There are many 3D modelling software applications, many free (i.e. no cost, some are free of charge but have restrictions), and quite a few at eye wateringly high prices. I currently use Autodesk's 123D software - free of charge and not too bad a learning curve. But does have limitations, a more advanced package from the same table is Fusion 360. Fusion 360 Overview As far as I know Fusion 360 is a Windows only application. There are lots of tutorials online, and a lot of books as well. To get me started I ordered this from Amazon Make: Fusion 360 for Makers As can be seen from the Title the software supports both 3D printers and CNC machines, the above book is biased towards the 3D printing side but does cover the cnc. The software is available by subscription (don't click the back button just yet), £54 per monthy, £438 per year or £832 for 2 years. A 30 day free download version is available, and as your free period is about to end you are encouraged to subscribe. However an option becomes available for amateur, home use, subscription cost for 1 year is £0.00, renewable each year. If you start to make over $100,000 p.a. then you need to use a paid for version. My son informs me they make their money by the user's making use of the 3rd party 3D printing and CNC facilities. So my journey is about to start, and if your interested I will keep you up to date, otherwise my success will be apparent if models start to appear. Paul
Correction to above, Fusion 360 is available for both Windows (64 bit only) and MAC. See what you find out by reading chapter 1. Paul
A Mac version too Might have to have a play. Might drive me mad though, Autodesk software usually works very different to MicroStation, which is what I am used to. Cheers Tony
I’ve had it for 18 months... I’m struggling to get on with it at the moment. It’s not as simple as it’s earlier version 123ddesign, but I have now found a file format for the earlier ones to be imported. (Other than STL) Keep me posted. I’ve not given up on it yet and probably need to start a new project on it. Down side is it’s going to take me much longer to do when your learning as you go... my first building took over 100hrs (but also on a slow laptop. ) I could now do the same in around 10.
I did make a start on some parts I have for a model to begin animating it... so far I’ve had partial success.
Struggled to stay awake during the preface - probably not the books fault, reading at 2 in the morning is probably not the best idea. Will post up some of the learning progress & or video's I find as I go. Paul
I am tempted to come along for the ride, but I might fall fowl of being an ex genuine user (AutoCAD and Revit), might get flagged as a know industrial user! I might look on my works PC and see if I have a license already
A few links to get folks whistles wet so to say. Autodesk Fusion 360 YouTube Channel Fusion 360 Gallery Paul
Paul, my whistle is already drowning! I already have one, but you HAVE to buy one of these! My Boss bought one of these and wants me to have it, but I keep telling him I don't have that many fingers!
One of the draftsmen at work has one, but keeps it locked in his drawer, and at £160, I don't think I'll be getting one too soon. Paul
Hi All just seen this thread. I have been using fusion 360 for about a year now and find it excellent. I learned the basics from this guy. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGs0VKk2DiYx15SfBxO_VE6ELhpy0VnAw He also does some good Arduino Tutorials. Be seeing yoou Bob