Coding for 3D Part 5: Parametric Design

Me Lazily thinking about Parametric Design – I drew this lol

I classify myself as a lazy person. I mean this in the most endearing way. As a technically inclined person, being lazy is the lifeblood of ingenuity. All my engineers and techies out there know what I mean. I am trying to optimize most things in life. Efficiency is paramount. So when this is considered, emphasis shall be focused on learning the best methods for a situation. For now, I want to build 3D models with various tools.  I want to make it easier to do, and so I will focus on parametric design. I will explain why parametric design is essential for making 3D modeling easy.

Laziness can come from different modalities and ideologies. I believe that sometimes learning the most complex tools can lead to future laziness and optimization. Looking at 3D modeling as a whole, I have noticed that it is difficult and can be time-consuming. Why would I want to waste time? I want to build things quickly and iterate on these things. Parametric design is a great tool for this.

Algorithmic Thinking

Parametric design is a thought process that utilizes algorithmic thinking. This enables the expression of parameters or roles that can define and clarify between design intent and a design response. It implies that we are defining our structures based on limitations. The word parametric originates from mathematics. This refers to the use of different variables. These can be edited to alter an end result of an equation or system. One can think of this as computational design system thinking. 

Who benefits from parametric design? It is great for engineers, architects, and designers. When a part is made for use within different models, this part has the ability to be cataloged so future references can be made on this as a part is remodeled. Design intelligence can be passed on to others who are working with a part along its life-cycle. Constraints are integral to parametric design. These constraints allow for parts to be locked into their geometry. This is great for ridding of mistakes later within a design process. Constraints are a way to optimize future modifications of a design.

Parametric Design

Sometimes parametric design is not the best option. You are forced to follow strict rules and paths. Restrictions can work well on occasions, but this is not always true. Sometimes there will be a need for freedom within designing. Parameters induced through design than can be restricting. For my purposes though, it will be best to work within parameters as I do not need to do too much free form wise.

Let’s think about why this method allows me to be lazy. If I define my specifications in design, I can focus on just manually editing them. If I do too much freehand 3D modelling, I likely will lack precise geometry as a beginner.  Secondly, I can make more precise designs with less time as a beginner. Lastly, I can rapidly prototype once a parametric design is defined.

Highly Recommended Thought Process

To conclude, I believe that my thought process is focused on creativity within a box. I am able to best learn through restraints and deep diving within restraints. I can learn more and more when I have a box of constraints. This is how I will be looking at 3D design through this article series.