Week 05: 3D Scanning and printing

First Sketch

The first sketch of the model represents the initial stage of creating the sphere. In this sketch, the primary shape and dimensions of the sphere are outlined. The sketch serves as the foundation upon which the rest of the model will be built. It defines the basic parameters and dimensions required for the subsequent stages of the design process

Creating angles using polygons allows for the precise formation of the sphere's surface. By utilizing polygons, the curvature of the sphere can be accurately represented, ensuring a smooth and realistic final model. Polygons provide the flexibility to control the shape and details of the sphere effectively. This method ensures that the sphere maintains its intended dimensions and surface characteristics, resulting in a more accurate and visually appealing final product.

Extrude Surface

Extruding faces from polygons is essential to create the sphere. This process transforms 2D polygons into 3D shapes, forming the spherical structure. It adds depth and volume, shaping the sphere gradually. This step ensures the sphere takes on a three-dimensional form, allowing further refinement and detailing.

Cut Surface

Cutting the face from the sphere already created involves removing a section to create a specific shape or feature. This step allows for the customization of the sphere according to the design requirements. By cutting the face, we can refine the sphere's shape, creating unique details and features. This process is essential for achieving the desired final form and enhancing the overall design.

Circular Pattern

The circular pattern involves replicating a feature around a central axis. In the context of our project, it duplicates a specific design element around the sphere's surface, creating a symmetrical pattern. This step adds consistency and aesthetic appeal to the model. By applying the circular pattern, we achieve uniformity and precision in the design, enhancing the overall visual impact of the sphere.

Sketch in Pattern

In here we add details or shapes to each replicated element around the sphere's surface. This step enhances the design, creating intricate and visually appealing elements that later will form the piece.

Copy Surface

Create a surface offset at 0.00 distance from the sphere's face in SolidWorks. This will effectively separate the drawing from the surface of the sphere.

Align Pattern

Use the Align Pattern feature to position the copied surface in the correct location. This ensures that the drawing is properly aligned with the surface of the sphere. By doing this, the drawing will maintain its accuracy and alignment with the surface, enhancing the overall design precision.

Shapping figure

After shaping the figure you wish to use as a pattern, begin by extruding it to give it depth. Next, apply fillets to smooth out edges and refine the shape. Experiment with various tools to achieve the desired aesthetic and functional properties, exploring options that best suit your design vision.

Hollow

In the tutorial, they hollowed out the piece to enhance definition and make the sphere more visually intriguing. Personally, I found that this technique not only added more definition but also helped to save material, in this case, resin.

Round borders

To round the borders, you can use the Fillet tool. This tool is used to create rounded edges or to blend sharp edges. By applying fillets, you smooth out the corners, giving the object a more polished and refined appearance

Sphere Pattern

Finally, create the sphere pattern by using the Copy Pattern feature and adjust the angles to 120 degrees. This configuration ensures that the pattern repeats around the sphere, creating the spherical shape accurately.