Mirka
Random Orbit Sander
The Mirka Random Orbit Sander reimagines what a cordless professional tool can be. Designed with precision ergonomics, optimized weight distribution, and a bold expression of brand identity, this concept challenges industry norms—delivering performance and style in a form unlike anything currently on the market.
Utilizing
Fusion360 Adobe Creative Suite KeyShot Canva
Design Disciplines
Design Research Sketching Form Studies Product Visualization
Timeline
12 Weeks
Market Comparisons - What’s the problem?
Poor Ergonomics
A significant proportion of orbital sanders available in the market are designed as corded tools. This design choice results in compromised ergonomics and maneuverability, a critical pain point identified during our interviews.
Heavy Batteries
Battery-powered sanders often suffer from poor ergonomics and bulkiness, limiting maneuverability. Designed mainly for woodworking, they underperform on automotive bodywork, which demands power, lightness, and versatility.
Cost Efficiency
Choosing pneumatic, electric, or battery tools involves more than initial cost. Pneumatic tools are cheaper but need compressors and upkeep. Electric corded tools cost less than battery but limit movement. Battery tools, despite shorter runs, often suit flexible pros and can be more cost-effective.
The Polished Professional
Auto Body Mechanics
Hard Working Wants quality equipment Long 8–10 hour days
Auto Body Shop
Working within an autobody service shop, they are focused on getting their work done as quickly as possible. A variation of large and small corners leads to an unpredictable environment.
Car Restorer
High end consumer users. Often have their own at home shop and have limited space to perform as many functions as possible. They care about usability more than long run times.
MIRKA - Making it possible to perform better
Innovative
Creating products that help customers and the environment, always improving with new ideas.
Performance
With years of experience, Mirkas experts lead in advanced surface finishing and precise grinding.
Quality
Industry frontrunners in finishing materials and abrasives, Mirka redefines quality with unmatched precision and innovation.
Sustainability
Blending eco-consciousness with creativity to craft lasting, responsible designs honor the planet and inspire the future.
Design Goals
Traditional Values
Maintaining Mirka’s brand identity within this design is paramount. It embodies the essence of superior craftsmanship and uncompromising quality, visually communicating the brand’s commitment to excellence at every detail.
Compact and Portable
The average Mirka electric sander weighs 2.25 pounds. By modestly augmenting its weight and eliminating the cord, mobility and operational freedom are significantly enhanced.
Contemporary Reimagined
Mirka’s design language is distinctively authentic; integrating cutting-edge technology and contemporary aesthetics elevates this exceptional design to new heights.
Foam Models
Using the Tormach CNC machine, precision-cut foam models are fabricated and meticulously assembled through adhesive bonding. This process enables tangible, three-dimensional exploration, bridging digital design and physical prototyping for nuanced iterative development.
First Model Iteration
Using Fusion 360, the initial high-fidelity model is meticulously crafted to accurately represent both the size and form of the design. This stage goes beyond basic sketches or low-detail prototypes by incorporating precise dimensions,
