Scaled 1:10 Human model

[Christophe Mineau]

I recently had the need to physically model an hypothetical piece of furniture to a 1/10th scale.
I thought it would be nice to add to the scene a scaled human body, of average size.

I searched the internet for a CAD model or something that could be cut easily and found nothing convenient.
Then I remembered that old woodworking book I had, and found in it a drawing I decided to start from.

I decided to share that with you and I will offer the files for downloading.

First step was to scan, then to vectorize the raster image, I usually do that with Inkscape.
It represents a man sitting in a chair.

==> Link to the inkscape file.
Credit : "Guide du bois, de la Menuiserie et de l'Ebenisterie", by Albert Jackon and David Day.

Then I import my SVG to my CAD modeling software.
I rotate each piece of the human body, so that I can make him stand on his feet.
Then I scale him to the average size, which I estimate to be 1.75m tall.

This is a commercial CAD software, I don't share the file, you can import the SVG in your own software instead.

Then, having the model at the right size, I lay down all the pieces so that they can be cut with the CNC.
While I am there, I add the chair, it will be a nice addition.


Then I process the parts to be cut with the CNC. I use a 1.5 mm end mill, and cut out of a sheet of 3mm plywood, 170 mm x 220 mm.
I add small tabs so that the pieces keep attached when cut.
Here is a simulation view :

==> Link to the gcode file (for MACH3 Mill).


And here is the result :
Cut parts still linked together :


Once separated they are assembled using 3mm rivets (the ones for assembling leather, only one side used, the fit is tight enough to hold the parts correctly)