Monday, January 31, 2011

Urban Feeds workshop at SG2011

The Smart Geometry 2011 Conference in Copenhagen features the workshop Urban Feeds.

Participants will work with technology which allows the monitoring of urban properties such as air quality and traffic flows. Connection to the sensory data will be done through gHowl, a set of custom components written for Grasshopper. These components allow users to connect to existing data streams, and also to emit manipulated data back to the sensor data stream.

Dates: March 28-31, 2011
Location: Smart Geometry Conference, Copenhagen

Seatec trade show



Seatec (Carrara, Italy, Feb 16-18) is an International Exhibition of technology, subcontracting, and design for boats, megayachts and ships.

Come visit the NDAR booth (D-857 - Pavilion D) to learn more about Rhino, Orca3D, T-Splines, Rhinophoto and RhinoParametrics.

Friday, January 28, 2011

Rhino+, new plugin





Do more, faster, with Rhino+ .


Rhino+ is a new site where you can find Rhino commands that are simple but increase your work efficiency. They are free to download and use.

Available in English and Japanese.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

More Rhino jobs...

New Rhino-related jobs have popped up this week. Take a look...

RhinoTerrain at Imagina trade show


Imagina (Monaco, Feb 1-3 2011) is the European 3D simulation and visualization event.

Come see the latest news about Rhino and RhinoTerrain at the AEC Informatique booth (I 128-130) and meet the representatives from RhinoTerrain and Rhinoforyou.

SnS, Analysis in Rhino - New Version

A new build of Scan&Solve™ for Rhino is now available. This build includes several user-requested load types while retaining the familiar interface that has made Scan&Solve so easy to use. Download it here.

Version 1.0 is much closer to its final form, which is tentatively scheduled for release on March 1, 2011. Pre-release special offer is now available to beta testers. Details here...

New load types in this build include:
  • Torque around any axis
  • Centrifugal force
  • Angular acceleration
  • Arbitrary linear acceleration
    In Rhino, simply:
    • Select the material, (standard or custom)
    • Apply the restraints
    • Apply the new load types
      • Select Body at the command line for body loads, OR
      • Select faces to load and specify torque
    • Click Go
    • View the results (strength, weakness, stresses, deformations)
    • Click Report to generate web-ready reports
    • Click Bake to save the deformed shape

    For more details or to participate in the free beta, please join the Scan&Solve for Rhino network.

    Tuesday, January 25, 2011

    Grasshopper advanced training in Barcelona

    Grasshopper Advanced Training
    February 28-March 2
    McNeel Europe, Barcelona (Spain)




    This is a scripting course based on RhinoCommon and its use within Grasshopper. It is designed to allow the user to accomplish more with this algorithmic modeling program and has the goal to enter the programming world and tinker with more complex, interactive solutions. We will also explore advanced programming paradigms. The class has no official programming language, as both C# and Vb.Net are possible on the participant’s side, and all examples will be provided in both C# and Vb.Net. Additionally, we will see how to get started writing full .Net plug-ins. Finally, on the third day, we will have time to explore users' own proposals.

    Geometrías programadas: computación y arquitectura en la era de la información



    Ciclo de conferencias "Geometrías programadas: computación y arquitectura en la era de la información"
    UIC, Barcelona (Spain)
    February-March 2011

    This series of open conferences about digital fabrication and computational design is organized by the UIC - Master in Biodigital Architecture.

    • Fabricación digital: técnicas y aplicaciones - Toolingroup
      Feb 03 - 10:00h
    • RhinoNest, optimización para la reducción de costes y tiempos de producción - TDM Solutions
      Feb 15 - 15:30h
    • OR/gan - SEED
      Feb 22 - 15:30h
    • Fabricación digital: case studies - MedioDesign
      March 01 - 15:30h
    • Architectural Design with Rhino and Grasshopper - McNeel Europe
      March 08 - 15:30h

    Fabricate 2011



    FABRICATE is an International Peer Reviewed Conference with supporting publication and exhibition, to be held at The Bartlett School of Architecture (University College London) from 15-16 April 2011. Discussing the progressive integration of digital design with manufacturing processes, FABRICATE will bring together pioneers in design and making within architecture, construction, engineering, manufacturing, materials technology, and computation. Discussion on key themes will include:

    • How digital fabrication technologies are enabling new creative and construction opportunities
    • The difficult gap that exists between digital modeling and its realization
    • Material performance and manipulation
    • Off-site and on-site construction
    • Interdisciplinary education
    • Economic and sustainable contexts

    Check the impressive panel of experts, speakers, and exhibitors.

