Digital bodies¶

1. Lecture¶

Throughout history, the human body has been the canvas for the creation of masterpieces. Today, designers have evolved over time, and so have their tools. That is why, in this phase, we will explore how we can use tools capable of scanning, rendering, and modifying the human figure. In order to develop new ways of creating and responding to needs.

I began with a simple brainstorm. At first, I imagined sculptural figures, but my industrial side kept pulling me toward something functional and adaptable. Then, during the lecture, Anastasia shared ideas along the same lines, and that gave me confidence: I wanted to make mine mannequin adjustable. Especially since I want my final project to be a costume for myself, so a mannequin could be ideal.

2.Process and workflow

2.1 Fieldwork¶

I watched videos to see how one worked: its standard measurements, how far it could expand at the waist, hips, and bust. Still, the questions lingered.

3. Modeling¶

First Model¶

1. I downloaded an STL model of the human body.

2. I imported it into Rhino and used the Mesh to NURBS tool.

3. I deleted the mesh and kept the surface.

4. I added a division for my mannequin.

5. Using the Wirecut tool, I can make a cut along the line I drew, and the cut will be solid.

6. Once divided, I exported it as an STL file

7. And imported it into Slicer for Fusion

4. Skecthes¶

I met with one of my advisors Mar and showed my file in Slicer. That moment gave me a clearer idea of the mechanisms my model needed. We bounced ideas back and forth, refining the concept until it started to make real sense.

5. Printing¶

Excited by the progress, I began modeling the 3D pieces in Rhino. The first design had too many spikes, and we needed a shape that wouldn’t require supports. It evolved into a piece that could be printed as two separate objects.

So we printed the next version:

1. Open Ultimaker Cura.

2. Select filament type (PLA).

3. Set speed to 100 and nozzle temperature to 200 °C.

4. Save G‑code to the micro SD card.

5. Insert it into the ENDER S1 Pro printer.

6. Print.

When I saw the printed pieces, I realized it was easier to work with just one spike.
So I printed again, this time using wood filament.

This adjustment made the assembly smoother, and the wood filament gave the piece a warmer, more natural finish.

6. Scan Practices¶

6.1 Polycam¶

1. Download Polycam in your phone.

2. Click on "What you want to create". In my case, 3D Object.

3. Prepare your object. Start by ensuring your object is visible from every angle. Lightning is also important, harsh or dark lighting can hurt the sacan quality.

4. Capture your object. You will want to circle around your object in a series of rings, capturing at different heights to ensure you capture all angles.

5. Process your capture.

6. Once captured, all the images that you take will appear as 3d model object.

7. Exported it into a STL file.

I began with quick scans in Polycam. It worked well for a hand, but despite several tries (arms raised, standing on higher surfaces) we couldn’t capture a full body.

6.2 Creality¶

Later, with Creality, I scanned part of my teammate’s face. Unfortunately, when it was my turn, the scan tripled me.

7. Slicer for Fusion¶

This digital tool transforms 3D models into flat, two‑dimensional patterns for physical fabrication.

7.1 Workflow¶

1. Prepare the STL file.
2. Go to Import > Manufacturing Settings and add your material dimensions.
3. I used cardboard, 5 mm thick.
4. Under Units, set the correct measurements for your model.
5. I considered only the height: 59.2 cm.

6. Select Technique — here you can explore different options and experiment with how the model is divided.

7. Export the dxf file.

To solve this, I used MakeHuman. I measured myself and entered the exact values in Modeling > Measures, where it even shows how to take each measurement. Then I exported the STL file.

8. Design Decisions¶

I noticed each division needed adjustments. So I created a new design: cuts across length and width, split into three sections: 12 parts in total.
After dividing, I offset each piece by 1 mm so the slicer in Fusion could recognize the separations, and then exported everything to STL.

9. Laser Cut¶

1. Turn on the power switch of the laser cutter.

2. Turn on the machine smoke extractor.

3. Take out the emergency button.

4. Enter the key and turn it.
5. Turn on the left white button.
6. Turn the knob to the max.

10. Tools¶

11. Results¶

12. 3D Models¶

upload DOWNLOADABLE 3d models of your files such as MakeHuman, Final 3d modelled body, 3D Scans, etc. Make sure to make them DOWNLOADABLE.

13. Weekly reflection & critical thinking¶

I learned how the scanner can capture everything from simple objects to more complex shapes, which allowed me to create my own 3D models—either with the scanner or with applications that use specific measurements. It was an interesting and challenging project because, since there were so many pieces, it was a lengthy process, but as I assembled the pieces, the structure became more resistant. I also discovered that digitally representing a design makes it easier to find solutions and allows for the analysis of potential implications. This experience helped me understand the basic methods of construction and laser cutting, as well as introducing me to a new tool for rapid prototyping and for understanding representations of the body.

I was even able to reflect on the impact of materials and recognize that, through design, we can minimize material waste.

I hope my mannequin will last a long time and serve as a basis for future experiments later on at the Fabricademy.

14. Fabrication files & References¶