W02 - Computer-Aided Design¶
1. Weekly Assignments ( -> what I did this week )¶
- Model (raster, vector, 2D, 3D, render, animate, simulate, …) a possible final project, compress your images and videos, and post it on your class page ( -> This week, I tried several CAD software, and made the simple model of my Potential Final Project. )
Have you?¶
Questions from “Fab Academy 2020 Assignments and Assessment¶
( -> my answers )¶
- Modelled experimental objects/part of a possible project in 2D and 3D software ( -> tried GIMP, FreeCAD, sketchup, fusion360 )
- Shown how you did it with words/images/screenshots ( -> see the next paragraph )
- Included your original design files ( - > fusion360 file )
2. Description of Assignment work¶
Evaluate & select, Demonstrate & describe processes used in modeling with 2D and 3D software¶
(1) 2D raster¶
GIMP¶
-
I installed GIMP, and painted some lines.
-
The characteristic of raster CAD was confirmed, by magnifying the part of the above.
| whole image | detail |
|---|---|
 |
 |
(2) 2D vector¶
FreeCAD¶
-
I installed FreeCAD, and drew some lines.
-
The characteristic of vector CAD was confirmed, by magnifying the part of the above.
-
whole image detail 
fusion360 ( sketch )¶
Taking this opportunity, I wanted to make something practical. So, I made a “iPad supporter for MacBook” ( in my case, auxiliary monitor instead of iPad ).
-
cardboard prototyping
-
modeling in fusion360 ( sketch )
- laser cutting
I used 0.5mm PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plate.
| masking tape for bending the PET plate | |
|---|---|
 |
 |
(3) 3D CAD¶
sketchup ( sketchy physics ( physical simulator ) )¶
- “sketchy physics” is a physical simulator as a plug-in of sketchup. I installed them and tried simple example. Although the file ran with sketchup2013 on my MacBook, “sketchy physics” is not supported on the newer version of sketchup.
video example, sketchy physics
Rhinoceros + Grasshopper ( + Kangaroo )¶
- ( I’ll try parametric design and physical simulation, when I have a time. )
fusion360¶
- I’ll use fusion360 to proceed my final project, because this system has necessary functions such as 2D sketch, 3D modeling, assembles, joints, etc.
- Then, I made simple model of my final project, which shows some outline of the project. The details will be designed later in accordance with this fab academy course.
overview
tree-structure of the components, and the drive simulator
generator and slider ( corresponds to the pedals of bicycle )
generator
| shaft, bearing, pulley | rotor, stater |
|---|---|
 |
 |
3. Important Learning Outcome¶
- I think “FreeCAD” is a powerful open source system which has variety of functions, although the interface is a little difficult to understand.
- Also, I feel a great possibility of the Rhino + Grasshopper ( + Optimus ) which can handle the multi-objective optimization problem.
4. Links to Files and Code¶
( to download the files, click here )
GIMP file GIMP_sample.xcf
FreeCAD file freecad sample.FCStd
fusion360 files
“iPad supporter for MacBook” monitor supporter rev1 v7.f3d
Final Project “generator” gen assy v1.f3d
Final Project “drive simulator” simulator assy.f3d