3D Printing Industry Awards 2024 - Trophy Design

It's been a while since I last participated in one of these contests. Admitedly this took a lot longer to finish than expected but I'm glad I made it right before the deadline. The images embedded in the description section seem to be heavily downgraded in quality so make sure to check the versions in the main image section up top.

Concept

Instead of going for a lattice structure design that's often popular I decided to create something that is a bit more nature inspired and sculptural but that would still be near impossible to produce using traditional manufacturing methods. I really like the idea of the brief for combining the two different print technologies. So I gave my design a context where the contrast between the two materials and their feel would be apparent and also conceptually coherent. 

The the concept idea carries multiple symbolic values & connotations such as:

• “a gem among gems” (standing out among the crowd) 
• the strife to further refine the beauty that surrounds us
• delicate refinement of existing technological advancements
• the need to customize and make things our own by making them fit precisely
• shape wise it is also closely inspired by the 3DPI Awards logo
• the interconnection of both parts symbolizes a “key solution to a problem" or simply a "key to success”

I started with sketches to get a feel for the concept and to find a fitting design language. It was also here where I tested how the 3DPI Awards logo would interplay with the design and which orientation of the hexagon shape would work best. This sketching phase allowed me to test a few ideas and also inform my decision making later on during 3D modeling.
The parts are connected via this interlocking key. The metal part is inserted at a 45° angle and then rotated into a locked position for a perfect alignment. This way it won't fall off even when held upside down. I also chose this particular solution because usually it would be impossible to create the cut-out on the inside if it wasn't 3D printed.
	The interesting aspect of using a crystal design for the polymer SLS is that it could even be further elevated through post processing. While making the 3D renders and developing the shaders I found that making the sharp edges just a bit glossier and softer added a slight weathered look which made the design look more authentic. I believe that using a polish tumbler for the finished prints could result in a similar finish. A polishing process/bead plasting for the metal part could also improve the result.
For the metal part I decided to add plenty of detail, in particular when it comes  to the flat surfaces because I was inspired by intricate textures on watch faces. This further symbolizes the idea of precise craftsmanship and technological refinement. The inward angled shape of the hexagon was chosen to slightly resemble a refined gemstone set in its final position. I'm really happy with the design of the metal printed part.  However if the text elements need to be more minimal or arranged differently it could still be further refined layout wise.