Free Open 3D modeling software - Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum

Zerohour · 01-27-2011, 03:03 PM

Does anyone know of a free/open source 3D CAD system? I have Google Sketch-up, but it just seems to be making me furious and harder to use there a other software. Quite Honestly I have a 2d software that I feel more confident using to make 3d images.

Are there any other programs available?

mnmarcus · 01-27-2011, 03:08 PM

Good question!
I've tried the free sketch up and it hasn't convinced me to buy the not-free version... I used SolidWorks and kinda looked into trying to buy an older version and couldn't find anything. Does anyone know if people allowed to sell older software when they want to upgrade? (I just started school -not related to 3D software- and just thought I may try a student license...)

Cd · 01-27-2011, 05:31 PM

If you are after just a good solid easy to use and learn modeler, try Wings 3D

http://www.wings3d.com/

Blender 3D is an excellent modeling and animation program that even has a compositor built in. Every bit as good as the 'big dogs'*, but free.
I must warn you though - if you think SketchUp is bad, you would cringe at the UI in Blender.
(* I also have Softimage-XSI and Z-Brush )

NeilBlanchard · 01-28-2011, 11:39 AM

Is Blender a solid modeler? Are there tutorials available?

Cd · 01-28-2011, 09:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard

Is Blender a solid modeler? Are there tutorials available?

There are loads and loads of tutorials available.
The program is totally free, and yes apparently you can do solid modeling :

Blender Solid Modeling Survival Guide, Part 1: kickstart - thingiverse | Google Groups

I have used or tested Softimage-XSI, 3DS Max, Maya. Lightwave, and others and Blender is every bit as good - if not better than all of them.

And it's free !

Zerohour · 01-29-2011, 11:13 AM

I'm looking to 3D model and come up with dimensional drawings. I'll be looking into the suggested stuff in the coming days.

Working in many directions again. I'm starting to think I have project ADD. Not in over my head, but since everything has delays in getting parts, availability, and this winter weather is causing chaos!

Zerohour · 02-04-2011, 11:00 PM

Been working with Wings3D tonight. Pretty good. I'm impressed. Not sure how to "drill" or extract holes out yet, but got some of the basic modeling of shapes and moving pieces about.

Energy Miser · 02-05-2011, 03:54 PM

Alibre design used to have a free download trial version. It is similar to Solidworks.