o-snap
Type
University project
Time Taken
4 months
Year
2024
info
O-Snap is an innovative reinterpretation of the snap-on joint, designed to connect pipes into endless combinations without the need for tools, glue, or screws. 3D-printed from recycled PET bottles, it merges sustainability with precision, turning waste into high-performance, adaptable components.
about
Snap-on joints are widely used in construction and scaffolding for their speed, strength, and ease of assembly. They allow metal tubes to be securely connected and reconfigured without complex tools, making them ideal for building adaptable structures. The O-Snap project takes inspiration from this principle, reimagining the snap-on joint through 3D printing and sustainable materials. By using recycled PET and a rubber O-ring mechanism, the design achieves the same efficiency and reliability as industrial joints but in a smaller, versatile format. This concept explores how large-scale construction logic can be translated into everyday objects, blending functionality with playful modularity.
process
The development of O-Snap began with material research and small-scale testing. Early prototypes were made using cork and Ciba to study how different materials behaved under pressure and repeated snapping. These tests explored durability, surface friction, and the ability to hold tension without slipping. While cork offered lightness and a natural aesthetic, it lacked the strength needed for repeated use. Ciba performed better in terms of resilience but was harder to achieve precise tolerances with. These trials informed the move towards 3D-printed recycled PET, which combined precision, strength, and sustainability for the final design.
results
The joint consists of a 3D-printed body with a rubber O-ring that creates the snapping effect, ensuring a secure and stable connection. Leveraging 3D printing’s flexibility, the system can be customised for different sizes and shapes, offering versatility and ease of use while maintaining structural strength.
To demonstrate its potential, the O-Snap system was applied to Ziti, a playful, modular lamp. With multiple snap-on joints, the lamp can be extended, swivelled, or bent into countless configurations, functioning as a desk, floor, or hanging light. Its adaptability encourages creativity while meeting practical needs, making it a stylish, sustainable, and functional addition to any interior.
