While interning at BMW, I encountered a steady stream of engineering models, schematics, and product photographs each day. Most were used internally, and only a select few made their way into presentations as communication tools. One limitation quickly became clear - the polygonal density of engineering CAD models meant they needed refinement before being used across different platforms, such as ISSAC Sim, product renders, or 3D web configurators. To address this gap, I began a side project: creating a fully detailed 3D model of a frequently used GPU found in several models at the time. If successful, the workflow could later be applied to some of BMW’s larger, more complex products.

The inspiration for merging CGI artistry with engineering precision came from a 2018 Microsoft Surface Studio introduction video. The way its materials ebbed and flowed, with motion breathing life into industrial design, revealed an emotional layer - one that could be harnessed to communicate how AI, even in its early stages at BMW, was beginning to revolutionise automation.

Drawing on my experience with 2D digital sketching and layering, I began experimenting with ways to inject detailed design cues into the plain PCB proxy CAD files I’d been given. I explored procedural texturing solutions that could be reapplied to future models for both efficiency and consistency. From there, I added realistic wear and tear, fine dust particles, and cinematic lighting to evoke a sense of mystery and excitement. Although the renders were initially shelved, they later became a key proof of concept - demonstrating that this level of work could be done entirely in-house. This success ultimately led to a full CGI re-packaging of the IW.HUB, ADLINK, and sensor array, as well as several future projects with SORDI.ai and Idealworks.