Success Criteria Aims To understand what 3D modelling is. To become familiar with Tinkercad software. To add and move 3D objects. I can explain why 3D modelling is useful. I can change my viewpoint to show different perspectives. I can add a 3D object to the workplane and move it around. I can duplicate a 3D object.
In the past, 3D models were produced using physical materials, such as wood, paper or card. Nowadays, computer software is an even more powerful tool for 3D modelling as it allows objects to be edited and modified more easily. Models can be manipulated, shared and presented on a computer screen. What Is 3D Modelling? 3D modelling is a method of creating three-dimensional representations of an object. 3D models have three dimensions; height, width and depth. Which of these dinosaurs is a 3D model? How do you know? Think About It: what is 3D modelling?
What Is 3D Modelling? When you create a 3D model, the model is made up of lines that meet each other. When these lines meet, they form a point. Each point is called a vertex. If there are more than one of these points, they are referred to as vertices. For example: A cube has 8 vertices and an octahedron has 6 vertices. When creating a 3D model using a computer, these vertices form a mesh and are used as the main frame of the 3D model. Within the 3D software, each point of the 3D model can be changed to alter the shape.
What Is 3D Modelling? When creating a 3D model using a computer, these vertices form a mesh and are used as the main frame of the 3D model. These spinners have been designed using 3D modelling software and then printed using a 3D printer.
Why Is 3D Modelling Useful? 3D modelling is important for a number of reasons: It can create characters and scenes to make imaginary worlds. It can be used to make customised objects. It improves sustainability because models reduce the need for expensive resources. It saves time and money. It can be used to share and present ideas. It encourages innovation and creativity because designs can be easily tested, edited and improved. It can improve safety by providing a safe environment to train or test new concepts. Can you think of any 3D models that help you to learn in your classroom? X
Why Is 3D Modelling Useful? Think About It: 3D modelling is used in many different industries. Can you think of any? Use the Why is 3D Modelling Useful? Activity Sheet to see if you can match the professions to the way in which they make use of 3D modelling
3D models of the organs of the body allow doctors to train safely. Animators and video game designers can create virtual worlds and characters. When creating a 3D model using a computer, these vertices form a mesh and are used as the main frame of the 3D model. Why Is 3D Modelling Useful?
In this unit of work, you will be using free, online software called Tinkercad to create your own exciting 3D models. Tinkercad But first, you need to learn some basics! Take a look at the Tinkercad interface. General Tools View Cube View Tools Workplane Basic Shapes Can you see any tools that are similar to ones to ones you have used in other software packages? X
Tinkercad The View Tools allow you to zoom in and out of your project and let you see a close-up of the 3D objects on the Workplane . Reset the Workplane so you can see the whole view. Fit all of your 3D models in view on the Workplane . Zoom in Zoom out Switch your Workplane between a flat view (Orthographic) and a 3D view (Perspective).
Tinkercad When you create a new project in Tinkercad , the program automatically generates an exciting name for your work. Check out some of these suggested names: Bodacious Elzing -Kasi Amazing Bruticus -Snicket Glorious Hango These names are fun but before you start work you should change the name to something that will be easier to recognise next time you open it. File names should tell a user what is included in the file. Top Tip:
Adding and Moving Objects Now we are familiar with the Tinkercad interface, let's find out how to use it to start modelling. Click on a Basic Shape and drag it onto the Workplane . In this example, two shapes have been added onto the Workplane ; a cylinder and a cone.
Adding and Moving Objects It is sometimes useful to make an exact copy of an object. This can be done using the Duplicate tool. Adding Objects to the Workplane Click on the object on the Workplane that you want to copy. Click on the Duplicate tool. The new copy is placed exactly on top of the original shape, so at first it may look like nothing has happened. Click and drag the object to a new position and you will see that there are now two identical objects on the Workplane .
Adding and Moving Objects To move an object, click on it to select it. A blue line will appear around the selected shape. Moving Objects on the Workplane You will also see black lines with squares on them. These squares are called handles . handles Handles allow you to manipulate and move the object in different ways. Do not click on the handles when you are trying to move an object. To move your selected object, click on it (avoiding the handles) and drag the object to where you want to place it.
Adding and Moving Objects Try pushing your mouse upwards away from you. What happens to the object? Moving Objects on the Workplane Try pulling your mouse downwards towards you. What happens to the object? You will notice numbers that change as you move the position of the object on the Workplane , along with arrows that change length. These numbers are dimensions. They are measuring the position of the object on the Workplane .
Different Viewpoints To view shapes on the Workplane from different perspectives, click and hold the View Cube to change the viewing angle. You can view the objects from the following perspectives: Bottom Top Right Left Back Front
Different Viewpoints Now it’s your turn to have a go and practise the skills you have learnt today. Follow the instructions on the Different Viewpoints Activity Sheet .
What Do You Think? So, you’ve been learning all about 3D modelling in school today. In my day we concentrated on the important things, like maths and reading. Why is 3D modelling so important? Having learnt about 3D modelling today, how would you answer this question?
Success Criteria Aims To understand what 3D modelling is. To become familiar with Tinkercad software. To add and move 3D objects. I can explain why 3D modelling is useful. I can change my viewpoint to show different perspectives. I can add a 3D object to the workplane and move it around.. I can duplicate a 3D object.