3D modeling refers to the process of describing objects mathematically in 3D dimensions. 3D Modelers can make a 3D model from an abstract idea or from 2D dimensional directions. For example cubes are made of squares. If you were to draw a cube on paper, that cube would consist of multiple squares adjoined at different edges. 3D Modelers are useful for companies to create a product that can be manufactured in the real world. 3D models can also be 3D printed which is useful in the case that a company needs have a new product prototype quickly.
Tech Kits
Tech Kits are part of the walk-in service provided by Innovate Labs. There are three levels of difficulty meant for different users and their experience with the different technologies. Many of the Tech Kits build off each other as you progress.
Beginner
Introducing 3D Modeling with Tinkercad
Length: 30-60 Minutes
Description: 3D Modeling refers to the process of developing objects that are represented in two dimensions as three-dimensional objects. Imagine drawing a cube on a piece of paper. The drawing would be two-dimensional, but viewers would perceive it as a 3D figure. 3D modeling provides an advanced way to create this perception. It uses software to create models of physical objects. There are many different 3D Modeling software available on the market but this tech kit uses TinkerCAD to introduce 3D modeling.
Intermediate
SolidWorks 3D Modeling
Length: 30-60 Minutes
Description: SolidWorks is an application for computer-aided design (CAD) modeling. This program utilizes parametric constraint values to determine the shape or geometry of the model. Parameters can be numbers, such as line lengths or diameters, or geometric parameters, such as tangent, parallel, concentric, horizontal or vertical. Building a model in SolidWorks starts with a 2D geometric sketch. This shape geometry can then be extruded, to add material, or cut, to remove material, from the part creating the desired final product. This tech kit walks the user through modeling a ferris wheel cart that will be used in the advanced tech kit's assembly.
Advanced
SolidWorks Assemblies and Simulations
Length: 30-60 Minutes
Description: An assembly is when two or more parts are combined into a single CAD file and form a completed part. Often these pieces are built separately so that they can move when put together. With the right design an assembly can be 3D printed in one piece! A simulation is a process that imitates some kind of phenomenon. Simulations can be done either in real life or within programs. Depending on the scale, cost, or safety of testing a product it might be deemed more efficient to simulate its functions digitally before moving on to the live testing phase in the real world. Digital simulations have been getting more realistic in recent years due to advances in computer hardware and software.
Resources
SolidWorks
Type: Modeling Software
Description: SolidWorks is a solid modeling computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) computer program that runs on Microsoft Windows.
Tinkercad
Type: Modeling Software
Description: Tinkercad is a free, simple, online 3D design and 3D printing application for everyone. It is used by designers and hobbyists to make models and prototypes
Makerbot Desktop
Type: Modeling Software
Description: Makerbot Desktop is a free software that allows users to smoothly upload and prepare files for 3D prints.