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Modulus Drawers

A modular storage platform that combines physical drawers, smart configuration tooling, and optional automation to remove friction from organizing parts and supplies at any scale.

From One-Size-Fits-All Bins To Intelligent, Expandable Storage

Detailed project page

Detailed
Modulus drawer system concept branding

Problem

Most storage products lock users into fixed drawer sizes and layouts. As collections evolve, users either waste space, lose visibility, or replace entire systems instead of extending what they already own.

Solution

Modulus Drawers uses standardized, Gridfinity-compatible modules with configurable dimensions, optional automated sorting, and a web-based configurator that can generate and refine layouts from real inventory data.

Executive Summary

Modulus Drawers is designed for makers, hobbyists, and teams who need flexible part organization with a clear upgrade path. The system starts as modular physical storage, then scales into software-assisted layout generation, inventory integration, and optional automation.

The core value is reduced setup friction: users can start simple, expand incrementally, and maintain a coherent organization standard without rebuilding their entire workspace each time needs change.

Functionality

Modular Drawer Hardware

  • Gridfinity-sized modules with customizable depth and compartmenting.
  • Expandable in all directions without replacing existing units.
  • Designed around repeatable, compatible interfaces between modules.

Web/App Configurator

  • Imports part lists and category data to propose optimized layouts.
  • Supports drag-and-drop manual refinement before purchase or fabrication.
  • Targets both online and offline/LAN operation for privacy-focused users.

Smart Features

  • Smart labeling with QR workflows and optional visual part-finding aids.
  • Inventory tracking and project-oriented grouping modes.
  • USB power/data expansion for scanners, label tools, and modules.

Automation Layer

  • Optional hopper-based sorter for unsorted part streams.
  • Sorting logic accounts for quantity, geometry, categories, and relationships.
  • Extensible beyond LEGO into general parts and user-defined taxonomies.

Current Progress

Modulus physical prototype concept image.
Physical prototyping has validated core module compatibility and stack behavior.
Modulus modular system concept render.
Example Vertical biased unit.
Modulus drawers interface concept image.
Example unit size,
  • Current hardware iteration performs reliably as a self-contained modular system.
  • Manufacturing readiness remains the main hardware gap before scale-up.
  • Automatic sorting and data-driven layout logic are in active prototype stages.

Roadmap and Budget

Production Timeline (12 Months)

  • Months 1-2: finalize physical prototype and modular standards.
  • Months 3-6: ship configurator MVP and continue app-side workflows.
  • Months 7-9: complete auto-sorter prototype and injection mold preparation.
  • Months 10-12: manufacturing kickoff, launch marketing, start early shipments.

Budget Target (~$600,000 CAD)

  • Engineering salaries (software + mechanical): ~$160,000.
  • Injection mold setup: ~$200,000.
  • Initial manufacturing and inventory: ~$200,000.
  • Marketing and brand launch: ~$39,600.
  • Website/server and DevOps baseline: ~$400 annually.

Risks, KPIs, and Success Criteria

Primary Risks

  • Commercial adoption risk despite clear technical value.
  • Sorting reliability and throughput for diverse item geometries.
  • Algorithm speed and packing quality for large inventories.
  • Manufacturing quality control at launch scale.

Key Performance Indicators

  • Physical: interoperability, load capacity margin, long-term reliability.
  • Digital: recommendation relevance, packing efficiency, easy retrieval.
  • User outcome: reduced search time and reduced overflow incidents.
  • Business outcome: retention, upgrade adoption, and recurring sales.

Go-To-Market Recommendations

  • Build a community hub where users share layouts, bins, and sorter databases.
  • Use influencer sponsorships across LEGO, electronics, engineering, crafting, and automotive niches.
  • Offer tiered buyer paths: base hardware, smart labels/inventory, and full automation.
  • Prioritize open compatibility and migration tooling to lower switching costs.

Project Documents

Research References

Tags Modular system Storage automation In progress
Modular system Gridfinity compatible Workshop tooling Scalability Web configurator Storage automation In progress
Skills Systems design Algorithm design Product strategy
Systems design Parametric design Algorithm design Configuration planning Process design Fabrication workflow Product strategy