Free 3D CAD

[j45on]

I have not tried this myself as i have a mac but it looks interesting

http://www.123dapp.com/

[tumutbound]

The system requirements state an internet connection is required but I can't see if that is merely for downloading the applications or is a requirement for actually running it.

It does look interesting, pity I run Linux...

[srm_92000]

 
Thanks for the link Jason,
been looking for something like this.
I've put a few pics on my Webster-s build log. It's definitely still in beta 
but now I've started to do things 'right' it crashes a lot less - well steep learning curve for me. I've used many 2d packages and a bit of old 3d ones but nothing like this.

Seems to run fine without internet once downloaded.
Net is needed for tutorials which are really required as help consists of just command summary (No instructions)
and to get content.

(Works fine on XP with only 2GB, core2 Duo and small on board video),

Steve.

[mhh]

looks interesting! Downloading now! lets see how it works! 

[loply]

j45on, what do you use on a Mac?

I traditionally use a Windows machine and used 3D Studio for my 3D modelling, but I'm now on a Mac.

Wouldn't mind some native Mac software for sketching and modelling.

[bry1975]

Hi Loply,

So was 3D Studio really that good in the late 90s-early 00s?

All we used at college then was Acad 10, 12, 13, LT, and after college got onto Acad 2000, Mech desk 2 and 3 and that was about it.

Did you ever try Autodesk Inventor?  

Bry

[kwackers]

I thought 3D studio had been replace by 3DS Max by then.

We used 3D studio a lot and switched to Max later, a lot of companies I work for also use Maya, both usually require various plug ins writing (although that's handled by our tools team).

I suspect they're all overkill for engineering though - but great if you fancy doing the next version of Shrek...

[srm_92000]

 
123d has now had an update to beta 5.
I downloaded yesterday but still to fully try it.
Seems better at first glance.

Steve.

[loply]

Sorry when I said 3D Studio I was actually referring to Max.

It's certainly a good program, there's virtually nothing it can't do, and some of the results in terms of renderings and movies speak for themselves.

For designing parts and whatnot it's just a bit slow though.

[wd]

I have not tried this myself as i have a mac but it looks interesting

http://www.123dapp.com/

Thanks for sharing the web link

[Gadget]

This looks very promising, thanks for the link.