Manual drafting has been revolutionized by CAD or computer-aided design software applications.
Contents
What is a CAD program?
In computer-aided design (CAD), designs are created, modified, optimized, and analyzed with the use of computers. CAD software is the software that allows for this form of computer-aided design.
Many tools and features are included in CAD software to ensure that the design process is as efficient as possible. Physical components can be modelled in two and three dimensions and then printed out to be used in the next stages of production.
With the use of CAD software, you may not only generate a database of designs for manufacturing but also increase the quality of your designs, documentation, and designer productivity. Consequently, your production cycle is made more efficient and more accurate, which pleases your clients and keeps them loyal for an extended period of time.
A similar method of learning to develop and document models or parts for innovation can be used by students with CAD software. It can also provide a path to advancement in their work.
In 2020, CAD software hold a market share of $389.86 billion in the software industry. More and more mechanical engineers and designers are turning to 3D CAD software in order to improve their overall design efficiency as packing machines become more complicated.
Combining CAD software and 3D printing software allows for the creation of virtually any object that a user desires.
Do not, on the other hand, equate CAD software with something as straightforward as graphic design. If you’ve worked with CAD before, this may come as no surprise to you, but if you’re just getting started, keep this in mind.
The CAD softwares have many advantages and benefits.
The importance of automation has grown in every industry, from manufacturing to print media. Businesses in a variety of industries have been taking advantage of CAD software since it provides numerous advantages in terms of time, money, and effort. Consequently, This is how it can help your company.
Extraordinary quality design
CAD software, rather than pen and paper, aids in the creation of high-quality models that are error-free. Using the software’s handy tools and capabilities, they are able to operate more quickly and efficiently.
Designers don’t have to create a circle by hand anymore, for example. Workbench options include a circle option, which can be selected from there. So they save time and effort while also getting rid of inaccurate data.
The design process is made more efficient by automation.
3D models allow designers to see how their designs will look from every aspect. Products can be tested to ensure that their designs are appropriate for their intended use. Connecting different design elements and running a simulation to see how it works is also an option.
Detailed documentation is provided.
When it comes time to make design decisions, CAD software can serve as a helpful resource by automatically creating documentation. It is possible to list information about the product, such as its components, parts, and assembly, as well as its calculations and measurements. In addition, it is useful to clear up typical concerns and doubts that people frequently ask. They don’t have to wait for help because they can consult the manuals and do it themselves.
Keeping track of a database
Manually recording all of a project’s components, materials, models, specs, and other small data takes an inordinate amount of time and work. With the use of computer-aided design (CAD) software, it is possible to keep track of all the goods that have been designed and made, and use this information as a source of inspiration for new ideas. In addition, you can save time by modifying an existing part rather than creating a new one from start.
Here are a few of its applications:
Students and professionals in a wide range of industries rely on CAD software. It’s a favorite of:
- Designers and manufacturers of mechanical parts who specialize in 3D modeling and computer simulation
- Architects to design and draft construction models
- Inspection and fabrication of parts by manufacturers
- Structural engineers to speed up the manufacturing process
- Designing a building by civil engineers
- For control systems, electrical engineers are needed to design and document them
- In order to create, conceptualize and render automobile parts, automotive engineers
Computer-aided design or CAD (CAD) software is also used to create prosthetics in healthcare, create special effects in motion movies, and to create technical manuals as well as advertisements.
The most popular CAD software platforms will be introduced to you today. In this review, I’ll go through the pros and cons of each application, as well as the tools and features it offers and how much it costs.
To help you make an informed decision, I’ll then briefly describe the notion of CAD or computer-aided design.
Autodesk Fusion 360
First and foremost, Autodesk Fusion 360. This is the best all-around 3D modeling software on the market.
CAD, CAE, PCB, and CAM are all integrated into Autodesk Fusion 360, a cloud-based platform for 3D product design and production. It allows you to easily experiment with different design concepts and iterations.
Connected product development methods employing Fusion 360 to assist your idea come to life in a 3D picture will help you get your items to market with their realistic view and have an impact on your bottom line. CAD software is for everyone who has to advertise their products, whether they are students or professionals.
