How to Design a Sliding Table using 3D CAD Software

In modern computer-aided design software, developing functional and creative 3D models is both an art and a science. One essential skill in this field is the ability to design practical, everyday objects with precision and flexibility. Among such objects is the sliding table, a versatile piece of furniture found in homes and offices. In this article, we will explore how to design a sliding table using SelfCAD, an intuitive 3D modeling program that simplifies complex design processes. By guiding users through each step—from conceptualization to the final model—this article aims to demonstrate the power of SelfCAD's tools while also providing practical insights for designers at all levels. Whether you're new to CAD or an experienced designer, understanding the steps of this project will enhance your ability to create functional designs with ease.

To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out

https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/413u295wh1u2u3q4i3j416c3l232h1q6m2a3

Once you’ve launched the editor;

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 200, height to 30, depth to 450

Click to finalize cube

Click to activate face selection; Click on highlighted region to select it

From the modify category on the toolbar choose extrusion; Set use vertex normals to true

Click apply button to apply extrusion

Set use vertex normals to false

Click to finalize extrusion

Click delete button to delete selected objects

From the modify category on the toolbar choose add thickness

Click to finalize add thickness

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 205, height to 30, depth to 20, position y to 1, position z to 170

Click to finalize cube

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set height to 20, position y to 1, position z to 170

Click to finalize cube

Click highlighted part on selection cube to turn off region selection

Click on mesh 8 to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 12 to subtract

Click to finalize difference

Click move on the toolbar; Click copy button to copy selected objects, Set z to -170

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on difference 1, mesh 4 to select

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

Click to finalize union

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 10, bottom radius to 10, height to 5, position x to 24, position y to 1, position z to 71

Click to finalize cylinder

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 20, bottom radius to 20, height to 10, position x to -60, position y to 1, position z to 130

Click to finalize cylinder

Click to activate polygon selection; Click on highlighted region to select it

From the modify category on the toolbar choose inset; Set inset amount to 10

Click add option to add next macro step

Set operation to extrusion, Set amount to 25

Click to finalize inset

Click scale on the toolbar; Set x to 11.34, z to 11.34 using highlighted gizmo

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

Click copy button to copy selected objects

Click move on the toolbar; Set x to 60, Set z to -130

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.

Designing a Sliding Table