How to Design a Toilet Paper Roller Using 3D CAD Software

Learn How to Design a Toilet Paper Roller Using 3D CAD Software with the help of this article

How to Design a Toilet Paper Roller Using 3D CAD Software

In an age where customization and practical design are increasingly accessible, 3D modeling tools like SelfCAD empower individuals to bring everyday objects to life. One such object is the toilet paper roller. While it may seem simple, designing a functional and aesthetically pleasing roller requires a thoughtful approach to measurements, mechanics, and material constraints. This article explores the step-by-step process of designing a toilet paper roller using SelfCAD, a browser-based 3D modeling software known for its intuitive interface and powerful features. From initial sketches to the final digital prototype, this guide will walk through the considerations and techniques necessary to create a roller that is both practical and printable.

To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out; https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/5skh1pa1t6o2l1h4i2q406s6q2m4h3g4x4v1

Once you’ve launched the editor;

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 100, Bottom radius to 100, height to 200, vertical segments to 128

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder

Click copy button to copy selected objects; Click scale on the toolbar; Set x to 170, z to 170

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click move on the toolbar; Set y to 10

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on mesh 4 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 4(1) to subtract.

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 25, Bottom radius to 25, height to 200, vertical segments to 128, position y to 5

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 84, Bottom radius to 84, height to 30, vertical segments to 128, position y to 185

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder

Click on mesh 8 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.

Tick the checkmark to finalize union

Click on difference 1 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, Choose union 1 to subtract, and set keep subtracted object to true

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 3, height to 250, position y to 10, position z to 80, rotation y to 67

Tick the checkmark finalize cube

Click on difference 2 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 16 to subtract

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference

Click color picker button to change color of object; Click purple

Click ok

Click on union 1 to select it. Click on difference 3 to deselect

Click color picker button to change color of object; Click magenta

Click ok

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