2. Digital bodies¶
⋆⭒˚.⋆References & Inspiration⋆⭒˚.⋆¶
By Carly Gibert, (2023)
Carly’s work and tools seemed super interesting, innovative, and playful to me, allowing the creation of a bodily canvas. She used an function on blender called face builder It’s definitely a technique I’d like to explore more in the future.
By me :)
Because I was going to create my canvas using a scanner I had never used before, I wanted to start simple, so I decided to use my hand as the model. I had in mind the idea of creating a kind of ring holder.
Creating a canvas¶
This week´s task was all about creating our own canvas (human bodies) with the many digital tools that already exist. The ability to create with the right data and customize things can be a response to the fast and standardized world we live in. It's a way to reclaim a sense of calm and to take body diversity into account. The instructors in my node have been making the process of research and creation very digestable, they already have a structured work plan using the following programs:
Tools¶
Process and workflow¶
First, I started by learning to use the scanner. We used the Creality CR-Scan Raptor, along with its respective software. I practiced by scanning my friend's torso. Go check out her page to see how she scans my hand :).
First you need to download Creality, then connect the scanner to your computer so it´ll let you continue, and finally select your scanner model.
Tip: Use "infrared/body" option to scann body parts, and do it on a slow and steady pace so you can have better results.
It’s also helpful to keep the lighting consistent and avoid shiny surfaces, since reflections can interfere with the scan. Once you finish scanning, you can clean up the model directly in the software by removing any unwanted parts or filling in small gaps. This helps prepare your 3D file for later stages, like editing, printing, or even turning it into a physical prototype.
Scanning ᯓ★¶
꒰ Slicer for fusion ꒱¶
I used the Slicer for Fusion 360 program to create my mannequin. This software offers different construction modes for generating 3D structures from digital models. So basically you just need to import your 3D file (obj, stl) and modify it. I chose the Stacked Slices method, which builds the form by layering horizontal sections. I also adjusted the material size according to what I was going to cut, in this case, corrugated cardboard measuring 76 × 102 cm. Once the model was ready, I saved the file on my computer and exported it as a DXF for laser cutting.
Note: Slicer for Fusion 360 is no longer being updated or officially supported by Autodesk, but it still works well for basic modeling and fabrication workflows.
⌞Laser cut⌝¶
Steps to turn on the machine¶
Tip: For safety meassures turn on the laser button JUST when you´re going to use it, turn it off when you open the laser enclosure lid.
I connected the USB drive to the computer linked to the laser cutting machine. This step is necessary to unlock SmartCave, the software that controls the machine’s operations. Once the USB is recognized, the program automatically grants access to the cutting interface, allowing me to load files, adjust parameters, and manage the laser settings.
To import a DXF file go to file/import select the document and it sould look like this.
I rotated my pieces 180 degrees and moved them to the upper left corner of the workspace to make better use of the material and minimize waste.
I adjusted the cutting parameters to prepare the file for the laser cutting process. In this software, each color represents a different type of operation. The green lines (in this case) indicate the paths where the laser will make a complete cut through the material. The red lines, on the other hand, correspond to the areas that will be engraved, meaning the laser will mark or etch the surface without cutting all the way through.
Tip: Click on go scale to visualize your cutting area. The laser head moves along the X and Y axes to cut the material, use the arrow buttons on the machine that allow you to move the laser head manually.
I used the following table as a reference to see how the material (cardboard) reacted according to the laser’s speed (velocidad) and power (potencia). This table can be applied to any material suitable for laser cutting.
This is how the cut pieces look:
