Multitool.org Forum

Tool Talk => Keychain and One Piece Tools => Topic started by: sdconnell on May 21, 2013, 11:12:14 PM

Title: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: sdconnell on May 21, 2013, 11:12:14 PM
Hi Everyone,

I wanted to share my new key-shaped multitool idea. Check out the product on Kickstarter. Let me know your thoughts!

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: enki_ck on May 21, 2013, 11:21:07 PM
While you have an interesting tool here, it would be nice if you introduced yourself first in the new members forum before you started asking our members for advice (and funding) of your tool.

I've removed your link for now but if you wish to advertise here, please contact Grant Lamontagne (http://forum.multitool.org/index.php?action=pm;sa=send;u=2), the owner of the forum, for more information.


Welcome to the forum. :cheers:
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Syph007 on May 22, 2013, 12:04:33 AM
Whats with this kickstarter and one piece tool craze?  It feels like everyone trying to get rich with so-so ideas and mostly going about it the wrong way.   :think:
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: stealth007s on May 22, 2013, 12:16:59 AM
Whats with this kickstarter and one piece tool craze?  It feels like everyone trying to get rich with so-so ideas and mostly going about it the wrong way.   :think:

I agree!ยก! I wouldn't waste my money on things like this. I'd rather pay someone like you to get a real tool modded to my needs or do it myself.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: JAfromMn on May 22, 2013, 12:53:03 AM
I want to make a new rule that anyone introducing a new tool for there own profit has to donate one tool to the mto pass around.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: kirk13 on May 22, 2013, 01:06:41 AM
I want to make a new rule that anyone introducing a new tool for there own profit has to donate one tool to the mto pass around.

Killer plan JA,very good idea!
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on May 22, 2013, 01:16:14 AM
I want to make a new rule that anyone introducing a new tool for there own profit has to donate one tool to the mto pass around.

Actually, that's not a bad idea.  I was thinking that if people wanted to use MTO as a basis for crowd funding then I think MTO should be awarded a percentage of ownership for making it happen.  90% of something is better than 100% of nothing.

Def
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Syph007 on May 22, 2013, 01:44:00 AM
I want to make a new rule that anyone introducing a new tool for there own profit has to donate one tool to the mto pass around.

Actually, that's not a bad idea.  I was thinking that if people wanted to use MTO as a basis for crowd funding then I think MTO should be awarded a percentage of ownership for making it happen.  90% of something is better than 100% of nothing.

Def

Yep since this trend seems to be continuing, might as well make an official "so you want to use MTO to crowd fund" rule.

On the topic of one piece tools in general, I get why they are a target for the crowd funding as they're pretty easy to make, and dont cost alot, but for me the value proposition just isnt there.  Hands up who never carries a tool capable of opening a bottle?  Im going to go out on a limb here and say that most if not all of us already have a means to open a bottle on us, right now.

A SAK pound for pound, dollar for dollar has more function than a one piece tool in general, for less weight and probably similar cost.  The only one piece for me that I do like is the pocket wrench II since its good for nuts and bolts that a regular old SAK cant handle.  Other than that, I haven't seen much im interested in.  Also, why does a tool have to be one piece.  Its like these are contest entries for the arbitrary restriction of make a tool that has these 20 functions, but oh, it must be ONE PIECE FOR NO REASON. :D

Not trying to sound cranky, but you have to expect criticism if your first post on a forum has the sole purpose of trying to sell me something.  I have a sign on my door that says no solicitation... as do alot of people since well, people dont generally like people trying to sell them something.

:D
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on May 22, 2013, 02:09:22 AM

Yep since this trend seems to be continuing, might as well make an official "so you want to use MTO to crowd fund" rule.

...

Not trying to sound cranky, but you have to expect criticism if your first post on a forum has the sole purpose of trying to sell me something.  I have a sign on my door that says no solicitation... as do alot of people since well, people dont generally like people trying to sell them something.

:D

Sorry to cut down your comment like this, but I wants to address this specifically.  I am in total agreement with this, and even more so than you may have initially meant.

The fact is that this community supports their own like crazy.  If you are "one of us" then there are thousands of people here that will go that extra mile to help you out producing tools, helping to refine designs and so on.  If folks really want to get the most out of the forum and promote their projects, help out the forum and the community that makes it what it is.  Hang out, share some stupidity with the rest of us, tell us all a little about yourself, and when you come up with a design, we (and I mean all of us) will fight tooth and nail to help you refine the design and get it out there. 

