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Inspiration
The initial idea for my project came from a pen sold by Tactile Turn which I loved the design of, but no so much the high price, so I wanted to see if I could make it cheaper.I wanted to redefine the traditional pen by taking advantage of the properties of exotic metals, known for its strength, lightweight nature, and visual appeal. By combining this with advanced manufacturing methods such as precision CNC machining, this project aims to create a pen that embodies durability, precision, and modern engineering excellence. I also wanted for my pen was for it to be durable, reusable, and a timeless tool. The project is guided by the belief that high-performance materials and innovative manufacturing techniques can elevate everyday objects into enduring works of functional art, blending utility with cutting-edge design.
Innovation
The Titanium Bolt-Action Pen redefines pens by combining aerospace-grade titanium with a precision-engineered, ultra-satisfying bolt mechanism. Unlike mass-produced pens, it leverages 4-axis CNC machining and lathes. It integrates a short, snappy bolt throw tuned for one-handed use. Machining titanium was the hardest part (heat, tool wear, costly scrap), but the result is a lightweight, indestructible pen with unmatched tactile feedback. For others making this, the biggest surprises would be the difficulty of machining titanium as titanium wears tools very easily which can lead to tool breakage.
Evaluation and Reflection
The biggest challenge was machining titanium—its hardness caused rapid tool wear and created a lot of stringing. I overcame it by doing lots of test cuts. Setbacks like snapped bits taught me patience and adaptability—I broke down tasks into smaller milestones (CAD → prototype → finish) and embraced failures as part of the process. I’m most proud of the thread as I got the two bodies to attach together well. With more time, I’d cnc the J-bolt so that it's smoother and cleaner. This project showed me that innovation isn’t just about materials or tech, but refining tiny details that create emotional connections. It also proved I thrive on hard problems—where engineering meets artistry.
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