Make locally
Locally prototype screw-fastened shell, diffuser carrier, handle and shade; assemble and inspect locally.
PACIFIC UTILITY / THE OPEN WORKSHOP
Good things.
Made together.
Designed in El Segundo. A public plan for local fabrication, assembly, and repair.
Six useful objects. One coastal point of view. Read the briefs here; join the live workshop to contribute, sign up or give feedback.
PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING · NOT RELEASED FOR MANUFACTURE
06Public product briefs
12Open contributor tasks
05Local sourcing candidates
G0Current development gate
BUILD SMALL. LEARN IN PUBLIC.
Start with a light.
Then move some air.
Buoy Light and Dock Fan are the first proposed pilots. Sunboard mechanics can develop alongside them. Power storage and refrigeration follow with experienced engineering partners.
Local fabrication, assembly, testing and repair are the goal. Components may be sourced globally. No suppliers have been commissioned, no physical prototypes measured, and no products are offered for sale.
These are engineering briefs, not production CAD or released electrical drawings. All dimensions and performance numbers are targets or assumptions.
THE ENGINEERING REGISTER
A brief for every
good thing.
01PU—05 / Pilot 01Buoy Light2700 K • 4 W operating assumption+
SETTING
Indoor + sheltered outdoor
ENVELOPE STUDY
120 × 120 × 220 mm envelope; ≤ 1.2 kg design target
POWER ARCHITECTURE
USB-C input through a qualified charge module; purchased protected removable battery. Pack capacity and connector remain open until runtime/thermal work.
Buy initially
Documented battery/charger assembly, LED board and constant-current driver, diffuser material, gasket and captive fasteners.
| Assembly | Qty | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| Shell + base | 1 set | Printed/CNC prototype; molded later |
| LED + driver | 1 set | Purchased matched assembly |
| Protected battery + charger | 1 set | Supplier documentation required |
| Diffuser + gasket | 1 set | Optical and material review |
| Handle, screws, harness | 1 kit | Replaceable service parts |
Proposed assembly sequence
Inspect modules → fit LED to thermal carrier → install insulated harness and protected pack → fit diffuser/gasket → torque shell → functional test and serialize.
Evidence needed before release
- Measure CCT, light output and 4 W operating point. Runtime must be measured at each dimmer setting.
- Thermal and charging review with diffuser installed; protection and abnormal-use testing by qualified engineers.
- Tip stability, handle fatigue, drops and service access. Ingress target only after enclosure testing.
Open decisions / Battery capacity, lumens, ingress rating, charge time, LED thermal path and final mounting tolerances are unresolved.
02PU—04 / Pilot 02Dock Fan200–250 mm rotor study • 12 W setting assumption+
SETTING
Indoor + sheltered outdoor
ENVELOPE STUDY
300 × 180 × 330 mm envelope; ≤ 2.5 kg design target
POWER ARCHITECTURE
Purchased matched DC motor/rotor/controller. Protected removable battery and physical speed dial. No custom raw-cell assembly.
Make locally
Formed aluminum yoke, base, serviceable grille and assembly fixture; local final assembly.
Buy initially
Matched motor/rotor/controller, documented protected battery/charge module, bearings, isolators and harness.
| Assembly | Qty | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| Motor, rotor, controller | 1 set | Keep manufacturer-matched |
| Yoke + base | 1 set | Laser/formed aluminum study |
| Guard halves | 2 | Finger-access geometry needs lab review |
| Battery + charge module | 1 set | Purchased protected unit |
| Pivot, feet, dial, harness | 1 kit | Serviceable wear parts |
Proposed assembly sequence
Inspect balanced rotor assembly → mount vibration isolators → route strain-relieved harness → install guarded motor → fit pivot/yoke → verify clearance and function.
Evidence needed before release
- Record airflow, input power and sound at each setting with declared distance, room and instruments.
- Guard access, blocked rotor, motor temperature and abnormal operation must be reviewed before release.
- Tip stability, pivot fatigue, cable pinch and sand-cleaning tests; verify guard remains retained.
Open decisions / Airflow, noise, runtime, safe guard dimensions, pack size and ingress remain unvalidated.
