MP3 Player: Rapid Visualization and Prototyping
Training Video
In this tutorial we look at a number of ways in which modo can be used to complement the design process, from sketching out initial ideas in 3D, to rapid prototyping of the object (using a 3D printer), and producing presentation images.
Designing anything is a process that requires continuous revision of an object and this video tutorial from Andy Brown shows you how modo can be used as an intuitive part of a designer’s toolset. The subject is a portable MP3 player which is created in modo using a variety of techniques in modo including subdivision surface modeling, sculpting and 3D painting. A physical prototype of the object was produced using a Z Corp 3D printer during the development of this video album.
We would like to thank Tomasso Lanza from Nokia, Graeme Findlay from IDEO, Gary Fitzgerald of DesignWorksUSA, and Robin Thomas from ThingLab for their expert assistance in producing this tutorial.
This video tutorial was developed for modo 302. modo 401 users will find the tutorial useful, but will have to adapt some instructions to new techniques found in modo 401.
Special thanks to architect and teacher Adam Elstein for his help whilst researching this tutorial.
Detailed Descriptions of Videos in Album
Video Part 01 – Sketching in 3D
In this video we look at how we can use modo as a 3D sketching tool to evolve the design of a portable MP3 player. In the very early stages of a design it may be useful to visualise a concept quickly in 3D to see if it is worth developing further so during the course of this video we look at four ways in which we can rapidly model product design ideas using sculpting, painting and displacements. This video is about creating something quickly that communicates design intent, however simple the model itself may be.
Video Part 02 – Subdivision Surface Modeling for Rapid Prototyping
In this video we look at how we can develop a design in more detail using subdivision surface modeling. This allows us to make some more subtle decisions about the object’s design, and will result in a model that we can use for both rapid prototyping presentation images. For a model to be physically prototyped, certain guidelines have to be followed, so we look at how this can be achieved with subdivision surfaces in modo. The video emphasizes “watertight” topology construction, and also shows how to create holes and grooves that don’t disrupt surface continuity. The video explains techniques for embossing details (like a logo) into a surface. We conclude the video by having the model prototyped using a 3D printer at 1:1 scale.
Video Part 03 – Adding Colors and Context
Through the process of designing something, you need a way to produce images for peer or client presentations that communicate your design effectively. In this video we play with materials and color combinations so we can produce images quickly that are both informative and compelling. We look at how we can light a design and how we can set up the shader tree so that changes in the object’s materials can be made quickly to explore alternative treatments. We also look at how to place a design in context using props and photorealistic rendering techniques.
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