3D Designing Rhombicuboctahedron Using Freehand Drawing in SelfCAD
For 3D modelers, the concave rhombicuboctahedron presents an excellent challenge. Unlike simple shapes such as cubes, spheres, or pyramids, this structure requires a keen understanding of geometry and an ability to manipulate 3D design tools effectively. This is where SelfCAD becomes an invaluable tool, users can use to experiment with different techniques to create such complex structures effortlessly.
One of the key advantages of SelfCAD is its Freehand Drawing Tool, which allows users to sketch custom shapes directly in the 3D space. Unlike traditional CAD software that relies strictly on parametric designs, SelfCAD’s freehand drawing feature have more flexibility in shaping objects creatively. For a model like the concave rhombicuboctahedron, where some of the features may require precise yet artistic modifications, this tool is indispensable. To create the 3D model, check out the interactive tutorial. In summary, you begin by launching SelfCAD and open the workspace:
On the Drawing category, select Freehand:
On the tools panel, select Circle and then set the Number of Edges to 8:
Click on the highlighted point to draw the circle as shown:
Click on the Height Settings:
Set the Height to 76.54 and tick the check mark to finalize the drawing:
Use the Rotate Tool to rotate Y by setting it to 22.5:
Click on the “X” to close the transformation panel. Use the Move tool to move the object by setting Y to 100:
Click “X” to close the transformation panel. Click the Copy button to make one copy of the object. Select the Rotate Tool and rotate Z by setting it 90:
Click Copy to make a second copy of the object. Select the Rotate tool and set Y to 90:
Click “X” to close the rotation panel. Select the second copy of the object.
Select Red color from the Color Picker, and click Ok to confirm the color change:
Select the original object, and select the White color from the Color Picker. Click Ok to confirm the color:
Select the first copy made and on the Color Picker, select the black color. Click ok to confirm the color:
Select the three objects and select Stitch and Scoop on the tools panel. Select Union to combine them:
Tick the check mark to finalize the union:
The Concave Rhombicuboctahedron is finally ready:
With SelfCAD, you can easily turn your design into a real 3D print by exporting it as an STL file. The software also has a Slicer Tool that lets you see how your model will be printed, make changes if needed, and set it up for the best results.
Enjoy powerful modeling, rendering, and 3D printing tools without the steep learning curve.
Need to learn 3D modeling? Get started with interactive tutorials.