Repairing my boAt headphones using 3D Printing
*The article and images are original from the author and not by Curiosity3D
Greetings everyone, my name is Jitesh Jodhani. I am a student of MAIT, Rohini, Delhi and I am here to share my 3D printing journey with CURIOSITY 3D. I had enrolled in the Advanced 3D printing program because I had some prior CAD experience while working for an automotive society in our college.
Whenever I used to work on various CAD designs, I was restricted due to the lack of knowledge about the different machining processes required to build the same. While exploring the field of advanced manufacturing I came across the term "additive manufacturing" which led me to the world of 3D printing
PROJECT
The practicality of 3D printing has helped me repair my damaged headphone which I was about to throw away.
The problem was that the slider part was not available anywhere in the market as a spare. I researched on the internet but there was no easy way to replace the part. I could’’t use my headphones even though they still sounded amazing.
So, I created a CAD model of the broken slider part of the headphones! The process included multiple design iterations and 3D printing iterations to get the perfect fit. This was a great learning experience as I designed and solved my problem efficiently.
My headphones are now as good as new as there was never a problem with their sound quality but only a minor hardware problem that had to be solved! Watch the video below...
Another amazing thing I created was a “Lithophane” which is generally made of porcelain. 3D printing helps to ease the process and makes it very cost efficient. Just select a picture of your choice, slice it and its done!
One of my 3D Projects also includes the high mast floodlight.
I am very fond of floodlights and high mast lights which are used to illuminate large areas like highways and stadiums. Using the same concept, I designed the pole, light fixtures, and the rolling mechanism.
To depict a regular high mast light, I have also done the wiring and connected small LED bulbs which glow and complete the look.
While working for my college society we had designed a 3D printed air intake system on Solidworks software. For me seeing a CAD model becoming a reality was amazing.
As we all know 3D printing is now opening doors to new manufacturing techniques and ideas so students having an interest in manufacturing and production fields should really explore this domain. It is now possible to manufacture any part at our own work without any major material, fabrication costs.
3D printing has the advantage of manufacturing customized and complex designs. Apart from the tasks and projects, I have also designed customized keychains for my family and friends.
Another problem most people face is the breaking of the mobile phone charger cable. So, I designed and printed a protective casing for the weak links in the cable hence improving its durability.
To conclude I would say that being a mechanical engineering student, I found additive manufacturing to be a great field with lots of learning experience and I suggest everyone should give it a try.
Also, I would like to thank CURIOSITY 3D who gave me an opportunity to have my personal 3D printer and provide me with industry-level exposure at my home.
