I am a 3D concept creator who designs base models for the express purpose of further development, detailing and customisation to be done by the client. Idea generation and concept development usually requires three aspects to be executed: Initial spreadsheet calculations, 2D concept drawings and eventually a 3D CAD design (i.o.w. the base model). In one sentence my approach can be described in the following words:

“Fit – Form – Function. …and biomimicry-inspired dimensional proportions for the balanced design of physical objects.“

Experience and Milestones

EXCEL Spreadsheets

I have developed various spreadsheets and have used VBA and Macros for Excel moderately. My aim is to create a transparent yet useful tool to make everyday life of the design engineer or spreadsheet user as informative and uncomplicated as possible.

2D concept design

I use my own choice of 2D CAD software such as DeltaCAD to draft my initial ideas on a grid specifically configured for my own purposes. The three fundamental views, front, top and side view, are being developed and dimensioned. I will only proceed to the 3D design once I am satisfied with the 1st or 3rd angle projection of the primary design.

3D CAD design

For the 3D CAD model I start drawing from scratch, using my 2D drawings as a reference. Naturally profile sweeps and other features might require for my 2D drawings to be updated and extended. the process between 2D and 3D is usually one of reciprocity and of constant enhancement of both environments.

3D Printing / Prototyping

Under certain conditions, a 3D model can be requested. For this task the 3D CAD model will be saved as an .stl file, then sliced in a slicing software before the G-code will be transferred to the printer. The printing process also takes notoriously long, even if the print quality is set to draft mode. Once the print is completed (for more complex models or objects exceeding a certain size various different prints are usually necessary).

Then the components have to be cleaned up, often involving sanding, and either glued or screwed together. Then the task of obtaining permissible surface finishes is being embarked upon. This requires filler spray paints or body fillers, followed by sanding to an ever finer finish. Again this process is reciprocal.

Once an acceptable finish has been obtained it is now a case of applying the paints; first a plastic primer, after which various coats at intervals are being applied – usually requiring time and including a certain amount of risk when it comes to the chemical compatibility of different paints.

Dirtying down, decal making / applying and adding final touches will round off the project design.