3D CAD Fundamental from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Initiation: Prepare for the class

This module includes the course syllabus, grading policy and tips to learn Sketchup well. It also includes the first step of learning, installation of Sketchup.

Magic Cube: familiar with [Line], [Divide], [Push/Pull], [Tape Measure] and [Guides]

Here comes the first example, magic cube. The purpose of this module is to help learners be familiar with basic tools in Sketchup, including [Line], [Divide], [Push/Pull], [Tape Measure] and [Guides]. In this module, we will start drawing a cube, then reformed it into steps by using [Divide], create another cube by using [Push/Pull], and finally make a hole on the cube by combining [Push/Pull], [Tape Measure] and [Guides].

Toy House: familiar with [Move] and [Arcs]

The second example, toy house is designed for learners to be familiar with [Move] and [Arcs]. Inclined roof is a highlight in the example. Learners will understand how to add objects not perpendicular to the reference surface. The module also includes the methods of using [Arcs].

Beach Ball: familiar with [Circle], [Follow me], [Rotate] and [Paint Bucket]

The third example, Beach ball is designed for learners to be familiar with [Circle], [Follow me], [Rotate] and [Paint Bucket]. Learners will understand how to draw a sphere using [Circle] and [Follow Me], how to use [Rotate] and [Copy] to draw the surface of the sphere and how to use selection tricks to delete all the unnecessary planes. The module also includes the methods of using [Paint bucket] to finish the beach ball.

Curtain: familiar with [Scale], [Arcs], [Copy] and [Mirror]

Here comes the fourth example. This module, curtain, includes more decoration skills. Learners will learn how to create deformations on the curtain by combining [Move], [Measurements box] and [Scale], and how to decorate it by using [Mirror] and [Soften effect].

Solid Tool: familiar with [Subtract], [Union], [Intersect] and [Split]

The last example is coming! This module, solid tool, is designed for learners to be familiar with [Subtract], [Union], [Intersect] and [Split]. Learners will learn how to create different shaped objects, by using one object to add or remove a piece of volume to another object.

Closure: Review and preview

This module includes course review and a short introduction of next course: 3D CAD Application.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

This course serves as an excellent introduction to 3D modeling for beginners, providing a solid foundation for those interested in exploring this field

The step-by-step approach and use of visual aids make the learning process accessible and engaging, encouraging students to actively participate and retain the information

Taught by experienced instructors who are actively involved in the field, this course offers valuable insights and industry-relevant knowledge

Reviews summary

Well-received 3d cad fundamental course

Learners say this course is largely positive. It provides a solid foundation in 3D CAD fundamentals, with engaging assignments that challenge but don't overwhelm. The instructor is clear and patient, and the course materials are well-organized. Students appreciate the practical exercises that reinforce the concepts taught in the lectures. Overall, this course is a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn the basics of 3D CAD.

Learners find the assignments to be challenging and engaging, which helps them improve their 3D modeling skills.

"In just 2 weeks, I was able to draw from lines to Complex 3d Objects such as basic design of a building."

"The assignments will surely honed your modelling skills too."

"Lessons were broken down into manageable chunks. Each lesson was challenging but doable."

The instructor, Prof. Jessy Kang, is clear, patient, and friendly, making the learning process less intimidating for beginners.

"Lessons were broken down into manageable chunks. Each lesson was challenging but doable."

"I had recently taken up this course on 3D fundamentals by Prof. Jessy Kang of National Taiwan University."

"The instructor has excellent English."

Some learners have found the quizzes to be inaccurate, poorly written, or irrelevant to the material covered in the lectures.

"The quizzes were not always accurate to what was presented to us in the videos."

"This course will greatly benefit from professional translation services for the quizzes."

A few learners have reported issues with the grading system, including unfair or random grading and long wait times for peer reviews.

"Grading relies completely on peer reviews."

"Some students might give you unfair random marks and leave no comment."

"The last time the moderators replied to any thread in the forum was 3 years ago."

Some learners have expressed concerns about the outdated version of SketchUp used in the course, which may not be compatible with their current software.

"The SketchUp tutorials are more useful and detailed than this course."

"The SketchUp version used in the videos is outdated."

"Im not sure how useful It Is to learn 2016 software when 2021 software has already been released."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in 3D CAD Fundamental with these activities:

Review basic geometry concepts

Show steps

Brush up on the foundations of geometry to strengthen your comprehension of 3D modeling concepts.

Browse courses on Geometry

Show steps

Study definitions, theorems, and formulas related to lines, angles, polygons, and solids.
Solve practice problems to apply your understanding.
Create simple 3D models using your refreshed geometry knowledge.

