3.2 Graphical modelling Notes

Graphical Modelling

1. Graphical models are essential tools for communicating design ideas.
2. They help designers explore possibilities, refine concepts, and present solutions effectively.

The development of ideas through graphical models allows designers to explore and deepen their understanding of a problem and its context.

Sketching vs. Formal Drawing Techniques

1. Graphical models are 2D representations used by designers to explore and communicate ideas.
2. Different techniques help at different stages of the design process.

Sketching (Quick & Easy)

1. Fast and rough – Used at the start of the design process.
2. Explores many ideas quickly – Helps generate and refine concepts.
3. No strict rules – Freehand drawings that focus on creativity.
4. Communicates early thoughts – Helps share ideas with clients and the design team.

Formal Drawing Techniques (Precise & Technical)

As the design develops, more detailed and accurate drawings are needed:

1. Isometric Drawings – 3D-like drawings used to show depth and dimensions.
2. Orthographic Drawings – Multi-view (top, front, side) diagrams that show exact measurements.
3. CAD Renderings – Digital 3D models that provide a high-fidelity version of the design.

How designers communicate a 3D view of an object

1. Orthographic drawings
2. Isometric drawings
3. Part and assembly drawings

Orthographic Drawings

1. Orthographic drawings are technical 2D drawings that show different sides of an object without perspective.
2. Instead of looking like a 3D sketch, they present flat views of each side (top, front, side) to give an accurate representation of the object's shape and dimensions.
3. Features
   1. Show the "side" of a product – They display different views separately, such as the front, top, and side views.
   2. No vanishing point or perspective – Unlike 3D sketches, everything is drawn to scale without distortion.
   3. Accurate representation of form – They include exact dimensions and proportions, making them useful for manufacturing.

Isometric Drawings

1. Isometric drawings are 3D-like drawings that show the shape and form of an object clearly.
2. Unlike perspective drawings, they do not have vanishing points, meaning all sides remain at a consistent scale.
3. Features
   1. No vanishing points – Objects don’t shrink or distort as they move further away.
   2. Drawn on a 30°/90°/30° grid – The horizontal edges are tilted at 30 degrees, while vertical edges stay at 90 degrees.
   3. Represents 3D objects accurately – It allows designers to show multiple sides of an object in a single drawing.

Part and Assembly Drawings

1. When designing complex objects with multiple components, part and assembly drawings help show how the pieces fit together.
2. They are essential for manufacturers, engineers, and designers to understand the structure and assembly process.

Exploded Isometric Drawings

1. An exploded isometric drawing is a special type of isometric drawing that shows how different parts of an object come together.
2. The parts are drawn separately but in the correct order of assembly, making it clear how they connect.
3. Features of Exploded Isometric Drawings
   1. Shows how an object is assembled – Displays parts in an exploded view to illustrate their relationships.
   2. Maintains isometric projection – No vanishing points, just like regular isometric drawings.
   3. Clearly communicates assembly sequence – Helps users understand the correct order of putting parts together.

Assembly Drawings

1. Assembly drawings show how multiple components come together to form a finished product.
2. They can be presented as exploded drawings or more compact, final views.

Features of Assembly Drawings

1. Illustrates how a product is assembled – Can be exploded or show the fully built object.
2. Includes names and numbers of parts – Helps identify each component.
3. Contains a Bill of Materials (BOM) – A list that details all parts, materials, and quantities needed for production.

Perspective Drawings - Simple Explanation

1. A perspective drawing shows an object as it would appear in real life from a specific viewpoint.
2. It creates a sense of depth and space by using foreshortening and vanishing points to make objects look more realistic.

Features of Perspective Drawings

1. Shows objects from a single viewpoint – Mimics how the human eye sees things.
2. Uses foreshortening – Objects appear smaller as they get farther away.
3. Includes vanishing points – Lines converge at one or more points on the horizon to create depth.

Applications of Perspective Drawings

1. Used in early design stages – Helps visualize how a design might look in a real setting.
2. Common in architecture and product design – Makes sketches more relatable for clients.
3. Familiar to most people – This is how we naturally see the world, making it easier to understand.

Comparison of Different Graphical Models

Reflection