3. Computer Aided Design¶
This week we explored a variety of 3D and 2D design software tools, each with different strengths, interfaces, and purposes.
3D Modeling¶
Sculpt GL¶
Sculpt GL is a free, browser-based modeling software that focuses on sculpting rather than traditional CAD-based modeling. Our objective was to create something in 10 minutes, emphasizing spontaneity and creativity under time constraints. I chose to sculpt Timothy Lockwood, a character from the movie Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs.
The reference image:
What I made after 10 minutes:
Feedback: The 10-minute sculpting challenge was a fun and engaging exercise. Sculpt GL’s simple interface made it very easy to jump in and start manipulating shapes right away. However, due to the limited toolset and lack of precision controls, it’s best suited for rough conceptual sketches rather than polished models. While it’s a great way to practice sculpting fundamentals, it’s not ideal for detailed or highly accurate models.
Text-to-CAD¶
Text-to-CAD is an experimental AI-based platform where you describe an object with text and the software attempts to generate a CAD model from your prompt. I tested it with several different ideas, some of which yielded mixed results.
Out of all the results, the “Wheel Rim” model was the most accurate and visually appealing. The geometry was fairly intricate, and aside from the spokes not connecting properly, it captured the essence of the prompt quite well.
Feedback: Text-to-CAD has potential as a rapid ideation tool, especially for conceptualizing mechanical parts or simple shapes. However, the lack of fine control and occasional mismatches between prompt and output limit its usefulness for precision engineering tasks. It serves better as a creative starting point rather than a production-ready tool.
Maker World¶
Maker World, developed by Bambu Lab, includes an AI tool that generates 3D models from images or textual prompts. I used it to create a bust of myself based on a deliberately exaggerated facial expression, to test the software’s ability to handle asymmetry and detail.
Here’s the sample photo I used:
Here’s what the AI created in roughly 3 to 4 minutes:
I was genuinely surprised by how closely the model resembled the reference image.
Feedback: Maker World delivered a high-quality model quickly. The tool’s ability to replicate facial features—especially from a single image—is impressive. While not perfect, it’s a great way to generate human-like models with minimal effort. Complex expressions may introduce minor distortion, but overall performance is impressive for an AI tool.
Blender¶
Blender is a full-featured 3D modeling suite used professionally for animation, game development, and simulations. It has a steep learning curve and is not very beginner-friendly, but its capabilities are vast.
After deleting the default cube, I added the built-in “Suzanne” monkey mesh using Shift + A. Then I entered Edit Mode and experimented with different modeling tools like scaling, extrusion, and proportional editing.
Later, we created a basic cloth simulation. I inserted a subdivided plane as the cloth, added a cube to act as a collider, and applied physics properties. After hitting play, the simulation showed the cloth reacting naturally to gravity and collisions.
Feedback: Blender is incredibly powerful, but requires dedication to learn. The monkey head modeling and cloth simulation introduced me to some of the key features, including modifiers and physics. Despite the complexity, it’s rewarding once you start to grasp the workflow.
Fusion 360¶
Fusion 360 is my personal favorite CAD program. Although it has a learning curve, once you’re familiar with the tools, it becomes very efficient for mechanical and engineering-style modeling. For this week, I focused on designing a component related to my final project—a mount for the button box on my simulator.
3D Modeling¶
Modeling this part was straightforward. Since I didn’t have calipers, I used a ruler to measure dimensions, sketched everything out on paper, and then transferred those values into Fusion.
Rendering¶
This was my first time experimenting with Fusion’s built-in rendering workspace. I adjusted material appearances and added lighting to produce a more realistic image of my part. While I didn’t dive deep into settings like ray tracing or camera angles, the initial results were promising.
Animation¶
Fusion also allows you to animate parts—useful for assemblies and instructional content. I created a simple exploded view animation in about 90 seconds. It’s basic, but effective.
Simulation¶
Fusion 360’s simulation features are robust, but most require a paid subscription. For demonstration, I used a built-in simulation to show stress analysis capabilities.
Feedback: Fusion 360 offers a balanced combination of modeling, rendering, animation, and simulation—all under one roof. It’s ideal for engineering applications and product design. The only downside is the cost of advanced features like simulations, which limits full exploration for some users.
2D¶
Corel Draw¶
I’ve been using Corel Draw for about two years, mostly for laser cutting and simple 2D designs. While it gets the job done, the interface can feel unintuitive and outdated. Still, it’s more forgiving than Blender since you don’t need to memorize shortcuts to perform basic actions.
I began by importing and tracing a bitmap image.
Next, I used the Cut Segment tool to delete the background.
Finally, I removed the fill and set the outline to “hairline” to prepare it for laser cutting.
Feedback: Corel Draw is serviceable for vector-based design work, especially for laser cutting workflows. However, its outdated interface and sometimes clunky tools make it less enjoyable to use compared to other modern design apps.
Gimp¶
Gimp is a free and powerful raster graphics editor, often compared to Photoshop. However, it shares Blender’s issue of being complex and unintuitive for beginners.
I started by importing my image.
Then, using the rectangular selection tool, I applied a Gaussian blur to the shirt’s Latin text.
Lastly, I adjusted the color curves to darken the image and apply a subtle red tint.
Here is the final result:
Feedback: Gimp is loaded with powerful features, but it’s not beginner-friendly. It took me a while—even with tutorials—to understand how certain effects work. Despite its learning curve, Gimp can be a great tool for photo manipulation once you’re familiar with the interface.
Useful Links¶
Downloads¶
Compression Software¶
I used these two tools to compress my images and videos for web use. Simply drag and drop, then download the smaller file:
Reflection on the Assignment: This week’s assignment was a deep dive into multiple 2D and 3D design tools. The most valuable lesson was understanding that each tool serves a specific purpose, and no single application is perfect for everything. For rapid modeling, Sculpt GL and Maker World were fantastic. For more technical work, Fusion 360 stood out. Text-to-CAD was interesting but unpredictable, while Blender and Gimp were powerful yet difficult to learn. Corel Draw remained serviceable but not enjoyable. This project emphasized the importance of choosing the right tool for the right job, especially when deadlines and usability come into play.