It's that simple- after all, we helped (admittedly not much, but we did!) one of our own get a production agreement with CRKT.  We almost single handedly support a SAK dealer and his associated charity- many kitties are alive and well because of member support.  When someone comes to me for an idea about creating a coin, we all work together to toss out some ideas, and it happens.  I dare say that making some friends here is going to be a lot more valuable in the long run than spamming this community with Kickstarter attempts.  Of course, if you are only here for a quick buck then that's great- you won't find it here.  If you are serious about doing something, I and many other people here are more than happy to throw our significant amount of resources behind it.

I'm not sure why people can't see that.  It seems pretty obvious to me... but then I know that forums are created by hard working people salving away under the thumb of someone with no talent (that would be me) and a fair bit of money in operating expenses and promotion, which means, quite honestly, that if we are going to be the target audience (which we always will be for a tool, don't kid yourself) then I think we need to have some ownership.  If folks won't be our friend then they can pay for the privilege of hanging out with us.

Just like the Shark Tank or Dragon's Den I'll help out- for a percentage.

Def
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: sdconnell on May 22, 2013, 03:55:16 AM
Hi Everyone,

Interesting response...

First, note that I never asked for support. I asked for feedback. This is an entire forum on multi-tools.  Why wouldn't I ask for feedback from this group?

Second, apparently, everyone here is interested in an "introduction" before asking for feedback. Well, certainly not the friendliest group based on the initial responses....

Anyway, thanks at least for looking at the tool.

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: enki_ck on May 22, 2013, 04:07:40 AM
You asked for feedback with a link to your fund raising kickstarter. An hour before you another OPT maker joined who only showed his tool introduced himself and asked for feedback. Check what responces he got. ;)
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Outback in Idaho on May 22, 2013, 04:15:45 AM
Hi Everyone,

Interesting response...

First, note that I never asked for support. I asked for feedback. This is an entire forum on multi-tools.  Why wouldn't I ask for feedback from this group?

Second, apparently, everyone here is interested in an "introduction" before asking for feedback. Well, certainly not the friendliest group based on the initial responses....

Anyway, thanks at least for looking at the tool.

  When attempting to apply for a job, solicit material, meeting a stranger, or making a public statement it is always best to introduce who you are before barging in like an elephant on a peanut rampage. Proper manners and courtesy seem to elude a lot of humans anymore.

  You wanted feedback, and you got it. Just not what you was wanting. Care for a peanut?  :D
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Nhoj on May 22, 2013, 04:15:56 AM
Hi Everyone,

Interesting response...

First, note that I never asked for support. I asked for feedback. This is an entire forum on multi-tools.  Why wouldn't I ask for feedback from this group?

Second, apparently, everyone here is interested in an "introduction" before asking for feedback. Well, certainly not the friendliest group based on the initial responses....

Anyway, thanks at least for looking at the tool.

We are actually extremely friendly and generous, we simply get a lot of kickstarters on one piece tools that are simply spam trying to make money off us. If you want to be in the community,  it is simply done by just talking, interacting, and generally contributing. Sorry if you got the wrong impression about us we are very kind and embrace new members. If you want feedback we would be happy to give and discuss it, if you are not here just for money. Just remember to us this came across as advertising, and whether it is or isn't, try to understand why we reacted how we did. I hope if it's right for you, that you become a contributing member here.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: enki_ck on May 22, 2013, 04:23:22 AM
Well worded, John. :tu:
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Mercury on May 22, 2013, 04:55:48 AM
Well said all, I agree totally. 

This forum is an extremely nurturing community especially when it comes to development and execution of ideas.  Moreover, it's a fun place to interact and make friends. 

To the OP, being that MT.o is by definition a multipurpose tool oriented website, we get more than our fair share of folks with crazy ideas(crazy being good, that's why Tim Leatherman made it!), but for the most part the ideas come from our own members, guys(and gals) that we all know well and they know they can bounce wacky stuff off us and get real feedback.   That's not to say we don't welcome strangers, if you look at the intro section you will see a ton of warm welcomes every day. 

We have quite a few thinker/do-ers here, even one who started a sheath making company.  He's a well known member, but he happens to be one of the most creative and innovative minds out there.  He asks for feedback all the time and he is successful.  He has our full support and always has, because he contributes here weekly if not daily and sometimes hourly. 

