new guy looking for a part for a prototype

beekay · Newbie Joined: Apr 20, 2009 Posts: 1

hey everyone!

great info on the site! thanks to all those that have contributed!

I built a working "dot 1" release of a dog lead and I am ready to build something more close to the usable prototype to do more testing on it.

I spoke to lots of people around the internet, learning about spring steel, cable break strength and the like.
I have been able to wrangle up all the parts except for 1 to make this prototype something real, so I am asking this community for some help.

You see those spring loaded reels that retract everything from badges to dog leashes and tape measures? I am having a challenge finding someone that has "stock" reels that they want to sell me (I would need 50 or so) most dont want to talk to me unless I am looking at quantity.

I tore apart a few different devices one a tape measure and another was a strong key supporting retractor. Both had the same diameter reel, with very, very similar internal and width measurement, so it seems like there might be something stock here.

the few folks I did speak with said they made them in house, and they were happy to build some to my specifications for a few grand! I am not quite at that stage yet......

Size: I am looking at an outer diameter of about 2 inches, with a spring space (inner diameter) of about 1.25 inches and a width of about 1/2 inch

I say about because i have not build my plug for molding yet, so I can modify anything based on stock.

any direction is appreciated!

bk Very Happy