Presenting the MFTB!



There have been a few systainer worktop designs in the past but i found them to be be either too limited or too simple to actually be useful.
So i set on designing a wooden worktop that also functions as a systainer/toolbox. And the result is the MFTB.

It's a wooden toolbox that locks to either classic or T-loc systainers equipped with an MFT-type top with lots of clamping abilities.
I initially designed this as a workbench, but from testing a prototype in real life conditions it seems that the most useful part is the storing space inside.
It's incredibly handy to have all the stuff you need in a box at a comfortable height next to you.
By example when installing doors i put all the little parts and hardware for the lock and knobs in there next to me, and took it along as i moved from door to door.
What also happened was that at the end of the day i had to distribute back all the tools that had been placed in there by fellow workers, simply because it's so convenient.
the holes in the top allow you to drop all the little stuff like bits or drill and small hardware in there, and not lose them and put em back where they belong at the end of the day.

During the testing period i didn't take it with me on one occasion, and i regretted doing that because i had to trim some stuff with no table or work surface around.
From now on it's always at the top of my stack, it's weight is almost neglect able and it can carry more weight than my arms can. I can also jump on it without it breaking.

I initially thought i would share plans, but designing, testing and building this took way longer than i expected. And the only way for me to go through with it was to ask a small fee for the plans. I am finishing a 25 plus page instruction manual with pictures, plans and details that i will sell to anyone interested.
for myself i made a sys1,2 and 4 version, the 4 version is intended to be used as a portable router/jigsaw table that i will finish later on.

Web page with link to purchase here.

multifuntion toolbox

Well done
love the design

What's it made out of? Is it painted MDF?

Really cool, you should get "patent pending" otherwise festool might copy an awsome idea!

 

AWESOME

Very nice! The label is a great finishing touch. I really like that you don't have  to remove the work / clamps to get into it.


Seth

Seth, i added a video, i hope that answers most questions!

I agree with the others that you've made a good thing there. Instead of building 8, build 800 and start selling them. Your tool box looks really good, as if it was made by Festool themselves. I think there could be a market for this, instead of just selling the plans only. I know I could have used this quite a few times when I was in the field.  

Just one question, the prongs that are meant for the classic systainer's latches, what material are they made of? They look like they're just wood, if so, they wouldn't hold up long.

This is what I thought as well.

Your MF-TB is impressive! I know that clamping ability would come in handy on every single job.

I'd like to see the router table version  I'm picturing it will hook up to whatever CT it's sitting on.

Excellent I keep seeing these types of systainer bench tops and keep thinking I need one, yours is the best yet well done.

Just received Tims plans. The only thing he could do more to help you, would be to fly to your town and build it himself. Lots of very helpful pics, templates, and text, but lots of pics. Seems like a tricky project but looks very rewarding and Tim covers all the details very well. I wont be able to get to this one for awhile, will post how it goes when i do. Nice Job, Tim.

Great desigh.  Just ordered the plans.

Curious which size you use most?  I'm thinking the Sys1 just for compactness but curious what you have found in your use of the three sizes.

Thanks!

neil

Very impressive, please update this thread when you're ready to sell the plans to make these.  I can't promise I'll buy, but I'm interested.  Thanks.

Regards,

John

You can now get em here, i made a page on my site.

For those who build them make sure you let me know if theres anything not clear enough, and make sure you post the pics here or send me some. I would be delighted to add them on my site.
I'm also adding all the mail addresses to a mailing list so i can send any updates or upgrades like the router table extension when i finish it.

Just PAYPALed you - don't know that I'll ever make one though ... just like your effort