Three-dimensional modeling: definition and applications
Three-dimensional modeling or 3D modeling is the process of drawing a 3D file in a virtual space with 3D CAD design software.
The applications of 3D modeling can be of different nature:
architectural,
artistic,
cinematographic,
healthcare,
web design and much more.
The three-dimensional modeling process is quite complex and requires highly advanced 3D software usage skills.
In the industrial sector, design capacity is closely linked to engineering figures or profiles with very consolidated experience
The phases
In this article we will talk specifically about 3D modeling relating to industrial design; that is, all phases, technologies and case studies relating to the development of new products.
Specifically, our experience is concentrated in the development of plastic and metal parts for numerous different industrial sectors:
- electronics;
- safety devices;
- healthcare
- beauty and fitness equipment;
- domotic devices;
- automotive;
- defence;
- home applicances
Before starting any development it is necessary to collect the project specifications in detail and define the related feasibility study.
3D modeling is simpler when it concerns a single component but can reach high levels of complexity for complete machines and systems.
The feasibility study aims to verify that the project has the minimum feasibility requirements in terms of design and production.
The collection of specifications is a crucial moment to share with the customer all the steps, analysis of competing machines or systems and everything regarding assembly with other parts, machine maintenance and anything else that may concern the context.
The importance of gathering specifications
Adequately collecting the specifications of a project before starting any type of development serves to prevent any future problems.
With this preliminary activity you can understand in depth:
- Customer needs;
- Product operating specifications;
- Scope of;
- Define the minimum feasibility and manufacturability requirements.
This analysis is essential to start a correct and adequate 3D design.
The next step is to foresee the engineering development of the machine, component or product and the design of the three-dimensional files of each individual part.
During and at the end of 3D design it is essential to produce prototypes to test the functionality of the product.
Design verification tests help validate expected product performance, including basic functional testing, manufacturing processes, parametric performance measurements, and verification of certification standards.
Internally we have the ability to produce both prototype and production plastic and metal parts.
The technologies used
To carry out good planning it is necessary to have a very in-depth knowledge of the subject in technical terms.
Beyond this, which is the basic requirement, it is essential to have a thorough knowledge of advanced software tools suitable for 3D product modeling.
In our specific case all the 3D modeling steps are performed in SolidWorks.
Added to all this is a fundamental, if not indispensable, element for the success of the project: knowledge of the production technologies that will be used for all the components of the device.
Knowing the production process allows you to design according to it.
Our case studies
To date we have hundreds of projects that we have followed in 3D modeling, very often also in design, prototyping and production.
In detail from the left, the first project is an agricultural product; an olive harvester.
In the center a smart box for home automation use.
The last one is a device for laser applications.
In all these cases we followed all the 3D modeling steps, the production of prototypes for validation tests, engineering and production of the equipment for molding plastic parts.
Our services
Our Engineering services include:
- Feasibility study and 3D CAD mechanical design of consumer products, mechanical components, special machines and test benches;
- Development of drawings, assembly assemblies, drafting of bills of material and technical manuals;
- Product engineering and industrialization;
- 2D and 3D CAD modeling and design;
- Study and engineering of plastic and metal parts;
- Structural calculation on components and assemblies;
- Management and monitoring of assembly tests, inspections and functional tests with the production departments.
Why contact us
Relying on us means having the certainty of results and having the guarantee of producibility.
This is a very strong statement but based on over ten years of experience.