Go to mesh modeling once you’ve finished your product and analyzed its motion. Adding your finished product to the interface will allow you to control the manufacturing process. See how your product might be made from raw material by setting the milling operation you want
These designs can be put to the test early on in the development phase to see how they work and to find any problems. As a result, you can use its integrated CAD and CAM software application to create and change current features and fittings.
Models created in Fusion 360 can be exported as 2D drawings. Measurement, annotation, and documentation are all made easier thanks to this tool.
Basic features include:
- Standard 2D/3D CAD tools.
- Limited electronics – 2 schematics, 2 layers, 80cm2 board area.
- Basic manufacturing – 2.5 axis milling & 3 axis milling, turning, FFF additive, fabrication.
- Local rendering only.
- Limited to 10 active and editable Fusion 360 documents, unlimited inactive documents.
Price
Fusion 360 can handle it all, from generative design to cloud rendering. To get started, simply choose a suitable subscription plan. Annual plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so there’s no need to second-guess your purchase.
A free version of Fusion 360 with limited features is available to qualified hobbyists. For just $446 a year, you can have access to all of the software’s features.
An overview of the company’s many payment options is provided below:
Three options are available:
- Monthly: $60;
- Yearly: $495;
- and 3-Year: $1,335 ($38/month).
Autodesk AutoCAD
The best choice for both 2D and 3D drafting and printing
As one of the first computer-aided design (CAD) programs to be introduced in 1982, Autodesk’s AutoCAD software is widely used in various industries. According to i.materialise’s poll, AutoCAD’s popularity in the 3D printing community has fallen recently. Even though it’s great for 2D drawing, many users complain that 3D modeling isn’t as intuitive as it may be. It is true that mastering macros and scripts has a high learning curve for anything more complex than simple pieces. Algorithmic programming skill is required to use this software. AutoCAD is a wonderful tool if you have the ability to use it effectively. Converting the 3D models to STL files for 3D printing is a breeze. A web and mobile version of AutoCAD has been available since 2010 under the name AutoCAD 360.
For both 2D and 3D printing, AutoCAD is the go-to solution for architects, mechanical engineers, and other construction industry experts. Using mesh objects, surface modeling, and solid modeling, it aids in annotating, designing, and drafting 2D geometry and 3D models.
In addition, its specialist mechanical, architectural, electrical, and MEP toolsets boost productivity. These tools make it easier to create timetables, count, compare and add blocks automatically.
Features:
All of AutoCAD’s features and tools are available on any device as part of a connected design experience. It’s as simple as downloading the AutoCAD mobile app or going to its website using your PC.
Autodesk AutoCAD contains a number of other capabilities, including:
- Customizable add-on apps and APIs
- Direct feedback into DWG files
- Automated block counting
- 3D navigation and rendering
- 2D drafting, annotating and drawing
Price
AutoCAD subscription plans are available for businesses of all sizes. You can also pay an extra $300 for an annual premium subscription. A three-year basic or premium subscription is also discounted by 10%.
Listed below are the many payment options:
At $220 per month or $1,775 per year, the Standard Plan is the best option for most small to medium-sized businesses (for eligible educators and students)
You can download a 30-day free trial of any AutoCAD program to test it out.
Autodesk TinkerCAD
Best for CAD beginners
TinkerCAD is an online tool with an easy-to-use interface that can help novice designers and engineers learn the fundamentals of creativity. Creative thinking can be developed through a variety of mediums such as coding, electronics, or 3D design.
To add or delete materials, simply place a pre-existing or your own shape on the work plane. You can change the angle of view by rotating or shifting the work plane. With TinkerCAD’s 3D modeling tools, you can mix forms to create unique and detailed 3D designs.
A free and easy-to-use web program, Tinkercad empowers engineers, students, and designers with the ability to innovate through 3D design, coding, and electronics. Follow these simple steps to let your imagination run wild from your head all the way to your computer screen:
You can use the work plane to remove or add material by placing the form you desire on it. Shapes can be imported or pre-existing. Tinkerpad’s structure is based on forms.
Move or rotate the work plane to change the shape of the object. To ensure that your measurements are accurate, use a ruler and experiment with various vantage points.
To create a new shape, simply combine all the existing shapes.
Among the many advantages of TinkerCAD is its speed and ease of usage. Because of this, educators frequently use it as a means of educating kids without boundaries.
