This first session was a ‘How To…’ session on using Fusion 360, an Autodesk software that creates a 3D plan for physical casting and printing. I’ve never had any experience using software like this before and was initially nervous at the prospect as I wasn’t sure how experienced other students at the session were, but I was instantly put at ease as most of the other participants were new to this software too.
We were given the chance the scan an object of our choice using a 3D scanner, and were shown how to capture every angle and and use the programming to cut out unwanted areas of scanning (background or repeated sections).
We then used these scans and downloaded them into Fusion 360 and walked through the programme together to create a mould around the object, that would later be cut out to be cast. There was two work flows; one that was scanning for overall shapes and minimising detail, and another that was more organic and captured every tiny detail. The overall idea of the programme is to turn into the scan into a mesh and manipulate it, and then enclose the shape into rectangle. The software fills in the gaps and we slice the mould using a mid plane (right down the middle), then inserting sphere notches into the mid plane the casting mould will fit together perfectly. If the cast doesn’t have an open end, we insert a hole tab in order for the casting material to be later poured in.
This may be a quick and vague overview of the process but once on the actual software it is easy to use and I am now confident that I could do my own, despite never been too technological.
The first session was great and very informative, and I’m looking forward to the next one. However, due to recent circumstances, it may be postponed and I will have to hope I am able to work on a project from home.
HXLLISON ART HISTORY 