Learn to 3D Model with Autodesk Fusion
In this six-hour series, learn CAD modeling in Autodesk Fusion, starting from the basics and ending with making your design a reality!
Offered: Every 3 months
Registration: $90 regular / $30 reduced-price
Description: In this six-hour class series, you’ll start from the basics of CAD and work your way up, getting practice and hands-on experience along the way - finally culminating in 3D printing or laser cutting your own custom design!
Both in-person and online registration is available for each class in this series. Please read the FAQ below for details.
Prerequisites:
A laptop is required for all classes in this series. Open Workshops has a limited number of laptops available to borrow on a first-come first-served basis. Please notify us via email at info@open-workshops.com if you wish to borrow a laptop.
Experience using computers and desktop software is required for this class.
Attendees must to register for an Autodesk account and install Autodesk Fusion for Personal Use on their laptop or a home PC using the following link prior to attending any class in this series: https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/personal
Session 1: Introduction to 3D Modeling
Duration: 3 hours
Slides: TBA
Description: In this three-hour class, you’ll learn how three-dimensional objects are created and represented in CAD software, the benefits and drawbacks of digital parametric design, and why CAD is so prevalent in engineering. With the basics under your belt, you’ll boot up Fusion and learn about sketches, dimensions, constraints, and features, how to use those to create and modify simple 3D designs, and how to find help when you get stuck. We'll also discuss considerations when recreating and using a physical object in 3D modeling software, including critical dimensions, symmetry, and sketch projection.
Class attendees should leave this class with an understanding of CAD technology, the knowledge necessary to create simple three-dimensional designs in Autodesk Fusion, and the ability to locate resources to learn more when they reach the limits of that knowledge.
Session 2: 3D Modeling for 3D Printing & Laser Cutting
Duration: 3 hours
Slides: TBA
Description: In this three-hour class, you’ll dive deep into 3D modeling specifically for 3D printing and laser cutting. You’ll learn about orientation, support, overhangs, bridging, and other important considerations when designing a part to be 3D printed. You’ll also learn about stock thickness, front and side corners, tolerances, and other things to think about when designing a part for laser cutting. We’ll discuss how to produce files for each of those processes from Autodesk Fusion, take a look at a few examples of these principles in practice, and then you’ll get to try your hand at modeling for 3D printing - creating a design of your own to be printed on our Bambu P1S or cut from wood or acrylic on our 60W CO2 laser!
Class attendees should leave this class with the ability to take a simple design from an idea, through the 3D modeling process, and finally arriving at a physical item - whether laser cut or 3D printed.
Prerequisites:
Familiarity with CAD software is required for this class. If you're not familiar with CAD applications, please register for the first and second courses in this series, Learn to 3D Model and 3D Modeling Physical Objects.
FAQ
What ages is this class suitable for?
Since this class involves the use of technical software, we recommend this class for ages 14+. Attendees under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Do I need to sign a liability waiver?
All visitors coming to Open Workshops for the first time must sign a liability waiver prior to entering the shop. Attendees under the age of 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
What if I'm new to the subject?
Not a problem! The first class in this series assumes no prior knowledge of 3D modeling - it starts at the basics and works up from there. The class does require experience using desktop software such as Microsoft Excel - unfortunately we can't teach attendees how to use a computer (that's a different class!) If you choose to skip the first class in the series, please pay close attention to the prerequisites to ensure you're able to keep up.
What if I can't afford the registration fee?
Accessibility is one of the guiding principles of Open Workshops, and we know our registration fees won't be affordable to everyone. This class has reduced-price need-based tickets available; if you are interested in that program, please email us at info@open-workshops.com.
How does the online registration work?
Attendees who register for online tickets will receive a link via email to an online Google Meet video call where they can dial in to the class to participate. Online attendees can ask questions and participate just like in-person attendees. Online registrants for the final class in the series can come in to the shop at a time that works for them to print or cut their final design.