The Dude
Hot Rolled
- Joined
- Oct 19, 2010
- Location
- Portland, OR
I am intending to use the next couple months (take advantage of reduced workload) to finally get into a 3D CAD system. Here's my needs: relatively easy learning, mostly for simple fixture design, need to be able to "import" components (e.g. from McMaster Carr). The "output" is going to be "concept" drawings (paper or online viewer) for a client to review/approve, and mostly 2D DXF for laser-cutting or PDF "sketch" drawings for my tool & die guy. Yes, overall this is very "low scale". If anything "technical and detailed" would be required, I'd hand it (the concept model) off to another CAD drafter/engineer along with some specs. I could conceivably get into 3D printing, had some "near hits" on that but nothing urgent.
I currently use Microsoft Visio (only 2D) for this which covers 80%A of my needs until things get "complicated". The "stick factor" that keeps me from upgrading to 3D is it's incredibly quick and easy to generate simple 2D drawings.
I did try Fusion 360 for a few months, way to complicated IMO. I'm sure it's great for people who want to design OEM products and other complicated things but I don't need that capability. Most of the time I have a steel base (laser cut), some other laser-cut brackets, purchased components (e.g. Carr Lane clamp) and a few machined blocks.
Any recommendations? I just downloaded a copy or TurboCAD 2019 Deluxe but it won't import any of the McMaster 3D CAD models. They recommended I look for a "free" converter to DWG format. I'm willing to explore this (let me know also if you have a recommended converter) but, before I proceed, thought I'd do a check-in on any recommendations.
Thanks,
The Dude
I currently use Microsoft Visio (only 2D) for this which covers 80%A of my needs until things get "complicated". The "stick factor" that keeps me from upgrading to 3D is it's incredibly quick and easy to generate simple 2D drawings.
I did try Fusion 360 for a few months, way to complicated IMO. I'm sure it's great for people who want to design OEM products and other complicated things but I don't need that capability. Most of the time I have a steel base (laser cut), some other laser-cut brackets, purchased components (e.g. Carr Lane clamp) and a few machined blocks.
Any recommendations? I just downloaded a copy or TurboCAD 2019 Deluxe but it won't import any of the McMaster 3D CAD models. They recommended I look for a "free" converter to DWG format. I'm willing to explore this (let me know also if you have a recommended converter) but, before I proceed, thought I'd do a check-in on any recommendations.
Thanks,
The Dude