Reverse Engineering
Choose an everyday object and reverse engineer, it to produce a 3D model, render, and specification drawing.
1. 3D model of object . Measure precisely and model it. Break it down into the different components. If you can, use the vernier calipers and height gauges in the workshop to get even more precise measurements.
2. Specification drawing (Uploaded to your process documentation post) A drawing including:
- Third angle projection of object including key dimensions
- List of components and their quantity
3. Heroshot Render (Uploaded to your process documentation post) One 3D render of your modelled object in an aesthetic of your choice.
My chosen Item was my mum's iPhone 13> I chose this because of its sleek design, and I thought it would be fascinating to recreate into a 3d model.
Technical drawings process
To start my technical drawings, I used "Autodesk Fusion 360". I am reasonably comfortable with this programme. So I thought I would use this instead of "Rhino."
In the beginning, I struggled to produce the drawings because of how complicated the phone was. It took me a while to figure out using scale and correct technical drawing conventions. However, in the end, everything came together and worked well. I was happy with my results.
3D modelling process
The next step was to create a 3D model from my recorded dimensions. This process was more straightforward than the technical drawings because I am more comfortable working around "SketchUp."
The model took some time to create because I knew I wanted some close-up renders. This meant I needed to consider every little detail on the phone. Next, I made a "photo/studio box which would help my renders reflect a "production" look.
I commonly get asked, "How do I make my renders realistic?" I use "V-ray." This significantly helps your projects achieve that realistic aesthetic. However, I still have to put in work to complete the look, such as lighting (Those black rectangles below), material selection and camera settings.
Final Technical drawings
The final technical drawings are presented below. Includes an isometric exploded view, isometric non-exploded view and a final orthographic drawing of the phone.
Final renders
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This project was enjoyable; I was able to strengthen my technical drawing skills and replicate a real-life scenario of creating drawings into a 3d model. I was thrilled with my technical drawings; I produced more than one, which went into detail about different aspects of the phone. Then, of course, my final render(s). I am pleased with which I was able to achieve the "production" aesthetic.
My final learning would be how complicated technical drawing can/should be. The drawings I produced were by far, not detailed enough for professionals to create the phone. I learned that you need to include every detail in those drawings for third-party(s) to make.
