Computer-Aided Design

WEEK 2 ASSIGNMENT

Exploring 2D and 3D CAD tools, design processes, and file management techniques

Assignment Checklist

Status	Task
	Modelled experimental objects/part of a possible project in 2D software
	Modelled experimental objects/part of a possible project in 3D software
	Documented how you compressed your image and video files
	Include your original design 2D files
	Include your original design 3D files
	Include a 3D View of my design
	Catia VS Fusion 360
	Fusion 360 Stress Analysis

Group Assignment:

This week I focused on digitally designing a preliminary version of my final project. I used 2D and 3D modeling tools to explore shape, structure, and functionality. I also documented effective file compression practices for optimizing web content and evaluated different CAD platforms based on their strengths in design, simulation, and prototyping.

🔧 2D and 3D Design

I modelled an experimental object related to my final project using Illustrator for 2D sketches and Fusion 360 for parametric 3D models, ready for simulation and fabrication.

📦 File Compression

I compressed images and videos using HandBrake and TinyPNG, significantly reducing file sizes without losing quality — ideal for faster loading and cleaner online documentation.

📁 Design Files and 3D View

I included the original design files (.ai, .dwg, .f3d, .step) and embedded an interactive 3D view using Fusion 360’s web viewer, enabling full rotation and zoom.

🛠 Catia vs Fusion 360 + Stress Analysis

I compared Catia, suitable for complex industrial workflows, with Fusion 360, better suited for rapid prototyping and collaboration. I used Fusion’s stress analysis tool to simulate load conditions and assess model performance.

2D Design

For this task, I worked on vectorizing a swallow illustration I found online.

The first step was setting up the workspace in CorelDRAW to insert the selected swallow image. This was essential to prepare the editing environment and begin the vectorization process.

I used the quick vectorization tool from the right-click menu in CorelDRAW, which allowed me to streamline the process and convert the image efficiently without manual tracing.

The blue line indicates the vector outline automatically generated by CorelDRAW using the quick vectorization tool.

I ungrouped the generated vectors to gain better control over each path and allow for more precise individual editing.

I used the fill editing tool to remove the interior color and highlight only the outline, allowing for a clean and well-defined vector.

I right-clicked on the object to open the context menu and selected "Properties," allowing me to fine-tune the outline settings with greater precision.

After enabling the outline option, I applied a black stroke to clearly highlight the vector and ensure a sharp, well-defined appearance.

I adjusted the outline properties to enhance the visibility of the swallow. I edited the color, stroke thickness, and line style—keeping the default units—and opted for a straight line to clearly define the vector's contour.

I used the fill editing tool to remove the interior color and highlight only the outline, allowing for a clean and well-defined vector.

So easy.

Golondrina Corel DXF Files

Inkscape is a powerful, free, and open-source vector graphics editor, perfect for professional and creative design.

This image shows the initial setup screen of Inkscape v1.4, where the user selects the canvas theme, keyboard layout, and interface appearance before starting to draw.

"Time to Draw" screen in Inkscape v1.4, where the user can open a recent file, browse for another one, or start with a new blank document to begin working.

I’m now opening the document properties window to customize the canvas size, format, and other settings before starting to work.

Document properties window in Inkscape, where the user sets the canvas size, format, orientation, units, and adjusts display and rendering options.

This is how Inkscape looks after adjusting the document’s height, width, and units, and pasting an element from Google into the workspace.

I used the "Pattern to Objects" option and adjusted the opacity from the square button to make vector tracing easier and clearer.

I set the opacity to 21% to clearly see my vector lines and make accurate traces over the image.

I selected the pen tool to start creating precise and controlled paths over the canvas.

I clicked along the edges of my image to manually trace its outline using the pen tool.

So easy.

Node tool to precisely adjust curvature and shape details, enabling advanced control in design.

This is the final result after precisely adjusting curvature and details using the node tool.

Nice.

