Organic Headphone Hook

Problem

My Headphones are taking up too much space on my table, thus I wanted to design a slick looking headphone hook.

Thought Process

I started by drawing the contour of the headband by placing it on a piece of paper and obtaining its dimensions.

Next, I sketched out the basic concept that the generative design engine will build upon.

Initial Sketch

Prototype

I then designed my idea using Fusion 360, by preparing constraining the model using the following parameters:

  • Load: 20N
  • Geometric Constaints: The back was fixed as I intended to 3M tape it to the wall
  • Material: PA12, PEKK, Tough 2000
  • Obstacles

Generative Design Prep model

After running the generative design software, I compared the 4 Generative Design results as shown below.

Generative Design Front View Generative Design Bottom View

As the resulting geometries are similar, likely due to the similarities in their material properties and not under significant loading, their profiles are similar. Thus the top right one was chosen due to it looking the cleanest.

The file was then sliced using OrcaSlicer and printed on my Sidewinder X1 in ABS due to its environmental resistant properties.

Printed Hook

Testing

Due to my wall's uneven surface, I had to change the mounting method to be bolted onto my window grills instead as seen below.

Testing Printed Hook

The dimensions fitted well and was able to hold the headset without any issues even without the foam.

Potential improvements

  • Longer support/End support: Sometimes the headphones will fall onto the ground due to my neighbour's kid knocking onto my window

Prototype V2

In order to solve the issue of potential vibrations causing my headphones to fall off, I decided to increase the width and add a rail. The model was then regenerated in Fusion 360.

Generative Design Prep model V2

Testing V2

Comparing V1 and V2, we can see that there is minimal difference except the additional geometry added to the front of the hook which the generative design deemed to require more supports and thus has a thicker joint from the piece that holds the headphone band and the piece that is screwed on.

Headphone Hook Comparison
Testing Printed Hook V2