Features
Here are a handful of TinkerCAD’s highlights:
- Offers services for 3D printing, such as
- Easy-to-follow video tutorials
- Electric circuits can provide movement and light to designs
- Code blocking is supported by dragging and dropping.
Aside from design assistance, the code blocks in Tinkerpad also let you construct programs that Tinkerpad will automatically develop. Parametric, 3D form, adaptable, and dynamic designs can all be created with block-based coding. Additional features include augmented reality (AR) mode, which may be activated by clicking the AR viewer button.
Price
TinkerCAD is also fascinating because it is completely free. As a result, it’s a popular option among today’s crop of designers and technologists. To get started, simply sign up for a class.
Because Tinkerpad is free, you can experiment and come up with a finished product without any restrictions.
CorelCAD
Most popular CAD programs on both Windows and Mac
What is CorelCAD?
CorelCAD 2021 is a cheap suite of strong 2D drafting and 3D design tools, specifically designed for architects, engineers, construction (AEC) and manufacturing professionals who require precision in their designs. Native. lets you turn your ideas into reality on both Windows and macOS. Support for DWG files for efficient teamwork and. The ability to publish 3D models with STL support.
One of the most popular CAD programs on both Windows and Mac is CorelCAD. Features such as time-saving collaboration, optional automation, project sharing, and customization are included in this professional 2D and 3D design program. Industry-standard file compatibility with.CDR,.PDF,.STL, and.DWG is supported by this utility.
CorelCAD is a strong tool for businesses that perform technical design work that requires a high degree of precision. Design, 3D drawing, 2D drafting, and printing are all made easier with this program. CorelCAD’s 2D drafting and 3D design capabilities provide precision for businesses. With CorelCAD, visual ideas are efficiently expressed, productivity is boosted, and collaboration is more efficient..
CorelCAD’s ability to convert 2D sketches into sophisticated 3D models makes producing precise 3D designs a breeze. Object grips, snaps, and polar guides can all be used to help users put their projects back together again. In addition, they have access to 3D modeling and editing software for solids. Additionally, CorelCAD users have access to a wide range of editing options. The helix tool set, for example, is largely used to create 2D spirals. In addition, there are a plethora of measurement equipment available to ensure precise results. With the help of drawing limitations, it is possible to achieve precise proportions and angles in two-dimensional design projects. The.DWG file format is supported by CorelCAD, making it interoperable with all major CAD systems. When working with specialists and business partners, this makes it easy for users to communicate and coordinate efforts. CorelCAD’s mobile software also allows users to sketch, annotate, and share drawings while on the go.
Features
CorelCAD’s most important features include:
- For construction, manufacturing, and engineering experts, it is easier to envision the design, draft, plan, revise, and layout.
- Advanced features and tools make it easy to convert 2D drawings into 3D models with only one or two mouse clicks.
- You can use it to help with tactile, graphic, and textual outputs as well as collaboration, technical design chores and more.
- The final output of CorelCAD is determined by the parameters and specifications of the project.
Price
The pricing 699$ is correct, and you may be able to get a discount on a previous version. Moreover, CorelCAD has a lifetime license.
Pros: Price, convenience and nice looks are three of its strongest points. CorelCAD is a better option because AutoCAD costs too much money. Corel has a higher reputation and a larger support network.
FreeCAD
The best for creating real-world products.
You can design real-world things of any scale using FreeCAD, an open-source parametric 3D modeling application. Editing is simplified thanks to the parametric component. Change the parameters in your model’s history to get a different model. As a training tool, it’s not intended for professional use. Despite its simplicity, it serves as a suitable beginning point for those who have no prior knowledge.
You may design real-world objects of any size using FreeCAD. In addition, the open-source parametric 3D modeler lets you return to the model history to make changes to your design. The only thing to keep in mind is to adjust the settings.
Design information can be extracted from 3D models and proportions can be adjusted with the help of the platform’s components. You can also utilize 2D shapes as a foundation for the construction of other items. As a result, you’ll be able to produce designs that are ready for manufacturing.
FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D modeler that lets you design what you want. Using the 2D shape as a base, you may make 3D models of any size and shape, and you can also draw your geometry confined 2D shapes.
FreeCAD is an extremely configurable, versatile, and cross-platform application. To produce high-quality drawings, it offers a wide range of tools to alter measurements and the ability to select from a variety of forms and features.
