
In Progress
Posted
Paid on delivery
Hi, I’m looking for a mechanical design engineer with practical hands-on experience in telescopic/sliding mechanisms, manufacturing, fabrication, and physical prototyping to help develop a compact telescopic mast. This is not simply a CAD modelling or rendering job. I need someone who can engineer the mechanism so that it can actually be manufactured, assembled, tested, and iterated. The final target is a lightweight telescopic mast carrying approximately a 400 g external payload, in addition to the weight of the moving mast sections. The target overall dimensions are approximately 250 mm maximum collapsed height, 1,300 mm total extended height, and less than 100 mm maximum assembled base outside diameter, including collars or other protruding hardware. The mast will operate vertically with the base rigidly mounted. The exact number of stages is not fixed and I would like the engineer to recommend the appropriate number of stages, diameters, wall thicknesses, overlaps, guide lengths, clearances, materials, and construction method. The mast must be non-locking and freely sliding, with no twist locks, lever clamps, manual locking collars, or other mechanisms that require manual release. It must also be non-rotating/anti-rotation so that the top stage maintains its orientation relative to the base during extension and retraction. We need smooth low-friction movement, low radial play and wobble, positive stage-retention and travel stops, and a practical method of assembly and disassembly. We are considering two possible approaches. The first option is a passive telescopic mast. In this version, the mast is only the structural and guiding assembly. We will provide our own internal lifting and retraction mechanism, which will push and pull the top stage. The passive mast therefore needs freely sliding stages, guidance, anti-rotation, stage retention, mechanical extension/retraction stops, and a continuous hollow passage through the center. Our current working target for this version is at least 30 mm clear internal bore through the smallest/top section, although this should be confirmed during the design phase. A mostly 3D-printed PETG functional prototype is acceptable for initial testing, and aluminium tubes combined with printed guide components may also be proposed if this is simpler or more reliable. The second option is an integrated pneumatic telescopic mast. In this version, the telescopic assembly itself provides both structural support and pneumatic lifting force. A lightweight single-acting pneumatic design with external cable-assisted retraction is acceptable if this simplifies the design and reduces weight. For this option, experience with pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders, telescopic cylinders, seals, wear rings, guide bushings, low-friction sliding stages, and pressure-containing assemblies would be valuable. I am not initially asking for complete detailed designs of both alternatives. I want your engineering assessment and recommendation on which approach is most practical for the dimensional and weight requirements. Before developing the complete mast, I want to start with a paid three-section functional prototype consisting of one fixed outer section and two moving sections, creating two telescopic interfaces. This initial prototype does not need to achieve the final 1,300 mm extended height. Its purpose is to prove the fundamental mechanical design before we invest in the complete mast. It should test smooth extension and retraction, guide and bearing arrangement, sliding clearances, anti-rotation, retained overlap, positive extension and retraction stops, stage retention, assembly and disassembly, radial play/wobble, and compatibility with our internal lifting mechanism or pneumatic sealing arrangement depending on the selected concept. The geometry and materials should be representative enough that a successful three-stage design can later be scaled to the complete mast. For the three-stage milestone, I require editable parametric native CAD in SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Inventor, or equivalent, plus STEP files for individual parts and the complete assembly. For all parts intended for additive manufacturing, I also require print-ready STL and/or 3MF files. The CAD package should include the complete assembly, fully collapsed configuration, fully extended configuration, sectional/cutaway views, and an exploded assembly view. I also require dimensioned 2D engineering drawings covering the important functional dimensions and manufacturing information, including critical tolerances and sliding clearances, OD and ID of each section, wall thicknesses, guide/bushing dimensions, stage travel, retained overlap, mechanical stop positions, anti-rotation geometry, mounting interfaces, and the assembly/disassembly method. Please include material recommendations, estimated total mass and moving mass, a bill of materials, and specifications for off-the-shelf fasteners or components wherever possible. For the 3D-printed prototype, please provide recommended material, print orientation, basic print settings, and any relevant DFM/DFAM recommendations. The design should account for actual FDM-printing tolerances and surface finish rather than assuming machined-metal clearances. Please also perform a basic interference/motion check of the assembly and provide a simple prototype test plan covering sliding force, extension/retraction, wobble, anti-rotation, stop operation, and repeated cycling. The first milestone must include one design revision after I physically test the prototype. If you offer physical prototyping services, please quote 3D printing, assembly, functional testing, and shipping separately. If you provide CAD and engineering only, that is also acceptable. When applying, please show at least one relevant telescopic or sliding mechanism that you personally designed. Examples could include telescopic masts/poles, telescopic cylinders, deployable mechanisms, lifting columns, linear sliding assemblies, pneumatic/hydraulic cylinders, or other nested sliding structures. I am particularly interested in projects that were actually manufactured and tested rather than only rendered in CAD. Please briefly explain what part of the mechanism you personally designed, whether it was manufactured, what problems were discovered during prototyping, and what design changes were made after physical testing. In your proposal, please provide your recommended initial approach, a fixed price for the three-stage engineering milestone, estimated completion time, whether you offer fabrication/testing, and an approximate cost range for developing the complete mast after the three-stage prototype has been successfully tested. This is an R&D prototype. The priority is practical mechanism engineering, smooth operation, low weight, compact packaging, manufacturability, and learning from physical testing—not appearance or rendering quality.
Project ID: 40715049
35 proposals
Remote project
Active 5 days ago
Set your budget and timeframe
Get paid for your work
Outline your proposal
It's free to sign up and bid on jobs
35 freelancers are bidding on average $117 USD for this job

