3d modelling

why this project?

Following some Blender tutorials (the sprinkle donut was a good place to start), I wanted to dip my feet into 3D modelling and design. So I turned my head to SolidWorks, a simpler beginner friendly software. I've spent most of my personal projects dabbling in software development with various languages including Python, Java, C++, and experimenting with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript with this portfolio website. Expanding my horizon, 3D design is the next challenge I set myself up to. Although my results may not be on par with other designs in the community, I'm proud of what I've modelled and excited to share it.

concept & struggles

The idea was to create a Jeep-like Cybertruck. The Cybertruck with its box-y figure was perfect as a beginner project to recreate and implement features. I had initial sketches and ideas for different extrudes, cuts, and revolves. For the tires, I used a circular tread pattern by rotating shapes around the tire axis. I used a similar circular approach for the steering wheel spokes, rotating a spoke three times.

For the interior, I wanted to hollow out space for seats and extra room in the back. I was familiar with the shell tool, but I kept running into zero-thickness geometry errors. The shell thickness I first attempted caused parts of the exterior to collapse where surfaces intersected.

The chassis required the most design thinking. Since it integrates every part together, I needed specific dimensions for wheel rods, slots for seats and dashboard support, and overall exterior fit. Rods were straightforward once slot diameters and lengths were tuned. Seats were built from splines with an extrude for width. Finally, assembly mates brought each part together into the full vehicle impression.

what did i learn?

I learned how to break down a complex design into manageable parts, starting with the base frame and gradually modelling details like angular body panels and wheel wells. I improved my understanding of parametric modeling by defining dimensions and constraints more deliberately. With fillets, chamfers, and surface edits, I experimented with balancing sharp edges and smooth transitions to capture the Cybertruck aesthetic with Jeep-like rugged elements.

I also became more efficient with assemblies, especially when mating components like wheels and chassis. Overall, this project sharpened precision, iteration habits, and problem-solving for unusual geometries in SolidWorks.

Everything here was a learning experience. From getting comfortable with Blender and SolidWorks tools to shelling the model successfully, I tested many features and got a real taste of 3D design workflow: vision, sketching, tool planning, and modelling. It wasn't easy or short, and I often relied on tutorials, friends, and the SolidWorks community.

To showcase that progress, you can interact with the model above and view all parts, assemblies, and exploded drawings on my GitHub.