What is CAS (Computer Aided Styling)? CAS, or Computer Aided Styling, refers to the digital design process in 3D product modeling. Objects are modeled in 3D software based on sketches, flat renderings, verbal communication, or tactile input.
Why is CAS Essential in 3D Product Design? CAS offers virtually limitless possibilities for shape and form creation, making it integral to 3D product design. It enables easier achievement of overall visual balance compared to other techniques. The only limit is the user’s and designer’s skill and imagination. Proficient 3D digital modelers can produce highly visually appealing products. For years, CAS has been used in demanding 3D modeling applications like automotive A Class surfacing and is now becoming popular in other segments of industrial digital product design.
3D Modeling – Theoretical Intersection and Patch Layout
An efficient patch layout ensures faultless theoretical intersections, or “theories.” Primary “slab” geometry is created within the designer’s given boundary of curve networks. The topology is simple and modifiable, allowing easy implementation of changes.
Autodesk Alias Geometrical Technicality
Though complex at first glance, CAS software packages offer total geometrical technicality control. Topology can be modeled with active construction history, enabling 3D digital models to follow the designer’s manipulations and update accordingly. Models can be sculpted to the designer’s liking, with light-sensitive highlights polished to perfection and value-sensitive geometric forms sculpted.
Automotive Sculpting – Quality Evaluation
Comb curvature plot is the ultimate A Class evaluation tool, revealing surface flaws that Zebra Stripe analysis might miss. Relying on comb evaluation in the final stages of 3D CAS modeling perfectly supplements the Zebra Stripe tool, easily identifying distortions, discontinuity, and tears for surface perfection.
Dicigal Sculpting – Beauty and Grace
CAS modeling offers a unique blend of technical surfacing and visual sculpting. 3D modelers can seamlessly switch between roles as engineers or designers. For example, stripes cast on topology can inspire further shape modifications using engineering methods like curve manipulation or surface adjustment.
Super Real Rendering – Environmental Representation
Seeing 3D CAS models in full environmental rendering is rewarding, providing a glimpse of the final product. While some areas may need reshaping, you can visualize the creation in virtual reality and real life. At this stage, Zebra Highlights take a back seat as the model’s volumes come to the forefront. Ultimately, what you see and touch matters more than perfectly scrutinized highlights.
Show Must Go On
It’s time to hand the 3D model, in the form of an A Class “skin,” to the engineering department. Here, the 3D product is thickened, with smaller and simpler rounds and fillets added. The digital data may be transferred back to CAS modelers if transferring data between CAD systems causes topology problems. Once ready, the skin surfaces are converted to a solid model for tooling or rapid prototyping.
Conclusion
CAS modeling is essential in modern design studios. 3D digital styling is prevalent not only in automotive design but also in various industrial product design studios that appreciate the freedom and control of Computer Aided Styling. Industry leaders include Alias Autodesk, ICEM Surf, and Catia V5. If you’re serious about creating competitive 3D digital models, consider one of these premier packages.
