Week 2:  Computer Aided Design

2.4.2015 - 2.10.2015

Lecture Notes:

Homework:

Files:

2D CAD Software:

I have used Inkscape and GIMP many times in the past to draw/modify vector and raster images respectively and therefore did not include them in this week's work. 

I did want to supplement the 2D vector drawing tools found in Inkscape with a more sophisticated vector software and investigated Dassault's DraftSight.  Modifying and positioning vectors was not as quick as with Inkscape.

Conceptual_WC_DS_w

3D CAD Software:

I investigated several 3D vector software packages with the goal of better visualizing and describing three-dimensional assemblies.  The form of my conceptual project is purposely rectilinear to integrate into conventional rectilinear interior home spaces.  I explored three different conceptual compartment schemes while working with different software packages.

SketchUp, used many times for architectural renderings, was convenient software to use to produce a conceptual, simplified, straight-edged cabinet form.  Its controls were very intuitive.

Conceptual_WC_SU_w


123D Design provided some parametric sketch features when constructing 3D solids but was cumbersome to update solids from modified sketches.  Features, such as fillets and shells were useful, but some of the controls, updating solids from sketches, and navigating 3D space were cumbersome. 

Conceptual_SC_123D_w

I would likely use this software for single part design rather than complex assemblies.


Inventor provided better hierarchical and parametric controls and features than the earlier 3D CAD software packages I investigated.  Inventor also facilitates assemblies.

Conceptual_FC_AI_w


Design:

While a metallic or composite structure would be appropriate for this application, my initial approach to the compartment's design is to use conventional building materials (namely engineered wood products) for structural components along with some thermoplastics principally for compartment doors.  Engineered wood products are compatible with present manufacturing and installation technology and methodologies used in residential home construction as well as fab lab machinery and are the materials illustrated in the images above.  Impermeable film, or more likely an applied liquid coating, would isolate the compartment's interior.  Entirely plastic structures are feasible alternatives to EWP structures.

Design considerations include: