The Judges Committee has awarded this submission

EXCELLENCE IN CHARACTER MODELING

PROJECT SUMMARY

"How can I understand the concept of 3D modeling and make out a product with a particular program?" was my essential question for this STEAM Expo project. The resolution I chose to solve my question was to create a 3D character model, by using one of my school science project of the elemental superhero/villain character.

WHY?

The main intentions for this project was that because I usually had interest in engineering and graphic/digital design. I thought this would be a great opportunity to try out something new and find out some ideas for my future career field.

HOW?

So the first step that I went through before designing my 3D character was brainstorming. I shared and discussed my thoughts for the expo with teachers and other students at the school science club, then developed my main topic. Because I thought the science project I did last semester would be a nice reference idea, I searched up some softwares or applications based on that. The final step before actually starting it was looking up how I could use specific techniques in building up the models with my chosen program.

WHAT?

I found out an easy and efficient program that even beginners for 3D modeling could use, which was 'Tinkercad.' Following the steps, I checked out some Youtube videos of people introducing Tinkercad. I tried several tools such as grouping, mirror, align, lock editing, hide selecting, height/side/bevel/segments adjust, hole, and many more by myself. After I tested my prototype, I successfully made my elemental villain 'Chlorix'(after the element Chlorine) into a 3D model.

STEAM Expo video.mp4

https://www.tinkercad.com/things/eIfEsruC4bN

SO WHAT?

My result is important as I was able gain knowledge about a new technology and even generate something with it. Also because the process of completing the model was very enjoyable and captivating for me, if I continue doing activities with it, this might make a good impact on my future career.

WHAT'S NEXT?

Overall, the hair and body itself look a little awkward and sloppy, so it seems like I could have paid more attention to the details to make it look more realistic and have a more intense impression. In addition to that, next time when I get to do this, I would like to add some short actions of the character and try using more complicated software, as an example for 'Blender.'

REFERENCES/ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

"Most ideas were referenced by some TV animation programs, the school science club, and by one of my family members that is learning and making 3D modeling animation. Some outside resources are:

Carolo, Lucas. “2021 Tinkercad Tutorial: Get Started with 6 Easy Steps.” All3DP, 17 Apr. 2021, all3dp.com/2/tinkercad-tutorial-easy-beginners/.

MatterHackersInc. “How To: Use Tinkercad 3D Design Software 101.” YouTube, YouTube, 28 June 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=sh4o9k599pQ.

Eunny. “Make a Cup 2016v with Tinkercad + 3D Printing | 3D Modeling How to Make and Design.” YouTube, YouTube, 18 Feb. 2016, www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeTqjwfGJgU.

CUG Labs. “Tinkercad Tutorial - Organic Shapes.” YouTube, YouTube, 9 Nov. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyYeR76vEzE. "

JUDGES FEEDBACK

The character Chlorix has a striking design, and I am quite intrigued by the usage of the periodic table in the character. (While Bill Willingham created the Elementals, a 1986 comic about characters with the four elements of the universe, and Steven Universe uses rocks and minerals, I certainly haven't seen a series with the periodic table. This idea is certainly rich with possibilities.) While the gas looks like a solid in the 3D rendering, this could also be an attribute of the character, as chlorine can also become a solid. Can't wait to see this series on Cartoon Network or Netflix or Disney+ one day.

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