This project began as a simple CAD exercise to design a key fob, but I wanted to challenge the typical approach.

Most key fobs feel like ambiguous, indistinct objects that disappear into the background of everyday use. Instead, I aimed to create a design with a clear narrative and identity.

Drawing inspiration from Caterpillar Inc. and its line of excavators and heavy machinery, I developed a key fob that reflects the rugged, functional language of industrial equipment. The form and detailing reference the structure and durability associated with heavy-duty machines.

Beyond aesthetics, the design introduces practical features tailored to equipment operators. Integrated rails protect the buttons from accidental presses, improving reliability in demanding environments. The key fob also includes an emergency remote kill switch for safety, as well as a fuel level indicator that allows operators to quickly assess whether a machine will require refueling—helping coordinate with diesel service trucks before the start of a workday.