sebastien5394786

[sebastien5394786]

Week 10

I very much enjoyed this course, the content was useful, sometimes in surprising ways, and the assessment style of using Tumblr with reflections pushed me into new territory and taught me new skills.

I have always struggled to be neat and tidy when it comes to drawing. In an attempt to fix this at the beginning of the course I would slow down and take lots of time to be precise. However as the course progressed I soon found myself drawing as fast as I used to with the same level of tidiness I had when drawing slowly. I learnt the value of practice and patience when drawing.

Another crutch of mine was to go with the first idea that came to mind when presented with a problem, then adapting that initial idea through iterations before reaching a final product. I have to admit when I was told to sketch 25 different perfume bottles I thought to myself, I know I'm going to go with this one so I'm just drawing all these to satisfy the task. However, once I had finished the drawings ideas were sparked and an entirely new design formed out of the 25 drawings and their respective strengths. This idea of creating more solutions to the same problem then iterating from there is something I will apply to everything I do from here on out. On a similar note I found drawing a design then re-drawing it on tracing paper again and again to be a very effective process in refining specific details. If I was to do the course again I would have done 50 concept sketches instead of just the assigned amount.

I have had years experience using CAD to create designs and I must admit I relied on my skills heavily instead of branching out to learn drawing and model making. This course has taught me the time and place to use CAD, sketching, and model making. Additionally I have learnt a new CAD software, 3ds Max, a powerful mesh modelling tool. In combination with 3D scanning, 3ds Max can be used to rapidly prototype designs with very intricate detail which would take hours to reproduce using CAD such as Fusion 360.

I have found myself deeply dissatisfied with a lot of the work I have handed in for assessment in this degree. They always seem rushed, careless and unrefined in my eyes. After completing this course in parallel with studio 1B, I am much happier with my final design. A refined workflow, including many more concepts and iterations than I had ever thought to do as well as new drawing, model making and CAD skills has left me a better designer. I'm still very critical of my own work, however a little less so now.

[sebastien5394786]

Week 9

The Task: This week we were given the scan of a bottle and tasked to use 3ds max to manipulate its shape and data. The original file was a tri-mesh stl, and the bottle was too tall and slightly asymmetrical.

The process: Firstly the mesh type had to be converted to a quad-mesh as they are easier to manipulate, additionally the amount of points in the mesh had to be greatly reduced so that computational speed would increase and the mesh would simplify. Firstly I applied a symmetry modifier to both the x and y axis making sure to mirror the side that had the least imperfections, I then applied smoothing with a tolerance of 30, then finally I used FFD 4x4 to shorten and change the shape to something more interesting.

Reflection: I have a lot of experience in CAD, however mesh modeling is something I have barely touched. I really enjoyed the experience and can see the applications of such a software. In my Studio class I attempted to model my perfume bottle using Fusion 360s surface tools however after 2 hours I could see that while possible it was not worth my time. Using 3ds max on the other hand, especially coupled with 3d scanning tools makes what would have taken hours into a simple 20 minute task. Even without scanning in a physical model, using primitives would also be a fast method. I enjoyed this task a lot as it has added another tool to my belt.

[sebastien5394786]

Week 8

The Task: This week we were introduced to a new tool 3ds Max, a mesh modeling software. The task was to learn some things about it and create some models.

The process: I followed the resources provided to us to learn the effects of different modifiers. Starting with a sphere primitive I applied all of the recommended modifiers, playing around with all the values to see their effect. As well as some other modifiers that looked interesting to me. I then moved on to Polygon modeling, following along with a tutorial video I created a bottle design.

Reflection: I did not fully understand the use of some modifiers, such as melt and noise. Additionally FFD seemed to do what many other modifiers also did. I can see that other modifiers allow the input of precise values while FFD is more of a free hand approach, however I need more practice in the software to learn when it is effective to use each modifier. I know from use of other CAD, that the best way I learn is to attack a very difficult task then solve each roadblock using tutorials and forums online as they come.

[sebastien5394786]

Week 7 - Model Making

The Task: This weeks task crossed over with our Studio course, were we were assigned to design perfume bottles. We had previously sketched concepts which we now would resolve into three dimensional models. Some of my concept sketches featured many organic, asymmetrical shapes in multiple parts, so the suggested method of using templates did not seem very applicable to me.

