2.10.1 Bibliography

2.10.2 Glossary

  • 1. CAD, Computer-Aided Design: software for creating precise 2D and 3D models.
  • 2. Vector graphics, resolution-independent images defined by curves and points (e.g. Illustrator, Inkscape).
  • 3. NURBS, Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines: mathematical surfaces for smooth 3D modelling.
  • 4. Parametric design, design driven by adjustable parameters, so changing an input regenerates the model.
  • 5. Computational design, describing a design as a system of operations (e.g. Grasshopper, Geometry Nodes).
  • 6. Generative AI, models that create new images or content from prompts or data.
  • 7. Diffusion model, the dominant technique behind most current image-generation tools.
  • 8. Prompt engineering, the skill of crafting text prompts to steer AI output.
  • 9. AI-to-3D, generating a 3D model directly from a text prompt or an image.
  • 10. Mesh, a 3D surface made of polygons; the typical output of AI-to-3D tools.
  • 11. Retopology, rebuilding a messy mesh into clean geometry suitable for production.
  • 12. PBR, Physically Based Rendering: material maps that make surfaces react realistically to light.
  • 13. Zero-waste design, pattern-making that uses the full fabric width, leaving no offcuts.
Last modified: Wednesday, 9 September 2026, 9:52 PM