Since the desktop 3D printer revolution took off a few years ago, many have been left wondering when we would start to see usable 3D printed product designs that are considerably more polished than your typical DIY 3D printing project. Particularly, how do you make something 3D printed and functional while also making it look ‘cool enough’ that most people would actually want to use it in public? How do we move beyond 3D printed junk?
If the first product launch from print+ is any indication, the future of 3D printing as a method of manufacturing in the realm of consumer product design is looking a lot more appealing – and frankly, more intelligent.
The three-person Dutch product design company, who envisions a future where “people become the manufacturer of their own products” launched their ‘print+ headphone kit’ at a 3D printing event in Amsterdam on Monday and are already well on their way towards meeting their humble goal of $8,500 – one $20 headphone kit at a time.
Of course, the problem with designing a product that’s designed to be manufactured by a consumer on their 3D printer is that not every consumer owns a 3D printer – yet. To get around this, print+ has teamed up with 3D Hubs – the global 3D printing network – to help users connect with local 3D printers in their neighborhood.
“Our goal is to have customers manufacture the bulk of our products on their 3D printer or at a 3D Hub,” explains lead designer and founder Patrick Schuur. “By combining these locally-made parts with the supplementary parts from our print+ kits, people are able to create fully-functional, high-quality products.”
As for creating the headphones, the assembly consists of just two speaker housings, two speaker covers, and a frame – all of which are designed to be assembled without the need for screws, glue or tools. Once these five parts have been printed, a user simply attaches the components of the print+ headphone kit and closes each of the ear housings.
If nothing else, the print+ headphone kit just might be the perfect holiday gift for your favorite young designer or engineer-in-training.
Find out more over at the print+ Kickstarter page.
