Pastellia
Accent Table
Designer: Iris Pham
Dates: September 3 to October 17, 2024
Deliverables: 3D Printed Bluetooth Speaker Prototype
Materials: PLA Plastic and Yarn Strap
Instructor: Cezary Gajewski
Overview
My task in this project is to design a Bluetooth speaker based on a design persona. Even though we do not have to reach the final version of our product, I set a challenge for myself to make a producible prototype with working buttons for my 3D-printed model. My persona, Mia Wilson, directed my product to target young customers between 16 to 28, who have soft aesthetics and require a speaker that is portable but also visually pleasing. The final design features analog buttons to optimize the usability, as the user can feel the embossed icons on the buttons, with a gyroid pattern grill, and a customizable strap design to match the user's preference.
Pastellia Bluetooth Speaker
Process and Finished Prototype
Reflection
As I have limited experience with 3D printing before, I was excited to explore the capabilities of this method. I started with the test print early in the project to see the different patterns of infill and how I could utilize them in making the speaker grill. Tolerance and the button mechanism were a challenge for me, as they should fit nicely and not move around. Using the JBL Go 4 speaker caused me trouble as the button placement could not be altered, but it helped me to create the analog buttons and inspired me to transform the speaker into a mini radio model. In the end, my design turned out well, and I like how the crochet strap matches the speaker's aesthetics.