How to Design a Rocket Model Using 3D CAD Software

Learn How to Design a Rocket Model Using 3D CAD Software with the help of this article

How to Design a Rocket Model Using 3D CAD Software

Designing a rocket model is not only an exciting venture for enthusiasts and students, but also a valuable way to explore principles of 3D modeling and engineering. With the rise of accessible, browser-based design tools, creating complex models no longer requires advanced software or steep learning curves. SelfCAD, a user-friendly 3D modeling application, offers an intuitive platform for both beginners and experienced designers to bring their ideas to life. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of designing a rocket model using SelfCAD, focusing on the essential tools, techniques, and design considerations needed to create a visually accurate and structurally sound model.

To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out; https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/3373s5c3b2j3m3fn1o4m1b21461i4w5713l6

Once you’ve launched the editor;

From the generators category on the toolbar choose shape generator; Set top radius to 10, bottom radius to 7, number of edges to 64, height to 10

Click + button to add new segment; Set fill top to false, top radius to 15, bottom radius to 15, height to 200

Click + button to add new segment; Set top radius to 10, fill bottom to false, height to 40

Tick the checkmark to finalize shape generator

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose capsule; Set top radius to 5, bottom radius to 10, height to 50, horizontal segments to 40, position y to 240

Tick the checkmark to finalize capsule

From the right panel choose cube selection; Set top to 10

Tick the checkmark to finalize cube selection

Click delete button to delete selected objects

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose star; Set radius to 50, inner radius to 15, segment to 6, position y to 10

Tick the checkmark to finalize star

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

Click scale on the toolbar; Set x to 1, z to 1

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

Click color picker button to change color of object; Click orange

Click ok

Click on mesh 4 to select it. Click on mesh 8 to deselect

Click color picker button to change color of object; Click grey

Click ok

Click on shape 1 to select it. Click on mesh 4 to deselect

From the right panel choose cube selection; Set bottom to 10, top to 210

Tick the checkmark to finalize cube selection

Click color picker button to change color of object; Click white

Click ok

From the right panel choose cube selection; Set bottom to 210

Tick the checkmark to finalize cube selection

Click color picker button to change color of object; Click orange

Click ok

From the right panel choose cube selection; Set top to 10

Tick the checkmark to finalize cube selection

Click highlighted part on selection cube to turn off region selection

Click on mesh 4, 8 to select; Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.

Tick the checkmark to finalize union

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