Assignment Brief:

1. Understanding formats: Explore different digital formats, including raster vs. vector, 2D vs. 3D, and techniques like rendering, animation, and simulation.
2. Experimenting Softwares: Experiment with software like Rhino, Fusion 360, Illustrator, Inkspace or Blender and convert formats and optimize file sizes.
3. Document Final Project: Apply these skills to your final project by modeling, rendering etc. and uploading compressed design files .

Understanding Formats:

2D:

(Two-Dimensional): Objects have only width and height (X and Y axes). Examples: drawings, photographs, and screens.

Raster images are made of pixels and are resolution-dependent, meaning they lose quality when scaled. They are best for detailed images like photos and digital paintings. Formats like PNG (Portable Network Graphics), JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), and BMP(Bitmap) support raster graphics, and software like GIMP, Photoshop, and Krita offer pixel-based editing.

Vector graphics use mathematical equations to create scalable shapes without quality loss, making them ideal for logos, icons, and illustrations. Formats like SVG(Scalable vector graphic), and EPS(Encapsulated Postscript) support vectors, with tools like Inkscape, Illustrator, and CorelDRAW providing shape-based design and transformations.

3D:

(Three-Dimensional): Objects have width, height, and depth (X, Y, and Z axes), making them appear more realistic. Examples: sculptures, 3D models, and real-world objects.

Boundary Representation (BRep) defines 3D objects using surfaces and edges, making it ideal for CAD modeling and mechanical design. Formats like STEP, IGES, and STL support BRep, with software like SolidWorks, Fusion 360, FreeCAD, Rhino, and CATIA handling precise geometry.

Functional Representation (FRep) uses mathematical functions to describe objects, enabling parametric and procedural modeling. Formats like SDF and implicit modeling engines support FRep, with tools like OpenSCAD, Houdini, Grasshopper (for Rhino), and Autodesk Dynamo offering generative and algorithmic design.

Volume Representation (VRep) defines objects as volumetric data, commonly used in medical imaging and simulations. Formats like VTK and NRRD support VRep, with tools like Blender (Voxel Remesher), 3D Slicer, Magics, and ZBrush (Dynamesh & Sculptris Pro) aiding volumetric workflows.
To deepen my personal understanding, I explored the topics mentioned above and referred to ChatGPT to further enhance my knowledge.

Experimenting on Softwares:

This week I worked on understanding and exploring 2D and 3D CAD softwares. This week’s documentation is divided into these two main categories of exploration:
The softwares I explored were:

1. Inkscape: A free, open-source vector graphics editor used for creating and editing illustrations, diagrams, logos, and complex artwork. It supports SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) format and is an alternative to Adobe Illustrator. Download Inkspace from here.


2. Illustrator: A professional vector graphics editor developed by Adobe, commonly used for creating logos, illustrations, icons, and other scalable artwork. It is a part of Adobe Creative Cloud and is known for its powerful design tools and precision.


3. Graphtech Studio 2: A design tool commonly used for preparing artwork and graphics for vinyl cutting. It helps create clean, vector-based designs optimized for plotters and cutters, ensuring precise output for signage, decals, and custom prints. Download for windows here.


4. Gimp: GNU Image Manipulation Program is a free, open-source raster graphics editor. NU stands for "GNU's Not Unix". It is a recursive acronym that refers to the free and open-source software movement started by the GNU Project, initiated by Richard Stallman in 1983. It is often used for photo editing, creating digital artwork, and manipulating images. GIMP is a popular alternative to Adobe Photoshop. Download Gimp from here.
   
   
   

   
   
   
5. Photoshop: A widely-used raster graphics editor by Adobe, ideal for editing photos, creating digital artwork, and designing user interfaces. It is known for its advanced image manipulation and retouching features.


6. LithoMaker: A specialized software that converts 2D images into 3D lithophanes—thin, embossed layers that reveal detailed images when backlit. It processes grayscale images into depth maps, making them suitable for 3D printing. Explore the website here.
   


7. FreeCad: An open-source parametric 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) modeler primarily used for product design, mechanical engineering, and architecture. It’s flexible and customizable, suitable for both amateurs and professionals. Download FreeCAD from here. Incase,you use Mac refer to my semiors documentation: Himanshi Jain for downloading and using FreeCAD for Mac.


8. Fusion 360: A cloud-based 3D CAD, CAM, and CAE tool developed by Autodesk. It integrates design, engineering, and manufacturing into one platform, enabling collaborative product development and prototyping.


9. SolidWorks: A professional 3D CAD software used for mechanical design and engineering. It provides tools for designing parts, assemblies, and creating detailed engineering drawings, often used in product development and manufacturing.


10. Blender:is a free and open-source 3D creation software used for modeling, animation, rendering, sculpting, VFX( Visual Effects.), and game development. It supports 2D/3D hybrid design, physics simulations, and scripting (Python) and is widely used in industries like animation, gaming, and architecture.