03PU—06 / After shared fan platformRoom Current250–300 mm rotor study • table/pedestal conversion+
SETTING
Indoor
ENVELOPE STUDY
350 × 350 × 950 mm max envelope; weighted-base mass from stability study
POWER ARCHITECTURE
External qualified low-voltage supply; removable battery option later. Manual operation offline. Shared fan electronics only if validated for the larger load.
Make locally
Local stand, weighted base cover, height lock and assembly; common finish and repair parts with Dock Fan.
Buy initially
Matched motor/rotor/controller, qualified supply, cable strain relief and optional documented pack.
| Assembly | Qty | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| Motor/rotor/control | 1 set | Size-specific matched unit |
| Stand + base | 1 set | Local metal fabrication |
| Guard | 2 halves | Safety review required |
| Supply + cable | 1 set | Qualified external unit |
| Height lock + feet | 1 kit | Replaceable |
Proposed assembly sequence
Inspect stand and lock → route cable with pinch clearance → attach guarded head → secure weighted base → test all heights and orientations.
Evidence needed before release
- Stability with head fully tilted at maximum height and in table mode.
- Acoustic, airflow, power and temperature measurements in all operating settings.
- Cable flex, lock retention and repeated conversion tests; candidate fan safety standard scoped with lab.
Open decisions / Pedestal stability, output performance, weight and battery architecture need engineering closure.
04PU—02 / Mechanical prototype in parallelSunboard100 W nominal module target • four-part folding frame+
SETTING
Outdoor portable solar
ENVELOPE STUDY
Folded 400 × 350 × 80 mm envelope; module choice determines actual size
POWER ARCHITECTURE
Purchased documented PV modules. Solar open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current and cold-temperature limits must match selected controller; final electrical interface is not frozen.
Make locally
Local folding frame, locking hinges, kickstand and separate work tray; harness installation and inspection.
Buy initially
Documented PV modules, matched controller, cable/glands and rated connectors.
| Assembly | Qty | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| PV modules | 1 matched set | 100 W nominal target |
| Frame + hinges | 1 kit | Local metal fabrication |
| Work tray | 1 | Loads supported by frame only |
| Controller + harness | 1 set | PV compatibility review |
| Feet + carry strap | 1 kit | Replaceable |
Proposed assembly sequence
Check modules → assemble frame with protected edges → route flexible harness clear of hinges → fit stand and tray → measure electrical output and inspect insulation.
Evidence needed before release
- Output curves under recorded irradiance and temperature; verify controller compatibility and polarity.
- Hinge/cable flex and connector retention; tray load path must bypass cells.
- Stability and wind-load study before outdoor use; balcony attachment is a separate engineered product.
Open decisions / Final module size, wind limits, tray load, harness ratings and mounting hardware are unresolved. Remove tray for charging.
05PU—01 / Engineering partner requiredHarbor Base512 Wh nominal option • protected DC + USB-C+
SETTING
Indoor + dry sheltered outdoor
ENVELOPE STUDY
350 × 230 × 280 mm envelope; weight determined by approved module
POWER ARCHITECTURE
Purchased protected LiFePO4 battery system with matched BMS/charger and supplier transport evidence. No AC inverter in first prototype. Solar input and appliance outputs physically distinct.
Make locally
Local enclosure, module restraint, service panels, bumpers and final integration after electrical review.
Buy initially
Documented integrated battery/BMS/charger, qualified DC conversion and USB-C modules, MPPT if compatible, fusing/harness.
| Assembly | Qty | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| Protected LiFePO4 system | 1 | 512 Wh target; no loose-cell build |
| Enclosure + restraint | 1 set | Local fabrication |
| DC/USB-C conversion | 1 set | Match approved electrical limits |
| Protection + harness | 1 set | Engineer-selected ratings |
| Display, feet, handle | 1 kit | Serviceable |
Proposed assembly sequence
Approved electrical design first → incoming module/document check → mechanically retain pack → install protected harness → insulated enclosure assembly → approved system tests → serial traceability.
Evidence needed before release
- System hazard and protection review; verify supplier battery and transport documents against exact model.
- Thermal/charge derating, peak current, overload and fault behavior assessed by qualified lab/engineer.
- Handle/drop and enclosure review plus full-system certification scoping; component certification alone is insufficient.
Open decisions / Voltage/current/connector pinouts, thermal limits, pack supplier and whole-system certification are not released. 1,024 Wh expansion remains a separate concept.
