Mechanical Engineer Needed – Foldable Outdoor Frame (Camping Chair / Stroller–Style Structure). Ended

Project Overview:
I’m developing a new outdoor consumer product that requires a lightweight, durable frame structure mounted to an outdoor structure. The product must withstand outdoor conditions (wind, rain, snow) and maintain a clean, defined shape.

The core challenge is designing a foldable, load-bearing frame system similar to camping chairs, strollers, or tent structures.
I don’t have finalized sketches or CAD yet. At this stage I’m looking for help designing a lightweight structural frame for an outdoor product that will be mounted on top of high-end, in-ground basketball hoops. The concept involves a large decorative structure mounted above a residential basketball backboard. I can go into more detail when we talk, but the structure must maintain its shape while exposed to wind, rain, and snow.

One key design requirement: the outer skin of the fabric that will go on the structure should be tensioned like a tent fly to prevent flapping, and include hidden venting to reduce wind load since it will be elevated and exposed.

When deployed, the structure must lock rigidly (no rattle, no flex at joints). Folding is for storage only—during use it should behave like a rigid frame

The main engineering challenges are:
• Designing a lightweight but rigid frame (likely aluminum tubing)
• Supporting a curved fabric structure above the backboard
• Creating a mounting system that attaches securely to the hoop/backboard structure
• Ideally allowing the frame to collapse or fold for storage and shipping
Once we identify a good engineering match, I can share additional concept visuals.

Scope of Work:

Design a lightweight structural frame (likely aluminum tubing or similar)
Develop a folding mechanism (umbrella-style, hinged, or segmented)
Ensure structure can handle wind load and outdoor exposure
Create a mounting system to attach securely to a basketball backboard
Provide CAD models (SolidWorks or Fusion 360 preferred)
Recommend materials and basic manufacturing approach

Key Requirements (Must Have):

Experience designing folding or collapsible mechanisms
Experience with load-bearing frames or structural assemblies
Familiarity with tubular aluminum or similar materials
Ability to design for real-world manufacturing (DFM)

Nice to Have (Strong Plus):
Experience with camping chairs, strollers, outdoor gear, or furniture
Experience designing products exposed to weather conditions
Prototyping experience

Deliverables:

Concept sketches and/or mechanism options
3D CAD model of frame + mechanism
Basic material and construction recommendations
Optional: guidance for prototyping

Project Type:

Initial concept + design phase (potential for follow-on work)
Timeline:

Looking to start immediately
Initial concepts within 1–2 weeks

To Apply:
Please include:
Examples of similar work (folding mechanisms, frames, outdoor products)
Brief description of your relevant experience
CAD tools you use

Additional Notes:
This is an early-stage product with potential for future development. Looking for someone who can think practically about both design and real-world use, not just CAD modeling.

A simple, robust solution is preferred over over-engineering. Initial goal is to get to a prototype. read less