    Monday, January 24, 2011

    Rhino 5 OS X - new WIP release


    A new Work In Progress (WIP) build of Rhino 5 for OS X is now available.  This Mac build is up-to-date with the Windows build.  There is a new Windows WIP release every week or so and an updated Mac Rhino WIP will be released shortly after each Windows release. 

    You can download the Wenatchee 5 2011-01-10 build here.

    The Mac V5 Rhino version supports 64-bit Intel, 32-bit Intel, and 32-bit PowerPC architectures. This Mac version will automatically run in 64-bit mode on Core 2 Duo Intel processors or later, so running out of memory should no longer be a problem. It requires OS X 10.5 (Leopard) or later.

    Rhino OS X now also has most of the V5 improvements that are in the Windows version, such as:
    • better stability
    • many command enhancements
    • faster drawing speeds
    • display enhancements
    • new commands
    • new editing tools such as gumball
    This build has many bug fixes and minor enhancements.

    Everyone is invited to download and use the OS X version of Rhino while it is in development.

    Most of the core functionality has been ported from Windows and is very stable. There is still much to do to port the rest of the functionality and refine the interface.

    We don't expect the first commercial release to be ready until next year. Don't worry if the build you are using is about to expire. New versions will be available every week or so. There will be a newer one available before the expiration date.

    Saturday, January 22, 2011

    EvoluteTools Introductory Promotion ends Jan 31.

    Designing and optimizing planer panel layouts on free-form buildings for fabrication is made easy in Rhino using EvoluteTools.

    The Planarization Module to optimize freeform panelisations for planar panels is one of the tools in the EvoluteTools Rhino plug-in suite. Check out the all available features and modules.

    Take advantage of the Introductory Price until January 31 2011.

    Friday, January 21, 2011

    RhinoPython at CCA

    Dr. Walter Kim is teaching a geometry course at CCA using RhinoPython.

    He has posted the course materials online and would be delighted to get your feedback.

    Thursday, January 20, 2011

    Rhino SDK goes open source

    All of our business strategies are based on being open. OpenNURBS, our first open source code initiative, provides access to the native Rhino 3DM file format without restriction or royalties. Our latest open initiatives are RhinoCommon, Rhino 5’s new cross-platform SDK, our support of the Windows.Forms extension to the MonoMac project, .NET UI for the Mac, and Rhino 5’s RhinoPython libraries.

    We have just placed RhinoCommon, the C# portion of Rhino 5’s new cross-platform SDK, on github.

    Our goals for making RhinoCommon open source are:

    1. Helping Rhino plug-in developers write better plug-ins because they can trace into the source to see what is going on inside the RhinoCommon SDK
    2. Developers can report bugs in RhinoCommon source
    3. More eyes to scrutinize our code that will provide more detailed feedback on where it can be improved
    4. Help from the developer community from those that want to add code, documentation, or samples
    To take advantage of the open source RhinoCommon, Rhino 5 developers are invited to simply:
    1. Download and compile the RhinoCommon project
    2. Rename the shipping RhinoCommon.dll to RhinoCommon.dll.original
    3. Place the RhinoCommon.dll and pdb that they just compiled in the Rhino 5 system directory

    MonoMac.Windows.Forms provides developers with the tools to develop and compile a .NET project including UI on Windows Rhino 5 and have it run without a recompile on the Mac Rhino 5. Anyone interested in contributing to the early development of the MonoMac.Windows.Forms project can find it here.

    The RhinoPython libraries with source code are included with Rhino 5 on both Windows and the Mac. The libraries provide hundreds of Python functions that give Python developers easy access to Rhino’s most complex SDK functions. Anyone interested in contributing to the RhinoPython libraries project can find it here.

    Open Source – an obsession or a passion?
    For some “Open Source” is an obsession, but at McNeel “Open Source” (or more accurately “Open”) is a passion. The feedback we get from sharing at every opportunity excites and inspires us. It is the feedback from others that provides the clarity of purpose behind everything that we do.

    Apomechanes book

    This book presents the projects designed and fabricated during the apomechanes computational design studio in 2009 and 2010, supported by theoretical articles and professional projects by Karl Chu, Carla Leitao, Kokkugia and Ahylo, exploring computational design and its fields of materialization.

    Apomechanes is an international intensive studio held each summer in Athens, Greece. The studio is devoted to furthering techniques and concepts of algorithmic processes as means for design and fabrication.

    Algorithmic design introduces processes that allow the genetic growth of complex structures and forms by using simple syntactic rules. Apomechanes is an attempt to set up a unique agenda on computational design methodologies and underline the morphogenetic qualitative characteristics of the algorithmic logic. Non-linear, self-organized and emergent behaviors are intravenously injected into the core of the architectural design process, and the focus is on the inherent potential of computation to generate space.

    All the projects were done using RhinoScript. You can find examples of the code in the book.

    Wednesday, January 19, 2011

    Authorized RhinoFabLab™ program launched


    What is an Authorized RhinoFabLab?

    An Authorized RhinoFabLab™ (fabrication laboratory) is a small-scale digital workshop, certified by McNeel, with an array of Rhino and Rhino compatible software and computer controlled tools and training. These tools cover the various leading-edge industrial methods and materials needed to design, analyze, and fabricate almost anything. A RhinoFabLab's primary mission is to share the world's digital fabrication expertise in their local community.

    An Authorized RhinoFabLab also:
    • Is recognized as a leading-edge provider of industrial grade digital design, analysis, and fabrication expertise.
    • Has all of their events and activities published to a worldwide audience.
    • Has worldwide access to the specialty experts in every aspect of digital design, analysis, and fabrication.
    • Has direct access with many of the digital design, analysis, and fabrication product development teams.

    Becoming an Authorized RhinoFabLab

    All Rhino ARTs and ARTCs encouraged to apply. Details here...



    Join the RhinoFabLab community

    The RhinoFabLab community is a place to share, learn and teach different methods of fabrication for industrial designers, jewelers, architects, and engineers when Rhinoceros is involved in any phase of the design and manufacturing/construction process. It is also a great place to share information about digital fabrication hardware, digital models and Grasshopper definitions.

    RhinoFabLab is open to everyone and encourages discussions about any Rhino compatible software and hardware that helps you realize your ideas.

    Andres Gonzalez, in the McNeel Miami office, is your host.

    Rhino jobs...

    Several new opportunities have been posted on our Rhino Jobs board. Take a look...

    • CadBlu Inc is looking for a RhinoGold Salesman/Trainer.
      Location: New York, NY
      Contact: Lucy Trevino
    • Belco Group is seeking an independent 3D Designer for RC car modeling.
      Location: Belgium
      Contact: John
    • tecDESIGN is looking for an individual or company to provide architectural renderings.
      Location: Los Angeles, CA
      Contact: Shawn Keltner
    • Fair Trails Enterprises is looking for an experienced Rhino modeler interested in contract work.
      Location: Roseville, CA
      Contact: Richard Wallace
    • Forida Limited is looking for Application Engineer with Rhino and Grasshopper experience.
      Location: Hong Kong
      Contact: Kenneth Lau
    • ASK Gold Inc is seeking a full-time CAD/CAM designer with jewelry experience.
      Location: Los Angeles, CA
      Contact: Michael

    VisualARQ 1.2



    VisualARQ 1.2 is now available to download. This is a free service release for all VisualARQ users.

    VisualARQ 1.2 fixes all known bugs. There are also a number of enhancements, including:

    • Beam object (video)
    • Context help
    • IFC 2×3 export (information)
    • Per object plan visibility

    See the complete what’s new.

