Magnet Sweep

I designed and built this magnetic sweeper to tackle the disturbing amount of old nails and screws scattered around my backyard and house. After collecting several pounds by hand, just by walking around and looking, I turned it into a design challenge: model and 3D-print a tool to help fight back the tide of unwanted ferrous materials.

Unfortunately, this story is not one of star-studded success. While my plucky little sweeper’s magnets are strong, his off-road performance… is weak. Thick grass or uneven terrain sends the magnet baskets flipping skyward, rendering him helpless. But on relatively smooth ground, like shop floors, paved surfaces, or non-jungle yards, he works like a champ.

While he didn’t meet my specific needs, this design still has potential to shine in the right environment. If you’re looking for a way to clear workshop floors or tidy up smooth, debris-prone areas, this sad little roller might just find purpose in your service. I leave his fate to you.

Design Detail