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Mac 3D design software

Discussion in 'Software' started by Leon Grossman, Feb 21, 2013.

  1. Leon Grossman

    Leon Grossman Active Member

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    I'm pretty new to this 3D design/printing game but I've been playing with my work's T0M for the last couple of weeks. The first step was finding software that was inexpensive and works. Here's what I looked at:

    • Tinkercad - Haven't really played with it. Not all that keen on a web based cad solution.
    • Google Sketchup - Precise dimensions are kind of tough in this app.
    • FreeCad - Crashes too frequently on my computer to have evaluated
    • Autodesk 123D - Too limited. Couldn't figure out how to work in multiple planes.
    • Autodesk Inventor Fusion - So far, this is what I'm using. It's missing some critical features but, until they release a Mac version of Autodesk Inventor, it's what I'm stuck with.
    • OpenSCAD - I haven't looked at this yet but a lot of people seem to be using it in the Thingiverse.
    What are you using?
     
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  2. Harry

    Harry Team ROBO 3D
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    Thanks for that Leon, it helps those of us who use Macs like me!
     
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  3. JDM_

    JDM_ New Member

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    I'm bouncing between the free versions of AutoCAD Inventor Fusion and Google Sketchup. I'm trying to figure out which one I like better.
     
  4. Harry

    Harry Team ROBO 3D
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    I just got Google Sketchup Pro, with my sisters student discount. For $49 instead of $450+ for the pro version, it is a steal if you are eligible, or know someone who could get it for you. I really have fallen in love with Sketchup, the documentation is endless, and the support/UI is amazing!
     
  5. JDM_

    JDM_ New Member

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    I still don't understand why the pro version of sketchup is worth the extra money. What additional features do you get that will help with designs for 3D printing? It seems like the pro version is for architects and interior designers.
     
  6. Harry

    Harry Team ROBO 3D
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    Hey JDM_ Just some 3D Tools. Download the trial.
     
  7. JDM_

    JDM_ New Member

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    Tools that help modeling 3D objects? As far as I can tell it's just surfaces like wood/metal, furniture and trees... which makes it a professional app for architects and interior designers. Don't get me wrong I will totally swing $50 if there are some useful tools added to the pro version that will be beneficial to me.
     
  8. Harry

    Harry Team ROBO 3D
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    Quoted from their site:
    SketchUp Pro is 3D modeling software for professionals. SketchUp is easy and intuitive, allowing anyone to model in 3D quickly and accurately. Using 3D models, designers can make more informed decisions, communicate project details, and share ideas with colleagues and customers to reach a common goal
    And:
    Powerful, fast and accurate

    • Build precise 3D models on the fly
    • Exchange files with other software
    • Create compelling 2D design documents
    • Generate reports, PDFs and more
     
  9. Leon Grossman

    Leon Grossman Active Member

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    Autodesk has retired Inventor Fusion for Fusion 360: http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/pc/index?id=20884205&siteID=123112

    I've signed up for the beta but I haven't had a chance to play with it yet. It doesn't look like there are offline capabilities *AND* I still haven't figured out how to load a <censored> part I've already designed. However, it does have significantly improved features over IF.
     
  10. JDM_

    JDM_ New Member

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    Thanks Leon! I just signed up for the Beta Test.... Do you know what the Browser/Computer requirements are? Do you need a certain Operating System, processor or RAM installed?
     
  11. Leon Grossman

    Leon Grossman Active Member

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    JDM_,

    I don't know the requirements as both my work PC and home laptop are top-line i7 with 16GB and 8GB of RAM respectively but I know that both Mac (Intel only, would be my guess) and PC are supported.

    The app isn't exactly a browser app. I believe it to be internet connected but it is still a standalone app. I haven't tested using it without the internet but my expectation is that it won't work without being online.
     
  12. 1d1

    1d1 Active Member

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    While waiting for Fusion 360, Fusion Inventor 2013 is still a free download... I got it a week ago and all features are working to date. It loads .stl files fine but you can't modify them.
     
  13. JDM_

    JDM_ New Member

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    I have the Mac version. It's my Favorite design app. Fusion 360 looks like it is an improved version of inventor fusion. I won't pay a lot for it though because the free version works well enough to get by.
     

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