INDS180C: Digital Rendering and Modeling

Computer-aided design (CAD) has become a major part of the product designer’s skillset in recent years. This includes digitally constructing 3-D models of designs for manufacturing as well as image creation for marketing review and material visualization. There are many different CAD programs and associated rendering technologies available, and a design firm’s decision of what to use often comes down to cost, availability, and the experience of those who will use the program. One option is called Rhinoceros, or just Rhino. It is inexpensive, powerful, and easy to learn. Rhino also communicates directly in many of the same file formats as those CAD packages used by mechanical engineers. This combination of attributes make it a good choice to learn for students looking to enter a design firm or start one of their own.