Artistic Vinyl Speaker: Specifications and Constraints

See my design preview post and project introduction post for further details about my project design and timeline…

[2] Casa Batlló Exterior                                                                          [3] Casa Batlló Interior

Top 5 priorities for my project:

1. A similar structural style to Gaudí’s Casa Batlló (see figures 2 and 3)
2. Play music from a Bluetooth speaker
3. Have a vinyl record on top of the main structure
4. Rotate the record (simulating a real record player)
5. Paint the record

To tell that I’ve succeeded in my project, I want to at least have the structural design complete, Bluetooth speaker embedded within the structure, and all electrical/mechanical moving pieces functioning properly. This leaves any surface finishing, and painting of the structure/record as a lower priority; however, I would still like to add these elements too.

[4] Current Design Status (requiring change to match pattern shown in featured image)           [5] Initial Sketch Ideas

Currently, my top priority is to complete the CAD model of the general structure for my project. This doesn’t include the connecting interface points, I just want to resolve the surface feature errors that my current design has (see figure 4). My next priority is to purchase/order a speaker that works with my design, a motor and all other required electrical components, and find a recycled record (likely from the record store on Pearl St. or a thrift store). After ensuring I have my main materials, I can alter the CAD design to include attachment points for the speaker, motor, etc. and begin prototyping/manufacturing with a 3D printer. After 3D printing, my priority will be to create a good/smooth surface finish, then assemble all pieces together. Lastly, I will make touch-ups and paint the finished piece.

The top 5 constraints for my project include:

1. Time
2. Material availability
3. CAD Skills
4. 3D Printing Experience
5. Money

[6] Example of a speaker I could implement with my design

First and foremost, it’s definitely a challenge trying manage exams, homework, and extracurriculars/personal responsibilities. Trying to incrementally work on a large project is difficult because I’ll often prioritize work that is due in the near term. However, I’m optimistic that I have enough time to complete the project, and I think that once I finalize my design (especially the aesthetic part of my design), the rest of the project will come easier. Something else that’s on my mind is material availability. I’ve done minimal research into speakers that may work with my design (e.g. figure 6). Finding something that fits my needs is difficult (especially finding something economical). I’d like to make a final decision on what materials I’ll be using soon, that way I don’t back myself into a corner by not leaving enough time for fabrication.

CAD skills have proven to be a bit of a challenge with my design. Although I have experience with Solidworks, I haven’t made use of its surface tools much. This has caused a few issues in my design, and unfortunately most others I’ve sought help from aren’t very familiar with these features either. In addition, I’m unaware or unfamiliar with other software that may work better with my design. That being said, the more I use it, the more I learn about it, and I’ve found a few work arounds to create the design I desire. A lack of 3D printing experience may also serve to be an issue. I’m familiar and comfortable with 3D printing (last summer, I spent a lot of time making use of the free-access ITLL printers); however, I have not printed anything of this size before and I haven’t attempted to smooth a 3D print’s surface. I plan to break my structure up into sections that will be printed individually, but will have to explore what resources are available to me for longer print times. I also typically don’t mess with print settings much, but to help get a better finish, I want to try to decrease print speed, decrease layer height, and increase wall thickness. Lastly, depending on material availability, the speakers I want for my project may be too expensive. I’m optimistic I’ll be able to get everything for a relatively good price, but it could change if there are supply issues.

Citations:

[1] Designed by me

[2] Valérie, 2020, https://barcelona-top-travel-tips.com/guided-tour-gaudi-modernism/

[3] Dan Blystone, 2025, https://barcelonanavigator.com/gaudi-buildings-in-barcelona/

[4] Designed by me

[5] Sketched by me

[6] Rockvill, 2022, https://www.amazon.com/Rockville-RockSlim-White-Theater-Speakers/dp/B0BB6WJ2BG