    If you are a VisualARQ user, download VisualARQ 1.2.

    If you are an evaluation user, download the new evaluation version to test the new features.

    UDM for Rhino



    The User Data Manager (UDM) plugin for Rhinoceros 4 provides easy management of any object data stored as an object's attributes. For example, you can use it to store any object properties (material, color...) and filter your objects for selection.

    Saturday, January 15, 2011

    Mediated Matter by Neri Oxman, Monday

    Neri Oxman is speaking about her work in the Mediated Matter research group.
    Date: Monday January 24, 2011 6:30
    Where: Wood Auditorium, Avery Hall , GSAPP, Columbia University
    Mediated Matter Event Details
    Organised for Post Parametric 4
    Neri Oxman Assistant Professor of Media Arts and Sciences at the MIT Media Lab where she directs the Mediated Matter research group. Her group explores how digital design and fabrication technologies mediate between matter and environment to radically transform design and construction.

    Friday, January 14, 2011

    User Meeting in Tel Aviv



    RhinoSchool Israel, Authorized Rhino Reseller and Trainer, is pleased to announce the 1st Rhino User Meeting in Israel.

    - When: January 25, 2011
    - Where: Kavim Banamal (Tel Aviv Harbor)
    - Contact: Amir Lipsicas

    - Program:

    • Modeling test case – Complex modeling – Amir Lipsicas, Product Designer.
    • 3D Rendering – Inon Green, Product Designer and Animator.
    • Integratiing Rhino with other softwares – Combining 3D models with live videos – Mr. Ken (Menachem) Altras
    • Announce of the winners of the 1st "Designed by Rhino" competition by RhinoSchool Israel.
    • Food and wine

    Interview with David

    We often get asked about Grasshopper's background.

    There is an interview with David Rutten on page 28 of the Italian MixExperience community's online magazine, tools numero 1, where David explains the development process and thinking behind Grasshopper.

    Thursday, January 13, 2011

    Rhino joins the Band


    Amit Zoran of the MIT Media Lab has printed a fully-functional concert flute directly on an Objet Connex500 3D printer from his Rhino model.

    Watch the video to see what he might try next:

    River Restoration in Rhino and Grasshopper



    In this video Javier Martinez Gaxiola, the Project Manager at Laboratorio de Habitats Bioéticos, shows the restoration of a River in Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas in Southern México. In the project they used Grasshopper for the site analysis, form finding, and model optimization.

    Arduino - connecting the physical and digital



    This video documentary covers the history of Arduino, the tiny bit of hardware that connects physical and digital worlds.

    The free FireFly plug-in for Grasshopper connects the Arduino with Grasshopper and Rhino.

    Introduction to SectionTools Video Tutorial



    In this video tutorial, you'll learn how to use SectionTools in Rhino. Create dynamic sections through your model and use them in your layouts.

    RhinoNest and T-Splines in Grasshopper


    Besides the increasing number of Grasshopper add-ons, other popular plugins for Rhino are starting to make their technology available in Grasshopper. Follow the links to see some previews:

    Bau 2011 - Rieder fibre C plugin powered by Evolute



    The Rieder fibre C plugin for Rhino powered by Evolute aims at seamless integration of the fibre C technology into your processes. The fibre C plugin will assist you in all stages from design to production:

    • Analyze the quality and feasibility of your design with respect to the fibre C technology.
    • Obtain a cost estimation.
    • Manage and Track the fibre C panels production process by accessing up-to-date production information from Rieder directly via the fibre C plugin.
    Evolute is looking forward to seeing you at the Rieder booth of the BAU building trade exposition 2011 in Munich and giving you a demo of the fibre C plugin prototype.

    Looking for a challenge? Evolute is hiring!

    Are you interested to join Evolute in their fascinating endeavor to revolutionize free-form architecture? Check out the job offers.

    Tuesday, January 11, 2011

    Vicenza Oro




    Jan 15-20 - VICENZAORO, Vicenza (Italy)VICENZAORO First, the international exhibition of jewelry and gold ware that opens the jewelry world calendar year, will be held in Vicenza Fair January 15-20, 2011.

