2. Computer-Aided Design¶
2.1 2D DESIGN¶
Vectr Software¶
I started designing a small design for the project by using VECTR which is a free online vector design software with limited functionality and GIMP which is a free raster design as alternative to photoShop.
The design concept is containing a stand that holds the mirror, and another stand that holds the 4 LDRs, and both stands will have at least 2 motors for the motion.
1- First I created an account in Vectr, then opened a new page, then go to Shapes and choose square shape.
2- Use Pen tool to create the stands
3- Then choose Text tool to write Electronics
4- Also by using Shapes I added the plus shape with 4 circles that describe the LDRs
5- And this the final result
Vectr is the easiest-to-use, free program for modifying vector drawings. It is a straightforward yet effective cross-platform graphics editor that can make the drawings come to life.
Gimp Software¶
I installed GIMP software from Microsoft store, and started to design a simple one for our project
I used the Paths tool to draw the whole design then colorize it
The GIMP (GNU Image alteration Program) is a free and open-source raster graphics editor used for specialized tasks such free-form sketching, transcoding between several image file formats, and image alteration (retouching).
Comparison¶
In my opinion, Vectr is better than Gimp, it is more user friendly with clear tools. And the result is best than GIMP because it is in vector format not raster.
2.2 3D DESIGN¶
TinkerCad¶
Another try for the project design with 3D by using TinkerCAD it is free and has a limited functionality but fun to test out. Many shapes are available on the website we can only drag then drop it and we can edit its size or position and color it.
I used the servo motors, ldrs, arduino, tube, partitions and box form the TinkerCad library and fix the sizes for each element..
the servo motors:
the ldrs:
the grey stands:
This is how I fix the details for each element:
The final design:
Fusion 360¶
It is required to use Fusion 360 to be familiar with and use it later on for other designs, so I tried to experience it by designing a board games dice.
I sketch the design then use the Extrude tool to make it 3D ..
Comparison 2¶
In my opinion, Fusion 360 is better than TinkerCad, because Fusion in more advanced and has more tools to use so the designs will be more perfect, on the other hand TinkerCad is limited in everything it is simple and for small uses.
Files¶
Click here to download Vectr design.
Click here to download GIMP design.
Open Fusion360 to see my design: Fusion 360.
Visit TinkerCad to see my design: 3d design.