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2. Digital bodies

Research & Ideation

3D Contour by Germarilis Ruiz 3D Contour by Germarilis Ruiz

During the second week, we learned how to scan and edit the 3D model to create a volumetric mannequin mockup, laser-cut. One of the challenges during the creative process was figuring out how to create a slot that would allow me to assemble the mockup smoothly without damaging the pieces. We achieved this by placing the thickness in negative before exporting the cutting sheet. Later, I will share a bit of the creative process step by step.

weekly assignment

Check out the weekly assignment here or login to your NuEval progress and evaluation page.

References & Inspiration

^2Nika Danielska Design

^3Studio Roosegaarde(left) / Crystallization by Iris Van Herpen (rigth)


Digitalization of the body

This week we've been experimenting with various tools to capture 3D scans and edit the models.

Tools

3d Sacaning step by step

  • Open up Skanect
  • Make sure your scanner is plugged in
  • Start a new scan project
  • Set the scanning area by adjusting the Bounding Box
  • Click start to begin scanning
  • Scan slowly and steadily for the best results.
  • When the scan is done, go to Process > Mesh > Watertight > Run to clean up the model
  • Click Save > Export and pick OBJ or STL

3D Scanning

If your model needs more work, try using Meshmixer or Rhinoceros to fix any issues.

3D Viewer

Fusion Sliccing preparation steps for your 3D model

I utilized Fusion Slicer to generate the layered structure for the mannequin model. In this post, I will outline the customization process I employed and showcase some visual examples of my experimentation with the software.

  • Create a new material meeting the technical specifications. If using 1.5 mm cardboard, adjust thickness to 1.7 mm and slot to -1.7 mm
  • Make sure your object is measured in millimeters
  • To scale your object uniformly, use the Uniform Sc option
  • For my model, I chose Radial Slices
  • Click Construction Technique to explore other options to customize your 3D design.
  • To adjust the layer direction, click on Slice direction and move the green and blue axes.
  • Assembly Steps, preview shows you how your final piece will look. Blue shaded parts mean they're floating in the air. Red shaded parts on the cutting sheets indicate errors.
  • Use the Modify Forms tool to fix any problematic pieces individually.
  • Once you're satisfied with your design, click Get plans to generate the cutting sheets. At the bottom of the interface, you'll find the export options.

If you're using Rhinoceros, exporting your model as a DXF file is recommended.

Verify dimensions and material settings before DXF export.

Fusion Slicer tutorial

Getting the file ready for the laser cutter

  • Use the Join tool to connect all the strokes in your design.
  • Assign colors to your layers to indicate whether they will be engraved or cut. For example, use red for engraving and green for cutting.
  • Remove any extra numbers or text that you don't need.
  • Make sure the colors you used are assigned to By Layer.
  • If any line looks wrong, you can change it using the drawing tools Pline or Spline.
  • Make sure the joints between the pieces are the correct size (Dimension).
  • Go to Print > Window and adjust the view.
  • Then, press Enter to send your design to the laser.

Rhinoceros tutorial

Set up your laser:

  • In the laser software, choose the right settings for your material.
  • Place your material on the laser bed and secure it.
  • Adjust the laser focus for a precise cut.
  • Turn on the extractor.
  • Print

Test first! Do a small test to make sure everything is set up correctly.

Makehuman 3D modeling

Exploring Shapes in Rhinoceros

Mockup by Germarilis Ruiz

Slicer Construction Techniques

Digital mockup by Germarilis Ruiz (Interlocked Slices, Radial Slices and 3D Slices)

Assemby

Cardboard prototype by Germarilis Ruiz

Final Product

Final prototype by Germarilis Ruiz


Fabrication files

File: 3d modelling of mannequin

File: Cube 3D model

File: Fusion model

File: Laser cut sheets- radial model