Background
Recently, @sfp posted a question asking how to create a camera in Rhino and shared a demostration video of modeling in NX. This is a classic example of solid modeling. In fact, Rhino offers many solid modeling tools. But how can you dynamically adjust the shape during the design process? For the camera model mentioned above, prior to Rhino 8, this could only be achieved using Grasshopper, as discussed in a previous forum thread here….
The earlier demonstration primarily used the BooleanDifference in Grasshopper. Starting with Rhino 8, BooleanDifference now supports recording history, meaning you can directly create this dynamically adjustable shape in Rhino 8 or Rhino WIP, and modify it at any time.
Commands Needed
- Box – Create the main body.
- Loft – Create surfaces for each Boolean operation.
- BooleanDifference – Perform Boolean operations to shape the model. Be sure to set
DeleteInput = No. - FilletEdge – Finally, use this command to add fillets. Apply it at the end.
Important Notes
- Make sure to enable recording history.
- When using BooleanDifference, remember to check
DeleteInput = No. - This tutorial was created in Rhino WIP for Windows. Please download the latest Rhino WIP.
Getting Started
Download the initial tutorial files.
BooleanModeling.3dm (100.9 KB)
Reminder: Click here to download the latest Rhino WIP…
Left Side Shape
After creating the Loft surface, apply BooleanDifference.
Note: The curves used for Loft are already grouped. Use Shift+Ctrl to select them.
Right Side Shape
After creating the Loft surface, apply BooleanDifference. Same notes as above.
Front Shape
After creating the Loft surface, apply BooleanDifference. Same notes as above.
Top Shape
After creating the Loft surface, apply BooleanDifference. Same notes as above.
Back Shape
After creating the Loft surface, apply BooleanDifference. Same notes as above.
Lens Shape
Use the Revolve command to complete it.
Shape Exploration
Adjust different areas to find the ideal form.
Fillet Edges
Use the FilletEdge command. Rhino WIP has significantly improved this command, which is the main reason this tutorial uses Rhino WIP for demonstration.
Reminder: Click here to download the latest Rhino WIP…
If you encounter any issues while practicing this tutorial, feel free to reply to the thread. If you notice any error or omissions, please point them out as well. Thank you.