In the beginning of November we were introduced to a design contest from i.materialise and Rhinoceros: the 3D Printed Apple Accessories Challenge, which asked all creative people with Rhino3D design software, and a working knowledge of 3D printing and Apple products, to put on their thinking caps. The Challenge sought designs that would make high-quality and functional 3D printable accessories: docks, covers, mounts, stands, etc. for our favorite Apple devices. How time flies. More than two months later, here we are with the winners of the Challenge. Each winner received a voucher from i.materialise and a chance to see their own design 3D printed in polyamide. Here are the top three winning designs from the Challenge, which cover both the fun and functional elements of 3D design and printing.
Third Place: Earpod Earrings
By now earbuds are so commonplace, it’s no surprise that someone though that they should be spruced up a bit. Jeremy Burnich did us the honors on this assignment and designed some fun earpod earrings that clip right onto your earpods and hang down on small chains. Fittingly, at the end of each hanging chain are music notes. Now, when you don your earpods, you no longer have to worry about looking like everyone else walking down the street. The earpod earrings are quite the fashion statement, and they may one day be the new normal in Apple product accessories!
Second Place: iPod Shuffle Accessory
This next winning design eliminates the need for earpods altogether for iPod Shuffle users. Are you a runner who also uses an iPod Shuffle? If so, you and people like you have been on Jarmo Ikonen’s mind. Ikonen received his idea for the “Flexbone” by observing the needs of runners who use the Shuffle. He ended up with a very impressively designed accessory that makes it easy for people to train and run without sacrificing their Shuffles. The Flexbone fits behind the ear, eliminates earbuds, and it also separates buttons — resulting in better overall control. Ikonen received a 3D print of his device as well as a $110 voucher for his second place prize.
First Place: Mac Power Adapter Case
The top prize in the 3D Printed Apple Accessories Challenge goes to Mayri Gallegos for her simple yet very functional Mac Power Adapter Case design. This design probably won in part because it has such universal appeal to so many Mac users. This brilliant design has your power adapter ensconced in a 3D printed case that allows you to wrap some of your cord up when not all of it is being used. It also allows you to hang the case (see photo) which can really come in handy if you are usually typing away at a desk or table. Gallegos received a $220 voucher for the top prize and she also received the case 3D printed in polyamide.
Congratulations to all of the Accessories Challenge winners. They are all unique and imaginative designs that will hopefully inspire other 3D designers, too. Discuss these designs in the 3D Printed Apple Accessory Challenge forum on 3DPBcom.