How to Design Soma Puzzle Cube Using 3D CAD Software
The Soma Puzzle Cube is a classic 3D puzzle that has fascinated minds for decades, offering a blend of creativity, problem-solving, and spatial reasoning. In the realm of digital design, crafting such a puzzle requires not only an understanding of its geometry but also proficiency with a versatile 3D modeling tool. SelfCAD, a user-friendly and powerful 3D design software, is an excellent platform for creating intricate designs like the Soma Puzzle Cube.
This tutorial explores the step-by-step process of designing a Soma Puzzle Cube using SelfCAD. We begin by understanding the fundamentals of the puzzle's geometry, then delve into SelfCAD's tools and techniques, including basic shape creation, transformations, and advanced editing features. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional designer, this guide will empower you to bring this timeless puzzle to life in the digital world.
To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/502i4gc5h5k192r2a26a51444y5s6b2r3g3j
Once you’ve launched the editor;
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 50, height to 50, depth to 50, position x to 25, position z to 25
Click to finalize cube
From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set z to -50, amount of copies to 2, lick copy button to create copies.
Click ‘x’ to close copy offsets panel
From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set x to -50, amount of copies to 2, lick copy button to create copies.
Click ‘x’ to close copy offsets panel
From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set y to 50, amount of copies to 2, click copy button to create copies.
Click ‘x’ to close copy offsets panel
Click on all the meshes to deselect them, Click on mesh 26,25,24,21 to select
Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.
Click to finalize union
Click on mesh 4(18), 4(9), 4(12) to select. Click on union 1 to deselect
Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.
Click to finalize union
Click on mesh 4(19, 20, 23, 11) to select. Click on union 2 to deselect
Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.
Click to finalize union
Click on mesh 4(3, 6, 15, 16) to select. Click on union 4 to deselect
Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.
Click to finalize union
Click show all button to show all objects
Click rotate on the toolbar; Set z to 90.
Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel
Click move on the toolbar; Set y to 0, z to 150
Click on union 6 to select it. Click on union 7 to deselect, Set x to -200
Click on union 4 to select it. Click on union 6 to deselect, Set x to 150
Click on union 2 to select. Click on union 4 to deselect, Set y to 0
Click on union 5 to select. Click on union 2 to deselect
Set x to -200, z to 100
Click on union 1 to select it. Click on union 5 to deselect
Set y to 0, z to -200
Click on union 3 to select. Click on union 1 to deselect
Set y to 0, z to -250, x to 50
Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel
As you continue honing your design skills, remember that SelfCAD offers a wealth of resources to support your learning journey. To deepen your understanding and explore more advanced features, consider checking out the interactive tutorials (https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials) available on the SelfCAD website. The tutorials page provides a treasure trove of guides, tips, and tricks that cater to designers of all levels.
More structured learning experience can also be accessed at the SelfCAD Academy (https://www.selfcad.com/academy/curriculum/), https://www.youtube.com/@3dmodeling101, and 3D Modeling 101 series (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL74nFNT8yS9DcE1UlUUdiR1wFGv9DDfTB). This comprehensive resource offers in-depth courses taught by industry experts, allowing you to master the intricacies of SelfCAD at your own pace
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