Week 4: Generative Design Headphone Hook (MAT238)
Intro: Week 4: Generative Design Headphone Hook (MAT238)
I created a hook for my headphones using generative design to store my headphones under my desk when not in use.
STEP 1: First Attempt at Generative Design
I designed pads around the corner of my desk as the preserved geometry for this attempt. My goal was for the algorithm to find a unique path to connect the geometry. I used the desk model and a headphone model as the keep-out zone for this simulation. While I was hopeful for some useful results, none of them converged so I figured that I had to give more constraints to the initial geometry.
STEP 2: Second Attempt
In my second attempt, I decided to model about half of the hook myself, and create the initial shape for the generative design. I used generative design in two locations: one to connect the headphone shelf to the clip, and one to connect the clip to the top of the desk. This study produced more interesting results and I selected the ones that had the most holes in them. I found these results to be intriguing, and I would not have thought to design those features like the algorithm did.
STEP 3: Slicing
In preparation for 3D printing, I used the standard Cura settings for a Prusa i3, but I used gyroid infill and tree supports. I thought using tree supports for this design was cool as they have similar aesthetics.
STEP 4: Results
Well, the hook is a nice piece of art. In the generative design, I constrained some faces in contact with the desk by designating them as fixed. In reality, this was not the case as I intended for the hook to slide into place. I could use double-sided foam tape to fix the hook into place, but further iteration would be required to make the hook work without adhesive.
Comments
ElijahFrankle 4 weeks ago
Hey Max, your final design looks great! I think this is an ideal use of the starting geometry tool as you were able to keep the back support flat but the generative aspect still produces a cool curve. Now that you've gotten your print back what do you think? It's also fun we both did things for our headphones :)