FreeCAD also includes the features listed below:
- FreeCAD is a multi-platform (Mac, Linux, and Windows) adaptable and extendable application. Open file formats like DAE, STEP, DXF and SVG may be smoothly integrated into your workflow by reading and writing.
- Boundary Representation (BRep) objects are supported, as well as C++-coded core functionality, add-on workbenches, and 2D CAD drawing.
Sketchup
Best for 3D modeling and documentation at its finest
One of the subscription products in SketchUp’s suite is SketchUp Pro Desktop, which is used for a wide variety of drawing and design applications ranging from architectural to landscape architecture to civil and mechanical engineering to theater to video game creation, among many others.
Developed by Trimble Inc., SketchUp has three premium subscriptions, SketchUp Shop, SketchUp Pro, and SketchUp Studio, each with ever more advanced features.
Additionally, the program has the ability to place models into Google Earth, as well as a variety of drawing layouts and surface rendering options.
Desktop modeler SketchUp allows you to bring your ideas to life with a wide range of tools. You can use it to create, document, and convey your unique ideas in 3D with the utmost efficiency. Create a pattern or shape in 3D space and then fill it with material.
Extensions for Sketchup are available from more than a hundred professional developers. Innovative ideas may be visualized and the thrill of hand-drawn sketches can be rediscovered with this cutting-edge 3D modeling program.
As a result, it recognizes the necessity of designing designs that can be shown off to potential customers. Consequently, it may be used to build 3D models and 2D drawings. You’ll be able to get more done in less time because of this.
SketchUp employs the word “accuracy” as soon as you begin a design. For example, it has characteristics such as interoperability and customizability as well as the ability to create objects and generate reports.
With Sketchup, you have access to the best 3D modeling and printing tools available. This tool can be used by anyone involved in the creative process, from architects to mechanical engineers.
Sketchup’s features include the following:
Documents 3D designs in 2D using an intuitive and fun user interface.
An immersive virtual reality (VR) experience for design simulation that is appropriate for both experts and novices
Features
Features you’ll love
- Interoperability: SketchUp plays well with all of the other tools in your design toolbox.
- Extensibility: Use the Extension Warehouse to make SketchUp exactly what you need it to be.
- Objects: Work smart and work fast with SketchUp’s objects.
- Customization: Customize the look and feel of any project’s style to make it your very own.
- Generate Reports: Get stakeholders all the details they need to get the job done.
- Inferencing: This isn’t SketchUp’s first rodeo. SketchUp uses inferencing to make accuracy and speed a cinch.
Price
Sketchup subscription options are available for a wide range of purposes. All you have to do is select one of the following options based on your CAD needs.
- For Personal Use
– Free Plan with ten GB cloud storage
– Shop Plan at $119/year with unlimited access to pre-built 3D models
– Pro Plan at $299/year with XR headset viewing - For Professional Use
– Shop Plan at $119/year
– Pro Plan at $299/year
– Studio Plan at $699/year (Windows only) - Higher Education
– Sketchup Studio for students and educators at $55/year
– Tiered pricing is available for universities - Primary And Secondary
– Sketchup for schools (free with G Suite or Microsoft education account)
– Sketchup Pro (free with state grant)
Catia
Best for Product Development on Multiple Platforms
Catia is a market leader in multi-platform product design and user experience. Catia was founded in 2004. With CAM, CAD and CAE in the aerospace industry, it can handle it all.
Modeling ordinary products based on real-time behavior is possible with this program. The intuitive 3D experience it delivers is also useful for system developers, designers, advanced users, and amateurs alike.
Users benefit from its ability to simulate and model in 3D. As a result of these dashboards, real-time collaboration, concurrent design, and business intelligence may be achieved across all skateboards simultaneously.
3D modeling, simulation, social collaboration, and information intelligence are just a few of the Catia’s many features, among many others. Even though it is a multi-platform suite, it has gained a lot of popularity.
Features
I’ll now go over some of Catia’s highlights:
- 3D modeling and design cooperation online
- Product development data may be efficiently managed with this application
- Offers a tool set to satisfy the demands of different enterprises
- Tracks the 3D model modifications
Price
When you sign up for Catia’s free trial plan, you get a free demo. Or, if you prefer, you can peruse the company’s available opportunities online and begin working right immediately. However, you will need to contact the company’s sales team to acquire a free quote that meets your needs.
