Design of a CAD Model

Example: Design a Control Mesh for a Catmull-Clark Subdivision Surface;
it should be simple, highly symmetrical, produce a nice, smooth surface,
and be suitably parametrized to do future studies in energy minimization...
e.g. -- a Genus-4 surface.

This is a Multi-stage Design Process:

1. Understanding the Task
• What is a genus-4 surface ? - Definition of genus
  
  
2. Initial Inspiration (Mental Image)
• Any previous examples of genus-4 objects ? - Max Bill Sculpture
• What other general forms are genus 4 ?
Write down some ideas; make some initial sketches.


3. Clear Concept (Sketch, Mock-up, Draft Code, ...)
• Clarify your initial sketches.
• Make some models from paper, sticky tape, wire-mesh, styrofoam ...
• What is there to get started from ?
• Are there suitable code modules available ? - CODE/G3adjust.slf
• Is there a clear path to complete the design ?
Possibly go back to #2


4. Accounting for All Specifications
• Is there as much symmetry as possible ?
• Are the extra-ordinary vertices in the right places ?
• Are all the facets quadrilateral ?
• Is the mesh as simple as possible ?
• Do I have a reasonable set of parameters ?
Possibly go back to #3
 
5. Precise Part Description (CAD file)
• Is the mesh watertight ?
• Does it work properly with the SLIDE subdivision module ?
  ==> May have to fix some alignment, close some cracks.
• Can I produce a pleasing, well-rounded structure ?
  ==> May have to adjust the range of the parameters.
• Adjust the initial parameter settings to give a nice result ?
  
  
6. Document Your Design
• Screen-capture a nice image ...