COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN
Computer-Aided Design is the use of computer-based software to assist in design processes. CAD software is frequently used by various engineers and designers. CAD software can be used to create two-dimensional (2D) drawings or three-dimensional (3D) models.
This week, we were introduced to several programs for computer-aided design in 2D and 3D. Among these are programs with different focuses; for 2D, there are programs for photography and vector manipulation, while for 3D, there are various approaches for engineering, filmmaking, animation, architecture, rendering, among others. The idea of this practice is to become familiar with different types of software to work on our final project. Since I haven't yet decided on the construction idea for my final project, I decided to use a 3D model I created as an example for this practice.
Below, I will present some programs that, from my point of view, seemed the most interesting for the development of this course.
3D
- Solidworks
- Fusion 360
- Autocad
- Blender
- Maya
- Onshape
- Catia
2D
RASTER
- Gimp
- Photoshop
- Pixlr
- ImageMagick
VECTOR
- Potrace
- Inkscape
- Illustrator
- Corel Draw
- Sketchpad
- Photopea
- Qcad
AI
- Dall-e
- Bing image Creator
- Chatgpt 4
I will use the 3D model of a robot arm that I built 4 years ago as an example. This design was created using SolidWorks, which is currently the 3D modeling program I use the most. Move the 3D model. 3D Model
PROGRAM 3D
SolidWorks
SOLIDWORKS is 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software for modeling 3D parts and assemblies and 2D drawings. The software offers a range of solutions to cover the aspects involved in the product development process. Its products offer the ability to create, design, simulate, manufacture, publish, and manage design process data. 3D Model download
- PARAMETRIC
- BASED ON OPERATIONS
- SOLID AND SURFACE MODELING
- FULLY ASSOCIATIVE
FUSION 360
Autodesk Fusion is a cloud-based CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering), and printed circuit board modeling 3D software platform for product design and manufacturing. 3D Model download
- FREE OPTIONS
- PRECISE MODELING
- DESIGN, MANUFACTURING, AND ENGINEERING UNIFICATION
- CAD, CAM, AND CAE INTEGRATION
- CLOUD-BASED
Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator is a paid software for editing vector graphics that is part of Adobe Systems. Adobe Illustrator is a flexible and dynamic tool, it is one of the most used and earliest tools for vector graphics. Drawing download
- SOPHISTICATED VECTOR DRAWING CONTROLS
- ADVANCED TYPOGRAPHY
- PERSPECTIVE DRAWING
- ATTRACTIVE STROKES
- ADOBE COMPATIBILITY
- CUSTOMIZATION
inkscape
Inkscape is professional quality vector graphics software for Windows, Mac OS X, and GNU/Linux. It is used by professional designers and enthusiasts around the world to create a wide variety of graphics such as illustrations, icons, logos, diagrams, maps, and web designs. Inkscape is free and open-source software that uses SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic). File download
- FREE
- CUSTOMIZATION
- ADVANCED TOOLS
- WIDE VARIETY OF TOOLS
- EASY-TO-USE INTERFACE
my opinion
There are many types of programs for different purposes. Some may be better than others, but what's important is which one you are most comfortable with. Among these programs for 3D modeling, I prefer SolidWorks because it's the program I have worked with the most and have the most experience with. For 2D design, I prefer Illustrator, even though it requires a subscription. For the same reason, I have worked with it before, and I find its tools and interface better suited for me.
In terms of tools and capabilities of the programs, I believe these programs are almost equal in terms of basic or intermediate capabilities. It will depend more on the ability of the person using it to exploit the maximum capacity of each program.