Computer-aided design

Model (raster, vector, 2D, 3D, render, animate, simulate, ...) a possible final project, compress your images and videos, and post it on your class page.

2D

I started with looking at 2D drawing programs. At first I studied the difference between raster and vector images. Based on my newly gained knowledge, I decided to use the programs GIMP and Inkscape, since each works with a different format.


Raster and Vector

If you hover your mouse over one of the cat pictures below, you can see the zoomed in picture in box on the right.
The original image includes the grid format on the left and the same image as vector format on the right.
The differences between raster and vector is clearly visible.




Zoom result

With a vector file, the data is stored in paths, which enables zooming without loss of quality. With raster files, the image information is stored in pixels, therefore you can see small colored squares (pixelation) instead of straight lines when zooming in. These will merge into each other as soon as you zoom out. The two images on the left side look the same in size, but zoom shows the difference.

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GIMP

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GIMP is a pixel based graphic program, which can be used for digital paintings of raster graphics. It is free to use. For the next step, I tried to put two sketches together to get a better view of the model.

GIMP is well suited to edit, resize, or modify images. But to create sketches for a laser cutter or other similar devices, a programm that works well with vector files is needed. Therefore I have started to work more with Inkscape.


Inkscape

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Inkscape is a two-dimensional vector graphic program. It is available for free.


Fusion 360

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Fusion360 is a software that can be used to design 2D sketches and 3D objects. In addition, there are several possibilities to perform simulations. The software is free of charge for educational purposes.


Rendering

I also tested other features of Fusion360. For example the rendering which creates a realistic representation based on the specified materials. For this purpose I created two constructions of my robot system.

Little Bot
Triangle Bot


Construction drawing

With the construction drawing, a 2D view of the object can be created. Furthermore it can be viewed from all sides, dimensions can be displayed or it can be splitted.



Animation

With the animation you can build your object step by step and visualize it with a small video.



Other programms

I have also tried a few other programs such as Freecut. I realized that these do not seem useful to me, since I have been working with Fusion 360 for some time.
Before I started Fusion 360 I used to draw most things with sketchup. But with sketchupp you quickly reach your limits because this program doesn't work with dependencies. This means that once you have drawn something it is difficult to change the information later. For example I have drawn a hole for a screw in an object but after the first pressure I realize that the hole could be a little bit bigger, then I have to change or redo my drawing. In Fusion 360 I have the chance to simply change the diameter of the hole and can immediately reprint the object.

Sketchup

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Sketchup is a software to create 3D sketches.


Downlowds