ART 4813 SEC 001 : 3D MODELS AND RAPID PROTOTYPING
 
T TH 1:30-4:20
B17 FJC
Spring 2006
 
Instructor: Adam W. Brown
Office: FJC 406
Office hours: Wednesday 9 - 11am or by appointment
E-mail: awbrown@ou.edu
URL: www.isisconceptuallaboratory.com
Phone: 326-8664
 
Model: A physical, mathematical or otherwise logical representation of a system entity, phenomenon or process.

Simulation: The imitation of the operation of a real-world process or system over time.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The line between the virtual and the real continues to disintegrate. Supplicated simulations, games and mediated experiences are becoming increasingly common and it is important that artists work within this liminal construction; between the virtual and the real. 3D printing technology that bridges the gap between the virtual and the flesh is rapidly becoming more common place. Soon, every household will have a 3D printer next to their ink jet. Objects will simply be a click away.

This course is designed to introduce artists/students to 3D modeling, an imitation and rendering (for print output) techniques. In addition to working with the software we will be investigating new rapid prototyping techniques. Rapid prototyping provides a way to produce objects of elaborate topology and great physical complexity, but so far its use has been limited almost entirely to engineering.

Course will be divided in three sections: Model making, scene rendering/animating and rapid prototyping. Each section will have an accompanying project and a series of weekly technical exercises.

This is a fast-paced, "learning by doing" lecture & laboratory course. Each week lectures and demonstrations
presented during the class sessions will prepare you to undertake a related modeling and/or rendering exercise.
Background reference and online readings will explain the technical issues surrounding the exercises.

At the end of the course students will be required to participate in an exhibition.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:
• To develop a "critical eye" with regard to computer graphic (CG) images by developing your understanding of 3D
modeling & rendering programs.
• To introduce you to "data as process" and help you generate "good data" by understanding how the cycle of data
creation and editing interacts with the commands and data types of the program to facilitate or hinder the creation
of desired product.
• To remind you that images are communicative tools, linked together and used to “tell a story” to someone else,
whether for entertainment or architect/client communication. Models are not “objective reality” from which
rendering programs produce precise “snapshots”. They are “authored”–created and manipulated to accomplish a
particular communication.
 
EVALUATION AND GRADES:
In order to receive a grade, students must turn work in by the due date outlined in the syllabus. Work that is not turned in on time will result in a failing grade. Because grades will be partly assessed on each project, it is imperative that you document all work in an organized and professional manner.
 
Projects will be evaluated on the basis of :
-       technical and conceptual quality
-       development throughout the course
-       completion of the project at the specified due date
-       willingness to act on criticism
 
Percentage Breakdown:
30% technical assignments
20% class participation/critique
50% projects
 
ASSIGNMENTS:
1. Reading assignments will be comprised of handouts, reserve materials, and web pages. The assigned reading materials are designed to compliment the imaginative process and provide a context for creative projects. Students will be required to turn in a typed half page response to assigned readings and be prepared for a class discussion.
2. Technical assignments will be assigned to aid the learning process. Assignments are due when by the date outlined in the syllabus.
 
CRITIQUES:
Critiques begin promptly at the beginning of class. Showing up on time, showing work and participating in discussion are all part of what makes a critique work. In order to show work at the critique you must bring your finished project as well as enough copies of a written artist's statement (1-2 paragraphs) to hand out to the class. Your presentation of the work and the written statement will be used as a jumping off point for discussion.
 
ATTENDANCE:
Attendance is MANDATORY . Interaction and collaboration are an important aspect of the learning process and are critical for establishing trust among your peers. Please note that your grade will be reduced one full letter grade for every two unexcused absences. This policy will be strictly enforced. If you need to miss a class please contact me in advance.
 
LAB HOURS:
The Media Lab hours will be posted during the first week of the semester.
(It is generally open weekday evenings and all day on Sunday)
 
SUPPLIES:
Supplies will be provided by the class and American Precision inc.
 
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION POLICY:
Any student in this course who has a disability that may prevent him or her from fully demonstrating his or her abilities should contact me as soon as possible so we can discuss accommodations necessary to ensure full participation and facilitate your involvement in this class.