Project 1.3.
7 Design a Protective Case Design Brief
PLTW Engineering
Design a Protective Case Design Brief
Client Earbud manufacturer
Target Earbud customer
Consumer
Designer(s) Conan Geiger and Gavin Geiser
Problem What is the problem? A manufacturer of high-end ear buds has received complaints
Statement from customers that the wiring for model E123 is susceptible to pulling free from each
earpiece when carried in pockets and bags. In addition to strengthening the wire
connections, the manufactuer would like to supply a protective case for the ear buds
that will further protect the device from damage.
Who has the problem? Earbud customers.
Where is the problem happening? All markets across the world report similar issues
with wiring pulling free of the earpieces.
Why is the problem important? The company has experienced significant loss in ear
bud market share corresponding to the increase in ear bud complaints.
Design We will design, construct, and test a prototype ear bud case with easy access, a
Statement hinged top, air circulation, and, most importantly, will protect the ear buds inside.
Criteria 1. The case must be composed of two components connected by a hinge
mechanism.
2. The design must allow easy insertion of the ear buds into the case such that it
requires an average user 7 seconds or less to secure the ear buds in the
case.
3. The case must securely store and protect the earbuds from damage and not
break or open when carried in a pants pocket or loosely in a purse or bag.
4. The design will include vent holes to allow air circulation into the case but not
allow any part of the earbud(s) to protrude through the hole(s).
5. Case should not make ear bud wires tangled.
6. Case should fit inside a pocket.
Constraints 1. [Time] A design must be submitted for critical review by May 17.
2. A 3D-printed prototype must be submitted by May 17.
3. Due to limitations in production,
the maximum volume of prototyping material is ______________.
the maximum print time is _____________.
Deliverable Phase I – Proof of Concept Only
s Initial conceptual sketches – at least 3
A multiview drawing detailing each component of the preliminary design
A 3D-printed prototype of the design
Documentation of total material volume and print time for prototype
Proof of Concept Statement
Project Reflection
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