2. Computer Aided Design

💧 CAD design of the possible end-project

The objective for this week is to develop models of the potential final project in various formats, including raster and vector representations, 2D and 3D models, as well as rendering, animation, and simulation. Additionally, images and videos should be optimized for compression and published on the designated platform. Simultaneously, an evaluation and selection of 2D and 3D design software will be conducted, documenting and describing the processes used with each tool.

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Learning Plan:

Due to my background as an architect, I have had extensive exposure to 2D vector and raster CAD software, primarily from the Adobe suite. Since the work in 2D is limited, I will leverage this knowledge and focus on developing my 3D skills. I want to strengthen my 3D abilities with Blender for rendering purposes and Fusion 360 to optimize the performance of moving mechanisms. Therefore, I will concentrate my learning tutorials on both software.

These explorations should help me achieve clearer communication and technical development of the project.

For this week’s assignment, in the 2D software section, I’ve decided to work with the 2D functions of Rhinoceros. While I also have experience using AutoCAD, I find Rhino much faster and more efficient for tasks such as hatching and trimming. It also allows me to test ideas within a real-time workflow that seamlessly moves between 2D and 3D.

Finally, image and video compression tools were also reviewed, and for the sake of practicality, the online platforms TinyPNG and Clideo were chosen.

💧 Research Objectives & Workflow

Week 2 will be dedicated to developing the G-code for the first exercises of The Machine That Cried. To achieve this, the following workflow will be implemented, starting with an AI-generated image prompt and ending with a text file containing the three-dimensional coordinates of the image.

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💧 Image Generation and processing

1. ChatGPT is asked to generate the prompt for an image found on the internet, creating a repository of images that can be used for various experiments.

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2. Dream Studio is used to try to synthesize the prompt; however, it struggles to achieve the desired results. Despite this, we obtain textures that seem promising for the proposed workflow, and 5 of them are selected.

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3. Optimization of color balance in the grayscale scale is performed using Photoshop, with the process repeated for the 5 selected images.

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4.Using a Grasshopper script, we can convert the image into point cloud data, which can then be cut at different heights, allowing us to create consumption areas with the head. These areas are grouped by altitude in tree branches.

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5. The next step would be to create a script that can draw the raster displacement of the head to cover the area to be destroyed.

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💧 Image and video compression

6. To learn about compression tools, we will use one of the images generated with contour lines from the mesh as an example. For this, we are using the online platform TinyPNG.

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7. To reduce video size, we will use the application Clideo, with which we will test the basic compression capabilities offered by the website.

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💧3D Research

8. At the beginning of the research, it was necessary to find alternative ejection systems for Cartesian machines before designing the device. To achieve this, images were collected, and the most suitable ejection system was selected.

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9. Initially, the ejection control system was chosen, including pneumatic pumps, mechanical systems, and pressure via pistons. Based on this, the use of piezoelectric actuators or bubble jet systems is considered to control drips and leaks following the ejection process.

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10. Thirdly, the size of the nozzles required for the liquid ejection flow is speculated. A threaded system is proposed to allow for interchangeable nozzle diameters. The goal is to have an extremely long printed nozzle that can handle very thick materials. Finally, the system is sized in relation to the 3D printer, including the development of the screw mechanism to push the liquid. A model downloaded form Sketchfab is used as base for the development of the machine sketch-


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11. After a period of analysis, the project shifts towards reconsidering the placement and function of the element. The concept of machine autonomy is prioritized, leading to its removal from the existing 3D printer and rethinking it as an independent object.

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12. This object will consist of a framework that not only provides vertical structural support but also has the ability to adapt to the contexts in which it is placed. It functions as a universal dissolver.

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13.The project has a dual functionality: on one hand, it can operate autonomously and be manually moved to complete large-scale projects using augmented reality devices; on the other hand, it can be attached to a predefined grid that serves as a more structured framework for projects requiring greater precision..

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14.Stability will be ensured by a balancing system that activates when all four legs are in the correct position.Inside the machine, there is a basic Cartesian system that receives the liquid, pushed by an infinite screw mechanism that moves the material from the interior to the exterior. At the top, there is a wireless programming board, a battery for operation, and an LED system that signals when the liquid supply is low.


💧 Downloadable Files

3D Modeleded Sketch

Grashopper Script