BRIEF SUMMARY:

In a 3 hour crash course, we will cover the basics of generating and editing 3D models ready to print with a 3D printer. 

We'll be using Rhinoceros, a powerful 3D modelling software well-suited to creating models for fabrication, and the MakerBot Replicator 2 3D printer.

This class will be an introduction to computer modeling and rapid prototyping. At the end of the workshop we will use Interacces' 3D printer to print our models!

NOTE: There is an optional follow-up workshop next week, covering advanced 3D forms with the Grashopper 3D plug-in. Check it out!

MORE INFO:

What prior experience do I need?

None! If you've never done 3D modelling before, that's fine. And if you are familiar with another 3d modelling software like SketchUp, then you'll be ahead of the curve learning Rhino, which interfaces a lot differently. And you will probably really like Rhino.

Do I get to go home with something cool?

Yes! ...eventually. At the end of the evening, we'll round up your files and start printing them out. You can come into Open Studio the next week, or to next week's workshop, and we'll have your very own thing printed out and waiting for you! Cost of the printing material is included in your material fee.

What do I need to bring? 

Bring your laptop, and have a trial version of Rhino pre-installed. You can download the trial version here: http://www.rhino3d.com/download . Please note that the trial version only allows you to save 25 times before asking you to pony up for the real version, so don't go too crazy before the workshop date. Also... if you're planning on taking next week's workshop on parametric modelling with the Grasshopper plug-in, then be especially stringy with that CTRL-S! If you can't bring a laptop, no worries--just e-mail me beforehand and I'll get you a loaner.

Is it OK to have a PC or Mac?

Rhino is native to PCs, so you're all good a PC user. If you're on Mac, you're also in luck... the OSX version of Rhino is still in beta, so it's free, and it won't be much different from the PC version that the instructor will be teaching on. You'll just have to send McNeel your e-mail address to get a download link, and you 'll be part of their "beta testing" team. Woo-hoo! Bad news for Mac users: next week's Grasshopper workshop won't run on Macs, so if you have a choice between Mac and PC, choose PC. 

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR:

Mani Mani (B.Arch. S. + MArch.) is a Toronto based interdisciplinary designer. Mani is the founder and the director of Fishtnk Design Factory- a design and manufacturing studio focused on innovative design processes in architecture, furniture and architectural products.

Mani's work covers a wide range of disciplines from fashion design to urban planning and has consulted international firms and design organizations. Mani has been an active member of Toronto’s design community since 2007 and he has worked and collaborated with a number of influential local architects.
Mani's latest research is focuses on responsive architecture and physical computation in built environments.

Mani is currently a sessional lecturer at Ryerson University, Department of Architectural Sciences and in the past he has taught workshops and been an invited critic at University of Toronto, Waterloo University and the polytechnique University of Timisuara.