How to Design a Hot-Air Balloon Using 3D CAD Software

Learn How to Design a Hot-Air Balloon Using 3D CAD Software with the help of this article

How to Design a Hot-Air Balloon Using 3D CAD Software

Creating complex and imaginative models in 3D can be both fun and educational, especially when using accessible software like SelfCAD. One engaging project to explore is designing a hot-air balloon, a structure that combines both organic and geometric shapes. With SelfCAD’s versatile set of tools, users can model each part of the balloon, from the rounded envelope to the detailed basket, all within a single, intuitive platform.

In this article, we will walk through the process of designing a hot-air balloon using SelfCAD. We’ll break down each stage, from shaping the main balloon structure to adding realistic features like ropes and a passenger basket, demonstrating how different tools and techniques come together to form a complete model. Whether you're a beginner learning the basics or a more advanced user experimenting with creative designs, this project is a great way to sharpen your 3D modeling skills.

To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out; https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/2v3vw25332q2u11i3bd2ao2sz3b6o2h21585

Once you’ve launched the editor;

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 300, height to 10, depth to 300,

Tick the checkmark finalize cube

Click to activate face selection;

Click on highlighted region to select it; From the modify category on the toolbar choose extrusion; Set extrusion amount to 70

Tick the checkmark to finalize extrusion

From the deform category on the toolbar choose twist; Set z to 25

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 50, height to 40, depth to 50, position y to 99

Tick the checkmark finalize cube

Click on highlighted region to select it

From the modify category on the toolbar choose extrusion; Set use vertex normals to true, Click apply button to apply extrusion

Tick the checkmark to finalize extrusion

Click delete button to delete selected objects

Click to activate edge selection; Click on highlighted region to select it

From the modify category on the toolbar choose fillet; Set intensity to 3

Tick the checkmark to finalize fillet

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose sphere; Set radius to 40, horizontal segments to 13, vertical segments to 13, position y to 160.

Tick the checkmark to finalize sphere

Click scale on the toolbar; Set y to 187 using highlighted gizmo

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

From the deform category on the toolbar choose taper; Set x to 232, z to 232 using highlighted gizmo.

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click isolate button to isolate selected objects

Click to activate face selection; Click on highlighted region to select it; Click delete button to delete selected objects

Click show button to show mesh 8

Click on highlighted region to select it; From the modify category on the toolbar choose extrusion; Set extrusion amount to 29

Tick the checkmark to finalize extrusion

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

Click move on the toolbar; Set x to 25.97 using highlighted gizmo

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

Click on highlighted region to select it; Set x to -24.53 using highlighted gizmo

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

Click on highlighted region to select it; Set z to 25.45 using highlighted gizmo

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

Click on mesh 8 to select it; Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.

Tick the checkmark to finalize union

Click show button to show mesh 4

As you continue honing your design skills, remember that SelfCAD offers a wealth of resources to support your learning journey. To deepen your understanding and explore more advanced features, consider checking out the interactive tutorials (https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials) available on the SelfCAD website. The tutorials page provides a treasure trove of guides, tips, and tricks that cater to designers of all levels.

More structured learning experience can also be accessed at the SelfCAD Academy (https://www.selfcad.com/academy/curriculum/), https://www.youtube.com/@3dmodeling101, and 3D Modeling 101 series (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL74nFNT8yS9DcE1UlUUdiR1wFGv9DDfTB). This comprehensive resource offers in-depth courses taught by industry experts, allowing you to master the intricacies of SelfCAD at your own pace