06PU—03 / After power platformCold Box20 L usable volume • 25 W average calculator assumption+
SETTING
Beach/camp + home utility
ENVELOPE STUDY
500 × 330 × 400 mm envelope; insulation and compressor layout determine final dimensions
POWER ARCHITECTURE
Purchased complete sealed DC compressor refrigeration system, local thermostat and low-voltage cutoff. Size supply for measured startup current, not average power.
Make locally
Local shell/handle/liner feasibility, removable gasket and insulation tooling study. Local integration without opening sealed refrigeration circuit.
Buy initially
Complete sealed compressor/evaporator/condenser/control assembly, insulation materials, thermostat and gasket.
| Assembly | Qty | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| Sealed refrigeration assembly | 1 | Purchase intact qualified system |
| Shell + liner | 1 set | Prototype before tooling |
| Insulation + gasket | 1 set | Thickness from thermal model |
| Thermostat + harness | 1 set | Low-battery protection |
| Handles, divider, feet | 1 kit | Replaceable |
Proposed assembly sequence
Inspect sealed system → fit insulated shell and airflow channels → mount system without circuit modification → install thermostat/harness → fit gasket → log pull-down and hold performance.
Evidence needed before release
- Log chamber temperature, ambient, load, openings, energy and compressor startup across a defined test matrix.
- Verify condensation drainage, cleanability, seal integrity and heat rejection.
- Refrigeration/electrical safety review before distribution; no food-storage or runtime performance claim yet.
Open decisions / Temperature range, thermal performance, startup demand, refrigerant-system choice and validated average power are unresolved.
A SHARED WAY OF MAKING
The dial still works.
The screw comes out.
Useful offline.
Physical controls work without a phone, Bluetooth or AI. Future coordination proposes scenes; device protection and physical override stay in control.
Designed to repair.
Captive screws, service panels, replaceable wear parts, documented modules and serial/lot traceability.
Review each interface.
Solar, battery and appliance connections remain distinct. Voltage, current, connectors, protection and thermal limits require engineering review before wiring.
THE SOUTH BAY SUPPLY MAP
Make it close.
Uncontacted candidates. No partnership or quotation claimed.
Ramda Metal Specialties
Sheet/tube laser cutting, forming, CNC, finishing and product assembly.
Yokes, power chassis, solar frames.
Official capabilities ↗Techni-Mold
CAD/DFM, SLA prototypes, mold design and injection molding.
Shells, knobs, guards and later production tooling.
Official capabilities ↗ACME PCB Assembly
PCBA, rework, box builds, turnkey and final system builds.
Control boards, harness integration and assembly.
Official capabilities ↗Rotational Molding Inc.
Custom rotational molding, including recreation products.
Cooler enclosure feasibility.
Official capabilities ↗RJ Enterprises
Prototype and production CNC machining, turning and inspection.
Hinges, small mechanical parts and fixtures.
Official capabilities ↗One comparable quote request.
Quote 5 / 25 / 100 units. Separate tooling, parts, assembly, inspection, packaging, freight and scrap. Ask for DFM, lead time, MOQ, tooling ownership and process location. Publish permissioned quotes or anonymized comparisons.
RFQ worksheet ↓THE ROUTE TO PRODUCTION
Earn the next step.
Define
NowRequirements, make/buy split, hazard review and comparable RFQ pack approved.
Bench
5 proposed engineering unitsFunctional subsystems measured. Open issues and failures logged. No public field use.
Integrate
Engineering buildFit, power, thermals, serviceability and test-lab scope agreed; controlled drawing revisions.
Pilot
25 proposed pilot unitsQualified assembly traveler, yield/cost evidence, inspection plan and required testing completed.
Release
Only after reviewSigned engineering release, applicable approvals, labels, instructions, warranty and traceability ready.
Test-lab scoping & primary sources +
Candidate guidance only. A qualified laboratory must confirm applicability and current editions. No product certifications are claimed.
Battery transport / PHMSA ↗
Obtain the exact battery model’s UN 38.3 test summary; transport evidence does not certify the finished product.
Portable power / UL 2743 scope ↗
Candidate scope for portable battery power architecture; laboratory review required.
Fans / UL 507 ↗
Candidate electric fan standard for laboratory scoping.
