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A repairable headphone, rethought through its user guide
I. Bosch (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)
Bas Flipsen – Mentor (TU Delft - Design for Sustainability)
C.A. Bakker – Mentor (TU Delft - Design for Sustainability)
K.S. Sekijima – Graduation committee member (Sony)
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Abstract
This graduation project, conducted in collaboration with Sony Corporation, explores how over-ear wireless headphones can be redesigned to better align with the principles of the circular economy. The current design of consumer electronics, including headphones, largely follows a linear model. This results in short product lifespans, limited repair options and significant challenges for recycling. This project takes a different approach, fundamentally rethinking how users interact with and care for their products.
While most consumer electronics are designed as closed systems, this project investigates how design can shift the perception of headphones from being a ‘black box’ to an understandable and approachable object.
The analysis of five existing headphone models identified key barriers to circular user behaviour, including complex design, inaccessible critical components, difficult disassembly processes due to interdependencies, the extensive use of adhesives, lack of intuitiveness and the product being perceived as a ‘black box’.
In response, a new concept was developed that centres on re-teaching the practice of product care through clarity. Central to the design is an illustrated book featuring transparent elements that serves as a walk-through of the headphones. This allows users to familiarise themselves with the headphones’ internal architecture, functions and maintenance possibilities without risking damage.
According to the principles of this book, the Sony WH-1000XM5 has been redesigned to follow the same modular, layered structure. Transparent structural parts and colour coding by function reinforce the visual connection between the two. The book and the headphones work together as a single system, with each one strengthening the other.
The final concept demonstrates how design can encourage users to take care of their products by teaching them how to maintain, repair and handle them responsibly throughout their lifecycle.
This project introduces a new approach to circular design and product design in general, placing the supply of information at the centre and adapting and optimising the design of the product to support it.