The CrawlBuddy is a simple idea that delivers a highly effective solution to the challenges encountered while working under crawl spaces. This crawl space tool system provides easy towing and storage of all the essential items needed by contractors. The dedicated tool compartments and patent pending features quicken and simplify the most frustrating jobs taking place in tight spaces.
For most people, the thought of venturing into a crawl space is daunting. However, many homes are built with crawl spaces and it’s likely something under there will need to be addressed by a professional such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC or foundation work. Crawl spaces can be a challenge for contractors to work in because of the dark, tight spaces with dirt floors and duct work they have to traverse . The need for numerous tools and heavy equipment makes it difficult to move along the ground, and almost always requires multiple trips to bring everything needed.
When the co-founders of CrawlBuddy approached us about this problem, they were well versed in the challenges of the trade, with one of them being an HVAC contractor himself. After already dealing with the problem for years as well as creating his own “homemade” tool-carrying containers, the CrawlBuddy team came prepared with a product vision and early prototypes that would help contractors of any trade who need to get down in the dirt.
With a true need identified and personal success from their early stage prototypes, it was clear that the CrawlBuddy team knew their customers well and were determined to bring an effective solution to market. To make this happen, Trig assisted with optimizing the layout of integrated tool compartments as well as designing the inclusion of specific patentable features to make the CrawlBuddy truly stand out.
With an extensive list of necessary tools to pull on each job, we started our process by creating a true-to-size product outline on a white board in order to iterate possible compartment arrangements that maximize the space.This low fidelity prototyping was a fast and cost effective way to determine how to best orient the tools & compartments. This approach also allowed us to identify areas that required adjustments in overall dimensions. The frequent use of common items, as well as trade specific tools, made it challenging to find the best compartment layout while maintaining a size that could be managed through any crawlspace by any contractor.
As we transitioned our concept into CAD we found that size constraints differed based on production manufacturing processes - each having varying wall thickness capabilities. This affected the overall space allowed between each compartment, causing some to become too close to manufacture.
This may seem like an easy fix…just make it bigger, right? However, CrawlBuddy had an optimal product size constraint, made critical by two factors.
The team at Trig played an integral role in the development process of our CrawlBuddy crawlspace tool system. Ty and Brian were very accommodating to all of our requests in regards to design changes. Trig was always very responsive and helpful in a timely manner. Brian was a key factor in helping us through the process of bringing our product from concept to manufacturing. We will definitely be reaching out to collaborate with Trig on any future projects.
With such a large number of tradesmen that work in crawl spaces, the CrawlBuddy is a perfect product to simplify workflow and help maintain sanity when down in the dirt. Dedicated compartments help you know where your tools are at all times. Integrated features make quick work of previously tedious tasks such as cutting webbing material, transporting large 36” zip ties or hauling heavy items like furnaces while crawling on your belly.
Organization of tools and materials provides a faster workflow while reducing excess clean up after jobs. Save your sanity - get yourself a CrawlBuddy!
The CrawlBuddy is a simple idea that delivers a highly effective solution to the challenges encountered while working under crawl spaces. This crawl space tool system provides easy towing and storage of all the essential items needed by contractors. The dedicated tool compartments and patent pending features quicken and simplify the most frustrating jobs taking place in tight spaces.
For most people, the thought of venturing into a crawl space is daunting. However, many homes are built with crawl spaces and it’s likely something under there will need to be addressed by a professional such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC or foundation work. Crawl spaces can be a challenge for contractors to work in because of the dark, tight spaces with dirt floors and duct work they have to traverse . The need for numerous tools and heavy equipment makes it difficult to move along the ground, and almost always requires multiple trips to bring everything needed.
When the co-founders of CrawlBuddy approached us about this problem, they were well versed in the challenges of the trade, with one of them being an HVAC contractor himself. After already dealing with the problem for years as well as creating his own “homemade” tool-carrying containers, the CrawlBuddy team came prepared with a product vision and early prototypes that would help contractors of any trade who need to get down in the dirt.
