2. Computer Aided design¶

Task¶

For this week assigmnement we had to :

Model (raster, vector, 2D, 3D, render, animate, simulate, ...) a possible final project t
compress your images and videos in GIMP
Explore 2D and 3D CAD Design

Gimp¶

To reduce the file size of an image using GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program), i followed the following steps
1. Go to File > Open and select the image you want to reduce the size of.
2. If the image dimensions are larger than needed, reducing them can significantly decrease the file size.
3. Go to Image > Scale Image.
4. Enter new values for Width and Height. Make sure to maintain the aspect ratio to avoid distorting the image.
5. Click Scale.

Adjust Image Quality:¶

1.For JPEG images, reducing the quality will lower the file size.
2.Go to File > Export As or File > Save As if you’re saving a copy.
3.Choose a file name and select a file type (JPEG is a good option for photos).
4.Click Export

ImageMagick¶

ImageMagick software lets you create, edit, compose, or convert bitmap images in a wide variety of formats. Unlike graphic software with a graphical interface like GIMP, ImageMagick primarily operates through the command line.

Why Opt for ImageMagick Over GIMP?¶

While GIMP is fantastic for detailed, manual editing i prefered Image Magick as it is command-line-based, you can write scripts to modify batches of images with just a few keystrokes. This can be a massive time-saver for tasks like resizing a folder full of images, converting formats, or reducing file sizes for web use. Plus, ImageMagick can work in the background, integrated into web servers, or called from other applications, making it a versatile tool for developers and power users.

As i worked with LEGO Education for 8 years I decided to create a LEGO brick as my 1^st design on different software packages.

Shaper3D¶

Shapr3D is a professional 3D CAD tool developed for the iPad and desktop, designed to support both technical and creative professionals in transforming their ideas into three-dimensional models. Utilizing the Apple Pencil for intuitive design on the iPad with compatibility with industry-standard file formats such as STEP, IGES, STL, and OBJ.

shaper3D

Parametric Modelling in FreeCAD¶

FreeCAD is designed for parametric modeling. This means that the geometry that you create, instead of being freely editable, is produced by rules and parameters. For example, a cylinder might be produced from a radius and a height. With these two parameters, the program has enough information to build the cylinder.

Creating a LEGO brick (4x2) in FreeCAD using parametric modeling involves a series of steps that leverage the power of sketching, padding, pocketing, and creating patterns. Here are the steps to achieving this:

Step 1¶

Start a New Sketch: Choose a plane (XY, XZ, or YZ) and start a new sketch for the base of the LEGO brick, drawing a rectangle with the dimensions of the 4x2 LEGO brick base.

FreeCAD

Step 2¶

Pad the Sketch: Exit the sketch mode and use the pad tool to extrude the rectangle to the height of a standard LEGO brick base.

FreeCAD

Step 3¶

Create the Knob Sketch: On the top face of the padded base, start a new sketch and draw a circle with the diameter of a LEGO brick’s knob. To make the brick stackable, switch to the bottom face, start a new sketch, and draw the appropriate pattern of circles or rectangles where the LEGO brick would connect with others. Use the pocket tool to extrude these sketches inward.

FreeCAD

Step 4¶

Apply Linear Pattern: Use the linear pattern tool to replicate the knob across the top of the brick, creating a total of 8 knobs arranged in a 4x2 grid, and ensure the pattern and spacing match that of a standard LEGO brick.

FreeCAD

Step 5¶

FreeCAD

CAD Modelling in Fusion 360¶

Fusion 360, developed by Autodesk, is a powerful, cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE tool that is particularly valuable for participants in the Fab Academy program. It integrates various aspects of the design and manufacturing process into a single platform, making it an indispensable resource for students and professionals working on digital fabrication projects.

Fusion_0

Step 1¶

Draw Sketch: Start by drawing a rectangle on the top plane with dimensions of 31.8mm x 15.8mm to represent the top view of the LEGO brick.

Fusion_1

Step 2¶

Extrude: Extrude the rectangle upwards by 9.6mm to create the body of the LEGO brick.

Fusion_2

Step 3¶

Create Stud: Sketch a circle with a diameter of 4.8mm on the top surface of the brick, positioned correctly to represent one stud.Extrude the circle upwards by 1.7mm to form the stud.

Fusion_3

Step 4¶

Linear Pattern for Studs: Use the ‘Create’ -> ‘Pattern’ -> ‘Rectangular Pattern’ tool to replicate the stud. Set the number of instances to 4 in one direction and 2 in the other, spacing them 8mm apart center to center, to fill the top of the brick.

Fusion_4