In addition, the sales representatives will go through your requirements with you and answer any questions you might have.
– Starting price around $10,000
Rhino 3D
It’s the best for 3D modeling versatility.
Rhino is an iPad-friendly 3D CAD app that runs on Mac, Windows, and iOS. Curves and other organic shapes, such as meshes, solids, and points, can be created using this powerful modeler for a better graphical representation of the 3D model.
The makers of this software claim that it is the most powerful 3D-modeler in the world. Software that is commercially available for 3D computer graphics and CAD The program makes use of a mathematical model known as NURB, which enables a wide range of operations on points, curves, meshes, surfaces, and solids. Rhino3D has a vast range of design options that make it a powerful tool. It has a wide range of options when it comes to producing 3D models. However, many users have complained that the software is difficult to understand and would require a lot of practice before they can get the hang of it. According to some reports, it isn’t the most accurate program for determining what a user really wants. Various bundles of the program are available for download from their website at different costs.
Better presenting tools help to speed up the workflow as well. Since it’s so versatile, you can put it to use in a variety of different contexts besides just 3D modeling and rendering.
In addition, SubD (a new geometry class) provides the ability to alter forms more precisely. Consequently, you can anticipate the intended product design outcomes.
Features:
Rhino includes a variety of design tools and features to assist graphic designers. History recording can also be used to change and update product curves.
Rhino also has the following additional features:
- Does have the capability to provide dimension to the viewpoint.
- SketchUp, STL, and AutoCAD files may all be imported.
- The control points on the 3D model can be viewed, and the workflow documentation and API can both be improved.
Price
For graphic designers, Rhino is an all-in-one solution. Simply select a payment plan that meets your needs and budget.
Rhino 6.0 for Windows costs 995€, whereas Rhino 5.0 for Mac costs 695€.
The following is a listing of available subscription options. Windows and Mac versions of Rhino include:
- Commercial usage at $995
- Student/faculty use at $195
- School use at $975
Solidworks
If you’re an engineer or a designer, SolidWorks is your best bet
Dassault Systèmes is the publisher of Solidworks, a computer-aided design application. For mechanical design validation and reverse engineering, professional 3D designers and engineers rely on it.
SOLIDWORKS is one of the best tools for engineers and designers to use when developing high-quality products and bringing them to market to fulfill consumer needs. Using this tool, you may better conceptualize and develop your ideas, as well as communicate, coordinate, and manage them throughout the design process.
Rework any parts that were found to be defective after the product was analyzed. A product file is difficult to share, but SOLIDWORKS makes the procedure simple. After you’ve finished designing, upload your files to the cloud, where they will be available to anybody with a web browser.
Assemble it later in the cloud by connecting remotely with your teams and collaboratively designing each component together. The cloud makes it simple to construct organic, complicated, and mechanical designs so that you may access the design features and data you require when modeling at any moment….
As a result, you’ll be able to build structures quickly and accurately. It’s possible to design for both production and cost by using manufacturing and cost estimation tools. In addition, you can simply communicate with your team and discuss data management issues with the standardized tools.
Features
With Solidworks, you have access to some of the best tools for conceptualizing and realizing new ideas into high-quality product designs. This CAD software has everything you need to create fast and accurate designs, from 3D models to 2D sketches of complex parts.
The following is a list of SolidWorks’ features:
- Stress analysis and data management tools
- Cloud-connected CAD
- Includes cost estimation tools
- Helps understand product performance early
- Can share real-time product development information with the marketing team
- Cross-team collaboration
Price
Students, hobbyists, and businesses of all sizes can benefit from Solidworks’ 3DExperience products. A quote is simply a phone call or an email away from you.
These are some of the available plans in Solidworks:
- For businesses of all sizes, commercial is the best option.
- Academia: an all-inclusive 3D CAD and data management resource for teaching
- Research: an all-in-one solution for research projects
- Students: to help students kickstart their CAD carriers
- Entrepreneurs And Startups: offers training and co-marketing resources for free
Creo
Best for the Development of Product
Creo, developed by Parametric Technology Corporation more than a decade ago, is a major CAD platform (PTC). Everything you need to speed up product development is included in one one bundle.
