How to Easily Store and Charge Multiple AR and VR Devices (Hint: Use 3D Printing!)

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Augmented and virtual reality devices are becoming more integral to our digital lives. With prices dropping and technology improving, these devices are now accessible to a broader audience. This accessibility isn’t just benefiting individuals; institutions like universities and hospitals are also investing in large numbers of devices for educational and professional use. But there’s one challenge: how do you store and charge 20, 30, or even 50 AR and VR devices efficiently?

Together with MvE3D, we’ve developed a simple, effective solution:

Augmedi StandKallaxAugmedi-1024x614 How to Easily Store and Charge Multiple AR and VR Devices (Hint: Use 3D Printing!)

The Problem: Storage and Charging Challenges

At Augmedi, our primary focus is software services, but we occasionally tackle hardware challenges for our partners and clients. One such case involved designing a storage and charging solution for 20 Magic Leap 2 devices for ETH Zurich.

Here were the challenges we faced: 

  1. The standard device boxes have protective cushions that block access to the charging docks for the compute pack and controllers.
  2. Charging 20 devices required plugging in 40 separate cables —hardly an efficient setup.
  3. Metal storage boxes, while sturdy, were not an option as they interfere with Wi-Fi signals. This would make over-the-air updates for the AR devices nearly impossible.

The Solution: Mobile Shelves with 3D Printed Mounts

To solve this issue, we collaborated with Martin from MvE3D, a mechanical engineer specializing in 3D printing. Together, we designed custom 3D-printed mounts that could be easily installed onto a standard shelf. 

Here’s how we put everything together: 

  1. We used the popular IKEA “KALLAX” shelf as the base.
  2. The 3D mounts were attached to the shelves to securely hold the devices in place.
  3. To charge all the devices simultaneously with a single power connection, we:
    1. Hid individual chargers behind a fake wall.
    2. Connected them to a multi-socket system, minimizing cable clutter.
  4. To make the shelves mobile, we installed wheels for easy transport.

The Result: Cost-Effective and User-Friendly

The outcome was a cost-effective, practical solution that significantly improved the quality of life for users. The setup is compact, accessible, and Wi-Fi-friendly, ensuring seamless updates and use – and that is how you can store and charge multiple AR and VR devices.

A big thank you to Martin from MvE3D for bringing this idea to life!

If you’re facing similar storage or charging challenges, consider a 3D-printed solution—it might just be the game-changer you need.

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