← Back to Search
AVC 185 • Spring 2026

Week 5

Boolean Tools & Hard Surface Modeling
February 18, 2026
Monday was a holiday – No class
← Week 4 Week 6 →

Week Overview

This lecture covers Boolean operations for hard surface modeling, including the Bool Tool add-on, topology considerations, and combining Boolean workflows with other modifiers. Students learn to create architectural forms using subtractive modeling techniques.

Boolean Bool Tool Hard Surface Topology Architecture Modifiers
Wednesday
February 18, 2026

Boolean Tools & Hard Surface Modeling

This lecture covers Boolean operations for hard surface modeling, including the Bool Tool add-on, topology considerations, and combining Boolean workflows with other modifiers. Students learn to create architectural forms using subtractive modeling techniques.

Watch Full Lecture →
1
Boolean Fundamentals
0:00 Introduction and Schedule Changes
4:00 Boolean Tools Overview and Setup
6:23 Boolean Logic and Venn Diagrams
8:28 Boolean Workflow Principles
13:17 Topology and Output Considerations
2
Technical Considerations
17:59 Bevel and SubD Issues
20:28 Apply Scale Importance
25:22 Basic Boolean Subtraction Shortcuts
3
Bool Tool Operations
28:54 Bool Tool Interface
39:49 Topology Following Shape Principle
46:47 Destructive vs Procedural Workflows
50:03 Bool Tool Advanced Features
59:04 Modifier Stack and Application
1:08:28 Surface Alignment Options
4
Advanced Techniques
1:22:39 Building Complex Architecture
1:44:02 Combining Tools and Techniques
1:51:13 Curves and Custom Profiles
2:07:07 Subdivision Surface Spires
5
Scene and Rendering
2:16:58 Scene Setup and Rendering
2:22:06 Lighting and Volumetric Effects

Key Concepts

  • Boolean operations work best with planar surfaces and clean topology
  • Topology should follow the shape for optimal results
  • Apply scale before using modifiers to avoid inconsistent behavior
  • Destructive workflow is simpler than procedural for basic cuts
  • Boolean tools excel at hard surface modeling, not organic shapes
  • Bevel modifier should remain unapplied for continued editability
  • Surface alignment and cut orientation greatly affect results
  • Combine Boolean with other modifiers for complex architectural forms