The above softwares that I stated, I have basic understanding and have worked on Illustrator, Photoshop, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, other than that the rest of the softwares are new for me, I researched to understand the basics of the softwares, their outputs and also the formats that they support for which I also reffered to ChatGPT to further enhance my knowledge.

Exploring each Software: Step by step

Inkspace:

1. Software setup: While setting up the software it asked questions like: Browsing for location, and then Install.
   

   

   
2. Opening Document: Opened A prefered documeny and got acquainted to the interface.
   
3. Exploring Tools: The software being very new to me I explored basic tools like shapes and Gradient.
   

   
4. Shape Builder Is my Favourite tool on illustrator so I explored It here,
   

   
5. Further, I wanted to Change the Document size; I had to refer to Youtube change Artboard size on Inkspace.
   

   
6. I did Some more explorations with type.Unlike Illustrator, inkspace create calligraphic, tapered, or pressure-sensitive strokes without using a brush tool.
   

   
7. Similarly, some explorations on 3d Command and patterns:
   

   

Illustrator

I have used Illustrator before, It is a go-to for me. I enjoy working on Graphical elements and have worked on various project using the software. You can check my work on Instagram: @abstract_s16 and Behance: samrudhi-rovalekar

1. I have a hang of the software so, I made an attempt to create a title/logo design and explored some fun techniques that would complement my Final Project idea: In the Bazaars of Hyderabad by Sarojini Naidu. I added a text with using the text tool and gave it a font that expressed a dramatic Indian setting.
   
2. Pen tool: I prefer using the pen to all time. It provides me precision with coordinates as I join every co-ordinate to the other plus it supports adding curves to a geometric structure freeflowingly. Here, I build an Indian stall vector using the pen tool.
Shape Builder tool: As I mentioned earlier, The shape builder is my all time favourite. I like how multiple entities combine or deduct to from one other to give me the desired output. Here, I used the shape builder tool to build the Masala Gunny Bag.
3. Exploring All other Tools: I used tools like, circle, brush, swatches etc to get an expressive output.
4. Image Trace: I explored Image trace as it quickly converts raster images into scalable vectors without manual tracing add Turns blurry or pixelated images into crisp, editable vector graphics.It simply converts intricate artwork or sketches into editable paths.
   Click on the image to select it. The image I chose here was a dagger. Image link is here
   Go to Window > Image Trace to open the Image Trace panel.
   
   In the Image Trace panel, select a preset from the Preset dropdown (e.g., High Fidelity Photo, Black and White Logo, or Line Art). Here I chose default Bw.
   Once satisfied, click Expand on the top toolbar to convert the traced image into editable vector paths.
   Ungroup to separate elements and make further modifications.
   
   Go to Object > Ungroup to separate elements and make further modifications.
   
   Quickly converted raster images into scalable vectors without manual tracing.
   
   
5. Final Outcome:

Graphtech Studio:

• Graphtec Studio 2 is a design software for Graphtec cutting plotters. It allows users to create, edit, and send designs to Graphtec cutters. Below are step-by-step instructions for getting started with the software.


• Step 1: Install and Launch Graphtec Studio 2 from here
  • Download the software from the official Graphtec website.
  • Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  • Open Graphtec Studio 2 after installation.


• step 2: Create or Import a Design.
  • Import an Existing File:
    The linked I reffered to witch house
    
    Click “File” > “Open”. Here I opened an already existng vector to image trace.
    
    
  • Step 3: Trace The image.

    Trace the image with the trace tool:

    

    Select the area type:

    

  • Delete the actual image after forming the traced image:

    

    Click “Send” to transfer the design to your Graphtec cutter:

    

Gimp

• Gimp is often used for photo editing, creating digital artwork, and manipulating images. GIMP is a popular alternative to Adobe Photoshop.
• Exploring the basics of the software:

• Basic interface

  
  

  Change document size: File> Document setting> Costum dimensions

  

  Import Image: The following image is reffered to my speculative design project. Watch it on Behance

  
• Using selection tools

• Free select tool

  

  Select main layer> Duplicate> delete selected

  

  Rectangle selection tool.

  
• Final Outcome:

• Previous output

  

  Final Output:

  

Photoshop

I have recently worked on few projects on photoshop some of them are, using various tools like brush tool, Photo manipulation, type etc. Refer to my Behance
to learn mor eabout these projects.

1. Wonder Woman: Brush tool.

   

   Boat Earphones: Photo manipulation

   

   Typography:

   

FreeCAD

Freecad was very new for me, I reffered to the Youtube video to get acquainted to the FreeCAD basics to get fimiliar with it’s interface. I tried exploring Spreadsheet-Driven Design in FreeCAD.

FreeCAD allows you to control dimensions and parameters using a spreadsheet, making it easier to modify designs without manually updating each feature. This is especially useful for parametric modeling (where changes in values update the entire model automatically). The software being very new for me i referred to a youtube video to understand Spreadsheet driven design.Step-by-Step Guide: Using Spreadsheets for Parametric Design-

1. Installing Freecad: It will ask basic information like setting up the browser destination. I clicked 'Next' to almost all of the set-up questions that the FreeCAD setup asked for the installation process.


