Weekly Assignments Final Project About me

2. Computer aided design

This week I played around with several 2D and 3D design softwares.
Applying the differences we learned from pixels and vectors, as well as the multiple 3D generating options: B-rep, CSG, F-rep, meshes, parametric and so on.
Finally, I added colors and views to my design so I could take some nice pictures.
Some of of my learnings:


I started with simple shapes and drawings that helped me visualize the size of my interactive box, along with some colors. I realized canva is great for comparing digital drawings with real life pictures due to the friendly interface. But on the other hand, it is quite hard to create or edit complicated shapes.


The second 2D software I used was InkScape (it was highly recommended).


I was able to convert a bitmap image into vectors that were also useful later on the 3D softwares. For images in InkScape, these are the steps:

  1. Import an image, it is better if it has high contrast (not many colors and plain background)
  2. Select the image and go to >Path >Convert bitmap into vectors
  3. Use different modes and settings until the preview looks as expected
  4. Apply the selected action
  5. Try editing with the vector tool to check it is indeed a vector
  6. Erase the original image

I was also able to sketch what I thought might be useful to extrude later for 3D, but I noticed it was way easier to sketch directly with the 3D sketching tools.


I'm sure this file will be very useful for future projects:

Rayo svg

As of 3D software, I started out with TinkerCad. It was so easy to drag and drop shapes, import my design and extrude it. This have me a better idea on the order and position for creating and putting together my volumes.


OnShape was the final step to sum up all skills in a semi-final version of my model, starting with the sketches...


Followed by some extrusions of the sketches.


Some parts of the sketch I had to reference.


A cool thing that I really like on OnShape is the versions and history timeline that allows you to monitor changes and go back anytime. I believe this is a nice feature to count with for any project.


For this semi-final version I created 3 volumes, gave them each a different appearance and found the best angle to take a nice picture.


Although I'm still deciding on final materials, I hope the prototype looks as good as this vision.


For my image compression, I mostly just send the pictures to myself on whatsapp :D Or I use the following page, shared by our local instructors:



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