Computers , Models and Creativity

Look up the word model on a good dictionary.  You'd be surprised how many definitions there are.  However, English is a very free and open language.  Unlike French and some others, there is no single authority for definitions.  The definition of a word in English is primarily how people use it. That means that different groups will have different meanings of words.  People around the Great Lakes call a 1000 foot vessel a boat.  To a Navy man that is anathema.

Arguing about meanings of English words is a pretty useless activity, kind of like spitting into the wind.

I think you have a point.

I might be able to help by giving an answer to support my argument that a computer model is much like a plastic model, even if it just stays in a hard drive somewhere.  I am a mechanical deisgner by profession and spend almost all my waking hours in the design process using both traditional drafting and modeling with modern 3D CAD and 3D printing.  When I start a design, I do a thumbnail sketch on a drawing tablet, then go into the 3D program to make a ruff carving of the overall appearence of what I intend the product to look like.  From there, all the parts are then designed, modeled, then assembled into the main assembly.  This may sound easy, but it takes many hours setting up relationships and then checking interferneces to make sure everything fits up.

Thats all the computer side.  When I build the proto-type, I use traditional pattern, die, cast, machine proto-typing with modern SLA (3D printed) proto typing.  Many of my product designs incorporate all.  I have a current project with over 500 parts in the proto-type that are a combination of 3D printed, machined, casted, and composite materials.  In otherwords, its a big model kit when I am done with it.

Before I present the physical model, I have to show it in a 2D format, so I make a renduring of my concept.  This can be printed, or I can show it moving in a 3D animated environment.  Now, is this a model like one you see in a display case at the hobby store?  I would say yes, in a sense, because the same skills, patience, and experience was needed to complete the model in the virtual world that was needed to create it in the real word.  Its all about another design aspect that we call perspective.

So, in conclusion, many artists and designers take advantage of technology to enhance their productivity.  It still requires the creative aspect to get the idea started. The computer is just a another tool, like a lathe, or an airbrush.  I foresee many modelers embracing this technology in the future and extending the creative envelope.  The good thing about it is that all those unfinished projects can now take up space on the hard drive instead of taking up space in my closet.  

Hi;

   Well , I guess I needed more info .You made it very easy to understand from an engineer's point of view . Being a Designer of floaty thingies years ago , required drawings , copious amounts of them , notes and then the model of the prototype .

  So I guess you are right .The computer part is as essential as my old drawings and notes were . Thanks . T.B.