You have not been shunned.  I would look at it more like you have been set straight.  Whether or not you have the humility to see it is in your hands(remember an entrepreneur must be humble).  I, for one, would be happy to give you my thoughts on your tool once you have shown that you won't just get what you came for and bolt.  All that means is make a few posts, introduce yourself, give some feedback to others, and hang out. 
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Aloha on May 22, 2013, 06:37:00 PM
Hi Everyone,

I wanted to share my new key-shaped multitool idea. Check out the product on Kickstarter. Let me know your thoughts!



you asked for thoughts and balk at their thoughts wow just wow  :facepalm:



Hi Everyone,

Interesting response...

First, note that I never asked for support. I asked for feedback. This is an entire forum on multi-tools.  Why wouldn't I ask for feedback from this group?

Second, apparently, everyone here is interested in an "introduction" before asking for feedback. Well, certainly not the friendliest group based on the initial responses....

Anyway, thanks at least for looking at the tool.




um seriously?? c'mon these people arent idiots you link your TOOL to your funding site jeez and thus far no one has yet stated you couldnt ask nor solicit. what was said was say hi and ask permission from the boss man if you wanted to advertise.  there was also a warm welcome along with that feedback your desired but you convinently wash over that in your sarcastic response.


While you have an interesting tool here, it would be nice if you introduced yourself first in the new members forum before you started asking our members for advice (and funding) of your tool.

I've removed your link for now but if you wish to advertise here, please contact Grant Lamontagne (http://forum.multitool.org/index.php?action=pm;sa=send;u=2), the owner of the forum, for more information.


Welcome to the forum. :cheers:


reality check time. i have been an entrepenuer for 12 years and i will give you the advice that has come hard earned BE HUMBLE and BE FRIENDLY because at the end of the day you are a sales person plain and simple and no one wants to buy from a TOOL. 
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Ombudsman on May 22, 2013, 10:05:43 PM
Hi there !

I wish you had asked for feedback before starting your project, sadly this happens a lot here. We get asked for thoughts too late. 

The best with your project  :tu:
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Goatlord666 on May 23, 2013, 01:38:46 AM
Hello there! I actually find your tool kinda interesting... well, while I will not use it, it will be nice to have as an addition to a one piece tool collection. Please do not be dissuaded when It comes to maybe contributing comments or opinions with our friendly folks at MTO, we might have gotten accross quite strongly, but we are absolutely a friendly bunch...maybe you can tell us more about yourself or maybe what MTs you use, or how you find these tools. this is a fun place and I guess the members are only after keeping this group fun for a long time to come.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: JAfromMn on May 23, 2013, 06:55:52 AM
I wish the poster knew how many ideas just like his we've seen lately.

we did come off a little rude but it getting to be a bit much.

maybe I should draw up a tool get it cnc,d out and start some smurf on kickstarter I need funding too. :)
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Metropolicity on May 23, 2013, 08:47:10 AM


We have quite a few thinker/do-ers here, even one who started a sheath making company.  He's a well known member, but he happens to be one of the most creative and innovative minds out there.  He asks for feedback all the time and he is successful.  He has our full support and always has, because he contributes here weekly if not daily and sometimes hourly. 



I do my part to contribute and be a part of a community that I loved and was a part of long before Skinth. Thanks Sean for the back up...now where us my hammer to break down this soap box.

Hope your project works out and you decide to stay, this place has opened up a lot of doors and I for one am never shy to show mistakes and process.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Outback in Idaho on May 23, 2013, 09:45:25 AM


We have quite a few thinker/do-ers here, even one who started a sheath making company.  He's a well known member, but he happens to be one of the most creative and innovative minds out there.  He asks for feedback all the time and he is successful.  He has our full support and always has, because he contributes here weekly if not daily and sometimes hourly. 



I do my part to contribute and be a part of a community that I loved and was a part of long before Skinth. Thanks Sean for the back up...now where us my hammer to break down this soap box.

Hope your project works out and you decide to stay, this place has opened up a lot of doors and I for one am never shy to show mistakes and process.

  A lot of us have shown our projects (some get a bit into it), asked for suggestions & feedback, and made end notes for others that may want to try. We are always open for input & ideas, and sometimes we get feedback when we least expect it. Yet I do not recall once where any of us has asked for money or dropped URLs for a Kickstart thing. Some may have asked where to get parts specific items, and most of the trade for that is in private mails.