In the field of product design, Parametric Technology Corporation’s Creo CAD software has long been an industry leader. Direct modeling and surface generation are just a few of the numerous features it incorporates, including thermal, structural, kinematic, and parametric and freestyle modeling. It’s an all-in-one tool that’s perfect for 3D printing and lets you dimension your final design as you model it. The newer Creo version has a revised user interface that is easier to use. A free 30-day trial version is offered.
As you progress through the design and manufacturing stages, you can rely on a simple-to-understand and use program. As a result, you can produce higher-quality goods with greater efficiency.
Features:
Product quality and prices can be improved by combining Creo’s capabilities with the latest technologies. Having these revolutionary components gives you a competitive advantage and allows you to obtain a large market share.
Here are some of Creo’s highlights:
- 3D parametric solid modeling,
- technical illustrations,
- generational design extension,
- finite element analysis and simulation,
- schematic design and functionality, and topology optimization technologies are some of the features available.
Price
Starting at $2,480, you’ll need to get in touch with the Creo team to learn more about their payment options. Premium support and new features are included with each plan.
Start with the free 30-day trial and then choose from the following subscription plans:
In order of importance:
- Design Essentials
- Design Advanced
- Design Advanced Plus
- Design Premium
Solid Edge
Best for Mechanical and Electrical Intuitive Design
Solid Edge is an all-in-one product development software suite with an easy-to-use interface. Beginners may construct 3D or 2D designs with all of the functionality they need, whether they’re working with electrical and mechanical designs or data management.
With Solid Edge, you get a complete set of development tools, including 3D modeling, simulation, manufacturing, and design management, all at a reasonable price. Synchronized technology makes it feasible to combine the simplicity and speed of direct modeling with the control and flexibility of parametric design.
Additionally, you will gain cloud-enabled productivity and automated drawings using 3D CAD. It aids in the creation of better models, allowing you to finish your projects more quickly. There’s also BIM (Building Information Modelling) modeling, as well as 2D sketching and assembly design in Solid Edge.
This isn’t the end of the story, unfortunately. Additionally, there are sheet metal designs, weldment design, plastic part design, basic rendering, jig-fixture design and surface modeling, motion simulation, stress simulation and vibration simulation.
There are numerous advantages to using reverse engineering and finite element analysis (FEA). When you use Solid Edge you can construct any type of gear or cam or beam or column or spring or shaft or pulley or whatever with ease. Furthermore, Solid Edge makes electrical design, such as routing, PCB cooperation, tube, and pipe, a cinch..
Features:
Because of its synchronous technology, Solid Edge allows anyone—from designers to students to hobbyists to professional engineers—to push the boundaries of design innovation. Without the limits of traditional 3D modeling, you can create more intelligently and efficiently.
Take a look at the following features of Solid Edge:
- AI-powered user interface
- Lightning-fast reverse engineering
- Cloud collaboration
- 2D layout of industrial control panels
- Searchable postprocessor database
- Design optimization with flow and structural simulation integration
Price
Signing up for the trial version of Solid Edge allows you to test out the software’s capabilities without paying anything. Additionally, you have the option of upgrading to one of the paid subscription plans if you so desire.
Accordingly, here’s what you need to know about it:
- It costs $75 per month to use Solid Edge Design & Drafting.
- It costs $185 per month to use Solid Edge Foundation.
- It costs $230 to use Solid Edge Classic and $329 to use Solid Edge Premium.
OnShape
Best for designing a new product in real-time
Cloud-based CAD software, Onshape, is available on the web. A single model can be edited and manipulated by multiple software users at the same time on a web-based server. Products, machine parts, industrial equipment, and other types of equipment can all be designed with the help of this program. In addition to instructional videos, learning centers, and support services, the company’s official website provides a wealth of information on how to use the software. Onshape has a lot going for it, but what exactly makes it so popular with users?
Two former Solidworks CEOs John Hirschtick and John McEleney along with a team of six professionals formed the Belmont Technology program in 2012, which would subsequently be renamed Onshape. In 2015, the program released a public beta version of its cloud-based CAD software. The CAM, simulation, rendering, and other cloud-based capabilities are also available on the iPhone and Android app. When Onshape agreed to be acquired by Parametric Technology Corporation (PTC) in November 2019, the company was already well-known for its software development. Here are some of the program’s most critical components.