Hello, When it comes to telescopic mast development, you need a specialist with an intuitive understanding of mechanisms and fabrication processes; that's where my expertise come in. My proven hands-on experience in designing and manufacturing telescopic mechanisms will allow me to engineer a practical and highly functional solution for your project. As a bonus, I'm comfortable with both solid modeling in CAD software as well as manufacturing using 3D Printing - a skill that could prove incredibly valuable in prototyping your mast. I understand the importance of designing lightweight yet sturdy solutions, with smooth movement, low friction, and no-radial-play ensuring optimal performance. Having worked extensively with PETG and aluminum materials, I can leverage their unique properties to create a robust mast design that meets your specific dimensions and weight requirements. Rest assured, my knowledge of materials extends beyond these two and I can advise on other options if required. Lastly, my commitment to attention-to-detail aligns perfectly with your need for positive stage retention, reliable travel stops, anti-rotation mechanism and easy assembly/disassembly components. Moreover, my excellent project management skills combined with an artistic approach resulting in 'perfectionist' designs that are not just functional but beautiful too! Let's collaborate on this project; I'm confident we can bring your vision to life while k Thanks!
$155 USD in 5 days
7.4
7.4

As an experienced mechanical design engineer, my skills align perfectly with your telescopic mast prototype project. My knowledge in CAD/CAM software, such as Fusion 360, Solidworks, and AutoCAD combined with my expertise in DFM (Design for Manufacturing) ensures that the telescopic assembly would be accurately represented and designed to manufacturing specifications. With a deep understanding of various manufacturing processes and material selection, I can provide recommendations to achieve your desired dimensions and weight requirements while maintaining efficiency and functionality of the mast. Additionally, I have hands-on experience developing physical prototypes. I understand that creating a tangible model is essential to test the feasibility of a concept before investing in a final product. With this in mind, I am well-positioned to create your three-section functional prototype that will focus on key mechanical aspects like smooth extension/retraction, proper guide arrangement, anti-rotation capabilities, stage retention, assembly/disassembly process testing and more.
$140 USD in 3 days
7.4
7.4

