Advanced Industrial Design Workflow: Modeling an Ergonomic Shaver

Master Rhino 3D Surfacing, Grasshopper Textures & KeyShot Rendering

In this session of our free industrial design course, we move beyond basic CAD to explore high-end NURBS surfacing techniques. We will model a professional-grade trimmer/shaver, focusing on surface continuity in Rhinoceros 3D and complex algorithmic paneling in Grasshopper.

Download Files: cademy.xyz/webinar2

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In this Workflow Webinar, we will explore the complete process of CAD modeling, parametric design, and 3D rendering of a trimmer/shaver.

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Step 1: Professional NURBS Surfacing in Rhino 3D

For industrial designers, surface quality is everything. We use a "Curve-Network" approach to ensure a production-ready silhouette:

1. NURBS Curve Strategy: Establish your primary U and V curves using Degree 3 or 5 NURBS for G2-capable smooth transitions.
2. Sketch Translation: Follow your reference sketches to create V-curves that define the ergonomic grip.
3. The CSec (Cross-Section) Command: Efficiently generate U-curves across your profile to maintain a consistent volumetric flow.
4. NetworkSrf Execution: Use the NetworkSrf command to weave your curves into a single, high-fidelity surface.

Note: Ensure all directional curves intersect correctly to avoid topology errors.

Step 2: Refining Geometry & Design Details

Once the base volume is set, we refine the solid model for manufacturing aesthetics:

5. Watertight Solids: Cap the surface to create a valid closed polysurface.
6. Advanced Detailing: Use Boolean Operations to carve out functional interfaces.
7. Surface Bridging: Split the front casing and use Sweep 2 Rails to create a recessed design feature, ensuring curvature-continuous transitions between the new parts.

Step 3: Algorithmic Paneling with Grasshopper

We use Grasshopper to automate a Diamond Grip Texture that conforms perfectly to the organic curves of the shaver:

8. Surface Frames: Map local coordinate planes across the curved geometry using the Surface Frame component.
9. Parametric Diamond Logic: Construct diamond-shaped polylines on each plane, applying a Fillet for a premium "molded plastic" look.
10. Normal Extrusions: Extrude the panels along the surface Normal Direction to ensure consistent depth regardless of surface curvature.
11. Boolean Engraving: Cap the generated panels and perform a Boolean Difference to engrave the final texture into the body.

8. Normal Extrusions: Extrude the panels along the surface Normal Direction to ensure consistent depth regardless of surface curvature.
9. Boolean Engraving: Cap the generated panels and perform a Boolean Difference to engrave the final texture into the body.

Step 4: Photorealistic Product Visualization in KeyShot

To close the loop, we transform the CAD model into a cinematic marketing visual:

12. Native Pipeline: Import your .3dm file directly to preserve your Rhino layer structure.
13. Materials: Apply specialized materials like matte-finish polymers and brushed metals.
14. 3-Point Lighting: Utilize the KeyShot HDRI Editor to place highlights along the ergonomic "highlights" of the surfaces.
15. The Final Render: Produce high-resolution visuals that showcase the intricate parametric texture and surface quality.

Thanks for reading ❤️