Week 2. Computer Aided design¶
On week 2 we focus on Computer Aided Design (CAD). This included work with several type of graphical programs, from 2D Raster image manpulation, and 2D Vector graphics applications to 3D Modeling software and various analysis and simulation software.
Idea was to explore and test various Computer Aided Design software what including image manipulation, drawing and 3D modeling software and my intention is to have similar basic work done in each of this application to compare. Some of them I already use, but some I find interesting during Fab Academy presentation like FreeCAD and more about Blender.
Image manipulation¶
I started with raster image manipulation with GIMP, free software. I usually work with Photoshop, but in FabLab we support open source software so GIMP is powerfull substituion, although not so user frendly. Task was simple, to import raster image of Idea I sketch and crop one part and change Brightnes and Contrast, to make image tracing much easier.
I usually use Pain.Net which is also free software
Paint.NET | simple & free image manipulation software
In inkscape I tried image trace.
I also show diffrence bitween raster and vector on hugh zooming.
3D modeling¶
For 3D modeling I tried Rhinoceros, first imput SVG, but also use Background image option.
To make simple model, I made simple face and use Split command in Rhinoceros, to split surface with curves and then extrude surfaces.
This simple Rhino model is available for [download]((../images/week02/idea2_vector.3dm) in Rhinoceros native format 3DM.
I also work in Fusion 360 and made same model.
Some online 3D modeling tools not mentioned, and might be interesting:
Vectary | rather powerfull online 3D modeling environment
Clara.io | 3D modeling online with free plan
Figuro.io | anothe 3D modeling online tool
SelfCad | simple CAD online tools
Useful links¶
2D - raster - GIMP - PIXLR - Paint.NET
3D - beginning online webapp - Tinkercad - Sketchup
3D - open source - Blender - FreeCAD
3D - commercial - Fusion 360 - Rhinoceros + Grasshopper
3D - online modeling - OnShape - SelfCad free plan - Vectary - Clara.io free plan - Figuro.io free
3D specific and interesting - Zbrush - SculptGL, free webapp like Zbrush - SketchFab SculptFab tool, SculptGL under SketchFab - 1 - 2 - Generative design with Fusion 360 - Structural analysis with Fusion 360 - 1 - 2