    Come visit the following Rhino resellers and partners to learn more about jewelry design, prototyping, and manufacturing:

    Also, don't miss the meeting of the Italian user community mixexperience, taking place on January 15th from 14:30 to 15:30h at the Prototek booth (Pavilion L - Stand 4118).

    Thursday, January 6, 2011

    Integrated BIM, Ecotect and Oasys GSA through Grasshopper

    research_34
    Thomas Buseck has been working on shell design studies for a new airport in Innsbruck. Using the Grasshopper plug-ins from Geometry Gym and [uto]. He improved the structural efficiency and solar performance of the design options.

    Variable distribution of 3D Modules with PanelingTools



    A new release of PanelingTools plug-in is now available for Rhino 4.0 SR8 and Rhino 5 WIP.

    This release includes a redesign of the variable custom paneling of 3D modules when using "Mean" method. Morphing method now uses relative bounding box in order to generate more predictable intermediate modules across the paneling grid. In the V5 version of PanelingTools, new options are added to better control the matching of start and end patterns which includes control points, point sampling and compatibility check.

    New release of SectionTools for Rhino 5



    A new release of SectionTools plug-in is now available with the latest Rhino 5 WIP of January 5, 2011. You can find download instructions and documentation at SectionTools wiki page.

    SectionTools is a dynamic sectioning plug-in from RhinoLabs to help generate and update 3D sections and their 2D layouts. The plug-in has editing, viewing and reporting tools to effectively manage big set of sections.

    New in this release:

    • Updated section creation commands to add section hint that consists of a cut line (with arrows pointing to section direction) and a text dot to indicate section name. The new section cut lines can now be used to select sections. All commands that require selecting sections were updated to support selecting sections directly by selecting cut lines or from a list.
    • Added a new command "stEditSectionsHint" to edit, show and hide cut lines and text.
    • Updated File I/O to save hint scale and hint display state to file. Files created with earlier versions should load just fine.
    • Added UpdateSection command to update one section at a time.
    • Changed stUpdate command name to stUpdateAllSections.
    • Section clipping planes used to hide when updating sections. This is now fixed to retain their show/hide state.
    • Updated dynamic feedback when creating sections.
    • Fixed stMake2D when using extrusion objects.
    • Fixed duplicate layout dot bug when calling layout command on existing layout.
    • Fixed a bug when calling layout command on existing layout. It is used to delete objects other than section data.
    • Made layout title dot locate at some distance from the layout instead of overlapping with the baseline.
    • Fixed reporting bug when objects have no names. Rhino used to hang.
    • Updated toolbars and manual and short clips in the SectionTools wiki page. Also added new short clip to show how to select sections interactively and edit them with "stEditSectionsHint".

    Wednesday, January 5, 2011

    Online training for marine designers

    ProBoat E-Training is offering a new session of their Rhino 3D Modeling for Marine Designers course. Beginning on January 16th, this six-week course will be taught by Cliff Estes.


    Register today to ensure your place in this informative and practical online course.

    Tuesday, January 4, 2011

    New Advanced Rhino Tutorial Video

    InfiniteSkills has released a brand new Advanced Rhino Tutorial Video. It's available now on DVD.

    About the video...
    This Advanced Rhino Tutorial Video is the ultimate in comprehensive learning for the discerning professional. The training uses broadcast quality audio and video to deliver concise and informative training right to your desktop. The training comes complete with practical working files and presented via an intuitive, easy-to-use interface, allowing you to learn at your own pace. Take your skills to the next level!

    Monday, January 3, 2011

    Smart3D at VicenzaOro



    VICENZAORO First, the international exhibition of jewelry and goldware that opens the jewelry world calendar year, will be held in Vicenza Fair from January 15-20, 2011. VICENZAORO includes all the different aspects of the jewelry.


    Come visit Smart3D (Pavilion L - Stand 4111) and learn more about the new Rhino plug-ins StoneSetting and Smart3dPavè.