  Some sell their wares, in the appropriate forum. Can only hope they are giving some kickback to the MTO admins that hosted their sales here in the forum. Am sure Grant takes care of that, or AHB.  :tu:
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: SAKplumber on May 25, 2013, 10:38:21 PM
Hello all!    (subscribed:))
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: enki_ck on May 25, 2013, 10:50:51 PM
Hello all!    (subscribed:))

Nice to see you again here. :)
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: nuphoria on May 26, 2013, 02:30:01 AM
Hey Mr Plumber :waving:
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Mercury on May 26, 2013, 03:12:50 AM
Pretty sure the OP bugged out.

Sent from my Galaxy S3 using crapatalk two point oh.

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on May 26, 2013, 03:21:46 AM
Sure looks that way...

Def

Sent from a digital multitool
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Threeme2189 on May 26, 2013, 11:27:05 AM
Wow,
this thread totally exploded in a direction I wasn't anticipating :o
I do agree with what you all said. We are a friendly community (except to kirky) and we're awesome at giving feedback and suggestions in response to all kinds of new ideas.

To the original poster,
Just hang out a bit and get to know us. More importantly let us get to know you :-)
Then you can take full advantage of us. because you are no longer a "seller", but have become a friend.
That's how communities work.

Sent from my Mother Smurfing phone using TrashaTalk II

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on May 26, 2013, 12:10:20 PM
Or feel free to use the new Multitool.org R&D Section (http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/board,56.0.html) to get the same benefits even sooner!

Def
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: SAKplumber on May 27, 2013, 03:07:29 PM


I wish you had asked for feedback before starting your project, sadly this happens a lot here.

Exactly.  The fact is that he didn't really want any opinions or feedback.  He just wants your money.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: SAKplumber on May 27, 2013, 03:09:35 PM
Hello all!    (subscribed:))

Nice to see you again here. :)
Hello:)  Thanks for having me. 
Hey Mr Plumber :waving:
Long time no see Nuphoria!   :salute:
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: SAKplumber on May 27, 2013, 03:16:21 PM
Sure looks that way...

Def

Sent from a digital multitool
Not entirely...he just went over to see us at EDCF and pulled the same stunt. 

His advertisement thread was pulled and then he found a Member who had posted a link to it, so he used her thread as a place to post more advertisement.  The he lied about "working with a Moderator to sell through the Forum Store".  Fact was that he had been PM'd but didn't follow through. 

That conversation is still ongoing, and Sean Connelly DID, eventually, ask for details about doing that. 

We'll all see later on I guess:)
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: cowsmilk on May 27, 2013, 03:35:20 PM
Yes, this kickstarter situation is very interesting indeed. I echo SAKp's comments. Hopefully we don't have continued problems from future KS principles.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on May 27, 2013, 04:33:22 PM
My favorite part is how people seem to think forums spring up naturally, and that they just exist so that people can take advantage of them.  Like somewhere out there a server is just spontaneously producing forums at no cost or effort to anyone at all for the benefit of someone who may someday have an idea involving a bent piece of metal with a notch cut out of it...

Just because Starbucks is all about coffee doesn't mean you can set up a Keurig machine in the parking lot and people will applaud your genius.

Def

Sent from a digital multitool
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Syph007 on May 27, 2013, 05:05:19 PM

Just because Starbucks is all about coffee doesn't mean you can set up a Keurig machine in the parking lot and people will applaud your genius.


LOL oh thats a good one!

I like how they make something that already exists in many forms and act like they are gifting us with the invention of the wheel!  IT FITS... wait for it.. ON A KEYCHAIN... AND... IT CAN OPEN BOTTLES!!!!
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: cowsmilk on May 27, 2013, 05:08:52 PM
And, its made out of metal (angels singing in background)
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Cupboard on May 27, 2013, 06:28:20 PM
just like a little Vic Manager/Rambler and they've been around for how many years?

Def: is there a little "and this is how MT.O was born" history anywhere?
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: enki_ck on May 27, 2013, 06:44:05 PM
just like a little Vic Manager/Rambler and they've been around for how many years?

Def: is there a little "and this is how MT.O was born" history anywhere?

There is, and it's a long one. :) I'll go find it.

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: enki_ck on May 27, 2013, 06:49:10 PM
just like a little Vic Manager/Rambler and they've been around for how many years?

Def: is there a little "and this is how MT.O was born" history anywhere?

There is, and it's a long one. :) I'll go find it.



