The Future of Design

Summary

The script discusses integrating gestural interfaces with 3D computer-aided design software to enable more intuitive and natural user interactions. It traces the evolution from manipulating a wireframe model of a rocket engine with hand gestures, to interacting with a full 3D model, to projecting and visualizing designs in augmented/virtual reality. This technology promises to revolutionize the design process by allowing users to quickly translate concepts from their imagination into physical objects using 3D printing. Overall, it paints a future where virtual prototyping and rapid manufacturing enabled by gestural interfaces and VR will transform 21st century design and production.

Takeaways

• 😊 They started by integrating Leap Motion and Siemens NX software to manipulate a 3D wireframe model of a rocket engine using hand gestures
• 👆🏻 They advanced to manipulating an actual 3D CAD model of the engine using hand gestures
• 📺 They experimented with different 3D projection techniques like glasses, holograms, and virtual reality
• 🚀 They used intuitive 3D modeling to design a cryogenic valve housing for the rocket
• 🖥️ The intuitive modeling allows translating a concept from your mind into a 3D computer model more easily
• 🔨 They 3D printed the metal valve housing from the computer model using a laser metal printer
• 👷🏻‍♂️ The printer builds up metal parts layer-by-layer by melting metal powder with a laser
• 💡 This process revolutionizes going from concept to physical product via 3D modeling and printing
• 🌟 It allows applying intuition to create physical objects from your mind far more easily
• 🚀 They believe this breakthrough will transform rocket design and manufacturing

Q & A

What new technology is being used to interact with 3D models?

The technologies being used are the Leap Motion controller for hand gesture recognition and Siemens NX CAD software for 3D model design.

How does interacting with 3D models using gestures differ from traditional methods?

It allows for more natural and intuitive manipulation as opposed to mouse and keyboard. You can rotate, zoom, and translate the 3D models fluidly using hand gestures.

What are some of the different 3D projection methods explored?

Some projection methods explored include polarized 3D glasses, free-standing glass projection used in Iron Man movies, and Oculus Rift virtual reality goggles.

What specific rocket component was used to demonstrate the 3D design workflow?

A cryogenic valve housing component from the rocket was used.

How is the process of taking a design from imagination to physical reality being revolutionized?

Intuitive 3D CAD modeling coupled with 3D printing allows for faster and more seamless translation of a conceptual design into a tangible manufactured part.

What materials can the 3D metal printer work with?

The 3D metal printer can work with titanium or inconel alloys.

How does the layer-by-layer 3D printing process work?

Fine metal particles are laid down and a laser melts them onto the prior layer, building up the 3D object incrementally.

What are the expected benefits of gesture-based 3D design workflows?

It is expected to revolutionize and significantly accelerate design and manufacturing in the 21st century.

How can gesture control enhance the CAD design process?

It allows designers to apply their intuition more easily and translate concepts from imagination to physical designs with greater fluidity.

Why is a more natural interface important for 3D design tools?

It facilitates creativity, experimentation and avoids the unnatural feel of using 2D inputs like mouse and keyboard to create 3D objects.