About the class website 

The primary purpose of this website is to support coursework in the Solid Modeling (DAI 521) course in the Department of Design and Industry at San Francisco State University. The course introduces SolidWorks as a tool for product designers. Topics include basic modeling, rendering in PhotoWorks, top-down and bottom-up design strategies using assemblies, surfacing, and design for manufacturing and rapid prototyping.

While this website is primarily for students in the DAI department, many parts of it are made available to the general web community. Outside visitors will most likely find the Tutorials section of the greatest interest. Others may wish to do the assignments on their own for practice. Please understand that the instructor generally cannot answer questions from or provide evaluations of work done by individuals not enrolled in the course. For design-related SolidWorks questions, one of the best public online resources is the 3D Skills and Equipment forum at productdesignforums.com.

About the instructor

Ryan Olson is a lecturer in the Department of Design and Industry at SFSU, teaching courses in SolidWorks, modelmaking, and rapid prototyping. Prior to studying design, Ryan worked for several years as a software engineer, specializing in graphics programming, J2EE applications, and advanced Flash ActionScript. He currently splits his time between teaching and working on design projects as a contractor. His personal portfolio is available at design.munky.net. Ryan can be reached at r d o (at) s f s u (dot) e d u. However, individuals not enrolled in the course are asked to refrain from sending SolidWorks questions.