Here you go:

The History of Multitool.org (http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,36078.msg580644.html#msg580644)
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Mercury on May 27, 2013, 07:10:58 PM

Just because Starbucks is all about coffee doesn't mean you can set up a Keurig machine in the parking lot and people will applaud your genius.


LOL oh thats a good one!

I like how they make something that already exists in many forms and act like they are gifting us with the invention of the wheel!  IT FITS... wait for it.. ON A KEYCHAIN... AND... IT CAN OPEN BOTTLES!!!!

:rofl:

Sent from my Galaxy S3 using crapatalk two point oh.

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Syph007 on May 27, 2013, 07:15:06 PM

Just because Starbucks is all about coffee doesn't mean you can set up a Keurig machine in the parking lot and people will applaud your genius.


LOL oh thats a good one!

I like how they make something that already exists in many forms and act like they are gifting us with the invention of the wheel!  IT FITS... wait for it.. ON A KEYCHAIN... AND... IT CAN OPEN BOTTLES!!!!

:rofl:

Sent from my Galaxy S3 using crapatalk two point oh.

I just dont get it.  If he raises the 40k! hes after, there is more wrong with the world than I thought.   :rant:
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Mercury on May 27, 2013, 08:45:13 PM

Just because Starbucks is all about coffee doesn't mean you can set up a Keurig machine in the parking lot and people will applaud your genius.


LOL oh thats a good one!

I like how they make something that already exists in many forms and act like they are gifting us with the invention of the wheel!  IT FITS... wait for it.. ON A KEYCHAIN... AND... IT CAN OPEN BOTTLES!!!!

:rofl:

Sent from my Galaxy S3 using crapatalk two point oh.

I just dont get it.  If he raises the 40k! hes after, there is more wrong with the world than I thought.   :rant:

I agree.  Someone makes a key shaped prybar and call themselves a tool designer.  I guess that means I'm a prototype oilfield parts designer, since I've made some parts that are only slightly different than stuff that someone else thought of.  :facepalm:

Sent from my Galaxy S3 using crapatalk two point oh.

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Cupboard on May 30, 2013, 12:28:21 AM
just like a little Vic Manager/Rambler and they've been around for how many years?

Def: is there a little "and this is how MT.O was born" history anywhere?

There is, and it's a long one. :) I'll go find it.



Here you go:

The History of Multitool.org (http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,36078.msg580644.html#msg580644)

 :cheers:

Very interesting.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on May 30, 2013, 12:56:44 AM
I like to call that "Chapter 1!"

:D

Def

Sent from my MB860 using Tapatalk 2

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: sdconnell on June 04, 2013, 04:13:25 AM
Hi Everyone,

Thanks for all the comments. This has certainly been an entertaining experience. Nice to see that Grant has set-up a section specifically for designers interested in feedback. So, maybe my post contributed to the forum in a small way after all! ;)

Multitools are awesome products. Sure, the market has numerous variations, but there is always room for iterative design and innovation. Great to see a supportive forum that embraces new designs and encourages individuals to contribute to the industry.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Mercury on June 04, 2013, 04:29:59 AM
Great to see you back!   :salute: :salute:

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Gadget Guy on June 04, 2013, 05:41:34 AM
For what its worth, I think the tool is a nice original design.  :tu: Refreshing for a change. Personally I find it to be a bit too boxy and the pry tip is too thick to be useful as a screwdriver. Don't feel bad, even the awesome Leatherman Brewzer suffers from the same problem. I profiled mine using a scotchbrite wheel on my grinder and the tool is much more suited for use as a screwdriver.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: sdconnell on June 04, 2013, 01:53:13 PM
Thanks for the feedback. One-piece multitool designs are always a balancing act. For instance, the tip on the Brewzer is great for opening boxes, but precludes application as a Phillips head screw driver. I appreciated the overall design of the Brewzer and carried the tool around for several months. However, I never found it to be particularly useful.

I thought the Gerber Shard was really nice. The actual Philips head screw driver is very practical. Plus, the pry bar on the Shard is perfect. The bend at the tip provides a great deal of leverage. Unfortunately, that same bend makes the screw drivers incredibly awkward. The tip is a bit fat too.

ATOM has a great set of screwdrivers. The dimensions match the actual 1/8 and 3/16 screw driver counterparts. The limiting factor is having both the screw drivers next to each other...that makes counter-sinked screws difficult to reach. However, most screws you encounter on a daily basis are raised or flush. ATOM's pry bar is not as good as the one on the Shard. The limited leverage makes pulling out larger nails a little more difficult. I found the pry bar to most useful for opening paint cans and things of that nature. However, you can pry up smaller nails in a serious situation with a bit of patience. Part of the balancing act!