2. New File: On opening a new file, FreeCad gave me options for new file types to work one, for eg: Parametric, assembly etc. I went furthure with Parametric Part design.


3. Create Sketch: Once I opened a new file, i went forward with the following steps:
   
   

   Create Body:

   

   Create sketch:

   

   Choose X-Y plane as per requirement:

   

   
   
   4. I used a centre rectangle tool to build a rectangle, gave it dimensions untill it was fully constrained.

   Create centre rectangle:

   

   Add constrain:

   

   Leave sketch when fully constrain:

   
   5. Padding: Pad in FreeCAD is equivalent to Extrude, meaning it adds thickness to a 2D sketch to create a 3D solid.

   Select the Sketch from the model tree and Click Pad (Extrude)> Length of padding.

   

   Add thickness by selecting a plane by select plane> part design> add dress-up feature> thickness> thickness amount.

   
   6. Spreadsheet: Pad in FreeCAD is equivalent to Extrude, meaning it adds thickness to a 2D sketch to create a 3D solid.

   Switch to the Spreadsheet Workbench from the workbench dropdown.

   

   Click Create New Spreadsheet (📄 icon in the toolbar).

   

   Rename it to something meaningful(Parameters) + define Length, breadth, width, thickness

   
   
   7. Define values in the Spreadsheet.

   Save the spreadsheet, double click on sketch> padding> thickness.

   

   On double clicking click on the blue icon and add code: spreadsheet.breadth to change the breadth

   

   Change one value, and the model updates instantly for length, breadth, width and thickness

   
   8. Final Outcomes on change in dimensions-
   
   
   
   9. Change materials and document view setting.

   Tried Changing the material of the body.

   

   Document viewing options.

   

Fusion 360:

It integrates design, engineering, and manufacturing into one platform, enabling collaborative product development and prototyping. I have recently worked on a lamp design project using Fusion 360. Here, Imade multiple CAD designs, which would effeciently add to my 3d print quality.

I designed this lamp in Fusion 360 by first creating two cup-like structures using the Revolve tool. Then, you added a helix between them using the Sweep tool along a helical path. Combining these parts was challenging due to alignment and smooth transitions, which you resolved using the Combine (Join) tool and Fillet for a seamless connection. Finally, you optimized the model for 3D printing by ensuring proper wall thickness and exporting it as a stl file.

1. 3d model using helix

   

   Surface Modeling

   

   Material exploration

   

1. 3d model using helix

   

   Surface Modeling

   

   Material exploration

   

SolidWorks:

I am currently designing a robotic arm in SolidWorks, and I love how the software helps me assemble each part with precision while delivering concise sketching. I have been creating individual components like joints, links, and actuators using sketching and extrusion, ensuring accurate constraints for smooth movement. The assembly process is particularly exciting, as I can apply mates to simulate real-world articulation and refine the arm’s kinematics. Although the design is still in progress, I am actively exploring ways to optimize pivot points, structural integrity, and material choices. SolidWorks has been invaluable in this process, allowing me to iterate efficiently and fine-tune every detail. As I continue working, I aim to refine motion control and manufacturability to bring my robotic arm closer to completion.

It provides tools for designing parts, assemblies, and creating detailed engineering drawings, often used in product development and manufacturing. I am currently working on robotic arm project using the SolidWorks software; somes of the work in prgress:

1. Robotic Arm test bed:

   

   Robotic arm base assembly.

   

   Robotic arm base exploded view

   

Project files

Illustrator Bazaar file Lamp Design Step file To download the f3d file, refer to google drive link

Parametric Design Free Cad

Conclusion

Comprehensive Understanding of Digital Formats

• Explored raster vs. vector graphics, 2D vs. 3D modeling, and rendering techniques. Gained insights into resolution-dependent and scalable design methods. Hands-on Experimentation with Software


• Worked with 2D software like Illustrator, Photoshop, GIMP, and Inkscape for vector and raster graphics. Explored CAD software like FreeCAD, Fusion 360, and SolidWorks for parametric and 3D modeling. Understood file format conversions and optimization techniques. Key Learnings from 2D & 3D Software


• Illustrator & Inkscape: Explored shape-building, typography, and vector tools. Photoshop & GIMP: Practiced photo manipulation, selection tools, and layer-based editing. FreeCAD: Learned spreadsheet-driven parametric modeling for dynamic design adjustments. Fusion 360 & SolidWorks: Experimented with 3D modeling, rendering, material application, and assembly design. Application in Final Project


• Equipped with a strong foundation in digital design and modeling. Can efficiently create, optimize, and document 3D models for rendering and fabrication. Ready to integrate these skills into the final project by refining models, applying realistic materials, and optimizing files for sharing. Future Improvements


• Explore deeper automation techniques like scripting and generative design. Enhance efficiency in CAD modeling and rendering workflows. Continue experimenting with new tools for advanced simulation and animation techniques.