Original
Lifecycle
(PDF format)
Extended
Lifecycle
(PDF format)

Overview

The Sustainability project was a group project. Ji.in Chung, Eric Lee, and I worked together to come up with one redesign for the G3 clamshell iBook. We aimed to make the laptop more sustainable by increasing its lifespan. Since most computers end up discarded years before the actual components wear out due to obsolescence, the best way to accomplish this would be to give the computer use even after the processor is obsolete. Click here for a one-page PDF project overview.

Detachable Screen

The key to our design solution was the ability to detach the screen from the rest of the computer. The original iBook did not have this functionality, but we were able to seamlessly incorporate it into the design. The existing two hinges would now detach after loosening two lock screws, while the center channel for cables was replaced with an extensible I/O connection.

External Display

Monitor Sketches
(PDF format)
Monitor model

The better half of our design was the ability to reuse the iBook's display as an external monitor for a newer computer. Again, the iBook's original design was easily manipulated to achieve our goal. The colored crescent-moon part of the top cover was now made to swivel on two hinges, thus acting as a stand. Therefore, with the screen disconnected from the computer, all a user had to do to was flip the stand back and plug the monitor cable adapter into the port at the bottom of the display.

Multimedia Center

Multimedia Center
Sketches (PDF format)
Multimedia Center
model

After our solution for the computer's display, we were now faced with finding a solution for what to use the rest of the computer for. Our potentially viable solution: use the bottom of the computer as a multimedia center. The existing components would not be sufficient, so an addon would have to be purchased. Since the addon would be able to use the existing processor and power supply, it would be be cheaper and use fewer materials than buying new components for those same functions. In our design, the addon would provide:

• a slot-loading DVD-R drive
• an infrared reciever (for a remote control)
• front USB ports for connecting iPods, memory sticks, and game controllers
• an iPod-style control wheel
• and audio-video ports on the back.

These additions would enable the iBook to be used for CD/DVD playback and recording, as an iPod dock for recharging and playing music through attached speakers, and as a retro gaming machine.

The Model

White Model

Although the other group members worked on it as well, I was primarily responsible for the design and execution of the model. As per the assignment, we created a "white model"- halfway between a sketch model and a finished model. Sign foam was the primary modeling material, and a clear acrylic sheet was vacuum-formed to create the half-moon display stand. Graphics such as the Apple logo, screen, and keyboard, as well as the multimedia center's front panel and audio/video ports, were added because they added great value to the model with a minimum time investment.