Clean-Clip Startup

Nail clippers are a household essential, yet their design has remained largely unchanged for decades. Clean-Clip, co-founded by Alexandre Kaidi, set out to revolutionize this everyday tool by making it more convenient, ergonomic, and stylish. After years of development, their team secured six patents, granting them exclusive rights to a unique design where a metal clipping insert seamlessly integrates into a custom shell made from various materials.

While the Clean-Clip team had a working prototype made in a home shop, they lacked the 3D design and 3D printing expertise needed to refine and advance their concept. This is where I came in. I transitioned their rough prototype into a fully engineered 3D model in Fusion 360, optimizing both the functionality and aesthetics while ensuring manufacturability through 3D printing and injection molding research.

One of the key breakthroughs Clean-Clip achieved was securing six patents, protecting their unique modular nail clipper system. Their patents allow for a metal insert to fit into a shell made from various materials, expanding customization possibilities. Additionally, their proprietary pin design ensures the plastic lever applies force reliably to the insert without compromising durability. These are the patents on these clippers: US10076173B1, US8984754B1, US8683700B1, US20160227901A1, US9192218B1, and WO2007032989A1

As I refined the 3D model, I redesigned the form factor to ensure a comfortable grip, making it easier to hold and operate. I also experimented with various aesthetic improvements, modernizing the look of the clippers while maintaining a sleek, low-profile design.

The original prototype needed a strong yet low-profile mechanism to attach the metal insert securely to the shell. My design focused on optimizing the clip attachment to be:

•  Durable – Strong enough to pull on the metal insert without failure

• Secure – Ensuring the insert stays in place under repeated use

• Space-Efficient – Keeping the mechanism compact to maximize shell space"

The transition from a rough prototype to a fully engineered design required an extensive prototyping process. Using Fusion 360, I refined the shape and mechanics while creating numerous iterations using 3D printing technologies. The FDM prints were used for rapid testing of form and function, while SLA prints provided high-detail prototypes suitable for user feedback. Throughout the process, I tested various materials to optimize for durability, aesthetics, and comfort.

Beyond prototyping, I also conducted research into manufacturing processes for scaling production. The clipper insert required metal manufacturing, while the shell needed to be compatible with injection molding for mass production. By analyzing these factors, I provided recommendations on material selection and manufacturing methods, ensuring that the design was both functional in small-scale prototypes and feasible for larger-scale production.

As my involvement in the project came to a close, I ensured Clean-Clip had all the necessary assets to continue development. I provided a comprehensive package of 3D models, physical prototypes, and manufacturing insights to guide their next steps. The final deliverables included fully developed CAD files in Fusion 360, multiple FDM-printed prototypes in different colors and materials, and a detailed analysis of manufacturing feasibility.

Although I had to step away when I moved to Cal Poly, the work I contributed laid the foundation for Clean-Clip’s continued progress. With a refined design, patented technology, and production-ready 3D models, they were in a strong position to push their product closer to market. The combination of innovative design, rigorous prototyping, and strategic manufacturing considerations ensures that Clean-Clip’s vision for a reimagined nail clipper can become a reality.