RetroWave

Product Design (2024)
3D modeling (Solidworks and Fusion 360)

Meet RetroWave.

The mini portable radio that brings vintage charm to modern spaces.

Designed for on-the-go listening, this handheld aluminum companion boasts an extendable antenna, ensuring that you catch your favorite stations with ease. It features only the basics: a side power button, volume and tuning dials, and a classic tuning indicator. It packs a 2-inch speaker making for a rich and nostalgic listening experience.

Compact and full of character, RetroWave is the perfect accessory. Cozy up your living space, pack for a road trip, or take anywhere you want to bring a touch of timeless radio magic.

Orthographic View with Dimensions

Exploded View with Parts

Grille Cover
Speaker Grille
Volume Dial (1/2)
Tuning Dial (2/2)
Tuning Slide Indicator
Front Radio Casing
Circuit Board
Copper Wire
Power Button
2-inch Speaker
Antenna Hinge
2 AA Battery Holder
Housing for Battery Holder
Back Radio Casing
Battery Door
Extendable Antenna
Flat Head Screws (9x)

Design Process

In order to design a manufacturable product, I took apart a $10 portable radio I bought from Amazon. This allowed me to examine what components were necessary to build a functioning product. The goal was to design a realistic radio that was smaller than a smartphone.
In analyzing these components, I saw an opportunity to decrease the footprint of the circuit board and replace the existing speaker with a smaller
2-inch version.

5 Design Parameters:

1. Modern retro design
2. Wallet-sized
3. Tactile, real buttons and knobs
4. High-contrast color options
5. Premium materials

Inspiration

(from existing audio products)

Observations:

Aesthetics-first
Rounded corners
Pastel base with metal accents
Aluminum bodies
Physical interactions (dials, knobs, push buttons, switches)

CAD Software Screenshots

I used Solidworks to build the model, then transferred the .STEP file over to Fusion 360 for material application, animation, and rendering.

Exploring how craft and storytelling enrich the way people live, work, and play.

Exploring how craft and storytelling
enrich the way people live, work, and play.