Sub-D Tools in Rhino 7

Overview

• Introduction to new Sub-D tools in Rhino 7 for organic modeling.
• Sub-D modeling incorporates techniques from Blender and Maya.
• Focus on basic concepts and tools.

What is Sub-D Modeling?

• Sub-D (Subdivision Surface): A new object type in Rhino.
• Differences from traditional geometries:
  • NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines): Smooth surfaces represented by mathematical equations (e.g., spheres).
  • Meshes: Composed of polygonal faces, approximating shapes (e.g., polygonal sphere).
  • Sub-D Geometry: Spline-based, combines benefits of NURBS and meshes, allowing more control and smoother representations.

Creating Basic Sub-D Objects

1. Sub-D Primitives: Start with basic shapes and manipulate.
   • Sub-D Plane: Use create function, set divisions in X/Y.
   • Sub-D Box: Set divisions and observe smooth vs. unsmooth modes using the Tab key.
   • Other Primitives: Cone, truncated cone, cylinder, sphere, ellipsoid, torus.

Key Points on Sub-D Geometry

• Smooth vs. unsmooth representation.
• Lower resolution objects are easier to manipulate.

Gumball Tool

• Gumball Tool: Essential for transformation (move, rotate, scale).
• Grid Snap Tool: Helps in accuracy during modeling, but sub-D is more sketch-oriented.
• Shift-Control Click: Select specific geometry (faces, edges, vertices) for precise manipulation.
• Aligning the Gumball to object vs. C-plane for accurate transformations.

Modeling Techniques

Squashed Geometry

• Use Extrude Tool with a Sub-D box to create squashed shapes.
• Tips for manipulation: use Gumball for efficient scaling and movement.
• Importance of making copies while experimenting to avoid loss of geometry.

Ribbed Geometry

• Use the Bridge Tool to create connections between edges.
• Combine with extrusion for added complexity.
• Incorporate triangular faces for smoother transitions.

Splayed Geometry

• Insert Edge Loop tool to add structure for branching effects.
• Utilize extrude feature for varying heights and directions.
• Crease Tool: to create hard edges for articulation of the geometry.

Crossed Geometry

• Start with a Sub-D box, use extrusions to create cross shapes.
• Use Bevel Tool for detailing edges and changing geometry appearance.

Pinched Geometry

• Create a pinched shape using the Stitch Tool to connect two sides of geometry.
• Manipulate geometry to emphasize the pinch effect.

Conclusion

• Experiment with creating shapes based on adjectives (e.g., squashed, ribbed, splayed).
• Encouragement to practice and explore the Sub-D toolkit further.