Mobyfox
Consumer goods
From Print to 3D Transformation in Silicone Watchbands
My contributions:
Industrial Design
3D Modeling
Supplier Outreach
Market Research
R&D
Industry
Tech and Consumer Goods
Date
2020 - 2022
Target Market
Tech Enthusiasts and
Pop Culture Fans
Growth Stage
Ideation to Scaling
From PRINTED DESIGNS to 3D
Moby Fox is a brand that sells officially licensed, customisable smartwatch bands and watch faces featuring designs from popular franchises, such as Star Wars, Marvel, Disney, and more. Our products cater to fans by offering unique, high-quality watchbands that allow users to personalise their smartwatches with iconic characters, themes, and artwork.
I had the opportunity to introduce 3D molded straps for Moby Fox as a new product line. This is something we had never done before and presented unique challenges given its ambitious scope and technical complexity. I am very proud that my designs for an initiative I pushed for were well received by customers, accelerated growth for the brand and justified their expansion as a new product line.
The 3D experience process
Creating our first 3D watchband was quite a journey. As we navigated the world of suppliers, we reached out to several in China to help bring our ideas to life. Some suppliers turned us down; others set limitations we had to work around. Communication was tricky at first, with some trial and error along the way. After three attempts with one particular supplier, we finally found the perfect fit and decided to continue the entire process with them. Here, I’ll walk you through the steps we took to create our next series of 3D watchbands.
RESEARCH
FALL IN LOVE WITH THE LICENSE
All of these products were licensed and there are rules to follow in order for the license to approve, without license approval it is forbidden to sell the product.
We received style guides from licensors with rules, restrictions, images, storyboards, etc. We had to read, understand and follow each style guide.
BECOME AN EXPERT
Dive deep into the license by watching the movies and series (I personally love this one and wouldn’t miss it!), and connect with fans and experts. Conduct trend research, look into popular colors, comparable products, and top sellers on Amazon. Explore what fans are discussing and buying on social media to get a full picture of current preferences.
SKETCH
Begin by sketching ideas on paper, then move to Illustrator or Photoshop, and create a 3D mockup. Share these concepts with the team to give everyone a clear vision of the project direction. Gather feedback, refine the concept, and make adjustments as needed.
3D MODEL
After taking feedback and direction, start 3D model thinking about suppliers' restrictions and rules.
I use different software's depending on my needs for the design. All my templates were made in SolidWorks and some of the designs were created as well in SolidWorks and some in Rhino or NX.
LICENSORS APPROVAL
Build a presentation with a render of the 3D model, color scheme, concept, inspiration pictures, and product specifications.
Send it to licensors and wait for approval. If approved move to the next step.
PREPRODUCTION
Once licensors approve the concept, we move into preproduction. This includes 3D printing to assess volume, creating detailed production drawings, and sending them to suppliers for mold production and sample testing. Each strap is crafted through injection molding, using inlays to achieve the different colors.
Close communication with suppliers is essential to perfect the product. This can involve steps like adding an anti-static coating or polishing molds for a shiny finish.
PRODUCTION
When we receive a preproduction sample that meets our standards, we send it to our licensors for final approval. Once they give the green light, we proceed with full production. Shortly after, the final product arrives at our facilities and warehouses, and we’re ready to start selling.