The Process: I started with the most geometrically simple model, I drew out a template, then cut the foam to shape using it. This model was very simple so only 3 cuts were needed to make the body, then a few more for the inset face and leg. To make the leg I estimated the angle, this caused bottle to sit on an angle, I should have used a template. For my other models, I used a template to cut the foam to a vague form then refined it using scalpel knives and sand paper.

Reflection: Overall the process of turning sketches to models was fun and I learnt a lot about model making. I found that I struggled with the material a lot trying to create more complex organic shapes, especially as when the foam is sanded sometimes it tears and the surface becomes filled with holes. To solve this tearing problem, I applied Spackle to effected areas, then sanded the Spackle back creating a smooth finish. I tool suggested to me was a Dremel, however, the speed at which it removed material made using it dangerous for the model as a slight slip can cause lots of damage, instead I used various grits of sand paper, wrapped around different shapes, mainly wrapped around an pencil so sharp indents could be sanded. Because of these problems caused by the foam, I researched other materials that would be more suitable, I found a material called Plasticine clay, typically used in automotive design. The clay can be formed around foam, then sculpted using tools to get smooth organic shapes.

[sebastien5394786]

Week 6

The Task: This week we took our first steps into digital design, learning an efficient and elegant way to present 3d designs. I enjoyed this a lot as it let me play with colour very easily. Using Photoshop to create 3d forms was not a new concept to me, however using the process from the tutorials, the file retains edit-ability which was a very valuable take away for me, I'll use masks a lot more in future for this reason. Instead of using the age old ctrl-z to fix a mistake, the mistake can simply be painted away.

The Process: First I imported images of some of my hand drawn sketches, I made these layers transparent, then followed the tutorials provided to us, however I shaped the form to my sketches.

Problems: I struggled with the form to the left, I attempted to make the surface textured to show ridges running along the curved part, however after many attempts it continued to look messy, so I just removed it. A strange problem I had came from moving the file from my laptop to my desktop PC revealed a massive change in colour as the colour levels of each screen was different, this was fixed with some minor tweaks.

[sebastien5394786]

Week 5

The Task: Drawing freehand precisely is something i struggle with a lot, so this task was quite daunting. The first part involved some drawing drills to help develop precision and warm up before getting into the second part, sketching concepts for perfume bottles. Then finally developing some of these sketches into 3D forms using 2 point perspective. As one of my forms involved a bowl like shape I decided to attempt to draw it in 2 point perspective as it would challenge me.

The Process: Part 1: Drawing drills These drills proved to be quite a challenge, as I've already said I'm not the best at neat, precise lines. I struggled most on the grid drawing task, however towards the end i found a technique of running my finger down the side of the page as I drew the line, this would keep them much straighter. Part 2: Concept sketching I enjoyed this part as it involved a level of creativity, it also got me thinking about how I could draw the complex forms i ha din my mind. Part 3: Perspective concept sketches Again i enjoyed this part, it was not as difficult as i thought it would be, however my drawings were far from perfect with warped perspective in many areas, especially ellipses.

Reflection: Although I at first was daunted by these tasks after practicing a bit and warming up my drawings became better. A thing I learnt was that just before an edge there is a thin highlight this gives the drawing much more form despite how little of a change it is.

[sebastien5394786]

Week 4

The Task: Precision is not one of my strengths, so this weeks task of drawing 2 point perspective projections was a bit of a struggle for me, after 4 failed attempts on different parts I finally got it.

The Process: We were provided with a guide on how to draw up the required lines to project a form accurately, I followed these however I ended up with a left vanishing point (LVP) off the side of my page, i then drew my form using this. Once finished I noticed the form was incredibly warped, turns out I had used the wrong point as my LVP. I then started again however used the wrong point as my perspective point. I continued to use the incorrect point 2 more times. Finally I got it right. From there the other two tasks went by largely without hiccup, following the guide provided was simple enough.

Reflection: The many mistakes in the first part were the result of me rushing and not paying attention, the fix was pretty simple, slow down and think... For the second part, extending the cube, I ran into small problem, my lines did not quite meet up. I figured it was caused by the fact I had scaled the drawing down to 1:2, meaning any small mistake in any line would be essentially doubled in effect compared to 1:1 scale. I double checked all my lines and moved some by 1mm and it turned out fine.