Overall, my biggest complaint about commercially available one-piece multitools is the manufacturing quality. Most of the tools were simply stamped, bent and then maybe coated. The products never incorporate any features that require a higher manufacturing demand. To me, that's an obvious ploy to invest the bare minimum and seek the maximum return. That's the beauty of products created by an individual. The bottom dollar or the margin is not a big concern, which allows for a greater investment in quality.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Boyen on June 04, 2013, 10:59:56 PM
While we're talking about OPMT's can I give some feedback on your design?

I feel like the ATOM offers good functionality, though bottle openers are plentiful, a file isn't and the ripping tool looks really nicely made.

On the other hand, you put the biggest wrench in the middle which provides less leverage than when it would've been put on the outside. Also, the bottle opener is on the keyhole making it really awkward to actually open bottles when it's on your key. I'm sure you are aware of this as the ATOM is always off your keychain in your promo video. Lastly, I would never use a ruler of that size, and the markings make the tool look mass produced (cheaper).

That said, congratulations on reaching your goal. Even though I don't entirely agree with the compromises you made I think it's a very interesting OPMT.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Goatlord666 on June 05, 2013, 02:23:06 AM
Hi Everyone,

Thanks for all the comments. This has certainly been an entertaining experience. Nice to see that Grant has set-up a section specifically for designers interested in feedback. So, maybe my post contributed to the forum in a small way after all! ;)

Multitools are awesome products. Sure, the market has numerous variations, but there is always room for iterative design and innovation. Great to see a supportive forum that embraces new designs and encourages individuals to contribute to the industry.


 :cheers:

Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: sdconnell on June 05, 2013, 02:21:12 PM
Thanks for that feedback.

The order of the hex wrenches is common feedback. Several of the campaign backers have made similar suggestions. I agree, putting the largest wrench at the tip would provide the most leverage. I'm not sure how much leverage you would really need though on a pocket tool.

Could you elaborate on the comment about the markings? What in particular makes the markings look cheap (i.e. font, engraving method, size, etc.). That feature is incredibly easy to adjust.

The bottle opener is still functional/convenient on the keychain. The keys were removed for the promo video to draw attention to the product and remove distractions. However, I saw some pictures of keychains from the forum members....some of them look monstrous! So, yes, larger keychains would inevitably become cumbersome and reduce the convenience of the bottle opener.

The comment about the rulers was perfect. I get a lot of heat from fellow engineers about using a 1 inch ruler on my keychain.

The greatest attribute of crowdfunding is the opportunity to immediately connect with the customer. Kickstarter has been a great experience because someone can back the project and then give you direct feedback about features they would like to see in the product. Plus, everyone can make comments about additional products, like a metric version for international backers.
Title: Re: ATOM - A Tool of Multipurpose
Post by: Boyen on June 05, 2013, 04:33:40 PM
Points taken. The bottle opener comment indeed is from a perspective of a more loaded keychain in that case the keyring hole would probably be better off at the other side, depending on whether you intend to pry more or open more bottles. I know the answer for me  :drink:

When it comes to markings and things looking cheap let me take the following example. The swissbianco keychain tool: mass produced version (http://cdn1.bigcommerce.com/server1200/xvxemf0/products/410/images/276/TM4905__52124.1351202730.1280.1280.jpg) vs non-mass produced version (http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj120/swissbianco-tactical/sktpunch.jpg).

Another example, how about the KERT: mass produced version (http://www.crkt.com/crkt/content/images_inv/e/g/538/KERT-SKU-web-image_xlarge_538.jpg) vs non-mass produced version (http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e10/DaveK-ToolPics/RakerRT007.jpg).

Point is really (and logically so) as soon as something gets mass produced you get these markings for things, like the ruler and the protractor on the ATOM, that for me just make it look cheaper. Now tastes differ, but for instance stamps give OPMTs so much more character and make it feel like something special:  stamped Atwood (http://i1144.photobucket.com/albums/o489/glenreigh/Michael%20Morris%20ff/DSC_5670.jpg). But if I had to choose, even no marks at all I would prefer. Which is really ironic because the markings give more functionality (for instance the ruler) but sometimes less is more (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Less-is-better_effect).