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Step 1: Pick something to try and model
Today we are going to start learning how to do things in 3D. First, I want you to pick something simple that you'd like to make a 3D model of. This could be an item, a basic animal shape, a toy, etc. Get paper and a pencil to draw out what you are thinking. Once you have a basic idea, draw it out again to scale. We will eventually hope to 3D print it if you finish, so don't make it big!
Step 2: Clay Model
Now that you have an idea of what you want to design on the computer, we will make a clay model first. We can use the clay model to get measurements to put into the computer later :)
It can be whatever you want, just make it simple and something you like. Remember not to make it too big because we want to 3D print it! It is helpful to cut the clay with a fishing line or guitar string.
Takes 45 min to an hour for steps 1 and 2.
It can be whatever you want, just make it simple and something you like. Remember not to make it too big because we want to 3D print it! It is helpful to cut the clay with a fishing line or guitar string.
Takes 45 min to an hour for steps 1 and 2.
Step 3: Measurements and Basic Shapes
Take a look at your clay model. There are some basic shapes built into your design. Below are some pictures of the basic shape examples. Figure out what basic shapes are in your design and then take measurements of them. Length, height, diameter, etc. Write those down on a piece of paper because we will need those to put into the computer when we do a 3D design later.
Making basic shapes in CAD
Now that you know what basic shapes are in your creation, we want to show you the basics of how to make them in CAD.
You can draw out a sketch and then extrude them, like yesterday, but there are other ways too. We can create the basic shapes of a box, cylinder, and sphere and then combine them together. Your teacher will take you through how to make these objects at the right size, move them to where they need to go, and edit them after you make them and you want to change something. |
How to mirror
If your creation is symmetrical, you can make half of it and then mirror the rest of the parts.
Align command
We are not doing the capture position, we are only doing the first 100 sec or so of this video.
Combining Objects
After you have made your basic shapes and put them where you want them, we need to combine your components into one object in order to be able to 3D print it. Your teacher will go through how to do that. Watch this video if you are following along without a teacher.
Free Form Modeling (advanced)
Some models are more complicated to draw out with just basic shapes and doing something like how we use molding clay makes it easier. We will show you the basics if we have time and you can try it out yourself if you have finished all the other parts of today's goals.