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Computer-Aided Design

2D design - Rhinoceros

Fablab Furniture

Doug - Candy Printer Contribution

The Task

The task this week was to model (draw, render, animate, simulate...) a possible final project.

Existing Knowledge

Prior to starting this task I has some basic knowledge of the use of 3d design software. This was primarily in using Solidworks (a mechanical design software) and Rhino. This was however only a very basic understanding of the layout and some simple commands so the task ahead was no small challenge.

The Options

There are a large number of very good 2D and 3D design softwares available, ranging in capabilities as well as price.

The Decision

I finally decided to use a combination of Rhino and Solidworks for modelling my final project

WHY: Firstly, i decided to use a 3D software to do all of my design work. This was primarily to avoid the workload of learning multiple softwares to achieve the one goal. While it may be more efficient in terms of memory space and processing to used a 2D software for some things, this did not sway my decision.

Secondly, I wanted to use a powerful software capable of intricate details, creating assemblies and eventually to be used for simulations, Hence Rhino and Solid. Why not just one? - I prefer Rhino for simple quick design and for using it with preparing files for lazer etc., but the animaltion/simuation and ease of creating assemblies in Solid was also very important. The design tree and rollback function of solidworks was also very important for easy modification of designs.

Furthermore, I already had both of these softwares on my computer. Solidworks can be an expensive program to buy but thanks to my engineering degree I was able to get access for free.

The Execution

First step for me was to do some pencil and paper sketching of what I was planning to model. Initially I started with a Large general diagram of the vacuum former apparatus, assessing the major groups of components.

After hand drawing and dimension were complete, only then could the modelling begin.

I started with an exercise in furniature design with a basic bench.

This allowed me to develope a better understanding of the software before tackling the project design.

The Basic Vacuum Former Design

Go to Progress for more Images of the Modelling

Some Good Tutorials

Solidworks has a number of excellent step by step tutorials built into the software. This can be found in the 'Solidworks Resources' toolbar.

There are also many good online resources such as the GoEngineer Youtube channel