Husband and wife, Matt and Kaitlyn Hovas, designed and created this 3D-printed violin with painstaking effort and devotion. The 'Hovalin,' a merge in names of the designers and the instrument itself, evolved from a broom stick to a fully functional violin.
As both of the designers were engineers, they each brought different software and design knowledge to the table. Kaitlyn was also a professional violinist, meaning she could provide feedback on every step along the way. The final product proves that 3D-printers can truly make anything, even something as detailed and finicky as a string instrument.
The next steps for the creators is to make a violin that is half and a quarter of the original size, in order to make affordable instruments accessible for children as well.
3D-Printed Violins
The Acoustic 'Hovalin' is an Accessible and Affordable Instrument
Trend Themes
1. Affordable 3d-printed Instruments - 3D-printing technology is enabling the creation of accessible and cost-effective musical instruments, disrupting the traditional instrument market.
2. Merge of Design and Engineering - The fusion of design and engineering expertise is leading to the development of innovative and functional 3D-printed instruments, revolutionizing the way instruments are created.
3. Scaling Down Instruments for Children - Developing smaller-sized 3D-printed violins is opening up opportunities to provide affordable and accessible instruments for children, introducing them to music at an early age.
Industry Implications
1. Music Instrument Manufacturing - The music instrument manufacturing industry can capitalize on the disruptive innovation of 3D-printed instruments to expand their product offerings and reach new customers.
2. 3D Printing Technology - The 3D printing technology industry can explore the potential of 3D-printed instruments as a niche market, developing specialized printers and materials for instrument production.
3. Edtech and Music Education - The education technology industry focused on music education can leverage the affordability and accessibility of 3D-printed instruments to enhance learning opportunities for students and encourage musical exploration.