As an accomplished Engineer, CAD Designer and 3D Artist with multi-disciplinary proficiencies, I possess the all-encompassing skills that your project demands. My hands-on experience ranges across various CAD programs like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, along with proficiency in 3D Printing and Product Design. This background has equipped me not only to create accurate models or drawings as per the requirement but also to visualize and deliver innovative designs. Moreover, my experience in manufacturing and prototype development guarantees a realizable design which can undergo rigorous testing. In terms of your project objectives, my skillset is an ideal fit. I’m well-acquainted with telescopic/sliding mechanisms and have expertise in engineering practical solutions for maximum use benefits. Be it working with materials or deciding dimensions, I understand the intricacies involved and assure you of an optimized design aligned perfectly with your needs. Additionally, my familiarity with pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders, seals, wear rings etc., would come handy if you decide to go forward with the second option.
$66 USD in 1 day
7.0
7.0

Hi, I am well-equipped to engineer the telescopic mast prototype that you need. Drawing on my extensive experience in 3D modeling and STL preparation, I will create precise, production-ready designs tailored to your specific requirements. My familiarity with product design and assembly fitment will ensure the mechanism is not only functionally efficient but also practically manufacturable, assembled, and tested. Furthermore, my expertise in print optimization and prototyping is a perfect fit for the nature of your project. I understand the value of physical prototypes in testing, iterating, and refining designs. Thus, I can guarantee that your paid three-section functional prototype will not only prove the mechanical design fundamentals but also serve as a reliable template for scaling up to the complete mast. Above all else, my approach revolves around delivering solutions that translate ideas into tangible reality with precision and excellence. Your project's need for non-locking, anti-rotation telescopic mechanisms without compromising the performance parameters aligns perfectly with my skill set. In conclusion, if you're looking for a highly qualified professional who can transform your vision into optimized solutions through meticulous details and clear communication - while ensuring final product quality meets or exceeds expectations - then I'm your man. Let's bring your telescopic mast project to life successfully!
$120 USD in 1 day
6.8
6.8

As an accomplished mechanical design engineer, I possess extensive hands-on experience in the design and development of mechanisms, including telescopic and sliding systems. With proficiency in Fusion 360 and a deep understanding of manufacturing and fabrication processes, I am confident that I can effectively engineer a compact telescopic mast that not only meets your dimensional and weight requirements but is also functional and reliable for your needs. Over the years, I have successfully managed various projects involving complex mechanical assemblies, similar to the passive telescopic mast and the integrated pneumatic telescopic mast options you've presented. My multi-faceted technical expertise, ranging from 3D printing to product design, prototyping, and even knowledge of hydraulic systems gives me a distinctive edge in assessing and recommending the most practical approach for your project. In addition to my technical skills, my commitment to client satisfaction is unwavering. I understand the importance of smooth low-friction movement, positive stage retention, low radial play, and wobble reduction in your project. Throughout the journey, I will provide more than just CAD modeling or rendering - I will create practical solutions that are easily manufacturable and assembly-friendly. Together, we can build a successful three-section functional prototype - the first step toward actualizing your vision for a lightweight telescopic mast carrying a +400g payload.
$88 USD in 1 day
6.8
6.8

With my extensive real-world experience as a Mechanical Engineer, I’m confident I have the skills and expertise to engineer your telescopic mast prototype successfully. I have an in-depth understanding of design optimization and manufacturing processes which will be invaluable for this project. My proficiency in leading CAD software such as Solidworks, AutoCAD, and Creo will be fundamental in translating your requirements into practical designs. I am also well-versed in DFM (Design for Manufacturing) strategy, ensuring efficient and cost-effective production of your mast. The diverse nature of my past projects from HVAC to Oil & Gas has honed my adaptability to different engineering challenges similar to those presented by your project objectives. Narrative includes a strong awareness of bringing viable yet inventive solutions to the table. My strong understanding of material properties and integrated design approach will certainly support me in making optimal recommendations that ride this fine line. Lastly, I am a committed professional who values open communication and understands the value of every client’s investment. So, you can count on regular updates, flexible collaboration, and meticulous attention to detail throughout our project together. Let's discuss your specific requirements further so I can provide a more tailored solution for you. Looking forward to the possibility of working with you!
$500 USD in 15 days
6.3
6.3

