While most commonly found in topographic maps to illustrate elevation changes, contour lines can be equally effective for product designers and engineers during the design iteration stage. Among other reasons, it’s a quick and easy way to add subtle design features – such as a groove or a lip – without spending too much time on detail or having to bust out the markers. Of course, few are better at teaching these design sketching skills than one of our regular favorites Spencer Nugent over at Sketch a Day. Using just a pen and a marker, Nugent shows a super quick and easy way to convey 3D forms and communicate shape…
With so many cool things coming out each week, it can be hard to wade through all the rock-awesomeness. With ‘Cool Tools’, we’ve done the hard work for you. This week we saw an ingenious new take on the multi-tool, a weather app featuring a cat weatherman (??), an easy way to redo those kitchen cabinets, Johnny Depp as Donald Trump (???) and more… Ready? Let’s go! This week we look at: DESIGN ‘Mom’ Chair by Carlo Contin “The chair features an opening on the top for children to fill the empty space with their favorite games once they are finished playing…” TPT – Titanium Pocket Tool “A Compact Grade 5…
Joerg Sprave of the Slingshot Channel never fails to entertain. (Check out our interview with him.) He can make a slingshot from anything. His latest video proves that, with the complete process of how he weaponized his beard.
Even with all the private sector space rocketry going on, NASA is still cuttin’ the edge and stayin’ relevant. They have experts in their field aiming to reach new heights on a daily basis–been doing so for decades–but now they’re looking for a little help. The agency has teamed up with Freelancer.com to hold a competition to build a new robotic arm for the Astrobee, a free-flying robot that’s operated remotely by astronauts in space or mission control.
Presented by “No way” you say. “Cloud services aren’t ready for prime time. They’re not secure/fast/reliable/full-featured enough for my business.” Let me tell you why you’re wrong.
Time for another round of apps that cover the spectrum of your beloved mobile device, be it iPhone, Android or Windows! The Weekly App Smack is the best of new or updated design and productivity apps (and maybe a couple of fun ones, too) for the busy design or engineering professional and this week we have a list sure to make you more efficient. Do you have an app suggestion that has made your life easier or changed up your workflow? Let us know in the comments below or send it into tips@www.solidsmack.com. Hit it! Day One 2 Journal + Notes “Capture life as you live it. From once-in-a-lifetime events…