Week 02 — Computer Aided Design

This week focused on understanding the differences between raster, vector, and parametric workflows. The goal was to establish a clear path from visual design to fabrication-ready digital models.

Overview

Computer-aided design connects visual ideas with fabrication-ready models. Although raster, vector, and parametric systems use different representations, they all rely on the same fundamental principles: correct geometry, structured workflows, and compatible file formats. Raster design (Photoshop): pixel-based editing suitable for visual composition and image processing. Vector design (Illustrator): mathematically defined paths that ensure geometric precision for fabrication processes such as laser cutting or CNC machining. Parametric modeling (Fusion 360): constraint-driven 3D design where dimensions and relationships control the structure of the model. Understanding these three approaches helps establish a clear workflow from visual design to fabrication-ready geometry.

Tools used

Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Illustrator
Fusion 360

Key outputs

2D exports: PNG / JPG (raster), SVG (vector)
3D exports: STL (3D printing), STEP (engineering exchange)

2D Design Workflows

The 2D exploration began with raster image editing and moved toward vector-based fabrication logic. This comparison clarified the structural difference between pixel-based and geometry-based systems.

Raster Workflow (Photoshop)

Resolution Settings (DPI)

Resolution settings in Photoshop — Adjusting resolution settings (DPI) to understand pixel density and output quality.

Layer Management

Basic Image Adjustments

Levels and contrast adjustment in Photoshop — Applying levels and contrast adjustments to improve visual clarity.

Exporting PNG and JPG

Export settings in Photoshop — Exporting raster images in PNG or JPG format for presentation use.

Raster images are ideal for visual editing and presentation. However, pixel-based data cannot guarantee geometric precision, making them unsuitable for fabrication processes.

Vector Workflow (Illustrator)

The workflow then shifted to vector-based construction using geometric paths and boolean operations.

Building Base Geometry

Base geometry created using the Ellipse Tool — Constructing base shapes using the Ellipse Tool.

Boolean Operations (Pathfinder)

Pathfinder boolean operations in Illustrator — Subtracting shapes to create compound paths.

Outline Mode Verification

Outline mode check in Illustrator — Checking path integrity in Outline mode to ensure closed vectors.

Final Composition

Final vector composition prepared for SVG export.

Vector graphics rely on mathematical geometry rather than pixels. Clean, closed paths are essential for fabrication methods such as laser cutting or CNC machining.

3D Parametric Modeling

The core of this week was parametric modeling in Fusion 360. Parametric design is constraint-driven and dimension-controlled, making it suitable for fabrication workflows.

Fusion 360 (Parametric Modeling)

Step 1 — Polygon Construction

Polygon sketch in Fusion 360 — Creating an octagon centered at the origin with dimensional control.

Step 2 — Fully Constrained Sketch

Fully constrained sketch in Fusion 360 — Applying symmetry, equal constraints, and dimensions to fully constrain the sketch.

Step 3 — Offset Profiles

Offset profiles created in Fusion 360 — Generating nested profiles using the Offset tool.

Step 4 — Extrusion

Extrusion step in Fusion 360 — Extruding selected regions to form the 3D structure.

Final Model

Final parametric model in Fusion 360 — Final parametric layered star-shaped object.

Final Result — Animation

Rotational preview of the parametric model.

Parametric modeling emphasizes structure, constraint logic, and editable dimensions. Modifying a parameter updates the entire model, demonstrating the power of history-based modeling.

File Formats and Fabrication Logic

Different workflows require different file formats depending on fabrication processes.

PNG / JPG — Raster images
SVG — Vector fabrication format
STL — 3D printing format
STEP — Engineering exchange format

Choosing the correct file format ensures compatibility with fabrication tools and manufacturing workflows.

Reflection

This week clarified the structural differences between raster, vector, and parametric systems.

Raster = pixel-based visual editing
Vector = geometry-based 2D precision
Parametric = constraint-driven 3D modeling

In digital fabrication, geometric accuracy and structural logic are more important than visual appearance.