Week 02 - Computer Aided Design

2d and 3d modeling

This week, we learned to use new tools for both 2D and 3D modeling. We also compared how each tool works and analyzed which ones best suit our workflow and personal working style. The assignment for this week was to 3d model our possible final project or a piece from it in two different softwares in order to compare. Also to model something in the 2d software that could be useful for our final project.

3d Modeling

Shapr3D

Shapr3D is an intuitive, professional 3D CAD modeling application designed for iPad, Mac, and Windows, allowing users to create precise, manufacturing-ready models.

Mobile sketching

01.Sketching

I started by adding basic shapes, modifying it, only working on one side of the sketch, to mirror it to keep the design symmetrical.

Design refinement

02. Sketch Development

Once the main shape was defined, I continued adjusting the sketch, refining proportions and details until I had the complete form.

extruded

03. Extrusion

I extruded it to create a solid piece, turning the 2D sketch into a three-dimensional object with volume.

interior

04. Internal Space Definition

I extruded and sketched the areas where I needed to create internal space, defining openings and functional areas without affecting the external shape.

interior

05. Material Application

Once the geometry was finished, I added materials to the model to visualize how the final piece would look.

interior

06. Final Review and Export

After checking measurements and details, the model was ready to be exported.

Onshape

On Shape is a PTC-developed cloud-native 3D CAD, CAM, and PDM software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that runs entirely in web browsers and on mobile devices

3dplane

01.Defining Planes

Here you’ll have the option to choose in which plane you’ll start sketching

Design refinement

02. Sketch

You can start sketching until you have your desired shape.

extruded

03. Extrusion

Here you’ll have the extruded piece with fillets.

Render
renmat

01. Applying Materials

Here you can choose from the variety of materials and colors.

enviro

02. Environment and Lightning

You can choose which environment you want and play with the angles.

genren

03. Generative Rendering

Use a prompt to generate a render with AI from your model.

Downloadables

Shapr3D vs Onshape

After working with both tools, I found Shapr3D to be more intuitive, user-friendly, and faster for creating organic shapes and quick prototypes. Its touch-based workflow makes the modeling process feel natural and easy to understand. Onshape, on the other hand, is a powerful parametric CAD platform with strong engineering capabilities and precise control. Although it has a steeper learning curve, it becomes a very useful tool once you understand its logic and structure.

2D Modeling

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator is a vector graphics editor and design software used to create precise vector graphics for digital fabrication.

illustrator process

01. Import and Path finder

After you've imported your img you need to click on path finder.

illustrator process

02. Select kind

You can choose in which style you want to vectorize it.

illustrator process

03. All done

You can start modyfing your image.

Affinity Designer
affinity step 1

01. Import image

Initial image was imported.

affinity step 2

02. Vectorizing

Curves and nodes were adjusted to achieve smooth and accurate geometry.

affinity step 3

03. All done

You can edit your vector.

Downloadables

Illustrator vs Affinity Designer

Since I have worked with Adobe Illustrator for a longer time, it is the tool I understand best and feel more comfortable using. Its interface, vector controls, and workflow allow me to create precise graphics efficiently and with confidence. Affinity Designer, however, is also a powerful and very useful tool. It offers strong vector editing capabilities, a smooth performance, and a clear workspace that makes the design process accessible once you become familiar with it. Even though I am more experienced with Illustrator, Affinity proves to be a solid alternative for professional vector design.

Media compression

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