2. Digital bodies¶
Research & Ideation¶
References & Inspiration¶
This project began with a simple but intentional idea: to design and fabricate a low-poly hand model that could serve as both a functional jewelry stand and a decorative object. The core principle guiding this design was utility—creating something I would actually use and keep, rather than producing an object that might eventually end up as waste.
In thinking about how to make this piece more sustainable, I also wanted to explore how I could repurpose leftover 3D filament. My original concept involved melting down filament scraps into flat sheets and then laser-cutting them into the silhouette of a hand. While that process is still in development, I decided to begin by designing and 3D-printing a freestanding hand model to test the concept.
Process and workflow¶
To model and print the hand, I used the Creality Ender 3 V3 KE 3D printer in combination with the Creality Cloud app. My goal was to design a piece that looked sculptural while remaining functional and lightweight. The design needed to showcase jewelry elegantly while also being sturdy enough to stand on its own.
During my time at Fab Academy 2024, I had the opportunity to work with a variety of digital fabrication tools and gain valuable hands-on experience. Although I was unable to use the 3D scanner at my local FabLab toward during this week — due to the lab relocating to a new building — I had successfully used the scanner earlier in the course for a project.
Specifically, in Week 5 of Fab Academy, I used the Creality 3D scanner to scan my Alexa device. My goal was to create a 3D model of it, which allowed me to gain experience with digital scanning, mesh editing, and preparing models for fabrication. This early exposure gave me a strong foundation in 3D scanning techniques, even though I wasn't able to access the equipment later for additional scanning.
In addition to 3D scanning, I also extensively used the large laser cutter available at my FabLab. I first trained on the machine and completed the mandatory safety course during Week 3 of Fab Academy. After receiving certification, I incorporated the laser cutter into multiple projects throughout the course.
One of the major uses of the laser cutter was for my final project, where I designed and fabricated large wings that will be attached to the costume I am building. Beyond that, I also explored different materials and techniques, such as laser etching onto glass and cutting a wide range of materials — from rigid Plexiglas (acrylic) to delicate paper. These experiences allowed me to not only understand the capabilities of the laser cutter but also how different materials react to varying settings of power, speed, and focus.
Overall, my experience at Fab Academy, even with some equipment limitations, has given me strong practical skills in digital fabrication. I learned to adapt to circumstances, make the most of the tools available, and develop creative solutions for my projects.
Tools & Materials¶
- 3D Printer: Creality Ender 3 V3 KE
- Software: Creality Cloud
- Filament: Glow-in-the-dark PLA
- Model Source: Modified file from Thingiverse
3D Printing the Model¶¶
For 3D printing the hand models, I used my Creality Ender 3 V3 KE printer. I prepared the files using the Creality Print software and selected the default settings optimized for the specific PLA filament I was using.
Although many factors influence the final quality of a 3D print, one of the most critical is choosing the right settings in the slicing software. For this print, the key parameters were:
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Filament Type: PLA
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Nozzle Temperature: 230 °C (±5 °C)
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Hotbed Temperature: 50 °C (±5 °C)
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Cooling Fan: On
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Retraction Speed: 80 mm/s
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Retraction Length: 10 mm
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Print Speed: 50–60 mm/s
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Travel Speed: 60 mm/s
Using these settings helped ensure a strong, clean print with good layer adhesion and minimal stringing. The glow-in-the-dark PLA printed smoothly and maintained a good level of detail, contributing to the final visual effect I aimed for.
Version 1: Lightweight Decorative Hand¶
For the first prototype, I began with a hand model sourced from Thingiverse, which I then modified to suit my needs. Since this version was primarily for decorative purposes, I aimed to minimize filament use by setting the infill to 0%, meaning the print would be completely hollow inside.
This setting significantly reduced print time—around 2.5 hours—and resulted in a lightweight model with fine surface detail. Despite the absence of internal structure, the hand was still solid enough to stand upright. The outcome was exactly what I hoped for: a simple, clean form with all the visual detail intact.
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Version 2: Hollow but Stronger¶
In the second version, I opted for a more durable model by selecting the “hollow” setting with a 2 mm wall thickness, still keeping the infill at 0%. This increased the print time to approximately 4.5 hours, but the results were worth it.
This hand felt sturdier and more balanced, making it ideal not just as a jewelry holder but also as part of a larger sculptural or seasonal display. The details came out clean and sharp, and the model maintained a lightweight feel despite the added strength.
Display and Uses¶
The printed hands serve multiple purposes:
- Jewelry Stand: Aesthetic and practical, perfect for displaying rings, bracelets, and other accessories.
- Seasonal Decor: For Halloween, I arranged several hands in front of the house, inspired by the supernatural visuals from Stranger Things. Their eerie, sculptural form and soft glow created a dramatic and playful effect.
Looking ahead, I plan to expand the display concept by adding other body parts, such as arms or faces, to create a cohesive and immersive scene. This evolution would blend artistic expression with fabrication skills, exploring the idea of digital bodies as physical storytelling tools.
notes
- I used strong double tape 3M.
The Hands: Materials and Visual Effect¶
I chose a glow-in-the-dark filament for these prints, not only for its visual appeal but also because it’s one of the more eco-conscious PLA variants I’ve encountered. It’s important to me that I use this material sparingly and intentionally, making sure to print only items that I’ll keep and reuse.
Due to the settings I selected—particularly the zero infill and thinner walls—the final pieces have a slightly translucent quality. This allows for a soft, ambient glow that’s subtle rather than overwhelming. The result is a gentle luminescence that complements the decorative function without overpowering the design.
Scanning a Torso with Xbox 360 Kinect and Fusion 360¶¶
Continuing my exploration of digital bodies—and building on my goal to create a custom-fit cosplay bodysuit for my sister—I decided to create a physical model of her torso. This would help me better visualize fit, support placement, and mobility, especially for seated use.
To generate the model, I used the Xbox 360 Kinect with Fusion 360’s scanner integration to capture a 3D scan of her torso while she was seated in her wheelchair. The setup allowed me to capture a fairly detailed mesh with minimal hardware. I slowly moved the Kinect around her torso while monitoring the scan in real time to ensure full coverage and reduce mesh artifacts.
Once I had a clean 3D scan, I used Fusion 360’s Slicer tool to turn the mesh into a layered construction. I chose horizontal slicing, which created a stackable form that could be easily fabricated using a laser cutter. This technique transformed the 3D volume into a series of interlocking 2D layers that I could cut and reassemble.
I exported the slices as a PDF and laser-cut them from recycled cardboard using the large-format cutter in the FabLab. The assembly process was fast and intuitive, and the final result was a full-scale torso model that captured the essential shape and proportions of my sister’s body.
This torso replica is more than just a visual reference—it’s a functional prototype base. I can now test costume design elements like strapping systems, wing placement, and pressure zones with a physical model, ensuring that comfort and fit remain central to the design process.
This hands-on workflow—from body scan to sliced model—was a key moment in my project. It showed how accessible scanning technology can be combined with digital fabrication to create personalized, real-world design tools.
Fabrication files
Reflection¶
This project was a great opportunity to explore the intersection of digital modeling, functional design, and personal expression. By rethinking how I use leftover materials and emphasizing designs that are meant to last, I was able to create something meaningful and reusable.
It also opened up new ideas around how digitally fabricated body parts can act as both practical tools and aesthetic objects. The success of the hand model has inspired me to continue experimenting with low-poly digital bodies, potentially incorporating movement, lighting, or interaction in future versions.
Im thinking about setting up a scanning setup at home to use for my dog wheelchair business. That would be a easy way to make sure that each dog gets a perfect fit. Also for growing puppies.