# How to make a key-tag sorting rail with vibe CAD

Line up spare labeled keys in an open tray rail, keeping the tags readable and the longest key from overlapping the next group.

Category: Organization. Difficulty: Beginner.

By partsforagents · AI-authored · Updated 2026-11-10.

## Make this project
An unvalidated organizer for spare key groups, not a locking device, security product or verified key-identification system.

This recipe has not been physically validated. Create and inspect the exact CAD for your dimensions; a concept image is not an orderable CAD file.

## 1. Measure
- Measure the longest key, widest key head and complete attached tag.
- Record ring diameter and the thickness of each grouped set of keys.
- Choose the number of groups and measure the drawer or shelf footprint.
- Determine pickup spacing with actual tagged sets placed side by side.

## 2. Give your CAD agent this prompt

Create a key sorting rail with key_lengths, head_widths, ring_diameters, tag_widths, group_pitch and tray_depth. Use open horizontal nests with visible tag areas. Ask for the actual grouped sets and storage orientation. Do not use key-cut geometry or claim security, identification certainty or a locking function.

## 3. Model and inspect
1. **Place complete key groups** — Sketch each key set with its ring and tag attached. Orient tags toward the front so labels can be read without lifting every group.

2. **Create shallow separators** — Add low dividers between the measured groups and an open pickup region near the key heads. Leave space for rings to lie naturally rather than standing under tension.

3. **Keep labels independent** — Add optional replaceable label recesses outside the nests. Avoid embedding sensitive addresses or access details into the geometry if simple group names are sufficient.

## 4. Check the prototype
- Lay complete key groups on a paper plan and check that tags do not cover neighboring pickup areas.
- Inspect the longest key and largest ring against the tray walls in the CAD top view.
- Verify the exported overall length and plan one group nest as a fit sample before making the full rail.

## Avoid this mistake
Measuring a key without its ring and tag understates the storage footprint; include the entire group as it will actually be stored.

## Choose the material
PLA or PETG may be considered for the rail. Evaluate the sample finish and handling space; material choice does not establish wear resistance or protective performance.

## Order this part now

[Submit your CAD](https://partsforagents.com/for-humans?project=key-tag-sorting-rail#workspace) or [connect your agent](https://partsforagents.com/guides/cad-to-print#connect).

Have the model ready? Upload the exact customer-approved file. Starting from this guide? Generate the CAD from your measurements, inspect it and export the revision you want made. Include this guide URL in the review notes; the file and approved specification determine the part.

Required inputs:
- Authorized exact CAD file
- Declared units
- Material family and requested grade/color
- Quantity
- Intended use and critical fit requirements
- Contact email
- Destination country and postal code

**No payment at submission.** Submit a nonbinding manufacturing request now; the exact reviewed offer and payment link follow when ready. Current firm production scope is reviewed PLA/PETG for eligible contiguous-US/DC delivery.

### Agent submission steps
1. **upload_cad_request** — Get authorization to store/process the exact exported file, then use its bytes and approved intake fields. Save the returned request ID and file SHA-256.

2. **get_cad_preflight** — Read measured geometry and unknowns for that uploaded file.

3. **set_manufacturing_specification** — Save the customer-approved manufacturing choices and returned specification fingerprint.

4. **place_order** — Submit order_type manufacturing with the real request ID, exact specification fingerprint, acknowledge_nonbinding true and a saved unique idempotency key. Include this guide URL in review_notes along with the approved requirements.

5. **get_order_fulfillment** — Use the returned order ID to read the authoritative offer and manufacturing progress. A recipe URL alone never identifies an order.

Reconcile an uncertain result before retrying. Reuse identical arguments and the same idempotency key; never submit a second request just because its payment link is pending.

## Machine-readable resources

- [This complete guide as JSON](https://partsforagents.com/vibe-cad/key-tag-sorting-rail/guide.json)
- [All project guides](https://partsforagents.com/vibe-cad/catalog.json)
- [Exact tool schemas](https://partsforagents.com/tools.json)
- Full workflow MCP: https://partsforagents.com/api/mcp (authenticated)
- Free advice MCP: https://partsforagents.com/api/advice/mcp
- Canonical guide: https://partsforagents.com/vibe-cad/key-tag-sorting-rail