2D Design -Raster

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.

For this assignment, I experimented with several software tools:

ADOBE PHOTOSHOP

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.
Inserting an image for editing:

Step 1

We click on "Place Embedded" to insert an image into our document.

Step 2

We choose the photo to insert from our computer.

Step 3

We resize and position the image, then click the check mark.

Step 4

We click on the "Layer" tab, then go to "Rasterize" and choose "Layer" to convert the image into an editable format.

2D Design - Vector

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.

For this assignment, I experimented with several software tools:

AUTOCAD 2D

Autodesk is in charge of the AutoCAD license and they offer free licenses to students for 1 year: Autodesk Autocad

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.

Drawing Units

We set the working units by typing "UNITS".

Drawing Units

We will work in millimeters using the International System.

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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.

AUTOCAD Commands

We select the "polygon" command and draw a hexagon.

AUTOCAD Commands

We create an inner and outer offset using the "Offset" command.

AUTOCAD Commands

We select all the completed polygons and click "Copy" to make the needed duplicates.

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AutoCAD allows you to export vectors in certain drawing formats, but not directly to .svg; for this example, we will save the file in dxf.

Export Drawing

We click the AutoCAD icon, then select "Save" and next choose "Other Formats".

Second Step / Result

Further details or the outcome of the previous step.

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COREL DRAW

Corel Draw offers various types of licenses, including a trial version.: Corel Draw 2025

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.

We imported the .dwg file we made in AutoCAD to explore some Corel Draw tools.

Step 1

We click on file and look in the list of options for the .dwg extension of Autocad.

Step 2

In the window we choose the units and the actual scale.

Setup 3

The completed 2D design ready for fabrication.

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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..

3D Design - Model

There are many 3D modeling programs of mechanical, artistic, and parametric types; some are more professional, others more basic.

For this assignment, I experimented with several software tools:

SOLIDWORKS

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, I created the frame for the hexagonal module by sketching a polygon and then extruding it to give it thickness.

Then I made another piece for the movable sheet and adjusted the dimensions after correcting a measurement mistake.

The last piece was the axle that joins the parts together. In this case, I used the top plane so the position would be easier during assembly.

The assembly was somewhat complicated, since I had to create a separate assembly file, insert the parts, and apply the right constraints so the module aligned correctly.

I also tried adding textures for rendering, although my laptop memory was limited and I encountered performance issues.

Tinkercad

Tinkercad is an online tool developed by Autodesk that allows users to design 3D models in a simple and intuitive way. It is especially useful for beginners in areas such as digital fabrication and electronics. Through its browser-based interface, users can create, modify, and combine geometric shapes to develop prototypes, mechanical parts, or creative projects without needing to install additional software.

Open the platform here and sign in: Tinkercad

We click on "+Create" and then choose the "3D Design" option to start a new 3D design project.

We can see the workspace interface: on the left are the viewing controls, on the right are the basic shapes used to create the model, and at the top are the editing and saving options. We choose the cylinder shape as an example and insert it by clicking on it.

Now we will look for the "scribble" command to draw freehand.

We draw something freehand, then the top view opens and the drawing options appear at the bottom,

Step 1

We can draw something using the pencil icon, and we can also erase or fill areas by passing the pencil over them several times.

Step 2

Then we can edit the color and height to create the 3D model.

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Finally, we can export or save the file in different ways; in this case, I chose to export it as `.STL`.

AI RENDER

GROK

PROMPT:

Generate a photorealistic image from the attached photo, giving the gold a shiny texture. Make the middle hexagon rotate only slightly.

IMAGE COMPRESSOR

ILOVEIMG

I used ILOVEIMG to compress images and keep the page lightweight without losing too much visual quality.
First, we open the website: ILOVEIMG Compressor

Then we click "Select images" to upload the images we want to compress.

After that, we click "Compress images" to start the compression process.

Finally, we download the compressed images and save them in the project folder to use them on the website. Done!