WEEK 02
Computer-Aided Design
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.
2D raster design refers to any type of digital image represented through a grid of pixels. A pixel is the smallest unit of color that makes up a digital image. In bitmap images, the visual space is divided into regular cells, where each cell represents a single color value.
We will download and install the program, either the trial version or by purchasing it here: Abobe Photoshop
When we create a new file by clicking on the "New File" tab, the configuration and preset settings window will appear. In this case, I chose the "Landscape, 7x5" working format at 300 ppi (which refers to the size and resolution) from the "Photo" tab, for this example. I left the other settings at their defaults.
Download and install as administrator. Click 'Next' for all default options. On the last window, check the 'Launch Git Bash' box and finally click 'Finish'. Type the command 'git version' and press Enter; this will verify that Git has been installed correctly. Type the command 'git version' and press Enter; this will verify that Git has been installed correctly.
Explore commands such as the elipse tool (to generate a perfect circle, hold down the Shift key) and the text tool (we can change the size in the properties bar); when executed, they are generated in individual layers as shown in the layers bar located on the right side.
GIMP is 100% free and open source. Download it here:GIMP
Opening GIMP and setting up the workspace. Importing and scaling images for web (72 dpi). Using layers and basic selection tools.
In this section, I am documenting additional processes and relevant screenshots of my work during this week.Testing brushes,colors
Description of what you are doing in this photo. Description of the second step or tool used.
Unlike raster images, 2D vector design is based on mathematical equations that define points, lines, and curves. This means that the graphics are resolution-independent, allowing them to be scaled to any size without loss of quality or pixelation. In digital manufacturing, vector files are essential because they provide the precise paths that machines like laser cutters and vinyl cutters can follow.
Autodesk is in charge of the AutoCAD license and they offer free licenses to students for 1 year: Autodesk Autocad
Overview of the user interface and template selection. Drawing basic geometric shapes and applying dimensions.
You can draw geometric shapes. In this example, I drew the basic hexagonal module using the polygon command. AutoCAD allows you to first set the exact dimensions. Afterward, you can make copies with offsets and modify the line type. Initial look at the Autocad workspace and tools. Drawing fundamental shapes like squares and poligons. Modifying paths using the Node Tool for custom shapes. Detailed explanation of what is shown in this image. Further details or the outcome of the previous step.
Corel Draw offers various types of licenses, including a trial version.: Corel Draw 2025
We imported the .dwg file we made in AutoCAD to explore some Corel Draw tools.
We click on file and look in the list of options for the .dwg extension of Autocad. In the window we choose the units and the actual scale. The completed 2D design ready for fabrication.
Explore adding colors to the modular panel by clicking on the smart fill tool command and modifying the colors in the command's properties bar..
There are many 3D modeling programs of mechanical, artistic, and parametric types; some are more professional, others more basic.
Download and install the SolidWorks program, and we will use the license provided by FabAcademy: SolidWorks
In SolidWorks, there are three types of models: the part, the assembly, and the drawing. First, we'll create the frame for our hexagonal module by creating a part. Then, we'll look for a view plane on the right to create our sketch using the polygon tool and enter the dimensions. Finally, we'll extrude it in 3D to give the frame thickness.
Then I made another piece that will be my movable sheet and gave it a smaller extrusion. The dimensions can also be modified because I made a mistake with the measurements.
The last piece was the axle that joins them together; in this case, the plane I use to draw is the top, so that when assembling it is in an easy position.
The assembly was somewhat complicated, since first you have to create a different job and insert the already made parts, plus I had to put the constraints so that the module would be correctly aligned.
You can add textures to render it, unfortunately my laptop doesn't have much memory because I kept getting this message:
PROMPT:
Generate a photorealistic image from the attached photo, giving the gold a shiny texture. Make the middle hexagon rotate only slightly.
2D Design -Raster
For this assignment, I experimented with several software tools:
ADOBE PHOTOSHOP
Inserting an image for editing:
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 3
When you zoom in all the way at the end, you can see the pixels as small colored squares due to the objects you have inserted.
GIMP - GNU Image Manipulation Program
Creating a worksheet is very similar to the previous program. It has a similar configuration, but the interface is different because the command options are displayed first.
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Additional Process 1
Additional Process 2
2D Design - Vector
For this assignment, I experimented with several software tools:
AUTOCAD 2D
AutoCAD is software used by architects and engineers because of its professional-level interface for drawing plans. In my case, I always create a template in ISO configuration because it is the metric system used in my country.
An important initial configuration is being able to know in metric units the drawing will be done, in this case I chose millimeters.
AutoCAD Interface
Creating 2D Shapes
AUTOCAD Interface
Basic Vector Shapes
Node Editing
First Step / Concept
Second Step / Result
COREL DRAW
A worksheet is created to begin working, either configured to exact measurements and with the required units, such as the actual material we have if we are going to use it for cutting or if a print design or website is being made.
Step 1
Step 2
Setup 3
3D Design -Model
For this assignment, I experimented with several software tools:
SOLIDWORKS
RENDER IA
GROK
IMAGE COMPRESSOR
ILOVEIMG
FILES