[sebastien5394786]

Week 3

The task: We were given an isometric diagram of a component and instructed to draw an orthographic view of it, included in the drawings a sectional view and a partial auxiliary view that should be shown.

The process: After reading all the instructions, I drew up a quick layout sketch to plan my A3 page. I then drew boarders, a title block and began drawing each view of the component, front, top, sectional and auxiliary, using projection lines to show the relationship between the views.

To draw the partial auxiliary view I rotated my page so that the T-square could be used to precisely draw the view. I drew over the pencil with pen and added dimensions.

Reflection: Compared to last weeks task these drawings went faster and ended up looking better, I am very happy with my progression and enjoyed this task too. I have used CAD for years but have never gone back to basics and hand drawn detailed diagrams, I have noticed the importance of order and grew my competence at reading an isometric view. When it comes to order, I've started to begin my drawings from the bottom, working upwards to complete the outline of the component, I then fill in details. Despite being pleased with the result of this task, I made a few mistakes, such as poor planning resulting in a piece of the drawing going over the border, and an unnecessary line diving the surface cut through in the sectional view.

[sebastien5394786]

Week 2

The Task: In week 2 we were challenged to create a box with precise dimensions to fit over an object which we would then create an orthographic drawing of.

The Process: I selected an espresso cup as the object I would make a box for and later draw, this lead to complications I will touch on later. The first step was to measure the largest of all 3 dimensions, then apply the dimensions to a net provided to us. The net was then cut out, folded and taped together with double sided tape.

I then moved on to the drawing part. This is where complications with the coffee cup came in, the task required a front and a side view, these views are identical on a coffee cup. Because of this I decided to draw a USB wall plug instead. I drew a rough diagram with the dimensions on it.

I then planned out my page and drew each angle in pencil. Once finished i went over the pencil in pen and added dimensions.

Reflection: I found this task very enjoyable, listening to some music while drawing was very relaxing. Last week I was struggled as I did not have a complete set of drawing tools, however now that I had everything I needed the process became much more simple and more enjoyable. Some issues I had were, the coffee cup, measurements and titles running over the borders, and inaccurate measurements of curves. I will use better planning and will look into tools to measure curves to fix these issues.

[sebastien5394786]

Week 1

This task was designed to introduce us to our drawing tools. I enjoyed the task a lot as geometry has always been an interest of mine. Despite this, I did run into a few problems during the process.

Part 1

The process: Firstly I read the task carefully, understanding all dimensions before beginning so no surprises would come up. I first drew construction lines using a pencil. I started with all the circular elements, I then drew straight lines with a rule. I followed this by using a circle template to create the curves.

I then went over the drawing in pen, this is where I ran into some problems.

Problems: The first challenge i encountered was a simple mistake, i misread the instructions. Rather than using a 16mm radius circle to create the corner curves in the lower drawing, I used a diameter of 16mm. I saw and corrected this mistake.

The second issue I ran into was caused by my compass lacking the ability to attach a pen. luckily the second largest circle required a radius of 100mm, which happens to be the dimensions of my protractor, I used this to draw the curves in pen. However, I still did not have a solution for the largest circle, so instead I went over the pencil again to make it as dark as possible. Once photographed this did not look as I wanted it to.

Part 2

Process: I used a rule and a protractor to draw the shape. knowing the angle of the triangles are 60 degrees made it a simple process of drawing a line measuring an angle then drawing the next line. I drew the shape onto paper which I then folded on itself twice. This meant 4 shapes would be cut.

I was very happy with the result. There was very fine differences it the shapes. An alternate idea to draw the shape accurately could be to draw a single large equilateral triangle with 120mm sides . Then to draw a triangle of sides 30mm in each corner. This may have been easier as its is working with longer lines and a larger shape.

Overall the task was enjoyable despite its challenges. Lessons were learnt and a new protractor will be bought.

[sebastien5394786]

About

Hi, im Sebastien, or Basti. I like surfing, skateboarding, diving, motorbikes and good coffee. I am looking forwards to this trimester as all of the subjects involve drawing, a skill I wish to improve on.

Il cya in class on friday.