Project Update: Helmet Styling Toolkit (HST) – Surface Analysis and Material Rendering in Rhino 3D
This update documents recent progress on the Helmet Styling Toolkit (HST) for Rhino 3D, focusing on surface analysis and material rendering features on a touchscreen display for rapid use while developing forms.
Key features demonstrated:
- Multiple material rendering modes: dull, clay-like, shiny, metallic, and paint finishes for visualizing shape, curvature, and continuity.
- Particle visualization and comic book-style shadow rendering for analyzing surface transitions and edge behavior.
- Integration of AI-generated engravings and mat captures for extended material studies.
- New surface analysis tools, including zebra functions and customizable color palettes.
- All rendering and analysis presets are accessible via the HST menu, with adjustable parameters for color segmentation, element size, gap width, and transparency.
The video includes a screen capture of the Rhino 3D CAD environment, the HST touch screen interface, and a live demonstration of parameter adjustments.
Current version: Work in Progress #9, April 2025.
Feedback on analysis workflows or suggestions for additional visualization modes are welcome.
