2. Computer Aided design¶
Assignments and Assessment this week¶
Assignments¶
Model (raster, vector, 2D, 3D, render, animate, simulate, …) a possible final project, compress your images and videos, and post a description with your design files on your class page
Learning outcomes¶
Evaluate and select 2D and 3D software Demonstrate and describe processes used in modelling with 2D and 3D softwares Demonstrate image and video compression
Have you answered these questions?¶
Modelled experimental objects/part of a possible final project in 2D and/or 3D software Shown how you did it with words/images/screenshots  a possible final project,. They are suitable for delicate color expression such as photographs (.jpg, .png), but tend to become grainy when enlarged. They can be edited in Photoshop.
Open GIMP
In the GIMP by open image
set grey scale
save setting
choice jpeg
Quality 50 to Export
Quit GIMP
Inkscape¶
Inkscape is free vector image editing software. Vector images are a format in which lines and surfaces are defined by mathematical formulas and represented as a continuous form. They are suitable for scaling (.ai, .svg) such as logos, and retain clarity regardless of resolution. They can be edited in Illustrator.
Open Inkscape and openfile
chek the change data
put the text
change text whight
cut off the image to text sape
save
Affinty¶
Affinty was originally developed by the British software company Serif as a series of three paid apps: Affinity Designer (vector), Affinity Photo (raster), and Affinity Publisher (layout/DTP). Canva acquired Serif and integrated these three apps in October 2025, releasing the single “Affinity” app with basic functions free of charge !! This integration means that you can now switch between uses such as “vector,” “raster,” and “layout (DTP)” all within a single piece of software. It seems that integrating CanvaPro’s AI, which requires a fee, will make it even easier to use. Considering the days when you had to pay Adobe Tax to use Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, I think this is very good software.
I tried to do the same thing with Affinty as I did with Inkscape and GIMP, which is to process photos and cut them into letter shapes.
3D¶
Fusion¶
Fusion is a 3D solid CAD software that can be used free for personal hobbyist use. While the paid version does a lot more, even the free version allows for design, rendering, animation, manufacturing (CAM), drafting, and electronic design (formerly Eagle). Despite some limitations, it was far easier to use than FreeCAD, which I used as a student, and I still use it as my main CAD software. However, compared to AutoCAD and SOLIDWORKS, the accuracy of the CAD remains questionable.
Blender¶
Future policy¶
I’ve tried a few different things, and I’ve decided to use Fusion for 3D and Affinity for 2D from now on. However, I’d also like to try Blender and Unity.