
MASTER DESIGN
PROJECT-BASED CONSOLE DESIGN: FROM IDEA TO INTENT
SESSION 1
Making the Connection: Integrating with Factory-Provided Audio Systems
Friday 8:00am - 9:15am | Saturday 8:00am - 9:15am
INSTRUCTOR: JERMEY CARLSON
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This project-driven session uses a custom center console as the teaching platform to demonstrate how professional designs are planned, structured, and translated into early-stage 3D CAD. Attendees will follow a real-world console concept from layout and ergonomics through functional decision-making and into initial Autodesk Fusion block modeling.
You’ll learn how experienced builders think through storage, electronics integration, structural support, serviceability, and finish considerations before committing to detailed CAD. Instructor Jeremy Carlson demonstrates how design intent is established first, then quickly validated using Autodesk Fusion layouts, reference geometry, and proportion models long before fine features are added.
Rather than diving deep into parametric modeling, this session focuses on using 3D CAD as a planning and communication tool: validating scale, checking ergonomics, visualizing component relationships, and avoiding costly design mistakes early. This session sets the strategic and spatial foundation that drives the deeper CAD workflows in Sessions 2 and 3.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
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Project-First Design Thinking
Learn how to approach a custom console as a complete system not just a shape using CAD to support smarter decisions. -
Ergonomics & Layout Planning
Seat position, driver reach, component access, and real-world constraints evaluated using early 3D models. -
Autodesk Fusion for Design Intent (Intermediate Level)
Creating simple block models, reference sketches, and layout geometry to validate form, scale, and proportions. -
Functional Design Decisions in 3D
Using CAD to visualize storage zones, electronics placement, serviceability paths, and structural strategy. -
Classic vs. Modern Console Themes
How design language influences form, materials, and CAD structure from the very beginning. -
Design Intent Documentation
Translating ideas into clean reference geometry, screenshots, and layout models that feed directly into detailed CAD. -
Pro Tips from Real Builds
Lessons learned from award-winning Mobile Solutions–style console projects and the mistakes CAD helps you avoid early.
SESSION 2
AutoDesk Fusion Fundamentals: Turning Design Intent into CAD
Friday 9:30am - 10:45am | Saturday 8:00am - 9:15am
INSTRUCTOR: CHARLES BRAZIL & JERMEY KATZ
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Building directly on the console project from Session 1, this session introduces Autodesk Fusion fundamentals with a strong emphasis on clean, fabrication-ready workflows. Attendees will learn how to set up projects correctly, create reliable parametric sketches, and convert design intent into structured 3D geometry.
Rather than focusing on artistic sketching, this class emphasizes functional CAD foundations—constraints, reference planes, feature order, and model organization—so designs remain editable, scalable, and production-friendly. Autodesk-recommended best practices are blended with real-world fabrication techniques used in modern custom automotive work.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
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Autodesk Fusion Workspace & Project Setup
Units, data management, and clean file organization. -
Purpose-Driven Sketching
Using constraints and reference geometry to control design outcomes. -
Parametric Solid Modeling
Extrudes, revolves, and basic forms tied to real console dimensions. -
Design for Strength & Efficiency
Using geometry and feature strategy to improve rigidity and weight. -
Edibility & Revisions
Building models that adapt easily to design changes. -
Workflow Pro Tips
Speed, accuracy, and avoiding common beginner mistakes.
SESSION 3
Advanced Design: Mesh Data, Scans, & Production-Ready Parts
Friday 11:00am - 12:15am | Saturday 11:00am - 12:15am
INSTRUCTOR: CHARLES BRAZIL & JERMEY KATZ
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This advanced session expands the console project into real-world automotive design challenges using mesh and scan data. Learn how to import, repair, and adapt scanned geometry essential for fitting parts to vehicles, factory interiors, or complex surfaces.
Attendees will explore Autodesk Fusion Direct Edit and mesh tools to extract usable geometry, establish accurate mounting planes, and convert rough scan data into clean surfaces or solids ready for CNC, laser cutting, or 3D printing. This session bridges design, automation, and manufacturing, showing how modern shops produce highly customized parts efficiently.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
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Working with Mesh & STL Data
Importing scans and evaluating mesh quality. -
Mesh Repair & Optimization
Fixing poor topology, gaps, and uneven surfaces. -
Extracting Design Geometry
Creating sketches and surfaces from scan data. -
Three-Point Planes & Mounting Strategy
Establishing accurate reference geometry. Hybrid Modeling Workflows Combining mesh, surface, and parametric solids. -
Production-Ready Output
Preparing files for CNC, laser, or additive manufacturing. -
Expert Pro Tips & Live Q&A
Real-world problem solving from experienced designers.

