With a true need identified and personal success from their early stage prototypes, it was clear that the CrawlBuddy team knew their customers well and were determined to bring an effective solution to market. To make this happen, Trig assisted with optimizing the layout of integrated tool compartments as well as designing the inclusion of specific patentable features to make the CrawlBuddy truly stand out.
With an extensive list of necessary tools to pull on each job, we started our process by creating a true-to-size product outline on a white board in order to iterate possible compartment arrangements that maximize the space.This low fidelity prototyping was a fast and cost effective way to determine how to best orient the tools & compartments. This approach also allowed us to identify areas that required adjustments in overall dimensions. The frequent use of common items, as well as trade specific tools, made it challenging to find the best compartment layout while maintaining a size that could be managed through any crawlspace by any contractor.
As we transitioned our concept into CAD we found that size constraints differed based on production manufacturing processes - each having varying wall thickness capabilities. This affected the overall space allowed between each compartment, causing some to become too close to manufacture.
This may seem like an easy fix…just make it bigger, right? However, CrawlBuddy had an optimal product size constraint, made critical by two factors.
While down in a crawlspace it can be tough to maneuver to the area that requires work, let alone actually fixing whatever lies underneath. Designed as a hollow, blow-molded single piece sled, the CrawlBuddy’s main body is extremely lightweight and strong, making it a breeze to pull behind you and capable of holding up to 190 lbs of tools and cargo to get the job done.
To accomplish this, we designed a detachable lid, which can be used independently as a heavy duty sled & workstation or be attached to the CrawlBuddy as a “Cargo Caboose” to double your towable real estate. With a Crawlbuddy and Caboose tethered together you can lay an entire air handler or furnace on top and simply pull it into position!
Utilizing a blow-molded manufacturing method to create a hollow interior was beneficial in creating one of the most important features for CrawlBuddy – a dedicated internal zip tie channel able to hold an entire package (50 qty) of 36” zip ties! The other major feature, specific to the CrawlBuddy, is the integrated dispenser and razor cutting cartridge that allows users to cut webbing material single handedly with the flick of the wrist. We worked through multiple iterations to design a cartridge that could safely attach to CrawlBuddy and allow for replaceable razors. Being able to rip off webbing with one hand, instead of searching for a blade or snips has the potential to increase work efficiency by 50%.
Other valuable features designed into the sled to improve workflow include a magnetized screw tray and integrated spaces for drill, bits, chucks, blade, tape roll, as well as an enclosed compartment to keep valuables (phone/wallet/keys) safe and dirt free.
The team at Trig played an integral role in the development process of our CrawlBuddy crawlspace tool system. Ty and Brian were very accommodating to all of our requests in regards to design changes. Trig was always very responsive and helpful in a timely manner. Brian was a key factor in helping us through the process of bringing our product from concept to manufacturing. We will definitely be reaching out to collaborate with Trig on any future projects.
With such a large number of tradesmen that work in crawl spaces, the CrawlBuddy is a perfect product to simplify workflow and help maintain sanity when down in the dirt. Dedicated compartments help you know where your tools are at all times. Integrated features make quick work of previously tedious tasks such as cutting webbing material, transporting large 36” zip ties or hauling heavy items like furnaces while crawling on your belly.
Organization of tools and materials provides a faster workflow while reducing excess clean up after jobs. Save your sanity - get yourself a CrawlBuddy!
The CrawlBuddy is a simple idea that delivers a highly effective solution to the challenges encountered while working under crawl spaces. This crawl space tool system provides easy towing and storage of all the essential items needed by contractors. The dedicated tool compartments and patent pending features quicken and simplify the most frustrating jobs taking place in tight spaces.
