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05 / Product design & machining · 2023

Aluminium wallet

A small everyday object, machined from aluminum. An integrated tracker and an elastic band keep the assembly simple.

Aluminium wallet CAD render

The brief

Combine a slim card carrier with Apple Find My tracking, without adding a separate tracker holder. The elastic band accommodates different card counts with no hinges or moving hardware.

Let the fit do the work

The body is CNC-machined from 7075 aluminum. An interference fit retains the AirTag, installed using a hydraulic press. Eliminating screws reduces the number of parts and keeps the exterior clean.

Designing around the material

A metal body introduces a radio-frequency constraint as well as a mechanical one. The tracker opening balances retention, signal exposure, and protection; the edges need to be comfortable in a pocket and in the hand.

From CAD to a finished part

The manufacturing workflow uses a Haas Mini Mill, press fitting, and surface preparation. A matte-black anodized finish completes the part. The gallery includes the physical wallet beside the CAD model.

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