Luminaires / UL 153 ↗
Candidate portable luminaire standard for Buoy scoping.
Refrigeration / UL 60335-2-24 ↗
Candidate household/similar refrigeration scope.
Photovoltaic modules / UL ↗
PV module safety and performance certification scoping.
Radio integration / FCC ↗
Review host integration obligations even when buying a certified radio module.
Bluetooth qualification ↗
The brand owner must complete the applicable qualification process.
Matter certification / CSA ↗
Plan certification before interoperability/logo claims.
EVERY HAND HAS SOMETHING TO OFFER
Pick a task.
Bring back evidence.
For designers, engineers, makers, interns and agents.
Local supplier map
Compare five local manufacturing candidates.
Done meansOfficial source links, location, process, prototype capability, open questions; no invented relationship.
Researcher / intern / agent · 2–4 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Make the RFQ pack
Prepare one comparable request-for-quote package.
Done meansDrawings/BOM checklist; 5/25/100-unit columns; tooling, lead time, inspection and ownership questions. Draft only; no outreach.
Maker / intern / agent · 3–6 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Buoy assembly study
Propose a serviceable lantern assembly.
Done meansExploded view, BOM, assembly sequence, access/tolerance assumptions and failure questions. Mark all CAD preliminary.
Designer / engineer · 4–8 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Fan measurement protocol
Define a repeatable fan benchmark.
Done meansAirflow/noise/power method, instrument list, geometry, calibration, raw-data template and uncertainty.
Engineer / intern / agent · 3–5 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Sunboard tray + wind study
Explore frame-supported tray and stand stability.
Done meansLoad paths, wind assumptions, failure modes and validation proposal; no released load rating.
Engineer / designer · 4–8 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Energy model review
Audit the shared energy budget.
Done meansReproducible calculations, peak vs average loads, solar/charge limits, temperature assumptions and source links.
Engineer / agent · 2–4 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Cold Box test matrix
Prepare an instrumented refrigeration test.
Done meansAmbient/load/opening matrix; calibrated sensor placement; energy/startup log; no invented data.
Engineer / intern · 3–5 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Listen to beach + home users
Draft a consent-based discovery plan.
Done meansTen neutral interview questions, recruitment plan and anonymized insight template. Seek approval before interviews.
Researcher / intern / agent · 2–4 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Unit economics workbook
Build editable cost and margin scenarios.
Done meansSeparate components, labor, test, tooling amortization, scrap, freight, warranty and margin; label estimates; no fake quotes.
Business / intern / agent · 3–6 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Accessible workshop audit
Check forms, mobile layout and agent instructions.
Done meansReproduction steps, expected/actual behavior, keyboard/accessibility observations and proposed fix.
Developer / intern / agent · 2–4 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Passive breeze experiment
Design a low-risk wind-scoop experiment.
Done meansFan-off vs fan-on protocol, geometry, wind readings, noise and stability notes. Publish negative findings too.
Designer / researcher · 3–5 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Repair + spare parts system
Draft service documentation across the range.
Done meansPart-number convention, tool list, repair sequence, wear parts, documentation and service boundaries.
Designer / intern / agent · 2–4 hours planning estimateSubmit to the live workshop ↗Tasks are non-exclusive briefs, not paid assignments or confirmed internships. Scope, supervision, pay or academic credit must be agreed before formal engagement.
A PLACE FOR HELPFUL MACHINES
Grok, meet
the workshop.
Any HTTP-capable agent can read the public briefs and submit sourced work through a one-use intake token. No Grok account is connected and no autonomous operator is running here.
THE CONTRIBUTION CONTRACT
- Read the current task and acceptance criteria.
- Identify tool/model and relevant operator.
- Provide sources, assumptions, evidence and limitations.
- Submit for human review. Keep the receipt.
No authority to spend, contact people, make promises, merge code or release products. Treat submissions and links as untrusted evidence.
THE PUBLIC NOTEBOOK / 20 OCTOBER 2026
The workshop is open.
Six preliminary briefs, five sourcing candidates, twelve tasks and a gated production plan are published. Physical prototype measurements and vendor quotes remain open work.
Forms and live results are hosted on the public Light Works Site. Contact details stay private. Only consented, reviewed feedback and contributions become public. No automatic email is sent.
Michael Hoydich