Upcycling an old iPad, into a desk clock

 

While going through some of my family’s old discarded tech devices, I found our 7-year-old ipads, which had minimal damage. I decided to try to boot them up and use them once again. Unfortunately, since the iPad was so old, there were a lot of software and hardware defects. Despite this I decided that instead of disposing of it, I could turn it into a desk clock, upcycling the iPad so that it becomes useful once again.

Procsess: Firstly, I took measurements of the Ipad and inputed them into Fusion 360. I used the “add sketch” tool within Fusion 360 to design an housing. I used other “modify” tools to refine the design.

Then I 3D printed it in 5 parts. It was assembled using super glue, and spray painted to look aesthetically pleasing. Double sided tape was utlised to keep the iPad within the housing. And a charger was attached to the Ipad.

CAS Targets: This project targets the creativity and service aspects of my CAS process. The creativity component originates from the 3D modelling and 3D printing I did to create a 3d printed frame. I first measured the iPad to get all the dimensions and inputted them into the 3D modelling software, Fusion 360. This allowed me to design a simple and strong frame to hold the iPad in place, on my desk.

The service component of this project is in relation to my service, Recycling. Where our goal is to reuse, reduce, and recycle. I

was able to reuse the iPad, this meant that the iPad would not contribute to electronic waste. It also meant I did not have to buy a desk clock, which also reduces my carbon footprint.

Learning Outcomes: I had 2 main learning outcomes. Firstly; Identify your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth. I had strengths within 3D modeling, and 3D printing. I further developed these by applying these skills into an unfamiliar form (a desk clock).

Secondly; Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process. I had challenges with starting up the Ipad, this led me to learning how to properly reset an Ipad. I also had some challenges regarding creating inlays on my 3D design, this allowed me to develop new skills on how to use more tools within 3D modeling softwares.

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