For most people, the thought of venturing into a crawl space is daunting. However, many homes are built with crawl spaces and it’s likely something under there will need to be addressed by a professional such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC or foundation work. Crawl spaces can be a challenge for contractors to work in because of the dark, tight spaces with dirt floors and duct work they have to traverse . The need for numerous tools and heavy equipment makes it difficult to move along the ground, and almost always requires multiple trips to bring everything needed.
When the co-founders of CrawlBuddy approached us about this problem, they were well versed in the challenges of the trade, with one of them being an HVAC contractor himself. After already dealing with the problem for years as well as creating his own “homemade” tool-carrying containers, the CrawlBuddy team came prepared with a product vision and early prototypes that would help contractors of any trade who need to get down in the dirt.
With a true need identified and personal success from their early stage prototypes, it was clear that the CrawlBuddy team knew their customers well and were determined to bring an effective solution to market. To make this happen, Trig assisted with optimizing the layout of integrated tool compartments as well as designing the inclusion of specific patentable features to make the CrawlBuddy truly stand out.
With an extensive list of necessary tools to pull on each job, we started our process by creating a true-to-size product outline on a white board in order to iterate possible compartment arrangements that maximize the space.This low fidelity prototyping was a fast and cost effective way to determine how to best orient the tools & compartments. This approach also allowed us to identify areas that required adjustments in overall dimensions. The frequent use of common items, as well as trade specific tools, made it challenging to find the best compartment layout while maintaining a size that could be managed through any crawlspace by any contractor.
As we transitioned our concept into CAD we found that size constraints differed based on production manufacturing processes - each having varying wall thickness capabilities. This affected the overall space allowed between each compartment, causing some to become too close to manufacture.
This may seem like an easy fix…just make it bigger, right? However, CrawlBuddy had an optimal product size constraint, made critical by two factors.
While down in a crawlspace it can be tough to maneuver to the area that requires work, let alone actually fixing whatever lies underneath. Designed as a hollow, blow-molded single piece sled, the CrawlBuddy’s main body is extremely lightweight and strong, making it a breeze to pull behind you and capable of holding up to 190 lbs of tools and cargo to get the job done.
To accomplish this, we designed a detachable lid, which can be used independently as a heavy duty sled & workstation or be attached to the CrawlBuddy as a “Cargo Caboose” to double your towable real estate. With a Crawlbuddy and Caboose tethered together you can lay an entire air handler or furnace on top and simply pull it into position!
Utilizing a blow-molded manufacturing method to create a hollow interior was beneficial in creating one of the most important features for CrawlBuddy – a dedicated internal zip tie channel able to hold an entire package (50 qty) of 36” zip ties! The other major feature, specific to the CrawlBuddy, is the integrated dispenser and razor cutting cartridge that allows users to cut webbing material single handedly with the flick of the wrist. We worked through multiple iterations to design a cartridge that could safely attach to CrawlBuddy and allow for replaceable razors. Being able to rip off webbing with one hand, instead of searching for a blade or snips has the potential to increase work efficiency by 50%.
Other valuable features designed into the sled to improve workflow include a magnetized screw tray and integrated spaces for drill, bits, chucks, blade, tape roll, as well as an enclosed compartment to keep valuables (phone/wallet/keys) safe and dirt free.
The team at Trig played an integral role in the development process of our CrawlBuddy crawlspace tool system. Ty and Brian were very accommodating to all of our requests in regards to design changes. Trig was always very responsive and helpful in a timely manner. Brian was a key factor in helping us through the process of bringing our product from concept to manufacturing. We will definitely be reaching out to collaborate with Trig on any future projects.
With such a large number of tradesmen that work in crawl spaces, the CrawlBuddy is a perfect product to simplify workflow and help maintain sanity when down in the dirt. Dedicated compartments help you know where your tools are at all times. Integrated features make quick work of previously tedious tasks such as cutting webbing material, transporting large 36” zip ties or hauling heavy items like furnaces while crawling on your belly.
Organization of tools and materials provides a faster workflow while reducing excess clean up after jobs. Save your sanity - get yourself a CrawlBuddy!