Features
OnShape is one of the few SaaS platforms that include built-in data management, business analytics, CAD, and real-time collaboration capabilities for product development.. That’s why the likes of Synapse, Trek, and Kichler have placed their trust in it.
You can do all of these things, and more, because it streamlines the product design process by allowing you to import and export different file types as well as personalize your drawings. A suite of cutting-edge tools is also included, allowing for real-time design assessment and editing to take place at the same time.
In addition, OnShape lets you look back at previous designs and make changes as needed to the log. Reports on the product’s design can help you better comprehend it.
OnShape is like a “Google doc file for CAD,” according to Fusion Biotech CTO Mike White. Live chats and comments make it simple to design and collaborate. Security and audit controls are also included with the safe cloud platform.
Here are some of the highlights of what OnShape has to offer:
- Integration of business and technology
- For design, you may restrict and monitor access to data, as well as notifications and alerts for workflow. Auditable and reversible change logs and history are also available.
- Simultaneous sheet metal tools are also available.
Price
It’s worth noting that the Professional edition of Onshape, which is geared toward small and medium-sized businesses, costs $2,100 per year. A product development platform includes CAD, investment management, and data management, all of which can be implemented in this way If you’re looking for CAD tools with little collaboration and data management needs, you’ll want to check out the Standard version, which costs $1,500 annually. One of the greatest CAD programs for educational institutions is OnShape, which offers a free education package. For students and instructors, the Standard version is offered at no charge. For the sake of supporting the maker community, OnShape offers a free version for non-commercial projects and an open source workspace.
Bentley (Microstation)
When it comes to modeling and visualizing, Bentley is the best
Engineers, architects, owners, designers, and construction professionals utilize 3D CAD and 2D CAD software on a daily basis.
Bentley Education offers a variety of programs for modeling, visualization, offshore structural analysis, civil design, hydraulics, hydrology, building design, reality modeling, and more.
Microstation, MicroStation PowerDraft, Bentley LumenRT, and Bentley LumenRT Content are some of Bentley’s modeling and visualization applications. MAXSURF Ultimate, Multiframe, MOSES Ultimate, and Multiframe Advanced are all options for offshore structural analysis.
Similarly, you’ll find a wide range of applications to suit your needs. Architects, contractors, engineers, and GIS experts utilize these tools for a variety of purposes, including design, analysis, motion testing, and more.
Select your product line from the available options and let your imagination run wild. Bentley applications will be available to educators and students alike. It doesn’t matter if you use your institution’s e-mail address or a different one to log in.
Features
As the “CAD leader for infrastructure design,” Bentley MicroStation is capable of 2D drafting, 3D solid modeling, rendering and editing as well as annotation and documentation. It is also capable of file import/export, as well as file import/export.
Price
A Bentley MicroStation license costs how much?
The cost of a MicroStation practitioner license is $1,995. Prices vary by location as well. In addition to the many types of licenses available, Bentley’s eCommerce shop Virtuosity offers a 12-month practitioner license. A Virtuoso Subscription is included with all purchases made through Virtuosity. The software and “Keys” (tokens) are yours to keep and can be redeemed for a variety of personalized training, mentorship, and consulting options.
BlockCAD
Best For School-Based Activities
Using BlocksCAD, you may create 3D models for free in the education sector. For individuals who wish to get their feet wet in 3D design before going on to more advanced software, such as OpenSCAD, this program is ideal.
Using BlocksCAD, you can create complex designs with a simple interface. You don’t have to spend too much time learning the fundamentals of 3D modeling with this tool.
Students can learn to code using this platform since it is simple to use, interesting, and visually appealing. As a result, computer science and mathematics skills are improved.
Teachers can jump right in with pre-built lesson plans in BlocksCAD’s all-new dashboard. And there are tutorials on YouTube to further your understanding of the subject.
Features:
Student learning is encouraged through visualization with the cloud-based 3D modeling program. Using 3D printing, they are able to turn these new concepts and images into models.
In addition to these functionalities, BlocksCAD provides:
OpenSCAD compatibility
- Colored blocks represent commands
- YouTube channels give plenty of tutorials
- Simple user interface
- The open source programming language OpenSCAD is the basis for BlocksCAD, which is free and open source. Allows you to use variables and loops for size changes, unpredictability in models, and modules to build your own shape library. Among other things.