As a versatile mechanical design engineer with extensive experience in fields such as 3D printing, manufacturing, fabrication, and solidworks, I am confident in my ability to bring your telescopic mast prototype to life. Not only can I create and iterate upon innovative CAD models, but I also have a keen understanding of practical engineering that enables me to design for manufacturability. This is crucial in ensuring that the final result aligns with your needs and ideas. Drawing from my experiences with telescopic mechanisms and sliding assemblies, I have a thorough understanding of the design factors that contribute to smooth, low-friction movement like the lightweight and non-locking requirements mentioned in your project description. One area where my experience stands out is my proficiency in selecting materials and construction methods that match performance needs while maintaining longevity.
$39 USD in 1 day
6.3
6.3

As an experienced 3D visualization specialist and mechanical engineer, I have the unique ability to bring your vision to life, not just digitally with CAD renderings, but also in physical form through manufacturing and prototyping. My broad range of skills in product design, 3D printing, AutoCAD, and Solidworks make me highly competent to engineer your telescopic mast prototype, no matter which approach you choose. I understand the importance of a compact yet robust design for your project. With this in mind, I will recommend the most practical approach for your dimensional and weight requirements during the design phase. My expertise in telescopic mechanisms is well aligned with your project needs, as I’m familiar with important factors such as stage diameters, wall thicknesses, overlaps and clearances that can ensure a non-locking and stable sliding mast.
$200 USD in 7 days
6.0
6.0

Hello, I’m a Mechanical Engineer with strong experience in SolidWorks, mechanical assemblies, fabricated parts, manufacturing drawings, tolerances, clearances, and production-oriented CAD. For your project, I recommend starting with the passive three-section prototype using aluminum tubes with 3D-printed guide and anti-rotation components where practical. This will allow us to validate sliding friction, clearances, retained overlap, radial play, anti-rotation, stops, retention, assembly/disassembly, and overall stability before developing the full 1,300 mm mast. I can deliver the parametric SolidWorks assembly, STEP files, STL/3MF for printed parts, collapsed/extended configurations, sectional and exploded views, detailed engineering drawings, BOM, material recommendations, tolerances, motion/interference checks, and a prototype test plan. I will also include one design revision based on your physical test results. Fixed price for the three-section engineering milestone: **$250** Estimated completion: **7–10 days** Physical fabrication/testing can be quoted separately. My background is focused on practical mechanical design and manufacturing documentation, with attention to fit, manufacturability and reliable assembly. I’d be glad to develop the prototype around measurable physical test results.
$100 USD in 3 days
5.9
5.9

Hello, I have 10+ years of professional experience in 3D modeling, 3D CAD, 3D printing, SolidWorks, and Fusion 360. I can help develop your telescopic mast prototype with accurate dimensions, proper assembly, and 3D-printing/manufacturing-ready components. I will focus on strong mechanical design, smooth telescopic movement, accurate tolerances, and a practical prototype that can be tested and refined. I can start immediately and provide the required CAD files and revisions until you are satisfied. Best regards, Usman
$37 USD in 2 days
5.3
5.3

Hello, I reviewed your telescopic mast requirements, and the core challenge is engineering a compact nested mechanism that achieves the required extension ratio while controlling sliding clearances, anti rotation, retention, stops, wobble, weight, and manufacturability. I would begin by comparing the passive and pneumatic concepts against your dimensional and payload constraints, then develop the three section prototype to validate the guiding, retention, anti rotation, and sliding behavior before scaling the proven mechanism. I have worked on similar telescopic mechanisms, mechanical prototyping, parametric CAD, and manufacturing focused designs and can share relevant examples once we connect in chat. Also a quick question, what stroke and force characteristics does your existing internal lifting mechanism have at the top section? Best Regards, Muskan
$30 USD in 1 day
4.9
4.9

Hi, I'm Juli, a 3D design specialist. I've read your job description and I’m confident I can help. I have solid experience with SolidWorks, Fusion 360, and rendering tools like KeyShot. I focus on precision, fast delivery, and clear communication. I understand the requirements of Telescopic Mast Prototype Development and how to approach it effectively. You can also see similar work on my portofolio. Looking forward to hearing from you. Best regards, Juli
$150 USD in 1 day
5.0
5.0

