Design • Engineering • Manufacturing
When I first got my new espresso machine, I heavily struggled with consistency and extracting crema into my coffee. I needed a WDT tool—a precision coffee accessory designed to evenly distribute coffee grounds in the portafilter basket. I shopped around and quickly realized a large gap within the market for a high-quality, aesthetic WDT tool without breaking the bank.
The goal was to create a tool that offers coffee enthusiasts a professional-grade solution for achieving perfectly distributed coffee grounds, while maintaining a simplistic aesthetic on their countertop.
Working through multiple iterations of CAD design and prototype fabrication, the primary design challenge was achieving the optimal usability and functionality without compromising on the tool's intentionally simplistic design.
How easily would the user align the tool to the portafilter? How would the user maintain control of the tool during use without slippage? The end result was a manufacturing-ready design that balances performance with simplicity with embedded magnetics and non-slip linings along the perimeter.
The key engineering challenge was embedding powerful magnets into the tool without increasing its footprint or compromising the clean, minimalist aesthetic. Through careful CAD modeling and material selection, magnets were precisely recessed into the base geometry.
The magnetic system provides secure attachment to the portafilter while maintaining the tool's slim profile and uninterrupted surface design. Combined with strategically placed non-slip linings along the perimeter, the result is a product where functionality is invisible yet essential.
At the phase of small batch manufacturing to gain product feedback and validate demand, I focused on optimizing the assembly process to ensure ease of build and reliability, decreasing labor time and costs per unit.
While the main parts are 3D printed due to batch constraints, they are carefully post-processed for quality and feel, ensuring a professional finish that meets user expectations.
The Weiss Distribution Tool has become a highly reviewed amongst home espresso brewers worldwide, garnering positive reviews from coffee experts and enthusiasts alike.
"This is a great tool for an excellent price. Love that it's magnetic - with just the right strength."
Experienced espresso brewer
"The person I'm gifting it to will love it! It looks beautiful, definitely has a wood look to it. Turns and rotates well too."
Home espresso enthusiast