SSG Prototype Phone

In order to be realistically flexible in the same way that open source software is, open hardware will need to be modular and flexible in new ways. This concept phone models a Skin-Skeleton-Guts construction method which allows it to be repaired, upgraded, or customized much more easily than existing devices. Additionally, by making the highest-wear parts (the skin and skeleton) out of the easiest to replace materials (sewn fabric and 3d-printed plastic) the device's lifespan can be greatly increased. An alternative configuration of the same guts as an E-reader is also shown. The Humblefactory is currently pursuing further investigations in this vein, using real, off the shelf, open hardware.

The Production Cycle

The Production Cycle is a project which explores small-scale manufacturing in dense urban areas. Additionally, it touches on issues of:

• Human powered manufacturing infrastructure
• Re-claiming waste streams
• Building maker-customer interactions
• Creating products which are unique to a geographic area

Makerwatch SSG

In order to demonstrate the feasibility of a real SSG product, and to have something to show off at TED Global in 2010, an SSG watch was created based on Bre Pettis's Makerbot Watch guts. Modifications to the firmware allowed for easier control of the watch itself, and playing of the Mission Impossible theme as an alarm. All files required to build the watch are available on Thingiverse.com. Most importantly, the differentiation of manufacturing processes for each functional layer -- skin, skeleton, guts -- allows more makers to participate in hacking the design, resulting in a richer ecosystem of modules from which to crystalize new designs.

Open SSG Tricorder

Building on the success of the Makerwatch SSG the Humblefactory has developed a non-injection molded, mass producible solution for people building Arduino prototypes. A simple 3d-printed skeletal piece allows users to create flexible SSG cases for their Arduino projects by clipping on skeletal supports, and covering the skeleton with a skin. In fact, this skeletal piece can work with any circuit board. The full build files are available for download on Thingiverse.