Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
can be relatively slow, particularly if you are using a high-end machine via an online ser-
vice. By working in CAD before printing the enclosure, it's possible to experiment with
various designs and iterate on their form and relationship to the electronics. Because this
process uses more sophisticated 3D modeling software, it tends to be more difficult for a
novice to modify the design of the enclosure, even in a simple way. Conversely, experts
can capture more of their work in the 3D model, potentially achieving greater leverage of
their skills as they share those models with others.
Assembly
I've tried to take advantage of the manual assembly required for my devices by using this
step as an opportunity to engage people in their design and production. The radio and
speakers include a fabric element that can be chosen by the individual making the device,
giving it a unique appearance and personal significance. Other users, particularly those
with prior CAD experience, have created more distinctive variations on the design of the
products—creating an owl-shaped pair of speakers, in one case, or producing cellphone
enclosures from a variety of materials. Assembling a device offers an opportunity and an
engaging context for learning or practicing various skills, such as soldering or hand work.
Many of the participants in my workshops are motivated by the desire to create a finished
device but, in the process, gain experience with and appreciation for the skills involved in
the process. In addition, the mere fact of putting an object together for oneself can invest it
with a meaning not present for purchased products.
General Principles
The case studies suggest that there is more to making an open source hardware project suc-
cessful than simply sharing its design files. These guidelines attempt to distill their lessons
in ways that can be applied to other open source hardware efforts:
Use standard parts and materials (in conjunction with your open source design
files).
For others to make use of an open source design, they need to be able to get
the parts that it relies on, whether those are electronic components, screws, stock
material, or something else. The more standard and widely available the parts you
use are, the easier it will be for someone else to reproduce your design. That might
require foregoing components that are convenient for you if they're not available
to others. Note that this guideline is in some ways opposed to some quick proto-
typing techniques, which may favor the materials at hand regardless of their future
availability.
Understand and design for the fabrication process used.
Different fabrication pro-
cesses are good for different things—and they also have different processes and