Golondrina Inkscape DXF Files

3D Design

Why 3D Design Matters

3D design enables precise visualization, optimization, and fabrication of objects, speeding up idea development and minimizing errors.

Command	Function
Pressing scroll	Rotates the view in the 3D space
Scroll + Right Click	Pans the view across the workspace
Scroll Up/Down	Zooms in and out of the model
Shift + Scroll	Rotates the view around the Z-axis

Fusion 360 is a powerful all-in-one platform for 3D design and manufacturing, perfect for engineering, prototyping, and digital fabrication.

This image shows the initial setup screen of Fusion 360

I will create a sketch to get started.

After creating the sketch, design options appear. I will click on the circle option to start making the base.

Once the sketch is created, design tools appear. I will select the circle option to begin outlining the base, assigning a specific diameter to each circle to ensure precise measurements.

Once the circle is created with its respective dimensions, I will proceed to extrude the sketch to give volume to the design.

The sketch has been successfully extruded, creating a solid body with volume.

Now I will use the same circle creation method, but instead of extruding them.

I will use them to make cuts and subtract volume from the solid body.

I have created a new circle and extruded it to add new volume to the design.

Now I created another circle that will be used to design a snap-fit lid.

I extruded and merged the pieces to form a single solid body.

Extruded.

I adjusted the dimensions to be the most suitable for my 3D model.

I created a circle to extrude it, intending to obtain a volume that I will later split into two parts.

I created a rectangle using the line tool and connected its edges with those of the circles.

This image shows the initial setup screen of Inkscape v1.4...

I created a circle to design a snap-fit surface lid.

To see inside and observe the liquid I will pour, I will create a rectangle that cuts the solid and allows viewing the water.

Cut

To power my generator, I will make three holes to connect the O- and H+ terminals.

The solid has been extruded to give it volume.

This is my 3D design before assembling it.

This is my assembled 3D design.

Final project idea STL Files

Tutorial Resources

Optimización de Archivos Multimedia

Compressed images and videos files

Consejos para Optimizar Archivos

Utiliza formatos modernos como WebP o AVIF para imágenes.
Reduce la resolución cuando sea posible sin comprometer la calidad.
Comprime archivos de video con herramientas como HandBrake o FFmpeg.
Optimiza el audio en mono si es para voz y limita el bitrate.
Elimina metadatos innecesarios de los archivos.

Comparación de Formatos

WebP

Alta compresión con calidad visual casi intacta. Soporte creciente en navegadores modernos.

JPEG

Amplio soporte, pero pierde calidad con cada compresión. Ideal para fotografías, pero menos eficiente que WebP.

PNG

Excelente para imágenes con transparencia. Sin pérdida, pero archivos más grandes.

GIF

Limitado a 256 colores. Aún útil para animaciones simples, pero reemplazado por APNG o WebP animado.

Recomendaciones de Calidad

Usa una relación de compresión de 70-85% en JPEG para mantener buena calidad.
Para video, una tasa de bits de 1500-2500 kbps es buena para 720p.
Utiliza 2 pasadas al exportar video para mejor calidad con menor tamaño.
Para audio, considera AAC a 128kbps como mínimo aceptable.

Open Image

File > Open to select the image you want to compress

Export As

File > Export As to open the export options

Select Format

Choose file format (JPEG for photos, PNG for graphics)

Adjust Quality

Use the quality slider to balance file size and image quality

Preview & Export

Check the preview window and file size, then export

Create New Document

Pasted an image from the clipboard

I will create a sketch to get started.

After creating the sketch, design options appear. I will click on the circle option to start making the base.

Once the sketch is created, design tools appear. I will select the circle option to begin outlining the base, assigning a specific diameter to each circle to ensure precise measurements.

Once the circle is created with its respective dimensions, I will proceed to extrude the sketch to give volume to the design.

Image compressed GIMP

Compression Results

Image	Original Size	Compressed Size	Reduction
GIMP Image	72 KB	41 KB	43%