In this lab assignment, I was tasked with creating an object of significance to me using Fusion, a 3D modeling software. The purpose of the lab was to familiarize myself with the capabilities of the software and gain intuition associated with 3D modeling items.
How easy/hard was it?
Fusion is a fairly straightforward computer application with an interface of distinguishable buttons and options. With assistance from Carleton College’s Aaron Heidgerken-Greene’s video instructions, Fusion’s abilities became more straightforward and practical. The project required some initial research in order to streamline the process of modeling later on, however, once the essential functions of Fusion were established, the remainder of the modeling was simple.
What elements particularly bogged you down?
The most challenging obstacle for me was understanding how to represent the handle of my mug using Fusion. Ideally, the handle would have been slightly thicker and shaped slightly asymmetric. However, my expectation for extreme accuracy was not high due to my present understanding of the software.
What compromises did you have to make?
As previously stated, my model was not entirely accurate to my real-life mug due to my limited knowledge of asymmetric forms in Fusion. I tended toward a less accurate model so that I could focus more on understanding the basics of the software before future projects begin.
What humanistic uses can you envision for this tool in the areas of research or teaching?
I believe 3D modeling opens many doors for countless fields in research and instruction. During a time in which the environment and sustainability are being emphasized in many disciplines, the need for zero-waste methods for experiment and observation are increasing. Therefore, broadening the demographic of those utilizing 3D modeling software may open the possibility of more research in the scientific and educational world because physical objects are not necessarily required. Additionally, if these models were to be 3D printed, they would be perfectly designed for whatever purpose they fulfill and not necessarily need to be wasted. Since tools such as Fusion are simple to start using and straightforward to distribute amongst peers online, online 3D modeling software’s accessibility allows it to be a practical method of broadly distributing 3D models to a large number of devices. Thus the long-lasting impacts of 3D printing could promote sustainability in vast areas of research.