Your requirement is clear: this is a mechanism-engineering and prototyping job, not just CAD. I can engineer the 3-section functional prototype with two telescopic interfaces, focusing on smooth sliding, anti-rotation, low radial play, retained overlap, travel stops, compact packaging, and practical assembly/disassembly. I’ll evaluate the passive mast vs. integrated pneumatic concept and recommend the more practical route before detailed development. For the first milestone I can provide: • Parametric native CAD + STEP assembly/parts • STL/3MF files for printed components • Collapsed/extended, sectional and exploded views • Dimensioned engineering drawings with functional clearances/tolerances • Material/BOM and mass estimates • Motion/interference checks • FDM DFM recommendations • Prototype test plan • One revision after physical testing Recommended starting point: develop the passive 3-stage prototype first, using aluminium tubes with low-friction printed guide/bushing components where practical. This provides a straightforward way to validate the core sliding, guidance and anti-rotation mechanism before integrating pneumatics. For the proposal, I would quote the 3-stage engineering milestone as a fixed-price prototype design package, with physical fabrication/testing priced separately based on your preferred materials and shipping location. Best Regards, Sumit Kumar.
$45 USD in 1 day
4.9
4.9

Hi, I’m interested in developing the three-section functional prototype for your telescopic mast. I understand this is an engineering and mechanism-development project rather than a simple CAD or rendering job, with the main focus on smooth sliding, low radial play, anti-rotation, stage retention, mechanical stops, compact packaging, and practical manufacturability. I can develop the prototype in parametric CAD with the required assembly, collapsed/extended configurations, sectional views, exploded assembly, STEP files, and print-ready STL/3MF files where applicable. I will also account for real FDM tolerances and surface finish when defining the sliding clearances and guide interfaces. I can provide engineering drawings, material recommendations, BOM, mass estimates, interference/motion checks, and a practical prototype test plan. For the initial concept, I would first assess the passive telescopic approach using lightweight aluminium tubes and/or 3D-printed guide components, as this can provide a simpler way to validate the fundamental sliding and anti-rotation mechanism before committing to a pneumatic design. Based on the prototype results, the design can then be refined and scaled toward the 1,300 mm final mast.
$150 USD in 1 day
4.1
4.1

Hi there ! As a seasoned mechanical design engineer with expertise in designing for manufacture and creating practical physical prototypes, I am confident that I can contribute immensely to the development of your telescopic mast. My skills with 3D Printing, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, and Solidworks, coupled with my deep understanding of manufacturing processes, makes me well-suited for this project. I have substantial experience in working with telescopic/sliding mechanisms and have successfully engineered similar structures before. My attention to detail ensures smooth low-friction movement and low radial play - two crucial aspects for your mast's functionality. Moreover, I understand the value of wobble-free operation and positive stage-retention, which aligns perfectly with your project's objectives. I will work closely with you to determine the best approach for your mast - be it the passive version or the integrated pneumatic variant. By leaning on my background in pneumatics and hydraulic cylinders, I will provide you with detailed designs that maximize efficiency while minimizing weight. The ultimate goal of developing a compact telescopic mast carrying 400 g payload while still maintaining optimal dimensions is intriguing and aligns well with my problem-solving abilities. Let's translate your vision into reality! Thanks & regards Gaurav Sharma....
$30 USD in 2 days
4.0
4.0

