problem-solving and dedication to quality were evident throughout the project. He meticulously addressed every challenge, from ensuring the waterproof seal to selecting the right materials for long-term drinking water exposure. His contributions were pivotal in delivering a product that met all our stringent requirements and exceeded our expectations.

Additionally, Preston's ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse team spread across multiple cities and time zones was invaluable. His clear communication and project management skills kept everyone aligned and informed, ensuring the project's smooth progression. His work on the patent applications further demonstrated his comprehensive understanding of the product and its potential impact on the market."