The course is divided to two modules, beginners and studio. Students can enroll in one module (6 points each), or both modules (12 points).

Beginners module  6 points, 7 weeks (first half of semester)

The beginners module teaches basic design skills for 3D modeling, focusing on research prototyping and concept design development. The course will cover foundations of aesthetics, design principles, modeling in Rhino (CAD software), and rapid prototyping skills (especially design for digital fabrication and rendering). The class will be taught over seven weeks; each week we will cover a different topic, with students reading relevant material, completing design assignments in Rhino, and fabricating (or rendering) their works. Each meeting will start with a design critique and discussion, training students in critical and conceptual design analysis, review of 2D and 3D form development, composition, design integrity and communication, color selection, technical requirement fulfillments, and presentation. Student can elect to continue by taking the advanced class. 

Grading: 13% for each assignment, 22% for class participation

Studio (advanced) module  6 points, 7 weeks (second half of semester)

The studio module focuses on independent students’ work, implementing skills from the first in the form of one six-weeks design project. Students specialize in one (or more) of the following topics: hybrid design, moving parts / mechanical design for 3D printing, parametric design, rendering. Each meeting we will review students’ progress and offer critiques, and students will have one-on-one meetings with the instructor.

Grading: based on a weekly progress (16.7% each week)