A Beginner's Guide to 3D Modeling

A Beginner's Guide to 3D Modeling

by Cameron Coward
Released June 2019
Publisher(s): No Starch Press
ISBN: 9781593279264

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Book description

A Beginner’s Guide to 3D Modeling is a project-based, straightforward introduction to computer-aided design (CAD). You’ll learn how to use Autodesk Fusion 360, the world’s most powerful free CAD software, to model gadgets, 3D print your designs, and create realistic images just like an engineering professional—with no experience required!

Hands-on modeling projects and step-by-step instructions throughout the book introduce fundamental 3D modeling concepts. As you work through the projects, you’ll master the basics of parametric modeling and learn how to create your own models, from simple shapes to multipart assemblies. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll learn more advanced modeling concepts like sweeps, lofts, surfaces, and rendering, before pulling it all together to create a robotic arm.

You’ll learn how to:

•Design a moving robotic arm, a door hinge, a teapot, and a 20-sided die
•Create professional technical drawings for manufacturing and patent applications
•Model springs and other complex curves to create realistic designs
•Use basic Fusion 360 tools like Extrude, Revolve, and Hole
•Master advanced tools like Coil and Thread

Whether you’re a maker, hobbyist, or artist, A Beginner’s Guide to 3D Modeling is certain to show you how to turn your ideas into professional models. Go ahead—dust off that 3D printer and feed it your amazing designs.

Table of contents

  1. Cover Page
  2. Title Page
  3. Copyright Page
  4. Dedication
  5. About the Author
  6. About the Technical Reviewer
  7. BRIEF CONTENTS
  8. CONTENTS IN DETAIL
  9. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
  10. INTRODUCTION
    1. Who This Book Is For
    2. What Is Parametric Modeling?
    3. Why Use Parametric Modeling Software?
    4. About This Book
  11. 1 A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAD
    1. Drafting and the Industrial Revolution
    2. Replacing Pen and Paper
    3. Entering the Third Dimension
    4. CAD in the Modern World
    5. CAD for Hobbyists
  12. 2 PARAMETERS, FEATURES, AND THE FUSION 360 WORKSPACE
    1. Using Features as Building Blocks
    2. The Fusion 360 Workspace
    3. Summary
  13. 3 DESIGNING YOUR FIRST MODEL
    1. Getting to Know Your Tools
    2. Modeling a Cube
    3. Using the Design History Timeline
    4. Exercises
    5. Summary
  14. 4 REVOLVING A 2D SKETCH INTO A 3D OBJECT
    1. Creating a Sphere as a Revolve Feature
    2. Modeling a Decorative Pencil Holder
    3. Exercises
    4. Summary
  15. 5 MODELING ASSEMBLIES
    1. Converting Solid Bodies into Components Within a Single File
    2. Assembling Components from External Files
    3. Combining Assembly Methods
    4. Summary
  16. 6 MODELING WITH COMPLEX CURVES
    1. Sweeps and Lofts
    2. Organic Shapes and a Teapot
    3. Exercise
    4. Summary
  17. 7 SPRINGS, SCREWS, AND OTHER ADVANCED MODELING
    1. Modeling a Coil
    2. Modeling a Screw Using the Thread Tool
    3. Modeling a 20-Sided Die
    4. Exercises
    5. Summary
  18. 8 DRAFTING
    1. Guidelines for Drafting
    2. Drafting a Single-Part Drawing
    3. Exercise
    4. Summary
  19. 9 RENDERING
    1. Rendering Your Screw
    2. Rendering a Clock with a Decal Face
    3. Placing a Render in a Real Photo
    4. Summary
  20. 10 CAPSTONE PROJECT: CREATING A ROBOT ARM
    1. Measuring and Modeling Your Servos
    2. Modeling the Base of the Robot Arm
    3. Shoulder Motor Mount
    4. Third Motor Mount and First Segment
    5. Fourth Motor Mount and Second Segment
    6. The Gripper Mechanism
    7. Printing the Parts and Assembling the Robot Arm
    8. Summary
  21. INDEX

Product information

  • Title: A Beginner's Guide to 3D Modeling
  • Author(s): Cameron Coward
  • Release date: June 2019
  • Publisher(s): No Starch Press
  • ISBN: 9781593279264