OVERVIEW

The course provides Nautical Product Design students with the tools needed to generate objects using computers, from two-dimensional representation to three-dimensional representation and basic photorealistic rendering. The reference software is Rhinoceros, which can be used in the Educational version, and Blender, an open-source software available free of charge from www.blender.org. Both can be installed on a Windows machine (preferably) or iOS; Blender can also be installed on a Linux environment. The course is taught in Italian, but the software will be demonstrated in English for greater compatibility with online resources. It will still be possible to use the software in Italian, as commands can be entered in English regardless of the installation language.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to develop the ability to represent objects using computers and, in particular, to provide advanced training in 3D computer graphics. It also provides an in-depth look at the potential challenges designers may encounter when communicating their projects using 3D modeling and rendering software.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course consists of a theoretical component and a laboratory component with weekly reviews and checks. The educational objective of the course is to acquire the various methods of representing objects using Rhinoceros software: dimensioned technical drawing, three-dimensional modeling, and the creation of photorealistic images. The first part of the course focuses on the two-dimensional construction of objects, the second on the study of curves and surfaces in three dimensions, and the third part will translate the drawings into photorealistic images that will allow students to communicate ideas, projects, and products. The expected outcomes are an advanced understanding of three-dimensional space and the management and analysis of complex curves and surfaces. Students also need to understand and apply the main commands for creating photorealistic and post-processed images. Students are also expected to be able to render using the Cycles rendering engine included in Rhinoceros and Blender to create photorealistic interior and exterior scenes. After completing the course, the student will be able to represent objects in their complexity and according to various techniques (two-dimensional technical drawing, wireframe representation, photo-realistic image and contextualized rendering).

PREREQUISITES

Basic knowledge of descriptive geometry, orthographic projections, and the principles of technical drawing; basic computer skills (folder/file management, drag and drop, file types and extensions, etc.) and computer keyboard shortcuts; basic knowledge of hardware (CPU, RAM, video card, etc.).

TEACHING METHODS

Teaching is delivered through lectures by the professor and practical laboratory exercises.
Lectures aim to provide theoretical foundations, explore topics related to the topics covered, and prepare students for the exercises to be completed. The exercises aim to put the key topics of the course into practice through in-depth study of the relevant software.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The topics covered in the lectures and exercises are as follows:

1. Dimensional technical drawing;
2. Study and analysis of curves;
3. Study, creation, and analysis of complex surfaces;
4. Creation of photorealistic images;
5. Post-production of previously created images.

Each topic will be covered through lectures and practical exercises that will allow for a thorough understanding of the theoretical concepts illustrated.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

The variety and complexity of the topics covered requires detailed and timely bibliographical references, which will be provided during the course. These references include software manuals, tutorials, web pages, industry blogs, YouTube channels, official social media pages, industry magazines, and textbooks on representation and communication. Knowledge of English may be required. The bibliography is updated regularly and uploaded to the Aulaweb university exchange platform.

The Rhinoceros online help is considered essential and can be found at the following address:
https://docs.mcneel.com/rhino/7/usersguide/en-us/index.htm

Please also refer to the exercises in the second-level tutorials at the following address:
https://docs.mcneel.com/rhino/8/training-level2/en-us/Default.htm
To be followed with the material downloadable at the following address:
https://docs.mcneel.com/rhino/7/training-level2/en-us/Rhino%20Level%202%20Models.zip
IMPORTANT: If some of the file names in the material do not match, there are likely translation errors in the tutorials. These are generated in English and can be found at the following address:
https://docs.mcneel.com/rhino/8/training-level2/en-us/Default.htm

Knowledge of the following texts is recommended:
- Rhinoceros 3D and NURBs Modeling, by D. Nale and F. Caraccia
- Rhinoceros for Professionals, by D. Nale

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

MASSIMILIANO CAVALLIN (President)

JOSEPH MICHAEL LEE

MARIO ZIGNEGO

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Second semester, as per the academic calendar. Classes are held in blocks of hours divided between theory and laboratory work.

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

To take the exam, you must have submitted all required course assignments by the deadlines.

The exam consists of:

• At the professor's discretion, a multiple-choice written test to assess theoretical knowledge, which may be held in the final lectures as an exemption. To avoid excessive repetition of the written exam, students who wish to retake a successful written test will be required to skip a session. Students who fail the written test may always retake the exam.
• A computer-based practical test to be completed on the day of the exam. If available, the university computer labs may be used, subject to availability of the software. Students are advised to bring their own computers anyway, in case the computer labs cannot be available.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The assessment consists of a comprehensive review of the assignments submitted during the semester, the score of any written test, and the evaluation of the practical test on the exam day.
On the exam day, students must demonstrate their ability to select the most appropriate commands and strategies to solve problems related to two-dimensional drawing, three-dimensional modeling, and, where applicable, rendering.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Students with disabilities or learning disabilities (DSA) may request compensatory/exemptive measures for the exam, informing the instructor as soon as possible and in any case no less than 15 days before the exam date.