Assist fellow learners as a peer mentor

Show steps

Solidify your understanding by helping other students grasp 3D modeling concepts, fostering a mutually beneficial learning experience.

Show steps

Identify opportunities to assist fellow learners through forums, discussions, or group projects.
Provide clear explanations, guidance, and support to help others overcome challenges.
Reflect on your own understanding and identify areas for further improvement.

Show all two activities

Career center

Learners who complete 3D CAD Fundamental will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

3D Modeler

A 3D Modeler creates 3D models for a variety of purposes, such as architecture, engineering, and animation. They use computer software to create realistic models that can be used in a variety of applications. This course may be useful for a 3D Modeler to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models.

See salaries and explore the career path for 3D Modeler

Architectural Drafter

An Architectural Drafter uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 2D and 3D drawings of buildings and structures. They use their knowledge of CAD software to create detailed and accurate drawings that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as construction, renovation, and interior design. This course may be useful for an Architectural Drafter or aspiring Architectural Drafter to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models of buildings and structures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Drafter

CAD Drafter

A CAD Drafter uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 2D and 3D drawings of objects and structures. They use their knowledge of CAD software to create detailed and accurate drawings that can be used for a variety of purposes. This course may be useful for a CAD Drafter or aspiring CAD Drafter to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models.

See salaries and explore the career path for CAD Drafter

Architect

An Architect designs and plans buildings and structures. They use technical knowledge to ensure that buildings are safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. This course may be useful for an Architect or aspiring Architect to get hands-on experience creating digital 3D models using Sketchup.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architect

Electrical Drafter

An Electrical Drafter uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 2D and 3D drawings of electrical systems and components. They use their knowledge of CAD software to create detailed and accurate drawings that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as construction, renovation, and maintenance. This course may be useful for an Electrical Drafter or aspiring Electrical Drafter to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models of electrical systems and components.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Drafter

Civil Drafter

A Civil Drafter uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 2D and 3D drawings of civil engineering projects, such as roads, bridges, and dams. They use their knowledge of CAD software to create detailed and accurate drawings that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as construction, renovation, and maintenance. This course may be useful for a Civil Drafter or aspiring Civil Drafter to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models of civil engineering projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Drafter

Mechanical Drafter

A Mechanical Drafter uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 2D and 3D drawings of mechanical components and assemblies. They use their knowledge of CAD software to create detailed and accurate drawings that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance. This course may be useful for a Mechanical Drafter or aspiring Mechanical Drafter to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models of mechanical components and assemblies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Drafter

Pipeline Designer

A Pipeline Designer designs and plans the layout of pipelines for the transportation of oil, gas, and water. They use their knowledge of engineering and design to create pipelines that are safe, efficient, and environmentally sound. This course may be useful for a Pipeline Designer or aspiring Pipeline Designer to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models of pipelines.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pipeline Designer

Interior designer

An Interior Designer plans and executes interior spaces for residential and commercial buildings. They use their knowledge of design to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course may be useful for an Interior Designer seeking to improve their 3D modeling skills, and knowledge of Sketchup, a widely used software in the industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer

Product Designer

A Product Designer creates and develops products that solve user problems. They use their knowledge of design, engineering, and human behavior to create products that are both useful and desirable. This course may be useful for a Product Designer to learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models of their product designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer

Industrial Designer

An Industrial Designer combines art, science, and engineering to develop the concepts and products that people use every day. They work on a wide range of products, from furniture to medical devices to transportation vehicles. This course may be useful for an Industrial Designer to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models of their designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Designer

Animator

An Animator brings characters and objects to life in films, television shows, and video games. They use computer software or by hand to create realistic movements and expressions. This course may be useful for an Animator to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models for their animations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Animator

Game Designer

A Game Designer creates and develops video games. They use their knowledge of game design, programming, and art to create games that are both fun and challenging. This course may be useful for a Game Designer to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models for their games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Designer

Graphic designer

A Graphic Designer creates visual concepts to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They use computer software or by hand to develop the overall layout and production design for applications such as brochures, magazines, and corporate reports. This course may be useful for a Graphic Designer to improve their 3D modeling skills and learn how to use Sketchup to create realistic 3D models for their designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic designer

Technical Artist

A Technical Artist uses their understanding of technology and art to create and manipulate digital assets and tools. They work in a variety of industries to create realistic digital experiences. This course may be useful for a Technical Artist seeking to improve their digital modeling and 3D software knowledge, such as Sketchup.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Artist