Take a look at the following features of BlocksCAD
- Collaboration Tools
- Collaboration
- BIM Modeling
- 3D Modeling
- Content creation
- Data Import / Export
- Simulation
- For 3D Printing
Price
It’s free. In order to use BlocksCAD, you don’t have to sign up for a paid subscription.
LibreCAD
One of the best free 2D CAD software
You can produce precise 2D CAD drawings and floor layouts with LibreCAD, an open source CAD tool. With a full-featured design toolbox, you can develop detailed projects and customize your work by adding layers.
LibreCAD is a well-rounded 2D CAD program that can provide you with an amazing user experience thanks to its extensive feature set. It offers open-source and GPLv2 software, created by a skilled team with the help of an active user community. Use it as you see fit.
More than 30 languages are supported along with cross-platform compatibility for Windows, Linux, and macOS in this application. You can get the software from SourceForge, which varies depending on the platform you’re using. The nightly build installer can be automated using the newest stable EXE installer.
LibreCAD can be built from the source code because it is open-source software. GitHub provides the source code in a ZIP bundle that may be downloaded. If you’re going to make a contribution, it’s a good idea to clone the repository.
Features
The following functionalities can be found in LibreCAD:
- reads DWG and DXF files
- writes DXF, SVG, PDF, and more…
- drawing entities include line, polyline, spline, circle, ellipse, text, dimension, blocks and hatches
- advanced snapping system
- custom toolbars and menus
- highly customizable user interface
- plugin system
Price
The GNU General Public License version 2 (GPLv2) issued by the Free Software Foundation allows you to redistribute and/or modify the software.
OpenSCAD
Best for reliability and ease
Solid 3D computer-aided design (CAD) objects can be created with OpenSCAD, a free software tool. Although pieces can be seen, they cannot be interactively updated in the 3D view because it is a script-only modeler that makes use of its own description language.
Solid 3D models can be created using the free and open source OpenSCAD CAD program. It’s best suited to those who are looking for a platform for a more complex project. Constructive Solid Geometry (CSG) and the Extrusion of two-dimensional outlines make this software easy to use for programmers and coders. Simple forms that have already been parametrically described can benefit greatly from this tool The application will not be intuitive to everyone because it is entirely based on descriptive language.
Features
In addition to its capacity to read and produce 3D models from a variety of file formats, OpenSCAD also uses a variety of open technologies. A few more details:
OpenSCAD users have access to a powerful and free 3D compiler. Mac OS X, Linux, and Windows users can now design solid ACAD objects with this software. CSG and extrusion of 2D outlines are used in its modeling process, which allows users to fine-tune how the solution reads AutoCAD DXF files and interprets the design parameters included in them. A variety of file types can be used to read and build 3D models, including STL, OFF, and more.
OpenSCAD’s main features are as follows:
- GUI interface
- Preview models
- CSG geometry engine
- Create 3D models
- Import and export files
- Create parametric designs
Price
Solid 3D models can be created with OpenSCAD, a free open-source CAD program.
To conclude,
Any of the following computer-aided design options will accelerate your product development by creating a 3D or 2D model.
- Autodesk Fusion 360: The best all-around 3D modeling software on the market.
- Autodesk AutoCAD :The best choice for both 2D and 3D drafting and printing
- Autodesk TinkerCAD : Best for CAD beginners
- CorelCAD : Most popular CAD programs on both Windows and Mac
- FreeCAD: The best for creating real-world products.
- Sketchup: Best for 3D modeling and documentation at its finest
- Catia: Best for Product Development on Multiple Platforms
- Rhino 3D: It’s the best for 3D modeling versatility.
- Solidworks :If you’re an engineer or a designer, SolidWorks is your best bet
- Creo: Best for the Development of Product
- Solid Edge: Best for Mechanical and Electrical Intuitive Design
- OnShape: Best for designing a new product in real-time
- Bentley (Microstation): When it comes to modeling and visualizing, Bentley is the best
- BlockCAD: Best For School-Based Activities
- LibreCAD: One of the best free 2D CAD software
- OpenSCAD: Best for reliability and ease
From the list of CAD software programs I’ve examined, you should be able to find one that meets your product design requirements.