The idea of using 3D printing to build entire houses has been around for a while now. But in construction, smaller applications are often much more important or can be applied more rapidly. The classic power socket has remained unchanged for years. Despite this, there are many new applications imaginable for power sockets that more effectively reflect modern society and the way we use electricity. 3D printing opens up opportunities for these new applications:

Unconventional shapes
It is possible to take existing wall sockets and develop new and interesting designs. One example is a printed power socket that goes around the corner.

Power socket with USB port
Power sockets combined with a five-volt output (usb input) that can be used to charge mobile phones, etc. The wall structure behind it contains an extra wall socket with a transformer to convert 220-volt alternating current to 5-volt direct current.

Designed by Zjenja Doubrovski, PhD student Design for Additive Design.
Featured at the Bouwbeurs 2015, Utrecht the Netherlands.

printed upside down with a brim and without supports. prints fast but acceptable at 0.2mm layer height and 2mm shell thickness (20% infill).