I have 5+ years of mechanical CAD, mechanism design, manufacturing and physical prototyping experience, and I can engineer your telescopic mast around real sliding, guidance, anti-rotation and assembly requirements—not just create a visual CAD model. For the inital milestone, I recommend starting with the passive three-section prototype using two telescopic interfaces. I’ll optimize the section sizes, wall thicknesses, overlaps, guide/bushing arrangement, FDM clearances, anti-rotation features, retention and mechanical stops around the 400 g payload and future 1,300 mm target. I’ll develop the prototype parametrically in SolidWorks, with representative geometry that can later be scaled into the complete mast Deliverables Complete 3-stage parametric CAD assembly Collapsed/extended configurations Sectional and exploded views Individual and assembly STEP files STL/3MF files for printed components Dimensioned manufacturing drawings Critical tolerances and sliding clearances Material and component recommendations BOM and estimated/moving mass Motion/interference check Prototype test plan One design revision after physical testing Why Choose Me My approach is prototype-driven: identify likely friction, wobble, binding, tolerance and retention issues early, then refine the mechanism from physical test results. I can provide CAD/engineering only, or separately quote fabrication, assembly, testing and shipping.
$40 USD in 3 days
4.2
4.2

The tight diameter for a 1.3m extension means the tube walls will be thin, making rigidity in the extended state the main challenge. I’ll design the interlocking mechanism using Solidworks, focusing on a self-aligning engagement feature so assembly is straightforward, and I’d use the 100mm OD as the basis for the inner tube, allowing for a very thin wall and two interlocking collar thicknesses to achieve the span. I'm a Preferred Freelancer with a 5.0 rating over 10 reviews, delivered on time and on budget each time. The brief mentions manufacturing and fabrication, which implies you'll want a design that’s not only theoretically sound but also buildable with common machining processes. Instead of a simple extrusion, I would specify a rolled and welded tube for the mast sections, as this provides better control over wall thickness and straightness for a given diameter, so you get a more consistent sliding action and a stronger mast for the weight. How do you plan to retain the mast sections in the fully extended state?
$177 USD in 21 days
3.5
3.5

I can provide you with a free consultation to discuss your telescopic mast prototype. Would you be open to that? The main hazard here is ensuring smooth, low-friction movement without compromising structural integrity. If the stages don't slide properly, you'll face delays and increased costs during later testing phases. I'd start with the passive telescopic mast first, focusing on freely sliding stages and anti-rotation features. This will let us test fundamental mechanics early. I’ve developed similar prototypes before, with revisions always part of the process, ensuring we learn from each iteration. What’s your timeline for the first milestone? Do you have any existing designs or components we should consider?
$100 USD in 7 days
3.0
3.0

Hi, I can design and prototype your ''3-section telescopic mast'' with smooth sliding, anti-rotation, low play, proper stops, and reliable stage retention. I have experience with ''SolidWorks, mechanical mechanisms, assemblies, and functional prototypes''. I can provide the ''parametric CAD, STEP/STL files, drawings, BOM, motion checks, and prototype test plan'', with a revision after physical testing. Thanks, Deepak
$140 USD in 7 days
0.4
0.4

I DON'T COMPETE ON PRICE. I COMPETE ON RESULTS. I won't waste a second of your time with an AI response, as I'm sure you're already bored of it. So lets talk with facts, actions and implementation. I can help you develop a functional prototype that meets your specifications while ensuring smooth operation and manufacturability. Your need for a lightweight telescopic mast with non-locking, freely sliding sections and smooth low-friction movement is clear. I understand the importance of a design that accommodates your specific dimensional and weight requirements. I have extensive experience in mechanical design, focusing on sliding mechanisms and functional prototyping. My previous work involved creating a telescopic cylinder that underwent rigorous testing, leading to valuable design improvements. I would love to discuss your upcoming projects with you and answer any questions you may have. Kind Regards, Stacey
$100 USD in 14 days
0.0
0.0

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Payment method verified
Member since Jul 15, 2024
$10-30 USD
₹1000-1200 INR
₹1500-12500 INR
$15-25 USD / hour
₹600-1500 INR
€8-30 EUR
₹12500-37500 INR
$20-35 USD
₹750-1250 INR / hour
$750-1500 USD
$30-250 AUD
$10-30 USD
€30-250 EUR
$200-300 USD
₹1500-12500 INR
₹1500-12500 INR
₹1500-12500 INR
$30-250 USD
₹1500-12500 INR
$25-50 AUD / hour