Computer - Aided Design — CAD
Developing and modeling in CAD involves exploring different modeling approaches, including parametric modeling, solid modeling, surface modeling, and mesh-based modeling, in order to fabricate parts using computer numerical control (CNC) machining.
Tools
GIMP
The use of GIMP allowed the raster image to be optimized prior to its conversion into vector format through contrast adjustments, level correction, color reduction, and noise removal. In my case was used both to conduct tests and to evaluate whether preprocessing the image could reduce the geometric complexity generated during vectorization or as an editing tool to scale images to a smaller size while maintaining optimization for proper visualization within the documentation.
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Scale Image:
Modifies the pixel dimensions, resolution, and overall file size before exporting or vectorizing. -
RGB Mode:
Works with three color channels (Red, Green, and Blue), allowing full color editing before simplifying the image. -
Grayscale Mode:
Converts the image into a single luminance channel, removing color information and simplifying tonal analysis. -
Indexed Mode:
Reduces the image to a limited color palette (up to 256 colors), simplifying visual information. -
Color Balance:
Adjusts shadows, midtones, and highlights to correct unwanted color casts. -
Hue–Saturation:
Modifies the hue and intensity of colors, useful for simplifying or enhancing specific tonal ranges. -
Brightness–Contrast:
Global adjustment that increases the difference between light and dark areas to enhance edge visibility. -
Levels Adjustment:
Defines black and white points using the histogram to improve tonal distribution. -
Curves Adjustment:
Advanced tool for modifying specific brightness ranges with precise tonal control. -
Invert:
Inverts color values (black to white and vice versa), generating a negative image effect. -
Blur:
Softens edges and reduces digital noise to simplify contours. -
Brush Tool:
Allows manual editing to clean edges, reinforce lines, and correct tracing imperfections.
2D CAD
Inkscape
An image of a pattern generated through parametric modeling was used to obtain an SVG file. However when using the “Vectorize Bitmap” tool in Inkscape, an excessive number of nodes was generated in the resulting paths due to the nature of the original image as a high-density pixel matrix. During the vectorization process the algorithm interprets each variation along the pixel edges as an independent geometric change; The process transforms a discrete raster matrix into a continuous representation based on geometric equations that define curves and paths.
When the source image contains irregular edges or digital noise generates a large number of nodes to maintain geometric fidelity with respect to the original contour.This increases the file size, makes manual editing more difficult, and reduces efficiency when exporting the final file.
The solution to the problem of excessive nodes was to reconstruct the geometry manually instead of using bitmap tracing again. The image was imported only as a visual reference and the pattern was redrawn using the “Clones” tool.
This method significantly reduced the number of nodes in the final file, as the geometry was constructed from simple vector shapes with a cleaner and lighter structure.
<!-- Created with Inkscape -->
This is simply a comment indicating that the SVG file was exported from Inkscape.
It does not affect the SVG’s behavior or rendering in any way.
The <svg> tag
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width="201.16907mm" height="234.79794mm"
Defines the physical size assigned by Inkscape in millimeters. This value is generally not critical for web display. -
viewBox="0 0 201.16907 234.79794"
It defines the internal coordinate system of the drawing. TheviewBoxallows the SVG to scale without any loss of quality. -
preserveAspectRatio="xMidYMid"
Specifies how the SVG fits within its container: centered and without distortion.
<defs> element
The defs element acts as a container for reusable resources such as
gradients, patterns, filters, and symbols.
3D CAD
Parametric Design
Additionally, parametric design was used to develop geometries oriented toward dynamic surface generation, allowing controlled distribution, sizing, and deformation of perforations based on a base mesh. This approach enabled modification of the surface behavior in a controlled and systematic manner.
The variation shown between a flat surface and a deformed surface demonstrates the model’s ability to adapt to different configurations without the need to redraw the geometry from scratch.
In my case, the design development was based on the concept of my final project, which aims to use solenoids as an integral component to form a dynamic Braille surface within a mechanism that enables tactile reading for the user. In this system, the solenoids play a fundamental role in the overall functionality of the device.
The dimensions provided by the component supplier were used as a reference in order to maintain a realistic and accurate dimensional approach. This ensures that the model is not merely conceptual, but can later be used for manufacturing and prototyping processes.
This initial design serves as a scalable foundation to evaluate the complexity of the final project, allowing for the transition toward a more complex system that integrates both the complete mechanism and the overall design of the final project.
Design Development
This type of solenoid features the electronic, schematic, and volumetric characteristics required for integration into a dynamic Braille language system. It´s an electromechanical actuator that converts electrical energy into linear motion and is based on a coil that, when energized, generates a magnetic field capable of moving a sliding core (plunger) inward or outward within the solenoid body.
Render
Once the 3D modeling of the solenoid was completed, a rendering process was carried out to obtain a more realistic visualization of the design. For this stage, the file was exported from SolidWorks and imported into Autodesk Fusion, as the rendering option was not enabled in SolidWorks and the workflow in Fusion proved to be more suitable for this purpose.
In Fusion, materials were assigned to the different components of the solenoid, allowing clear visual distinction between the actuator body, the internal spring, and the moving plunger. This process facilitated the understanding of the mechanical operation of the system and enabled visual validation of the design before proceeding to subsequent stages.
