Introduction to 3D Modeling (Coursera)

Design is a vital part of 3D modeling. You can be a master of the software but if you aren’t aware of fundamental design concepts, you won’t be able to truly unleash your potential. You’ll build your basic design skills by looking at line, shape, form, and space, before creating and editing 2D line forms that you’ll transform into patterned mandalas and 3D tile wall designs.

This course will guide you through the concept of profile modeling and will allow you to utilize 3D surface and 3D solid modeling tools to create and edit more complex designs. To round out your foundational knowledge, you’ll dive into 3D rendering and creating 3D printable models. Then, once you’ve completed each step of the course, you can bring your newfound skills together into one final 3D modeling project.

This course has been designed for anyone interested in 3D design and learning how to use 3D modeling software. You don’t need any previous knowledge or experience to benefit from this course. It will be particularly useful to Architects, Designers, Engineers, or anyone studying in these fields.

Syllabus

WEEK 1

the building blocks

Following an introduction to the fundamentals of the interface, we will be exploring building blocks in 3D space, the Boolean Modeling and figured space.

WEEK 2

2D drawings

Week 2 focuses on compositional design and builds on tools used in week 1. This week primarily revolves around using 2D lines, curves and shapes to understand the concepts of 3D geometries.

WEEK 3

object modeling

In this lesson students will learn to create 3D models of given and found household objects utilizing techniques and tools that explicate the concept of profile modeling, putting into practice learner's geometrical understanding of objects as assemblies, axis, symmetries, and sections.

WEEK 4

surface modeling

This week we learn how to create and edit complex surfaces using various different commands like loft, patch surface, surfaces from 2 or more curves, etc.