Vertical PC Dock: Specs and Constraints

For my final project, I’m designing a rustic minimalistic vertical PC dock that can securely hold two devices simultaneously. The goal is to create something that looks clean and natural, fits a modern desk setup, and blends aesthetic design with practical function.

Top 5 Specifications:

1. Aesthetic – The dock should look clean and simple, with a rustic vibe that leans more refined than rough. I’m aiming for a warm, natural tone that complements the grain of the wood and feels like it belongs on any desk. The wood finish should enhance, not hide, the character of the material.

2. Functional – The holder must securely accommodate two devices without scratching or wobbling. The fit should be snug enough to ensure stability, but not so tight that it causes wear. Additionally, the devices should slide easily out of the dock when being removed. This means careful attention to slot width, spacing, and surface finish. I also want to ensure the base is weighted or wide enough to prevent tipping, even when only one device is inserted.

3. Machined Finish – While I want the dock to look handcrafted and natural, the final product should still reflect tight tolerances, clean edges, and precision in the cuts. I want to create a visual and tactile contrast between the rough exterior wood grain and machined features like the venting slots. These sharp, intentional details should signal craftsmanship and balance the rustic texture with the minimalistic approach.

4. Compact Footprint – The dock should be compact and help clear up desk space, not add to the clutter. Its vertical orientation is key to that goal, minimizing its physical footprint while keeping devices organized and accessible. It should feel like it “belongs” in the environment, enhancing the layout without overwhelming it.

5. Material Contrast – I want to bring in a secondary material—likely felt—for the interior of the slots. This will provide a soft protective barrier for the devices, helping prevent scratches while they slide in and out.

Top 5 Constraints:

1. Time Constraints – Balancing this project alongside school and other class responsibilities is going to be one of the biggest challenges. With limited time outside of class and shop hours, I’ll need to stay on top of scheduling, especially when it comes to shared tool access and any drying or finishing phases.

2. Machining – Achieving the precise cuts and tight tolerances I’m aiming for will require careful machining. I plan to use the router table for all future work as the wood is already cut down to size. In order to get consistent results with the router table, I will need to do test runs on scrap pieces.

3. Router Table Use – While the router table is essential to getting the sharp, clean edges and grooves I want, it can also be unforgiving. Ensuring that I get smooth, repeatable cuts without tear-out or shifting will require planning, clamping strategies, and patience during setup.

4. Sourcing the Right Wood – Finding a piece of wood that fits the aesthetic—visibly grained, warm-toned, and not overly processed—was tricky but as seen in figure 1 and 2 the piece that I found fits my desired aesthetic well.

5. Getting the Desired Machined Finish – It’ll be a challenge to strike the right balance between rustic and precise. I want the dock to show off the natural beauty of the wood but still have machined features like venting slots that are crisp and intentional. I will need to do testing to avoid the router from chipping the front face, as this could easily ruin my aesthetic.

With the materials prepped and the design goals clearly defined, I’m excited to move into the machining phase and bring this blend of function and form to life.