Printer
This project centers on the design and development of a cost-effective, compact printer that integrates seamlessly into a workspace while offering a secondary function when not in use—positioning it as a purposeful object rather than passive desk equipment.
The process encompassed research, concept development, and full product design, guided by a defined user persona and target market. A detailed analysis of existing printers, including hands-on disassembly, provided critical insight into component requirements and informed a more compact, efficient internal architecture.
Manufacturability was a key consideration throughout the design process. All plastic components were developed with injection molding constraints in mind to support scalability and reduce the need for late-stage design modifications. Key considerations included maintaining uniform wall thickness, incorporating appropriate draft angles, and utilizing ribbing in areas in lieu of heavy wall thicknesses. These decisions help preserve design integrity from concept through to mass production.
Initial Development Timeline 3.5 months
Refinement and Optimization Timeline 1 month
Ideation
Prototyping A full-scale prototype was fabricated using laser-cut acrylic to model both internal and external components. The material’s transparency allowed for clear evaluation of internal assemblies, making it easier to identify interferences and refine spatial efficiency. This iterative process ensured optimal component packaging without compromising functionality.
CAD Development The final design was executed in SolidWorks, incorporating all necessary features and tolerances required for injection-molded production, including draft and structural considerations, ensuring production readiness.
Visualization High-quality renderings were produced in KeyShot, showcasing multiple perspectives, including internal configurations and exploded assembly views, to effectively communicate both form and function.
